Cartridge and aerosol generating device including the same

Abstract

Disclosed is a cartridge and an aerosol generating device including the cartridge, the cartridge including a first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber having an inlet and an outlet, a wick located in the second chamber so as to be connected to the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick, the second chamber including a curved surface forming at least a portion of the second chamber between the inlet and the outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge and an aerosol generating device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] An aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or a substance through an aerosol. The medium can contain substances with various components. The substances contained in the medium can be flavor substances with various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium can include a nicotine component, a herb component, and / or a coffee component, etc. In recent years, many studies on such aerosol generating devices have been carried out.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to reduce the flow resistance generated when air passes through the inside of the cartridge.

[0005] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to uniformly mix the aerosol generated inside the cartridge with air and distribute it into the air.

[0006] Still another object of the present disclosure is to prevent the generation of eddy currents when air passes through the inside of the cartridge.

[0007] Still another object of the present disclosure is to increase the amount or density of the aerosol in the inhaled air.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above object, the cartridge includes a first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber having an inlet and an outlet, a wick positioned in the second chamber so as to be connected to the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick, and the second chamber includes a curved surface that forms at least a part of the second chamber between the inlet and the outlet.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the flow resistance generated when air passes through the inside of the cartridge can be reduced.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the generation of vortex flow when air passes through the inside of the cartridge can be prevented.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generated inside the cartridge can be uniformly mixed with air and distributed in the air.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount or density of the aerosol in the inhaled air can be increased.

[0013] The applicable additional scope of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be clearly understandable to those skilled in the art, so the detailed description and specific examples such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as being given by way of illustration only.

[0014] The above and other objects, features, and other features of the present disclosure will be clearly understandable from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015]

Figure 1

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Figure 10

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Figure 15

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Figure 17

Figure 18

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Figure 20

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Figure 22

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Figure 24

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brevity of the description with reference to the drawings, the same or similar components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0017] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for the components used in the following description are for the sole purpose of facilitating the description in the specification and have no special meaning or role.

[0018] In the present disclosure, those well known to those skilled in the art are omitted for the sake of brevity. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are for the purpose of enabling easy understanding of various technical features, and the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the present disclosure should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives in addition to those specifically disclosed in the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0020] When referring to a component being "connected" to another component, it should be understood that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when referring to a component being "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that no other components exist in between.

[0021] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0022] Hereinafter, the z - direction shown in the coordinate system can be defined as the upward direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the downward direction. The x - axis direction can be defined as the rearward direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the forward direction. The y - axis direction can be defined as the right - hand direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the left - hand direction.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 100 can include at least one of a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, and a cartridge 40. At least one of the battery 10, the control unit 20, and the heater 30 can be disposed inside the case 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. The cartridge 40 can be detachably coupled to one side of the case 110.

[0024] The case 110 can be provided with an insertion space 50 into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The insertion space 50 can be open to the outside and can extend longitudinally. The heater 30 can be formed around the insertion space 50. The cartridge 40 and the insertion space 50 can be arranged parallel to face each other. The internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in the figure. The stick 200 can be inserted into the insertion space 50 and protrude outside the case 110. The user can hold the stick 200 in the mouth and perform an inhalation operation.

[0025] The battery 10 can supply power so that at least one of the control unit 20, the heater 30, and the cartridge 40 operates. The battery 10 can supply the power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0026] The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 can control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, the heater 30, and the cartridge 40. The control unit 20 can control the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state by checking each state of the configuration of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0027] The heater 30 can generate heat by the power supplied from the battery 10. The heater 30 can heat the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0028] The cartridge 40 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the cartridge 40 can be transmitted to the user through the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 can include a first container 41 and a second container 42. The second container 42 can be coupled to the upper side of the first container 41. The cartridge inlet 414 can be formed by an opening on one side of the cartridge 40. The cartridge inlet 414 can be formed by an opening on one side of the first container 41. The cartridge inlet 414 can be formed by an opening on one side of the second container 42. The cartridge inlet 414 can communicate with the outside. The air outside the cartridge 40 can flow into the inside of the cartridge 40 through the cartridge inlet 414.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 3, the first container 41 can be provided with a first chamber C1 inside. The first chamber C1 can store liquid. The cartridge inlet 414 can be formed by the upper end of the first container 41 being open.

