Aerosol generating device

Abstract

The aerosol generating device includes a main body; a separation member detachably connected to the main body; a storage hole that penetrates the separation member and stores an external device electrically connected to the aerosol generating device; and a separation guide hole that is connected to the storage hole and extends in a direction different from the extension direction of the storage hole, and into which a separation tool that separates the separation member from the main body is inserted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device capable of making a separation guiding hole for detaching a separation member of the aerosol generating device from the main body invisible from the outside, facilitating the disassembly of the separation member, and improving the overall aesthetic appearance of the aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for a system that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette or an aerosol generating substance using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] Parts such as a heater and a user interface (for example, a USB interface) that constitute the aerosol generating device need to be replaced or repaired due to repeated use of the aerosol generating device. For this reason, the process of separating a separation member that is detachably coupled to the main body of the aerosol generating device needs to be preceded.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the aerosol generating device while ensuring the ease of separation of the separation member through an aerosol generating device in which a separation guiding hole for separating the separation member from the main body is arranged so as not to be visible from the outside.

[0005] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the above-described problems, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The aerosol generation device according to the embodiment includes a main body; a separation member detachably coupled to the main body; a housing hole that penetrates the separation member and houses an external device electrically connected to the aerosol generation device; and a separation guide hole that communicates with the housing hole, extends in a direction different from the extension direction of the housing hole, and into which a separation tool for separating the separation member from the main body is inserted.

[0007] The means for solving the problems is not limited to what has been described above, and may include any matter that can be analogized by an ordinary technician throughout this specification.

Effect of the Invention

[0008] The aerosol generation device according to the embodiment can provide a structure in which the separation member and the main body can be easily separated without damaging the overall aesthetics of the device.

[0009] The effects according to the embodiment are not limited to the effects described above, and the effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiment belongs from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes: a main body; a separation member detachably coupled to the main body; a housing hole that penetrates the separation member and houses an external device electrically connected to the aerosol generating device; and a separation guiding hole that communicates with the housing hole, extends in a direction different from the extending direction of the housing hole, and into which a separation tool for separating the separation member from the main body is inserted.

[0012] The separation guiding hole extends along a direction crossing the extending direction of the housing hole.

[0013] The separation guiding hole can be formed in a region where the extension lines of the long axes of the cross-sections of the separation member and the housing hole meet.

[0014] The separation member may include a coupling portion coupled to the main body and may include a barrier disposed between the separation guiding hole and the coupling portion.

[0015] A first distance from the separation guiding hole to the barrier and a second distance from the separation guiding hole to the coupling portion have a length ratio of 1:3 to 1:15.

[0016] An open end portion of the separation guiding hole has a length of 0.3 mm to 3 mm along the direction in which the accommodation hole extends.

[0017] It further includes a protection member disposed inside the accommodation hole and surrounding at least a part of the side surface of the accommodation hole, and the protection member may block a part of the open end portion of the separation guiding hole.

[0018] The accommodation hole can accommodate an interface terminal that is supplied with power from the external device.

[0019] The terms used in the embodiments are, as much as possible, general terms that are currently widely used while considering the functions in the present disclosure. However, this may also vary depending on the intentions or precedents of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in specific cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in that case, the meaning will be described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present disclosure are not just names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present disclosure.

[0020] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, it means that, unless there is a special contrary description, it does not exclude other components and may further include other components. Also, terms such as "- part" and "- module" described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and these may be implemented by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0021] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least any one of” is positioned before the arranged components, it modifies the entire components, rather than each of the arranged components. For example, the expression “at least any one of a, b, and c” should be construed to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

[0022] Also, terms including ordinal numbers such as “first” or “second” used herein are used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0023] Throughout the specification, an “aerosol generating device” is also a device that generates an aerosol using an aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into a user's lungs through the user's mouth.

[0024] Throughout the specification, a “cigarette” means an article used for smoking. For example, a cigarette is a combustible cigarette used in a manner of being ignited and burned, and is also a heated cigarette used in a manner of being heated by an aerosol generating device.

[0025] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs can easily implement them. However, the present disclosure can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a drawing of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 1 viewed in the y-axis direction.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment may include a main body 110, a separating member 120 detachably coupled to the main body 110, and a receiving hole 121.

[0029] The main body 110 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 100, and components of the aerosol generating device 100 may be disposed inside the main body 110. For example, the main body 110 may have a receiving space into which a cigarette is inserted, a heater for heating the cigarette, and a user interface (e.g., a USB interface) for electrically connecting the aerosol generating device 100 to an external device, but is not limited thereto.

[0030] The separating member 120 is detachably coupled to an area of the main body 110 and may protect components of the aerosol generating device 100 disposed in the main body 110. For example, the separating member 120 may have a receiving hole 121 into which an external device electrically connected to the aerosol generating device 100 is inserted, and may protect other components (e.g., a processor, a memory, etc.) of the aerosol generating device 100 while being exposed to the outside, but is not limited thereto.

