Aerosol Generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes a cartridge having a long insertion space, a body coupled to the cartridge, a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a stick detection sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a stick inserted into the long insertion space, a resistance detection sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a resistance value of the heater, and a controller. The controller determines a reference resistance value, which is a criterion for judging the temperature of the heater, based on at least one of the elapsed time since the end of use of the stick and the resistance value of the heater monitored from the end of use of the stick.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating devices. [Background technology]

[0002] An aerosol generating device is used to extract a predetermined component from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium may contain a variety of components. The components contained in the medium may be flavorings of a variety of components. For example, the components contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal, and / or coffee components. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can improve the efficiency of gas flow and thereby improve the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick.

[0005] It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can accurately detect the temperature of a heater based on the resistance value of the heater.

[0006] It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can accurately determine a reference resistance value that is a criterion for judging the temperature of a heater. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device may include a cartridge having a long insertion space, a body coupled to the cartridge, a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a stick detection sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a stick inserted into the long insertion space, a resistance detection sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a resistance value of the heater, and a controller. The controller may determine a reference resistance value as a criterion for determining a temperature of the heater based on at least one of an elapsed time since use of the stick ended and a resistance value of the heater monitored from the time use of the stick ended. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the efficiency of the gas flow can be improved, thereby improving the efficiency of the heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick.

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine a reference resistance value that is a criterion for determining the temperature of the heater.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately detected based on the resistance value of the heater.

[0011] Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] The above and other objects, features and characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19]FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of simplicity of description with reference to the drawings, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0015] The suffixes "module" and "section" for components used in the following description are for ease of description only and do not have any special meaning or role.

[0016] In this disclosure, those well known to those skilled in the art will be omitted for the sake of brevity. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of various technical features, and that 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.

[0017] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc. may 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 to distinguish one component from another.

[0018] When a component is said to be "connected" to another component, it will be understood that there may be other components in between, whereas when a component is said to be "directly connected" to another component, it will be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0019] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device may include at least one of a body 100 , a cartridge 200 , and a cap 300 .

[0021] The body 100 may include at least one of a lower body 110 and an upper body 120. The lower body 110 may house various components necessary for power supply and control, such as a battery and a control unit, inside. The lower body 110 may form the outer shape of the aerosol generating device. The upper body 120 may be disposed above the lower body 110. The cartridge 200 may be coupled to the upper body 120. The body 100 may be referred to as a main body 100.

[0022] The upper body 120 may include at least one of a mount 130 and a column 140. The mount 130 may be disposed above the lower body 110. The mount 130 may provide a space 134 into which the lower part of the cartridge 200 is inserted. The mount 130 may be open at the top and have a shape that surrounds the space 134 on the inside. The mount 130 may surround the lower part of the cartridge 200 inserted into the space 134. The mount 130 may be fastened to the cartridge 200. The mount 130 may support the lower part of the cartridge 200.

[0023] The column 140 may be disposed on the upper side of the lower body 110. The column 140 may have an elongated shape. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. The column 140 may face one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be disposed parallel to the cartridge 200. The column 140 may have a shape that surrounds one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may support one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0024] The first chamber C1 may be provided on one side of the interior of the first container 210, and the insertion space 214 may be provided on the other side of the interior of the first container 210. The insertion space 214 may be disposed adjacent to the column 140. The column 140 may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the interior of the first container 210 where the insertion space 214 is formed.

[0025] The cartridge 200 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 200 may provide a space in which a liquid can be stored. The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 214. One end of the insertion space 214 may be open to form an opening. The insertion space 214 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space 214.

[0026] The cartridge 200 can include at least one of a first container 210 and a second container 220. The second container 220 can be coupled to the first container 210.

[0027] The first container 210 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 220. The first container 210 may provide a space for storing liquid therein. The first container 210 may be open at the top and may provide an insertion space 214 that extends vertically. The stick 400 (see FIG. 3) may be inserted into the insertion space 214. One side wall of the first container 210 may face the column 140. The column 140 may surround one side wall of the first container 210. The first container 210 may be disposed above the mount 130.

[0028] The second container 220 may be coupled to the underside of the first container 210. The second container 220 may provide a space in which a wick 261 (see FIG. 2) and a heater 262 (see FIG. 2) are provided. The second container 220 may be inserted into the space 134 provided by the mount 130. The space 134 of the mount 130 may be referred to as the container receiving space 134. The mount 130 may surround the second container 220. The second container 220 may be coupled to the mount 130.

[0029] The cap 300 can be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cap 300 can cover the cartridge 200. The cap 300 can cover at least a portion of the body 100. The cap 300 can protect the cartridge 200 and / or at least a portion of the body 100 from the outside. A user can detach the cap 300 from the body 100 and replace the cartridge 200.