[0031] The second container 42 can be provided with a second chamber C2 inside. The second chamber C2 can be separated from the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 can be arranged below the first chamber C1.

[0032] The wick 61 can be provided inside the second chamber C2. The wick 61 can be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 61 can receive the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from the first chamber C1.

[0033] The heater 62 can be provided inside the second chamber C2. The heater 62 can be wound around the wick 61. The heater 62 can heat the wick 61. When the heater 62 heats the wick 61 receiving the liquid, aerosol can be generated around the wick 61 inside the second chamber C2.

[0034] The chamber inlet 542 can be formed by one side of the second chamber C2 being open. The chamber outlet 543 can be formed by the other side of the second chamber C2 being open. The chamber inlet 542 can communicate with the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 543 can communicate with the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 can be arranged opposite to each other with respect to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 can be arranged opposite to each other with the wick 61 as the center. The chamber inlet 542 can be referred to as the inlet 542. The chamber outlet 543 can be referred to as the outlet 543.

[0035] The inflow channel 541 can be formed between the chamber inlet 542 and the cartridge inlet 414. The inflow channel 541 can connect the chamber inlet 542 and the cartridge inlet 414. The inflow channel 541 can extend downward and long from the cartridge inlet 414 toward the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 541 can be separated from the first chamber C1. The inflow channel 541 can be separated from the second chamber C2. The inflow channel 541 can be formed parallel to the first chamber C1. The inflow channel 541 can bend toward the chamber inlet 542 near the chamber inlet 542 and communicate with the chamber inlet 542.

[0036] The discharge channel 544 can be formed by the opening of the second container 42. The discharge channel 544 can communicate with the chamber outlet 543. The discharge channel 544 can communicate with the outside of the cartridge 40. The discharge channel 544 can open in the front-rear direction. The discharge channel 544 can extend long in the front-rear direction. The discharge port 512 can be formed by the front side of the second container 42 protruding forward. The discharge channel 544 can be formed inside the discharge port 512 and can be surrounded by the discharge port 512.

[0037] The air outside the cartridge 40 can flow into the second chamber C2 by sequentially passing through the cartridge inlet 414, the inflow channel 541, and the chamber inlet 542. The air flowing into the second chamber C2 can flow out of the cartridge 40 by sequentially passing through the chamber outlet 543 and the discharge channel 544. The air flowing into the second chamber C2 can carry the aerosol.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the chamber inlet 542 can open in the front - rear direction. The chamber inlet 542 can open towards the core 61. The chamber outlet 543 can open in the front - rear direction. The chamber outlet 543 can open towards the core 61. The core 61 can be arranged between the chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 are arranged parallel to each other with the core 61 therebetween and can face each other.

[0039] The core 61 can extend long in the left - right direction. The core 61 can extend long in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber inlet 542 opens. The core 61 can extend long in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber outlet 543 opens. The core 61 can have a long - extended cylindrical shape. The cross - section of the core 61 can be circular.

[0040] The center line L can be defined as a virtual line connecting the center of the chamber inlet 542 and the center of the chamber outlet 543. The center line L can extend long from the chamber inlet 542 to the chamber outlet 543. The core 61 can overlap with the center line L. The core 61 can extend long in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the center line L. The center of the core 61 can coincide with the center line L or be adjacent to the center line L.

[0041] The left - right width W2 of the chamber inlet 542 may be larger than the up - down width W1. The diameter of the chamber inlet 542 may be longer in the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The left - right width W4 of the chamber outlet 543 may be larger than the up - down width W3. The diameter of the chamber outlet 543 may be longer in the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber inlet 542 and / or the chamber outlet 543 can open long in the longitudinal direction of the core 61 facing the core 61.

[0042] The vertical width W1 of the chamber inlet 542 and the vertical width W3 of the chamber outlet 543 may be the same or approximately the same as each other. The horizontal width W2 of the chamber inlet 542 and the horizontal width W4 of the chamber outlet 543 may be the same or approximately the same as each other.

[0043] The width W0 of the core 61 may be the same or approximately the same as the vertical width W1 of the chamber inlet 542. The width W0 of the core 61 may be the same or approximately the same as the vertical width W3 of the chamber outlet 543.