[0031] The aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment is arranged such that a separation guiding hole (not shown) for separating or disassembling the separating member 120 from the main body 110 is not exposed to the outside. As a result, while ensuring the ease of disassembling the separating member 120 of the aerosol generating device 100, the aesthetics of the aerosol generating device 100 can be ensured.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a structure in which a separation guiding hole is arranged to be exposed to the outside of the separating member. FIG. 3 shows an aerosol generating device 101 in which a separation guiding hole 122a for separating the separating member 120a from the main body 110a is arranged to be exposed to the outside.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 3, when the separation guide hole 122a for separating the separation member 120a from the main body 110a is exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 101, the aesthetic property of the aerosol generating device 101 is degraded by the separation guide hole 122a, and a gap may occur between the main body 110a and the separation member 120a due to the tolerance.

[0034] In contrast, an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment (for example, the aerosol generating device 100 in FIG. 1) ensures both aesthetic property and ease of disassembly by preventing the separation guide hole from being exposed to the outside, and a specific description thereof will be given later.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a drawing of the separation member of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment as viewed in the first direction, and FIG. 5 is a drawing of the separation member of the aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 4 as viewed in the second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the separation member 120 of the aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment may include a housing hole 121, a separation guide hole 122, a barrier 123, and a coupling portion 124.

[0037] The housing hole 121 can accommodate an external device that is electrically connected to the aerosol generating device 100 through the separation member 120. The housing hole 121 is also formed in a shape that is recessed in the direction toward the main body 110 when the separation member 120 and the main body 110 are coupled. The housing hole 121 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 100 when the main body 110 and the separation member 120 are coupled. The external device is a charger terminal for charging a battery provided in the aerosol generating device 100, and the charger is of the USB (Universal Serial Bus) type, but is not limited thereto.

[0038] The separation guiding hole 122 communicates with the accommodation hole 121 and extends in a direction different from the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends. Here, the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends means the direction in which the empty space extends. For example, the separation guiding hole 122 extends along a direction crossing the extension direction of the accommodation hole 121.

[0039] In the separation guiding hole 122, when the separation member 120 and the main body 110 are coupled, a separation tool for separating the separation member 120 can be inserted. For example, the user can insert a separation tool (e.g., a driver) into the separation guiding hole 122 and separate the separation member 120 from the main body 110 using the lever principle.

[0040] At this time, since the separation guiding hole 122 extends in a direction different from the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends, when the separation member 120 is viewed from the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends, the separation guiding hole 122 is concealed. As a result, while maintaining the ease of disassembling the separation member 120, the aesthetic property of the aerosol generating device 100 as a whole is not damaged.

[0041] The separation guiding hole 122 can be formed in a region where the extension lines of the major axes L of the cross-sections of the separation member 120 and the accommodation hole 121 meet. Here, the cross-section of the accommodation hole 121 can mean a cross-section in a direction crossing the extension direction of the accommodation hole 121. Also, the major axis L means an axis having the maximum length in the cross-section of the accommodation hole 121. By forming the separation guiding hole 122 in the region where the extension lines of the major axis L of the cross-section of the accommodation hole 121 meet, the concealment power of the separation guiding hole 122 can be further improved. Also, since the operating range of the separation tool inserted into the separation guiding hole 122 increases, the ease of disassembling the separation member 120 can be improved.

[0042] The separation member 120 includes a coupling portion 124 that is coupled to the main body 110, and may include a barrier 123 disposed between the separation guiding hole 122 and the coupling portion 124.

[0043] The coupling part 124 can be coupled to the main body 110 by at least one of a snap-fit method, a magnetic coupling method, or a fitting method, but the coupling method between the coupling part 124 and the main body 110 is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0044] The barrier 123 has a shape derived in the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends. The barrier 123 can prevent foreign matter from the outside from flowing into the inside of the main body 110 through the separation induction hole 122. In addition, the barrier 123 can prevent the separation tool D inserted along the direction in which the separation induction hole 122 extends from being inserted further. Thereby, the barrier 123 can come into contact with the end of the separation tool D and correspond to the point of action in the principle of a lever using the separation tool D as a lever. By arranging the barrier 123 between the separation induction hole 122 and the coupling part 124, the force generated by the separation tool D can be effectively transmitted toward the coupling part 124.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the shape in which the separation member of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is coupled to the main body.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment is arranged so that the separation induction hole 122 is not exposed when viewed from the direction toward the accommodation hole 121 of the separation member 120, thereby preventing a decrease in the aesthetic appearance of the aerosol generating device 100 due to the separation induction hole 122.

[0047] Further, the aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment includes the separation induction hole 122 while maintaining the aesthetic appearance, so that the user can separate the separation member 120 from the main body 110 without damage when necessary.

[0048] In addition, since the main body 110 and the separation member 120 can be easily separated, the user can easily replace the components of the aerosol generating device 100, and the convenience of holding and / or repairing the aerosol generating device 100 can be improved.

[0049] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 1 in the x-y plane with a separation tool inserted therein.