[0030] The cap 300 can be attached to the top of the body 100. The cap 300 can be attached to the top side of the lower body 110. The cap 300 can cover the upper body 120. The cap 300 can cover the cartridge 200. The side wall 301 of the cap 300 can surround the side of the cartridge 200. The side wall 301 of the cap 300 can surround the side of the upper body 120. The top wall 303 of the cap 300 can cover the top of the cartridge 200. The top wall 303 of the cap 300 can cover the top of the column 140.

[0031] The cap 300 may have an insertion opening 304. The insertion opening 304 may be formed in an upper wall 303 of the cap 300. The insertion opening 304 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 214. The insertion opening 304 may communicate with one end or the upper end of the insertion space 214.

[0032] The cap 300 may include a cap inlet 304a. The cap inlet 304a may be formed on one side of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 304a may be formed in the top wall 303 of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 304a may be formed in the side wall 301 of the cap 300. The cap inlet 304a may be connected to the outside. Air may flow into the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 304a.

[0033] 1 and 2, the cartridge 200 may be coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 200 may provide a first chamber C1 for storing a liquid. The cartridge 200 may provide an insertion space 214 that is partitioned from the first chamber C1. The insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 may include an opening formed by opening one end. The opening may expose the insertion space 214 to the outside.

[0034] The first container 210 may have an outer wall 211 surrounding an internal space. The first container 210 may have an inner wall 212 that separates the space surrounded by the outer wall 211 to define a first chamber C1 on one side and a long insertion space 214 on the other side. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that extends long in the vertical direction. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be formed inside the first container 210. A stick 400 (see FIG. 3) may be inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0035] The second container 220 may be coupled to the first container 210. The second container 220 may include a second chamber C2 communicating with the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be formed inside the second container 220. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the other end or the lower end of the insertion space 214.

[0036] The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side of the cartridge 200. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on an outer wall of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 may be in communication with the insertion space 214. The cartridge inlet 224 may be in communication with the second chamber C2. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on a side wall 221 of the second container 210.

[0037] The wick 261 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 261 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261. The heater 262 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 262 may be wound around the wick 261 multiple times. The heater 262 may be electrically connected to the battery 190 and / or the control device. The heater 262 may be a resistive coil. When the heater 262 generates heat and heats the wick 261, the liquid supplied to the wick 261 may atomize to generate an aerosol in the second chamber C2.

[0038] Therefore, the first chamber C1 of the first container 210 in which the liquid is stored is arranged to surround the stick 400 (see FIG. 3) and / or the insertion space 214 in which the stick 400 is inserted, thereby improving the efficiency of the space in which the liquid is stored.

[0039] In addition, the distance from the stick 400 to the wick 261 and heater 262 connected to the first chamber C1 is reduced, so that the heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol can be improved.

[0040] A PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly 150 may be provided inside the column 140. At least one of a light source 153 and a sensor 154 may be mounted on a PCB 151 of the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 16). The PCB assembly 150 may be provided facing the side of the cartridge 200. The light source 153 of the PCB assembly 150 may provide light to the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 of the PCB assembly 150 may sense information about the inside and outside of the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 mounted on the PCB assembly 150 may be referred to as a first sensor 154.

[0041] The sensor 180 may be provided on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor 180 may be disposed above the separation wall 112 of the lower body 110. The sensor 180 may detect the flow of air flowing into the cartridge 200. The sensor 180 may be an airflow sensor or a pressure sensor. The sensor 180 may be referred to as a second sensor 180.

[0042] The sensor 180 can be inserted into the mount 130. The sensor 180 can be positioned toward the side. The sensor 180 can be positioned adjacent to the cartridge inlet 224. The sensor 180 can be positioned facing the cartridge inlet 224.

[0043] The lower body 110 may house a battery 190 therein. The lower body 110 may house various control devices therein. The battery 190 may supply power to various components of the aerosol generating device. The battery 190 may be charged through a charging port 119 formed on one side or the bottom of the lower body 110.

[0044] The separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 can cover the top of the battery 190. The separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 can be disposed below the mount 130 and / or the column 140. The body frame 114 of the lower body 110 can support the sides of the battery 190. The body frame 114 can separate a space that houses the battery 190 from a space that houses a control device.