[0044] The second chamber C2 can be provided with a curved surface formed to have a curvature on at least one side. The curved surface can cover or surround at least a part of the second chamber C2. The curved surface can constitute at least a part of the outer shape of the second chamber C2.

[0045] The second chamber C2 can be provided with an inflow curved surface 52. The inflow curved surface 52 can be formed to have a curvature around the chamber inlet 542. The inflow curved surface 52 can cover one side of the second chamber C2 around the chamber inlet 542. The rear end of the inflow curved surface 52 can be connected to the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The inflow curved surface 52 can extend outward from the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 toward the front. The inflow curved surface 52 can have a vessel shape surrounding the rear space of the core 61. The inflow curved surface 52 can surround the rear side of the core 61. The inflow curved surface 52 can be formed as a continuous surface.

[0046] The second chamber C2 can be provided with a discharge surface 53. The discharge surface 53 can be formed to have a curvature around the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge surface 53 can cover the other side of the second chamber C2 around the chamber discharge port 543. The front end of the discharge surface 53 can be connected to the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge surface 53 can extend rearward from the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543 to the outside of the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge surface 53 can have a vessel shape surrounding the front-side space of the core 61. The discharge surface 53 can surround the front side of the core 61. The discharge surface 53 can be formed as a continuous surface.

[0047] The second chamber C2 can be provided with a connection surface 55. The connection surface 55 can be formed between the front end of the inflow surface 52 and the rear end of the discharge surface 53. The connection surface 55 can connect the front end of the inflow surface 52 and the rear end of the discharge surface 53. The connection surface 55 can form the outer periphery of the plane of the second chamber C2 in the up-down, left-right directions. The connection surface 55 can extend in the front-rear direction. The connection surface 55 can have no curvature or a very small curvature.

[0048] The second chamber C2 can be surrounded by the inflow surface 52, the discharge surface 53, and the connection surface 55. The rear of the second chamber C2 can be covered by the inflow surface 52. The front part of the second chamber C2 can be covered by the discharge surface 53. The connection surface 55 can cover the peripheries above and below the core 61. The connection surface 55 can cover the peripheries on the left and right sides of the core 61.

[0049] The inflow channel 541 can communicate with the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 541 can extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber inlet 542 opens. The inflow channel 541 can extend long in the up-down direction and bend toward the chamber inlet 542 near the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel surface 511 can surround the inflow channel 541. The inflow channel surface 511 can bend and be connected to the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 and the inflow surface 52.

[0050] The channel curved surface 513 can be formed at the portion where the inflow channel surface 511 bends. The channel curved surface 513 can be connected to the inflow curved surface 52.

[0051] The inflow curved surface 52 can be integrally connected to the inflow channel surface 511. The inflow curved surface 52 and the inflow channel surface 511 can form a continuous surface. The discharge curved surface 53 can be integrally connected to the inner surface of the discharge port 512. The inner surface of the discharge curved surface 53 and the inner surface of the discharge port 512 can form a continuous surface. The inner surface of the discharge port 512 can be referred to as the discharge channel surface 512.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the inflow curved surface 52 can include a first inflow curved surface 521 and a second inflow curved surface 522.

[0053] The first inflow curved surface 521 can surround the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The first inflow curved surface 521 can extend along the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The chamber inlet 542 can be formed inside the first inflow curved surface 521. The rear end of the first inflow curved surface 521 can be connected to the inflow channel surface 511. The rear end of the first inflow curved surface 521 can be connected to the channel curved surface 513.

[0054] The first inflow curved surface 521 can expand such that the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 gradually widens from the rear to the front of the chamber inlet 542. The first inflow curved surface 521 can have a tapered shape. The first inflow curved surface 521 can be formed to have a curvature. The first inflow curved surface 521 can form a center of curvature outside the chamber inlet 542 and / or the second chamber C2. The first inflow curved surface 521 can be formed to bulge from the outside to the inside of the first inflow curved surface 521. The first inflow curved surface 521 can have a bell-mouth shape.

[0055] The rear end of the second inflow surface 522 can be connected to the front end of the first inflow surface 521. The second inflow surface 522 can form a continuous surface with the first inflow surface 521. An inflection point and / or an inflected surface can be formed between the second inflow surface 522 and the first inflow surface 521. The front end of the second inflow surface 522 can be connected to the rear end of the connecting surface 55.