[0050] Referring to Figure 7, a separation tool D can be inserted into the separation guiding hole 122. The separation guiding hole 122 extends along a direction crossing the extension direction of the accommodation hole 121. The separation tool D (for example, a driver) is inserted along the region where the separation guiding hole 122 extends, and by pressing the separation tool D inserted into the separation guiding hole 122 in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 7, the separation member 120 can be separated from the main body 110 by the lever principle.

[0051] The first distance d1 from the separation guiding hole 122 to the barrier 123 and the second distance d2 from the separation guiding hole 122 to the coupling portion 124 have a length ratio of about 1:3 to about 1:15. By having the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 have the above-mentioned length ratio, the separation member 120 can be easily disassembled from the main body 110 using the separation tool D. Also, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 have a length ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:12.

[0052] The open end of the separation guiding hole 122 has a length of about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm along the direction in which the accommodation hole 121 extends. Here, the open end of the separation guiding hole 122 means the entrance of the separation guiding hole 122 into which the separation tool D is inserted. Also, the separation guiding hole 122 has a length of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm along the direction toward the main body 110.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a protection member 131 disposed inside the accommodation hole 121 and surrounding at least a part of the side surface of the accommodation hole 121. The protection member 131 can protect the components accommodated in the accommodation hole 121 exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0054] The protection member 131 can block a part of the open end of the separation guiding hole 122. By blocking a part of the separation guiding hole 122, the protection member 131 can contact the separation tool D inserted into the separation guiding hole 122. The part of the protection member 131 that contacts the separation tool D can correspond to a fulcrum in the lever principle using the separation tool D as a lever.

[0055] The accommodation hole 121 can accommodate the interface terminal 130 that is supplied with power from an external device. The aerosol generating device can be electrically connected to the external device through the interface terminal 130. Also, the interface terminal 130 can be connected to the external device to transmit and receive information.

[0056] The interface terminal 130 can include a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. The USB terminal is, for example, a micro USB 5-pin terminal, a USB C-type terminal, a USB B-type terminal, or a USB A-type terminal, but is not limited thereto.

[0057] Hereinafter, an example of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment will be described.

[0058] FIGS. 8 to 10 are drawings showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 140, a control unit 150, and a heater 160. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes a vaporizer 170. Also, a cigarette 200 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0060] In the aerosol generation device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10, the components according to this embodiment are illustrated. Therefore, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will be able to understand that the aerosol generation device 100 further includes other general-purpose components in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10.

[0061] Also, FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate that the aerosol generation device 100 includes the heater 160, but the heater 160 may be omitted if necessary.

[0062] FIG. 8 illustrates that the battery 140, the control unit 150, and the heater 160 are arranged in a row. Also, FIG. 9 illustrates that the battery 140, the control unit 150, the vaporizer 170, and the heater 160 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 10 illustrates that the vaporizer 170 and the heater 160 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 100 is not limited to what is illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 100, the arrangements of the battery 140, the control unit 150, the heater 160, and the vaporizer 170 can be changed.

[0063] If the cigarette 200 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 100, the aerosol generation device 100 can operate the heater 160 and / or the vaporizer 170 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 160 and / or the vaporizer 170 passes through the cigarette 200 and is transmitted to the user.

[0064] If necessary, even when the cigarette 200 is not inserted into the aerosol generation device 100, the aerosol generation device 100 can heat the heater 160.

[0065] The battery 140 supplies the power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the battery 140 can supply power so that the heater 160 or the vaporizer 170 can be heated, and supply the power necessary for the operation of the control unit 150. Further, the battery 140 can supply the power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0066] The control unit 150 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. Specifically, the control unit 150 controls the operation of not only the battery 140, the heater 160, and the vaporizer 170, but also other components included in the aerosol generating device 100. Further, the control unit 150 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 100 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state.

[0067] The control unit 150 includes at least one processor. The processor is embodied as an array of a number of logic gates, and is also embodied by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs will be able to understand that it can also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0068] The heater 160 can be heated by the power supplied from the battery 140. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the heater 160 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 160 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0069] The heater 160 is also an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 160 includes a conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the conductive track, the heater 160 can be heated. However, the heater 160 is not limited to the above-described example, and can be applicable without limitation as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 100, or can be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0070] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 160 is also an induction heating type heater. Specifically, the heater 160 includes a conductive coil for heating a cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that is heated by the induction heating type heater.

[0071] For example, it includes the heater 160, a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 200 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0072] Also, a plurality of heaters 160 can be arranged in the aerosol generating device 100. At this time, the plurality of heaters 160 can be arranged so as to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette 200, or can be arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, some of the plurality of heaters 160 can be arranged so as to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette 200, and the rest can be arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, the shape of the heater 160 is not limited to the shapes illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10, and can be manufactured in various shapes.

[0073] The vaporizer 170 heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 200. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 170 moves along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 100, and the air flow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 170 passes through the cigarette and is transmitted to the user.

[0074] For example, the vaporizer 170 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 100 as independent modules.

[0075] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition is a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component and is also a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit is made to be detachable from / attachable to the vaporizer 170 and can be made integrally with the vaporizer 170.