[0045] 2 and 3, the stick 400 may have an elongated shape. The stick 400 may contain a medium therein. The stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0046] The cover 310 can open and close the insertion space 214. The cover 310 can open and close an opening that exposes the insertion space 214 to the outside. The cover 310 can be provided adjacent to the opening of the insertion space 214. The cover 310 can be provided adjacent to one end or the upper end of the insertion space 214. For example, the cover 310 can be provided at the upper end of the first container 210 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 214. For example, the cover 310 can be provided on the cap 300 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 214.

[0047] The cover 310 may be provided to be pivotable. The cover 310 may pivot to open and close the insertion space 214. The cover 310 may pivot toward the inside of the insertion space 214 to open the insertion space 214. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots to open the insertion space 214 may be referred to as a first direction. The cover 310 may pivot toward the outside of the insertion space 214 to close the insertion space 214. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots to close the insertion space 214 may be referred to as a second direction.

[0048] When the end of the stick 400 contacts the cover 310 and pushes the cover 310 out, the cover 310 can pivot in a first direction to open the insertion space 214. The stick 400 can push the cover 310 out and be inserted into the insertion space 214. When the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 can pivot in a second direction to close the insertion space 214.

[0049] The spring 312 (see FIG. 9) can provide a resilient force to the cover 310 in the second direction. One end of the spring 312 can support the cover 310, and the other end of the spring 312 can support the upper end of the first container 210 or the cap 300. The spring 312 can be wound around a pivot shaft of the cover 310.

[0050] The cover 310 may be provided around the insertion opening 304 of the cap 300. The cover 310 may be pivotally provided on the cap 300. The cover 310 may pivot to open and close the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may pivot in a first direction to open the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may pivot in a second direction to close the insertion opening 304.

[0051] The stick 400 can be inserted into the insertion space 214 by passing through the insertion opening 304 of the cap 300. When one end of the stick 400 contacts the cover 310 and pushes the cover 310 out, the cover 310 can pivot in a first direction to open the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304. The stick 400 can be inserted into the insertion space 214 by pushing the cover 310 out and passing through the insertion opening 304. When the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 can pivot in a second direction to close the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304.

[0052] When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, one end of the stick 400 is exposed to the outside of the cap 300, and the other end of the stick 400 may be located adjacent to and above the second chamber C2. A user can inhale air by holding the exposed end of the stick 400 in their mouth.

[0053] Air can flow into the inside of the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 304a. The air flowing in from the cap inlet 304a can flow into the cartridge inlet 224. The air can flow through the cartridge inlet 224 and into the inside of the cartridge 200. The air that has passed through the cartridge inlet 224 can flow into the second chamber C2 and flow toward the insertion space 214. The air can pass through the stick 400 along with the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

[0054] Therefore, by inserting the stick 400 into the insertion space 214 , the cover 310 is caused to pivot, and the cover 310 can open the insertion space 214 .

[0055] Furthermore, when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 pivots at the same time, so that the insertion space 214 can be automatically closed.

[0056] Moreover, the inside of the insertion space 214 can be protected from external foreign matter.

[0057] 4 to 6, the cartridge 200 may be detachably coupled to the upper body 120. The upper body 120 may be disposed above the lower body 110. The upper body 120 may include at least one of a mount 130 and a column 140.

[0058] The mount 130 may provide a space 134 that is open at the top. The inner surface 131 and the bottom 133 of the mount 130 may surround at least a portion of the space 134. The inner surface 141 of the column 140 may surround one side of the space 134. The second container 220 may be inserted into the space 134 provided by the mount 130. The mount 130 may surround the second container 220 inserted into the space 134.

[0059] The cartridge 200 may be connected to the mount 130 by a snap-fit ​​method. The second container 220 may be connected to the mount 130 by a snap-fit ​​method. The second container 220 may be detachably fastened to the mount 130. When the second container 220 is inserted into the space 134 of the mount 130, a recess 221a formed in the second container 220 may be fastened to a protrusion 131a formed in the mount 130.

[0060] The recessed portion 221a may be formed to be recessed inward from the side wall 221 of the second container 220. The recessed portion 221a may include a plurality of recessed portions, which may be formed on one side and the other side of the side wall 221 of the second container 220. The protrusion 131a may protrude from the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. The protrusion 131a may include a plurality of protrusions, which may be formed on one side and the other side of the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. The protrusions 131a may be formed at positions corresponding to the recessed portion 221a.

[0061] When the second container 220 is coupled to the mount 130, the first container 210 may be positioned above the mount 130. The first container 210 may have a shape that protrudes laterally more than the second container 220. The second container 220 is inserted into the space 134 surrounded by the mount 130, and the first container 210 may cover the top of the mount 130.

[0062] The mount 130 can support the bottom of the cartridge 200. The mount 130 can support the sides and bottom of the second container 220. The mount 130 can support the lower edge of the first container 210.