[0056] The second inflow surface 522 can expand such that the second chamber C2 gradually widens forward from the front end of the first inflow surface 521. The second inflow surface 522 can have a tapered shape. The second inflow surface 522 can be formed to have a curvature. The second inflow surface 522 can form a center of curvature inside the second chamber C2. The second inflow surface 522 can be formed to bulge from the inside to the outside of the second inflow surface 522. The center of curvature of the second inflow surface 522 can be adjacent to or overlap with the core 61.

[0057] The channel surface 513 can reduce the flow resistance and smoothly guide the flow of air to the chamber inlet 542 and the second chamber C2 in the flow direction. Air can flow from the inflow channel 541 to the chamber inlet 542 and into the second chamber C2. The air flowing through the inflow channel 541 can be guided to the chamber inlet 542 and the second chamber C2 along the inflow channel surface 511 and the channel surface 513.

[0058] Therefore, the resistance and flow loss for the air flowing from the inflow channel 541 to the chamber inlet 542 can be reduced.

[0059] The first inflow surface 521 can reduce the flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to diffuse around the core 61. The air passing through the chamber inlet 542 can diffuse around the chamber inlet 542 along the first inflow surface 521 from the chamber inlet 542 toward the core 61.

[0060] The second inflow surface 522 can reduce the flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to pass around the core 61. The air flowing in from the chamber inlet 542 can flow between the core 61 and the second inflow surface 522 along the second inflow surface 522. The second inflow surface 522 can collect the air discharged from the chamber inlet 542 and diffused in the flowing direction. The second inflow surface 522 can prevent the reduction of flow efficiency or the generation of vortex caused by the sudden change of the direction of the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of the core 61.

[0061] Therefore, the diffusion efficiency of the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 into the second chamber C2 can be improved. Also, the diffusion efficiency of the air around the core 61 can be improved. Also, the generation of vortex around the core 61 and near the corners of the second chamber C2 can be prevented. Also, the aerosol can be more uniformly mixed with the air and distributed in the air. Also, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 8, the discharge surface 53 can include a first discharge surface 531 and a second discharge surface 532.

[0063] The first discharge surface 531 can surround the outer periphery of the chamber outlet 543. The first discharge surface 531 can extend along the outer periphery of the chamber outlet 543. The chamber outlet 543 can be formed inside the first discharge surface 531. The front end of the first discharge surface 531 can be connected to the discharge channel surface 512.

[0064] The first discharge surface 531 can expand such that the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543 gradually widens from the front to the rear of the chamber discharge port 543. The first discharge surface 531 can gradually narrow from the rear to the front of the chamber discharge port 543. The first discharge surface 531 can have a tapered shape. The first discharge surface 531 can be formed to have a curvature. The first discharge surface 531 can form a center of curvature outside the chamber discharge port 543 and / or the second chamber C2. The first discharge surface 531 can be formed to bulge from the outside to the inside of the first discharge surface 531. The first discharge surface 531 can have a bell-mouth shape.

[0065] The front end of the second discharge surface 532 can be connected to the rear end of the first discharge surface 531. The second discharge surface 532 can gradually narrow toward the front of the second chamber C2. The second discharge surface 532 can form a continuous surface with the first discharge surface 531. An inflection point and / or an inflection surface can be formed between the second discharge surface 532 and the first discharge surface 531. The rear end of the second discharge surface 532 can be connected to the front end of the connection surface 55.

[0066] The second discharge surface 532 can expand such that the second chamber C2 gradually widens from the rear end of the first discharge surface 531 toward the rear. The second discharge surface 532 can have a tapered shape. The second discharge surface 532 can be formed to have a curvature. The second discharge surface 532 can form a center of curvature inside the second chamber C2. The second discharge surface 532 can be formed to bulge from the inside to the outside of the second discharge surface 532. The center of curvature of the second discharge surface 532 can be adjacent to or overlap with the core 61.

[0067] The second discharge surface 532 can reduce the flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to flow through the periphery of the core 61 and reach the chamber discharge port 543. The air passing through the periphery of the core 61 can flow between the core 61 and the second discharge surface 532 along the second discharge surface 532. The second discharge surface 532 can collect the air passing through the periphery of the core 61 around the chamber discharge port 543 in the flow direction. The second discharge surface 532 can prevent the reduction in flow efficiency or the generation of eddy currents caused by the abrupt change in the direction of the air flowing from the periphery of the core 61 to the chamber discharge port 543.