[0076] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance includes, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and aroma components of various fruits. The flavoring agent may include components that provide various fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture is also a mixture in which at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E is mixed, but is not limited thereto. Also, the liquid composition may include an aerosol former such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0077] The liquid delivery means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can also be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element can also be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. Also, the heating element is composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and is also arranged by a structure wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element is heated by current supply, transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, and can heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0079] For example, the vaporizer 170, also referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, is not limited thereto.

[0080] On the other hand, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes a general configuration in addition to the battery 140, the control unit 150, the heater 160, and the vaporizer 170. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Further, the aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). Further, the aerosol generating device 100 may have a structure in which external air flows in or internal gas flows out even when the cigarette 200 is inserted.

[0081] Although not shown in FIGS. 8 to 10, the aerosol generating device 100 may constitute a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used for charging the battery 140 of the aerosol generating device 100. Or, the heater 160 may be heated in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating device 100 are coupled.

[0082] The cigarette 200 is also similar to a general combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 200 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Or, the second part of the cigarette 200 may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating substance made in a granular or capsule form may be inserted into the second part.

[0083] Inside the aerosol generating device 100, the entire first part may be inserted, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Or, only a part of the first part may be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 100, and the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol with the second part in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0084] As an example, outside air can flow into the aerosol generating device 100 through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100 and / or the size of the air passage can be adjusted by the user. Thereby, the amount of atomization, the smoking feeling, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air can flow into the inside of the cigarette 200 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 200.

[0085] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing another example of the aerosol generating device.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 11, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a heater 160, a coil 161, a battery 140, and a control unit 150. However, it is not limited thereto, and other general-purpose elements may be further included in the aerosol generating device 100 in addition to the elements illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0087] The aerosol generating device 100 can generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100 by an induction heating method. The induction heating method means a method of applying an alternating magnetic field whose direction periodically changes to a magnetic body that generates heat by an external magnetic field to generate heat in the magnetic body.

[0088] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to the magnetic body, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss occurs in the magnetic body, and the lost energy is released from the magnetic body as thermal energy. The larger the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic body, the more thermal energy can be released from the magnetic body. The aerosol generating device 100 can release thermal energy from the magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetic body, and transmit the thermal energy released from the magnetic body to the aerosol generating article.

[0089] A magnetic material that generates heat by an external magnetic field is also a susceptor. The susceptor can be provided in the aerosol generating device 100 in the form of a section, a thin slice, a strip, or the like. For example, at least a part of the heater 160 disposed inside the aerosol generating device 100 can be made of a susceptor material.

[0090] At least a part of the susceptor material can be made of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the susceptor material can contain metal or carbon. The susceptor material may contain at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). Further, the susceptor material may contain at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and semimetals such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P).

[0091] The aerosol generating device 100 can accommodate an aerosol generating article. In the aerosol generating device 100, a space for accommodating the aerosol generating article can be formed. The heater 160 can be disposed in the space for accommodating the aerosol generating article. For example, the heater 160 can have a cylindrical accommodation space for accommodating the aerosol generating article inside. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article is accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating article can be accommodated in the accommodation space of the heater 160.

[0092] The heater 160 surrounds at least a part of the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the aerosol-generating device 100. For example, the heater 160 surrounds the tobacco medium contained in the aerosol-generating article. Thereby, heat can be more efficiently transferred from the heater 160 to the tobacco medium.

[0093] The heater 160 can heat the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the aerosol-generating device 100. As described above, the heater 160 can heat the aerosol-generating article by an induction heating method. The heater 160 includes a susceptor material that generates heat by an external magnetic field, and the aerosol-generating device 100 can apply an alternating magnetic field to the heater 160.

[0094] The coil 161 can be provided in the aerosol-generating device 100. The coil 161 can apply an alternating magnetic field to the heater 160. When power is supplied from the aerosol-generating device 100 to the coil 161, a magnetic field can be formed inside the coil 161. When an alternating current is applied to the coil 161, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil 161 can be continuously changed. When the heater 160 is located inside the coil 161 and is exposed to an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically, the heater 160 generates heat, and the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space of the heater 160 can be heated.

[0095] The coil 161 can be wound along the outer surface of the heater 160. Also, the coil 161 can be wound along the inner surface of the external housing of the aerosol-generating device 100. The heater 160 can be located in the internal space formed by winding the coil 161. When power is supplied to the coil 161, the alternating magnetic field generated by the coil 161 can be applied to the heater 160.

[0096] The coil 161 extends in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating device 100. The coil 161 extends to an appropriate length along the longitudinal direction. For example, the coil 161 can extend to a length corresponding to the length of the heater 160, or can extend longer than the length of the heater 160.

[0097] The coil 161 can be arranged at a position suitable for applying an alternating magnetic field to the heater 160. For example, the coil 161 can be arranged at a position corresponding to the heater 160. The efficiency of applying the alternating magnetic field of the coil 161 to the heater 160 can be improved by the size and arrangement of such a coil 161.