[0063] The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. The column 140 may surround one side of the space 134 of the mount 130. An inner surface 141 of the column 140 may be integrally formed and extend from the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. An outer surface 142 of the column 140 may be integrally formed and extend from the outer surface 132 of the mount 130.

[0064] The column 140 may extend to a height corresponding to the cartridge 200. An upper wall 143 of the column 140 may be formed to a height corresponding to the upper end of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be formed parallel to the cartridge 200.

[0065] The insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 may be formed adjacent to one side wall of the cartridge 200. The insertion space 214 may be formed adjacent to the column 140. The column 140 may surround the one side wall of the cartridge 200 in which the insertion space 214 is formed. The one side wall of the cartridge 200 may slide onto an inner surface 141 of the column 140 and be inserted into the mount 130. The column 140 may support the one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0066] The window 170, which protects the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 3), may be disposed to cover the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The window 170 may be disposed between the cartridge 200 and the column 140. The window 170 may extend vertically along the column 140. The window 170 may surround one side wall of the cartridge 200 in which the insertion space 214 is formed. The window 170 may support one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0067] Therefore, the cartridge 200 can be releasably coupled to the body 100 .

[0068] In addition, the cartridge 200 can be stably supported by being coupled to the body 100 .

[0069] The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may protrude outward from the upper body 120. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may extend along the periphery of the upper body 120. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may be disposed below the upper body 120. When the cap 300 is coupled to the body 100, the lower end of the side wall 301 of the cap 300 may contact the upper edge 113 of the lower body 110. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may restrict the cap 300 from moving below the upper body 120.

[0070] 7 and 8, the cartridge 200 may include a cover groove 215. The cover groove 215 may be located adjacent to the opening of the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed from the insertion space 214 in a direction in which the periphery of the insertion space 214 expands. The cover groove 215 may be recessed outward from the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed in a radially outward direction from the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed from the insertion space 214 toward the first chamber C1. The cover groove 215 may provide a space in which the cover 310 may be positioned.

[0071] The cover groove 215 may be formed around one end or the upper end of the insertion space 214 in the first container 210. The cover groove 215 may be formed such that the periphery of one end of the insertion space 214 is recessed outward. The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 while opening the opening of the insertion space 214. The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 while pivoting in a first direction to open the opening of the insertion space 214.

[0072] The cover groove 215 may be formed such that one end or an upper end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is recessed outward from the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be formed such that the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is recessed from the insertion space 214 toward the first chamber C1. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may define the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround at least a portion of the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may contact the bottom of the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround a portion of a side of the cover groove 215.

[0073] The cartridge 200 may include a first guide 216 formed adjacent to the upper portion of the insertion space 214 and inclined downward from the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be formed on the upper end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The first guide 216 may be referred to as a first stick guide 216.

[0074] The first guide 216 may contact the bottom of the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed on the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 at a position in contact with the bottom of the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed between the bottom of the cover groove 215 and the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be disposed below the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed inclined from the bottom of the cover groove 215 toward the bottom of the insertion space 214.

[0075] The first guide 216 may extend circumferentially along at least a portion of the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may extend circumferentially along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The first guide 216 may contact an end of the stick 400 (see FIG. 3 ) and guide the stick 400 as it is inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0076] 8, the cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 210, a second container 220, a sealing member 250, a wick 261, and a heater 262. The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240.

[0077] The first container 210 may provide a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 214. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may separate a space surrounded by an outer wall 211 of the first container 210, thereby defining the first chamber C1 on one side and the insertion space 214 on the other side.

[0078] The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround the sides of the first chamber C1. The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be connected to each other to form an elongated shape that surrounds the periphery of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 213 of the first container 210 may cover the upper part of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 213 of the first container 210 may be connected to the outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0079] The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround the sides of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that extends elongated in the vertical direction. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that corresponds to the circumference of the stick 400 (FIG. 3). The insertion space 214 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be connected to each other to form a shape that extends circumferentially so as to surround the periphery of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may be open at the top and bottom.

[0080] The second container 220 may provide a second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be in communication with the insertion space 214.

[0081] The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240. The lower case 230 may form the outer shape of the second container 220. The lower case 230 may be coupled to the outer wall 211 or periphery of the first container 210. The lower case 230 may provide an internal storage space. The lower case 230 may support the frame 240. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in a side wall of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the lower case 230.

[0082] Therefore, the liquid can be prevented from leaking from the second chamber C2 to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224.