[0068] The first discharge surface 531 can reduce the flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to gather from the periphery of the core 61 to the chamber discharge port 543. The air passing through the periphery of the core 61 can gather inside the chamber discharge port 543 along the first discharge surface 531. The first discharge surface 531 can prevent the reduction in flow efficiency or the generation of eddy currents caused by the abrupt change in the direction of the air flowing from around the chamber discharge port 543 to the chamber discharge port 543 or by the collision resistance between the air gathering at the chamber discharge port 543.

[0069] Therefore, the flow efficiency of the air flowing from the second chamber C2 or from the periphery of the core 61 to the chamber discharge port 543 can be improved. Also, it is possible to prevent the generation of eddy currents around the periphery of the core 61 and near the corners of the second chamber C2. Further, the aerosol can be more uniformly mixed with the air and distributed in the air. Also, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 9, the core 61 can extend long in a direction intersecting the center line L. The core 61 can be arranged perpendicular to the center line L. The core 61 can be arranged to extend long left and right between the chamber inlet 542 and the chamber discharge port 543.

[0071] The chamber inlet 542 can open in the front-rear direction toward the core 61. The chamber inlet 542 can open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber inlet 542 can be formed with a longer width W2 in the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber inlet 542 can be formed with a longer width W2 in the left-right direction than the up-down width W1.

[0072] The chamber outlet 543 can open in the front-rear direction toward the core 61. The chamber outlet 543 can open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber outlet 543 can be formed with a longer width W4 in the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber outlet 543 can be formed with a longer width W4 in the left-right direction than the up-down width W3.

[0073] The inflow surface 52 can gradually expand from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of both ends of the core 61 disposed in the second chamber C2. The first inflow surface 521 can have the left-right width W2 gradually increasing from the rear end to the front end of the chamber inlet 542. The second inflow surface 522 can have the width gradually expanding from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of both ends of the core 61.

[0074] Therefore, the air flowing into the second chamber C2 from the chamber inlet 542 can be uniformly diffused toward the long-extended core 61. Also, the flow resistance of the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 toward the peripheries of both edge portions of the core 61 is reduced, generation of vortices can be prevented, and the flow efficiency can be improved. Also, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0075] The discharge surface 53 can gradually narrow from the periphery of both ends of the core 61 disposed in the second chamber C2 toward the chamber outlet 543. The first discharge surface 531 can have the left-right width W4 gradually decreasing from the rear end to the front end of the chamber outlet 543. The second discharge surface 532 can have the width gradually decreasing from the periphery of both ends of the core 61 toward the chamber outlet 543.

[0076] Therefore, the air flowing from the second chamber C2 to the chamber discharge port 543 can be uniformly collected from the long and extended core 61. Further, the flow resistance of the air flowing from the peripheral portions of both edges of the core 61 toward the chamber discharge port 543 is reduced, generation of vortex can be prevented, and the flow efficiency can be improved. Further, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 13, the curved surface can also cover only a part of the second chamber C2. The curved surface is formed around the chamber discharge port 543, and the periphery of the chamber inlet 542 can be covered with the flat surface 56. The curved surface is formed around the lower periphery of the chamber discharge port 543, and the rest can be covered with the flat surface 56. The curved surface is formed around the upper periphery of the chamber discharge port 543, and the rest can be covered with the flat surface 56.

[0078] The curved surface is formed around the chamber inlet 542, and the periphery of the chamber discharge port 543 can be covered with the flat surface 56. The curved surface is formed around the lower periphery of the chamber inlet 542, and the rest can be covered with the flat surface 56. The curved surface is formed above the chamber inlet 542, and the rest can be covered with the flat surface 56.

[0079] The curved surface can cover any one side of the second chamber C2, and the rest can be covered with the flat surface 56. The position where the curved surface is disposed is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The flat surface 56 can be completely flat or mostly flat.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 14, the second chamber C2 can have a spherical shape. The second inflow curved surface 522 and the second discharge curved surface 532 can be connected to each other. The curvature of the second inflow curved surface 522 and the curvature of the second discharge curved surface 532 can be the same as or substantially the same as each other. The center of curvature of the second inflow curved surface 522 and the center of curvature of the second discharge curved surface 532 can be the same as or adjacent to each other. The center of curvature of the second inflow curved surface 522 and the center of curvature of the second discharge curved surface 532 can be the same as or adjacent to the center of the core 61.