[0098] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil 161 is changed, the degree to which the heater 160 heats the aerosol generating article can also be changed. Since the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field by the coil 161 is changed by the power applied to the coil 161, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the heating of the aerosol generating article by adjusting the power applied to the coil 161. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the coil 161.

[0099] As an example, the coil 161 can be embodied as a solenoid. The coil 161 is a solenoid wound along the inner surface of the outer housing of the aerosol generating device 100, and the heater 160 and the aerosol generating article can be located in the inner space of the solenoid. The material of the wire constituting the solenoid is also copper (Cu). However, it is not limited thereto, and any one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or an alloy containing at least one of them can be the material of the wire constituting the solenoid.

[0100] The battery 140 supplies power to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 140 supplies power to the coil 161. The battery 140 can include a battery that supplies direct current to the aerosol generating device 100, and a conversion unit that converts the direct current supplied from the battery into alternating current supplied to the coil 161.

[0101] The battery 140 supplies direct current to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 140 is also a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery may also be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, etc.

[0102] The conversion unit may include a low-pass filter that performs filtering on the direct current supplied from the battery and outputs the alternating current supplied to the coil 161. The conversion unit may further include an amplifier for amplifying the direct current supplied from the battery. For example, the conversion unit may be implemented through a low-pass filter that constitutes a load network of a class-D amplifier.

[0103] The control unit 150 can control the power supplied to the coil 161. The control unit 150 can control the battery 140 so that the power supplied to the coil 161 is adjusted. For example, the control unit 150 performs control to keep the temperature at which the heater 160 heats the aerosol generating article constant based on the temperature of the heater 160.

[0104] Hereinafter, an example of a cigarette will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 14.

[0105] FIGS. 12 and 13 are drawings showing an example of a cigarette.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 12, the cigarette 200 includes a tobacco rod 210 and a filter rod 220. The cigarette 200 is also a heated cigarette that is not burned and is heated by an aerosol generating device including a heater.

[0107] In FIG. 12, the filter rod 220 is illustrated as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. That is, the filter rod 220 may be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 220 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. Further, if necessary, the filter rod 220 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0108] The diameter of the cigarette 200 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 210 is about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 220 is about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 220 is about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 220 is about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] The cigarette 200 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 240. At least one hole through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out may be formed in the wrapper 240. As an example, the cigarette 200 may be wrapped by one wrapper 240. As another example, the cigarette 200 may be superposed and wrapped by two or more wrappers 240. For example, the tobacco rod 210 may be wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 220 may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244. Then, the entire cigarette 200 may be re-wrapped by the fifth wrapper 245. If the filter rod 220 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244.

[0110] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of a general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous paper or non-porous paper. Further, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum laminated paper packaging materials.

[0111] The third wrapper 243 can be made of hard tissue paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is within the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably is also 125 μm.

[0112] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard tissue paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is within the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably is also 125 μm.

[0113] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) means paper that is specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and preferably is also 60 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is also 67 μm.

[0114] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, as long as it is a substance having the above-described properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0115] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette 200 from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by a heater, the cigarette 200 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310, the cigarette 200 can burn. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the cigarette 200 burning can be prevented.

[0116] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device from being contaminated by the substances generated by the cigarette 200. Depending on the user's puff, a liquid substance may be generated inside the cigarette 200. For example, when the aerosol generated by the cigarette 200 is cooled by the external air, a liquid substance (such as moisture, etc.) may be generated. By the fifth wrapper 245 packaging the cigarette 200, the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 200 can be prevented from leaking outside the cigarette 200.

[0117] The tobacco rod 210 contains aerosol generating substances. For example, the aerosol generating substances include, but are not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 may contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Also, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant can be added to the tobacco rod 210 by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 210.

[0118] The tobacco rod 210 can be fabricated in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 210 can be fabricated in the form of a sheet or a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 210 can be fabricated from shredded tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Further, the tobacco rod 210 is also surrounded by a heat-conductive material. For example, the heat-conductive material can be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. As an example, the heat-conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can uniformly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 210 and improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco flavor. Also, the heat-conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 210 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0119] The filter rod 220 is also a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 220. For example, the filter rod 220 can be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod having a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 220 can be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 220 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments can be fabricated in a different shape.

[0120] The first segment of the filter rod 220 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment can also be a tubular structure having a hollow inside. When a heater is inserted by the first segment, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 210 is pressed backward, and a cooling effect of the aerosol can also occur. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment can adopt an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0121] The length of the first segment can adopt an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Desirably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0122] By adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment can be adjusted. Further, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube made of a material having the same or different shapes inside (for example, hollow).

[0123] The second segment of the filter rod 220 cools the aerosol generated by the heater heating the tobacco rod 210. Accordingly, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0124] The length or diameter of the second segment can be variously determined according to the form of the cigarette 200. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Desirably, the length of the second segment is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0125] The second segment can be produced by weaving polymer fibers. In that case, a flavoring liquid can also be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be produced by weaving together a separately provided fiber coated with a flavoring liquid and a fiber made of a polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0126] For example, the polymer is made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0127] Since the second segment is formed by woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment can include one or a plurality of channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which a gas (for example, air or aerosol) passes.