[0081] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the generation of a vortex flow due to air flow inside the second chamber C2. Further, the flow resistance against the air flowing around the core 61 can be reduced, and the flow efficiency can be improved. Further, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 15, the second chamber C2 can have an elliptical shape. The second inflow surface 522 and the second discharge surface 532 can be connected to each other. The second inflow surface 522 and the second discharge surface 532 can bulge outward from the second chamber C2. The length D1 in the front-rear direction of the second chamber C2 may be longer than the length D2 in the vertical direction of the second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 can be formed longer from the chamber inlet 542 toward the chamber outlet 543. The second chamber C2 can be formed longer in the air flow direction. The upper end and the lower end of the second chamber C2 can be arranged closer to the core 61.

[0083] Therefore, the straightness of the air passing through the second chamber C2 is improved, and it is possible to improve the reduction in the air flow efficiency due to changing the path. Further, inside the second chamber C2, the air flows closer to the core 61, and the amount or density of the aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 16, the channel surface 513 and the lower part of the second inflow surface 522 can be integrally connected. The channel surface 513 and the lower part of the second inflow surface 522 can form a continuous surface. The channel surface 513 and the second inflow surface 522 can bulge outward from the second chamber C2. The curvature of the channel surface 513 and the curvature of the lower part of the second inflow surface 522 connected to the channel surface 513 can be the same as each other. The curvature of the lower part of the second chamber C2 may be smaller than the curvature of the upper part of the second chamber C2. No inflection point and / or inflection surface may be formed between the second channel surface 513 and the second inflow surface 522.

[0085] Therefore, no vortex is generated in the air flowing from the inflow channel 541 through the chamber inlet 542 into the second chamber C2, and the straightness of the flow can be improved. Further, since the air does not collide with the wall formed around the chamber inlet 542, the resistance to the flow can be reduced, and the efficiency of the air flow can be improved.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 17, the first inflow curved surface 521 can be eliminated. The first discharge curved surface 531 can be eliminated. Around the chamber inlet 542, the rear side of the second chamber C2 can be covered by the second inflow curved surface 522. Around the chamber outlet 543, the front side of the second chamber C2 can be covered by the second discharge curved surface 532.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 18, the width of the first inflow curved surface 521 can gradually increase from the rear end to the front end of the chamber inlet 542. The width W1 of the rear end of the first inflow curved surface 521 can be the same as or approximately the same as the width W0 of the core 61. The width W10 of the front end of the first inflow curved surface 521 may be larger than the width W0 of the core 61. The front end of the first inflow curved surface 521 can be connected to the rear end of the connecting surface 55. The first inflow curved surface 521 can have a bellmouth shape that expands toward the core 61.

[0088] The width of the first discharge curved surface 531 can gradually decrease from the rear end to the front end of the chamber outlet 543. The width W3 of the front end of the first discharge curved surface 531 can be the same as or approximately the same as the width of the core 61. The width W30 of the rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531 may be larger than the width W0 of the core 61. The rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531 can be connected to the front end of the connecting surface 55. The first discharge curved surface 531 can have a bellmouth shape that expands toward the core 61.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 19, the inflow inclined surface 523 can be formed around the chamber inlet 542. The inflow inclined surface 523 can gradually expand forward. The inflow inclined surface 523 can gradually expand toward the core 61. The inflow inclined surface 523 can be formed obliquely outward toward the core 61. The inflow inclined surface 523 can have a frustum shape such as a frustum of a cone or a frustum of an elliptical cone. The inflow inclined surface 523 may not have a curvature. The inflow inclined surface 523 can be formed between the first inflow curved surface 521 and the second inflow curved surface 522. The inflow inclined surface 523 can connect the first inflow curved surface 521 and the second inflow curved surface 522.

[0090] The discharge inclined surface 533 can be formed around the chamber outlet 543. The discharge inclined surface 533 can gradually narrow forward. The discharge inclined surface 533 can gradually expand toward the core 61. The discharge inclined surface 533 can be formed obliquely outward toward the core 61. The discharge inclined surface 533 can have a frustum shape such as a frustum of a cone or a frustum of an elliptical cone. The discharge inclined surface 533 may not have a curvature. The discharge inclined surface 533 can be formed between the first discharge curved surface 531 and the second discharge curved surface 532. The discharge inclined surface 533 can connect the first discharge curved surface 531 and the second discharge curved surface 532.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 23, the inflow channel 5410 can communicate with the outside of the cartridge 40 by opening one side of the second container 42. The inflow channel 5410 can communicate with the rear end of the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 5410 may not bend. The inflow channel 5410 can open in the front-rear direction. The inflow channel 5410 can extend long in the front-rear direction. The inflow channel 5410 can be formed parallel to the discharge channel 544. The inflow channel 5410 and the discharge channel 544 can face each other.

[0092] Therefore, the length of the flow path from the outside of the cartridge 40 to the second chamber C2 is shortened, and the suction force required for the user to inhale air can be reduced. Further, when flowing from the inflow channel 5410 toward the chamber inlet 542, the air does not swirl, and the straightness of the air flow inside the cartridge 40 is improved, so that the flow efficiency can be improved.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 24, the baffle 58 can be provided at the chamber inlet 542. The baffle 58 can be provided between the second chamber C2 and the inflow channel 541. The baffle 58 can include a plurality of holes. The baffle 58 can block the chamber inlet 542, but since a plurality of holes are formed, the second chamber C2 and the inflow channel 541 can be communicated with each other. The baffle 58 can have a porous plate or mesh shape. Air can flow from the inflow channel 541 through the baffle 58 and into the second chamber C2. The baffle 58 can make the flow velocity of the air flowing into the second chamber C2 uniform.

[0094] Therefore, air can be uniformly diffused from the chamber inlet 542 to the periphery of the second chamber C2 and the core 61. Further, the amount or density of the aerosol in the air can be increased.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 24, the cartridge 40 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first chamber C1 for storing a liquid, a second chamber C2 including an inlet 542 and an outlet 543, a core 61 located in the second chamber C2 and connected to the first chamber C1, and a heater 62 for heating the core 61, and the second chamber C2 can include a curved surface forming at least a part of the second chamber C2 between the inlet 542 and the outlet 543.

[0096] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 can include a discharge curved surface 53 that forms the second chamber C2 around the outlet 543 and is formed to have a curvature.

[0097] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge surface 53 can surround the discharge port 543, form a center of curvature outside the second chamber C2, and include a first discharge surface 531 whose outer periphery gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the second chamber C2.

[0098] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first discharge surface 531 can have a bell-mouth shape.

[0099] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge surface 53 can include a second discharge surface 532 formed to bulge outward, and the outer periphery of the second discharge surface 532 can gradually decrease in the direction toward the discharge port 543.

[0100] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge surface 53 surrounds the discharge port 543, forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber C2, and includes a first discharge surface 531 whose outer periphery gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the discharge port 543, and a second discharge surface 532 formed to bulge outward and whose outer periphery gradually decreases in the direction toward the discharge port 543. The second discharge surface and the first discharge surface 531 can be adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

[0101] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 can include an inflow surface 52 formed to form the second chamber C2 around the periphery of the inflow port 542 and having a curvature.

[0102] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inflow surface 52 can surround the inflow port 542, form a center of curvature outside the second chamber C2, and include a first inflow surface 521 whose outer periphery gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber C2.

[0103] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first inflow curved surface 521 can have a bellows shape.

[0104] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inflow curved surface 52 can be formed to bulge outward and include a second inflow curved surface 522 whose outer periphery gradually increases in the direction from the inlet 542 toward the second chamber C2.

[0105] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inflow curved surface 52 surrounds the inlet 542, forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber C2, and includes a first inflow curved surface 521 whose outer periphery gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber C2, and a second inflow curved surface 522 that is formed to bulge outward and whose outer periphery gradually increases in the direction from the inlet 542 toward the second chamber C2. The second inflow curved surface 522 and the first inflow curved surface 521 can be adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

[0106] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the core 61 can be disposed to extend long to one side between the inlet 542 and the outlet 543. The inlet 542 faces the core 61 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core 61, and the diameter of the inlet 542 in the first axial direction in the longitudinal direction of the core 61 is larger than the diameter of the inlet in the second axial direction intersecting the first axis.