[0128] For example, the second segment made of a crimped polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Also, the total surface area of the second segment can be between about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / m. Also, the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a material having a non-surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg.

[0129] On the other hand, the second segment can contain a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor component is menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread can be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0130] The third segment of the filter rod 220 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment is about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0131] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it can be manufactured so that a fragrance is generated by injecting a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid can be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated by the tobacco rod 210 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 220, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, an effect of improving the persistence of the fragrance transmitted to the user can occur.

[0132] In addition, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can perform a function of generating a fragrance and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 also has a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered with a film. The capsule 230 has a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 13, the cigarette 300 may further include a front plug 330. The front plug 330 can be located on one side of the tobacco rod 310 opposite to the filter rod 320. The front plug 330 can prevent the tobacco rod 310 from detaching to the outside and can prevent the liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 310 into the aerosol generating device during smoking.

[0134] The filter rod 320 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 220 in FIG. 12, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 220 in FIG. 12.

[0135] The diameter and the total length of the cigarette 300 may correspond to the diameter and the total length of the cigarette 200 in FIG. 12. For example, the length of the front plug 330 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 310 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0136] The cigarette 300 may be packaged by at least one wrapper 350. At least one hole through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out may be formed in the wrapper 350. For example, the front plug 330 may be packaged by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 310 may be packaged by the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be packaged by the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be packaged by the fourth wrapper 354. Then, the entire cigarette 300 may be repackaged by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0137] Further, at least one perforation 360 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 360 may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod 310, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 360 can serve to transfer heat formed by the heater of the aerosol generating device to the inside of the tobacco rod 310.

[0138] Further, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 340. Here, the capsule 340 can perform a function of generating a flavor and can perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 340 is also a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered with a film. The capsule 340 has a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0139] The first wrapper 351 is also one in which a metal foil such as aluminum foil is bonded to a general filter paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and desirably, is also 50.3 μm. Further, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and desirably, is also 6.3 μm. Further, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55 g / m 2 and is desirably also 53 g / m 2 as well.

[0140] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are also porous paper or non-porous paper.

[0141] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is also 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Further, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 is included in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and desirably, is also 78 μm. Further, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and is desirably also 23.5 g / m2 It is also.

[0142] For example, the porosity of the third bellows 353 is also 24,000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the third bellows 353 is included within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is also 68 μm. Further, the basis weight of the third bellows 353 is included within the range of 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and preferably is also 21 g / m 2 It is also.

[0143] The fourth bellows 354 can be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper means a triple-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth bellows 354 is included within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably is also 110 μm. Further, the basis weight of the fourth bellows 354 is included within the range of 80 g / m 2 ~100 g / m 2 and preferably is also 88 g / m 2 It is also.

[0144] The fifth bellows 355 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) means paper that is specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth bellows 355 is included within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and preferably is also 60 g / m 2 It is also. Also, the thickness of the fifth bellows 355 is included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is also 67 μm.

[0145] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth bellows 355. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-described properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth bellows 355 without limitation.

[0146] The front plug 330 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front plug 330 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is included in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and desirably can be included in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More desirably, the monodenier of the filaments of the front plug 330 is also 5.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the front plug 330 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 330 is included in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and desirably can be included in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More desirably, the total denier of the front plug 330 is also 28,000.

[0147] Also, if necessary, the front plug 330 includes at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made in various ways.

[0148] The tobacco rod 310 can correspond to the tobacco rod 210 described above with reference to FIG. 12. Therefore, the specific description of the tobacco rod 310 will be omitted below.

[0149] The first segment 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is also a tubular structure including a hollow inside. The first segment 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 are also the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front plug 330.

[0150] The second segment 322 can be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is included in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and desirably can be included in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More desirably, the monodenier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also 9.0. Further, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is included in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and desirably is also 25,000.

[0151] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing another example of a cigarette.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 14, the cigarette 400 can include an aerosol generation rod 410, a tobacco rod 420, a cooling rod 430, and a filter rod 440. Specifically, the aerosol generation rod 410, the tobacco rod 420, the cooling rod 430, and the filter rod 440 can each contain an aerosol generating substance, tobacco particles, a cooling substance, and a filter substance.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 14, the aerosol generation rod 410, the tobacco rod 420, the cooling rod 430, and the filter rod 440 can be aligned in order along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 400. Here, the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 400 is also the direction in which the length of the cigarette 400 extends. For example, the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 400 is also the direction from the aerosol generation rod 410 toward the filter rod 440. Thereby, the aerosol generated by at least one of the aerosol generation rod 410 and the tobacco rod 420 passes sequentially through the aerosol generation rod 410, the tobacco rod 420, the cooling rod 430, and the filter rod 440 to form an air flow, whereby a smoker can inhale the aerosol from the filter rod 440.