[0107] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the outlet 543 faces the core 61 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core 61, and the diameter of the inlet in the first axial direction in the longitudinal direction of the core 61 is larger than the diameter of the inlet in the second axial direction intersecting the first axis.

[0108] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 can gradually expand from the inlet 542 toward the core 61 and include an inflow curved surface 52 that forms part of the second chamber C2.

[0109] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may have an outer circumference that gradually decreases from the core 61 toward the discharge port 543, and may include a discharge curved surface 53 that forms a part of the second chamber C2.

[0110] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may have a spherical shape.

[0111] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may have an elliptical shape having a longitudinal axis extending from the inlet port 542 toward the discharge port 543.

[0112] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may further include an inlet channel 541 extending toward a channel curved surface connected to the inlet port 542.

[0113] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include a second inlet curved surface 522 that is continuously formed on the channel curved surface and forms a part of the second chamber C2 adjacent to the inlet port 542, and the second inlet curved surface 522 has a center of curvature located inside the second chamber C2.

[0114] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet port 542 and the discharge port 543 are arranged to face each other with respect to the core 61. The cartridge 40 may further include an inlet channel 541 formed to communicate with the external gas.

[0115] Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may further include a baffle 58 provided at the inlet port 542 and having a plurality of holes.

[0116] Further, the cartridge 40 according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a first chamber C1 for storing a liquid, a second chamber C2 having an inlet 542 and an outlet 543, a wick 61 positioned in the second chamber C2 so as to be connected to the first chamber C1, and a heater 62 for heating the wick 61. The second chamber C2 has a surface that gradually decreases from the periphery of the wick 61 toward at least one of the inlet 542 and the outlet 543, and the surface forms a part of the second chamber C2.

[0117] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable from each other. Specific elements or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined in configuration or function with other elements or with each other.

[0118] For example, the A configuration described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawings and the B configuration described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except when it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0119] Although the embodiments have been described above with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments are possible for those skilled in the art within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the target combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other uses will also become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber having an inlet for allowing external air to flow in and an outlet for discharging internal air, a wick positioned in the second chamber so as to be connected to the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick. The second chamber includes a curved surface that forms at least a part of the second chamber between the inlet and the outlet, The second chamber includes an inlet curved surface that forms the second chamber around the periphery of the inlet and is formed to have a curvature, The inlet curved surface surrounds the inlet and includes a first inlet curved surface that forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber, and an outer periphery of the first inlet curved surface gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber. A cartridge.

2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber includes an outlet curved surface that forms the second chamber around the periphery of the outlet and is formed to have a curvature.

3. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the discharge curved surface surrounds the discharge port and includes a first discharge curved surface that forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber, and an outer periphery of the first discharge curved surface gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the second chamber.

4. The cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the first discharge curved surface has a bell-mouth shape.

5. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the discharge curved surface includes a second discharge curved surface formed to bulge outward, and an outer periphery of the second discharge curved surface decreases in a direction toward the discharge port.

6. The discharge curved surface surrounds the discharge port, forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber, and has a first discharge curved surface whose outer periphery gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the discharge port; and a second discharge curved surface formed to bulge outward and having an outer periphery that gradually decreases in a direction toward the discharge port. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the second discharge curved surface and the first discharge curved surface are adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

7. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first inlet curved surface has a bell-mouth shape.

8. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the inlet curved surface includes a second inlet curved surface formed to bulge outward, and an outer periphery of the second inlet curved surface gradually increases in a direction from the inlet to the second chamber.

9. The inflow surface is formed to bulge outward, and further includes a second inflow surface whose outer periphery gradually increases in the direction from the inlet to the second chamber. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the second inflow surface and the first inflow surface are adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

10. The core is disposed between the inlet and the outlet so as to extend long on one side. At least one of the inlet and the outlet faces the core in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the diameter of at least one of the inlet and the outlet in the first axial direction in the longitudinal direction of the core is larger than the diameter in the second axial direction intersecting the first axis.

11. The second chamber includes a discharge surface having an outer periphery that gradually decreases from the core toward the outlet, and the discharge surface forms a part of the second chamber. The cartridge according to claim 10.

12. The cartridge according to claim 1, further including a baffle provided at the inlet and having a plurality of holes.

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