[0154] The aerosol generation rod 410 may contain aerosol generating substances. It may also contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents and / or organic acids, and may contain a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant. Here, the aerosol generating substances may include, for example, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol and oleyl alcohol.

[0155] The aerosol generation rod 410 may include an aerosol generation substrate impregnated with an aerosol generating substance. Examples of the aerosol generation substrate include a wound sheet, and the aerosol generating substance may be contained in the aerosol generation rod 410 in a state of being impregnated in the wound sheet. Also, other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents and / or organic acids and the flavoring liquid may be contained in the aerosol generation rod 410 in a state of being absorbed by the wound sheet.

[0156] The wound sheet is also a sheet made of a polymer material. For example, the polymer material may include at least one of paper, cellulose acetate, lyocell, and polylactic acid. For example, the wound sheet is also a paper sheet that does not generate an odor due to heat even when heated to a high temperature. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0157] The aerosol generation rod 410 extends from a point about 7 mm to about 20 mm from the end of the cigarette 400, and the tobacco rod 420 extends from a point about 7 mm to about 20 mm from the point where the aerosol generation rod 410 ends. However, it is not necessarily limited to such a numerical range, and the lengths of the aerosol generation rod 410 and the tobacco rod 420 can be appropriately adjusted within a range that can be easily changed by an ordinary technician.

[0158] The tobacco rod 420 may contain a plurality of tobacco granules. The plurality of tobacco granules are embedded among filter substances. The filter substances may include, for example, a fiber bundle which is a collection of cellulose acetate fiber strands. The plurality of tobacco granules may be arranged in a form uniformly dispersed among the plurality of cellulose fibers.

[0159] As another example, the filter substance may include a paper sheet. The paper sheet may be arranged inside the tobacco rod 420 in a wound state. The central axis of the wound paper sheet is also parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 400. A plurality of tobacco granules may be uniformly dispersed inside the wound paper sheet.

[0160] The cooling rod 430 can cool the airflow passing through the aerosol generating rod 410 and the tobacco rod 420. The cooling rod 430 is manufactured from a polymer substance or a biodegradable polymer substance and has a cooling function. For example, the cooling rod 430 can be made of polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the cooling rod 430 can be made of a cellulose acetate filter having a plurality of holes formed therein. However, the cooling rod 430 is not limited to the above examples, and substances that perform the function of cooling the aerosol can correspond thereto without limitation. For example, the cooling rod 430 can also be a tube filter or a paper tube containing a hollow.

[0161] The filter rod 440 may contain a filter substance. For example, the filter rod 440 can also be a cellulose acetate filter. There is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 440. For example, the filter rod 440 can be a cylindrical rod or a tube-shaped rod containing a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 440 can be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 440 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments is also made in a different shape.

[0162] The filter rod 440 can be manufactured to generate a fragrance. As an example, a flavoring liquid can be sprayed onto the filter rod 440, and separate fibers coated with the flavoring liquid can be inserted into the filter rod 440.

[0163] Also, the filter rod 440 can contain at least one capsule. Here, the capsule can generate a fragrance or an aerosol. For example, the capsule is also a structure that covers and encloses a liquid containing a fragrance with a film. The capsule has a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0164] The cigarette 400 can include a wrapper 450 that covers at least a part of the aerosol generation rod 410 to the filter rod 440. Also, the cigarette 400 can include a wrapper 450 that covers all of the aerosol generation rod 410 to the filter rod 440. The wrapper 450 is located at the outermost contour of the cigarette 400, and the wrapper 450 can be a single wrapper or a combination of multiple wrappers.

[0165] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an aerosol generation device according to another embodiment.

[0166] The aerosol generation device 1500 can include a control unit 1510, a sensing unit 1520, an output unit 1530, a battery 1540, a heater 1550, a user input unit 1560, a memory 1570, and a communication unit 1580. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 1500 is not limited to what is shown in FIG. 15. That is, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 1500, some of the configurations shown in FIG. 15 may be omitted or new configurations may be further added.

[0167] The sensing unit 1520 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1500 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1500, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1510. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1510 can control the aerosol generating device 1500 so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 1550, restriction of smoking, determination of whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and notification display are performed.

[0168] The sensing unit 1520 may include at least one of, but is not limited to, a temperature sensor 1522, an insertion sensing sensor 1524, and a puff sensor 1526.

[0169] The temperature sensor 1522 can sense the temperature at which the heater 1550 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1500 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 1550, or the heater 1550 itself can perform the role of a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1522 may also be arranged around the battery 1540 to monitor the temperature of the battery 1540.

[0170] The insertion sensing sensor 1524 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 1524 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can sense a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0171] The puff sensor 1526 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1526 can sense the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0172] In addition to the sensors 1522 to 1526 described above, the sensing unit 1520 further includes at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the functions and structures of the respective sensors can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from their names, specific descriptions may be omitted.

[0173] The output unit 1530 can output information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 1500 and provide it to the user. The output unit 1530 may include at least one of a display unit 1532, a haptic unit 1534, and an acoustic output unit 1536, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1532 and the touch pad form a layer structure and are configured as a touch screen, the display unit 1532 can also be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0174] The display unit 1532 visually provides information related to the aerosol generating device 1500 to the user. For example, the information related to the aerosol generating device 1500 means various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 1540 of the aerosol generating device 1500, the preheating state of the heater 1550, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1500 is restricted (e.g., abnormal article detection), and the display unit 1532 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 1532 is, for example, also a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. Further, the display unit 1532 is also in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0175] The haptic unit 1534 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus and provide information related to the aerosol generating device 1500 to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit 1534 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0176] The audio output unit 1536 provides information related to the aerosol generator 1500 to the user auditorily. For example, the audio output unit 1536 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0177] The battery 1540 can supply the power used for the operation of the aerosol generator 1500. The battery 1540 can supply power so that the heater 1550 is heated. Also, the battery 1540 can supply the power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing unit 1520, the output unit 1530, the user input unit 1560, the memory 1570, and the communication unit 1580) provided in the aerosol generator 1500. The battery 1540 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1540 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0178] The heater 1550 is supplied with power from the battery 1540 and heats the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 15, the aerosol generator 1500 may further include a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 1540 and supplies it to the heater 1550. Also, when the aerosol generator 1500 generates an aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1500 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power source of the battery 1540 into an AC source.

[0179] The control unit 1510, the sensing unit 1520, the output unit 1530, the user input unit 1560, the memory 1570, and the communication unit 1580 are supplied with power from the battery 1540 and perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 15, it may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 1540 and supplies it to each component.

[0180] In one embodiment, the heater 1550 can be made of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Further, the heater 160 can also be embodied by, but is not limited to, a metal wire, a metal plate with conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0181] In other embodiments, the heater 1550 is also an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 1550 can include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating substance.

[0182] The user input unit 1560 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1560 includes, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (for example, a touch pad using a capacitive touch method, a pressure resistive film method, an infrared sensing method, a surface acoustic wave conduction method, an integrated tension measurement method, a piezo - effect method, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Also, although not shown in FIG. 15, the aerosol generating device 1500 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices through a connection interface such as a USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 1540.

[0183] Memory 1570 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1500, and can store data processed by the control unit 1510 and data to be processed. Memory 1570 can include at least one type of recording medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 1570 can store data related to the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1500, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user, etc.

[0184] The communication unit 1580 can include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1580 can include a short-range communication unit 1582 and a wireless communication unit 1584.

[0185] The short-range wireless communication unit 1182 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee (registered trademark) communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0186] The wireless communication unit 1584 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 1584 can also confirm and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1500 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0187] The control unit 1510 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1500. In one embodiment, the control unit 1510 may include at least one processor. The processor can be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates, and can also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs will be able to understand that it can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0188] The control unit 1510 can control the temperature of the heater 1550 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 1540 to the heater 1550. For example, the control unit 1510 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 1540 and the heater 1550. In other examples, the heating direct circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 1550 according to the control command of the control unit 1510.

[0189] The control unit 1510 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 1520 and control the subsequent processes to be performed. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1520, the control unit 1510 can control the power supplied to the heater 1550 so that the operation of the heater 1550 is started or ended. As another example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1520, the control unit 1510 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 1550 and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater 1550 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0190] Based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1520, the control unit 1510 can control the output unit 1530. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 1526 reaches a preset number, the control unit 1510 notifies the user through at least one of the display unit 1532, the haptic unit 1534, and the acoustic output unit 1536 that the aerosol generating device 1500 is about to end.

[0191] Those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that it can also be embodied in a modified form that does not deviate from the essential characteristics of the foregoing description. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered from an illustrative perspective rather than a limiting perspective. The scope of the present disclosure is shown in the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all differences within the scope equivalent thereto should be construed as being included in the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, a main body, a separating member detachably coupled to the main body, a receiving hole passing through the separating member and accommodating an external device electrically connected to the aerosol generating device, a separation guiding hole communicating with the receiving hole, extending in a direction different from the extending direction of the receiving hole, and into which a separation tool for separating the separating member from the main body is inserted, The separation guiding hole is a recess formed on an inner wall surface of the separating member forming the receiving hole, and extends along a direction crossing the extending direction in which the space of the receiving hole extends. An aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the separation guiding hole is formed in a region where extension lines of major axes of cross-sections of the separating member and the receiving hole meet.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the separating member includes a coupling portion coupled to the main body, and includes a barrier disposed between the separation guiding hole and the coupling portion.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein a first distance from the separation guiding hole to the barrier and a second distance from the separation guiding hole to the coupling portion have a length ratio of 1:3 to 1:

15.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein an open end of the separation guiding hole has a length of 0.3 mm to 3 mm along the direction in which the receiving hole extends.

6. Further including a protection member disposed inside the receiving hole and surrounding at least a part of a side surface of the receiving hole, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the protection member blocks a part of an open end of the separation guiding hole.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving hole accommodates an interface terminal for supplying power from the external device.

Images