[0083] The lower case 230 may include at least one of a receiving portion 231 and an extension portion 232. The receiving portion 231 may provide an internal receiving space. The receiving portion 231 may surround the receiving space. The receiving portion 231 may receive at least a portion of the frame 240 therein. A side wall of the receiving portion 231 may be the side wall 221 (see FIG. 4 ) of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in the side wall of the receiving portion 231. The extension portion 232 may extend outward from an upper end of one side of the receiving portion 231. The extension portion 232 may support a portion of the frame 240. The receiving portion 231 may be referred to as a case portion 231.

[0084] The frame 240 may be disposed inside the lower case 230. The frame 240 may define the second chamber C2. The frame 240 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The lower case 230 may surround the remainder of the second chamber C2. The frame 240 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1.

[0085] The frame 240 may include at least one of a first frame portion 241 and a second frame portion 242. The first frame portion 241 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1. The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by the outer wall 211, inner wall 212, and upper wall 213 of the first container 210 and the first frame portion 241. The first frame portion 241 may be referred to as the first frame 241. The second frame portion 242 may be referred to as the second frame 242.

[0086] The frame 240 may include at least one of a first frame portion 241 and a second frame portion 242. The first frame portion 241 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1. The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by the outer wall 211, the inner wall 212, the upper wall 213, and the first frame portion 241 of the first container 210.

[0087] The second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may partition the second chamber C2. The sidewall of the second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the side of the second chamber C2. The bottom of the second frame portion 242 may form the bottom of the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed in the sidewall of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may be disposed adjacent to the lower side of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

[0088] The first frame portion 241 and the second frame portion 242 may be connected to each other. The first frame portion 241 may extend from the second frame portion 242 to cover the bottom of the first chamber C1.

[0089] The receiving portion 231 may receive the second frame portion 242 therein. The receiving portion 231 may support the bottom of the second frame portion 242. The receiving portion 231 may define a second chamber C2 together with the second frame portion 242. The extension portion 232 may support the first frame portion 241. The second frame portion 242 may be disposed inside the receiving portion 231, and the first frame portion 241 may be disposed above the extension portion 232.

[0090] The connection channel 2314 may be formed inside the receiving part 231. The frame 240 may define the connection channel 2314 inside the lower case 230. The connection channel 2314 may be formed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424 and may connect the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The first frame part 241 may cover an upper part of the connection channel 2314. The second frame part 242 may cover a side part of the connection channel 2314.

[0091] The blocking wall 2317 may be formed in the connecting channel 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may have an elongated shape. The blocking wall 2317 may extend upward from the bottom of the lower case 230 or the bottom of the frame 240. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the cartridge inlet 224. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the chamber inlet 2424.

[0092] Therefore, the liquid in the second chamber C2 can be prevented from passing through the cartridge inlet 224 and leaking to the outside of the cartridge 200.

[0093] The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may surround and closely fit the edge of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealing member 250 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The sealing member 250 may prevent the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from leaking from the first chamber C1 through gaps between components.

[0094] The sealing member 250 may include at least one of a first sealing portion 251 and a second sealing portion 252. The first sealing portion 251 may extend along the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may surround an edge of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may be tightly fitted between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the frame 240. The first sealing portion 251 may be tightly fitted between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the first frame portion 241.

[0095] Therefore, the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can be prevented from leaking through the gap between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the frame 240.

[0096] The second sealing portion 252 may extend from the first sealing portion 251 along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may surround and closely surround the edge of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may be closely fitted between the inner wall of the first container 210 and the frame 240. The second sealing portion 252 may be closely fitted between the inner wall of the first container 210 and the second frame portion 242. The second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the frame 240. The second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the second frame portion 242. The lower end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may press the second sealing portion 252 toward the frame 240.

[0097] Therefore, the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can be prevented from leaking through the gap between the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and the frame 240.

[0098] The mount 130 may include a sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may provide a space formed under one side wall of the mount 130. The second sensor 180 may be received inside the sensor receiving portion 137. The lower case 230 may cover the sensor receiving portion 137. The lower case 230 may surround one side of the sensor receiving portion 137. One side wall of the receiving portion 231 of the lower case 230 may face the side of the sensor receiving portion 137. The extension portion 232 of the lower case 230 may cover the upper portion of the sensor receiving portion 137.

[0099] A gap through which air can flow may be formed between the sensor housing 137 and the lower case 230. Air may pass between the sensor housing 137 and the lower case 230 and flow into the cartridge inlet 224. The second sensor 180 may detect the flow of air passing between the sensor housing 137 and the lower case 230 and flowing into the cartridge inlet 224.

[0100] 8 and 9, the cartridge 200 may include a stick stopper 217 protruding inward from the periphery of the insertion space 214 at a position adjacent to the other end or the lower end of the insertion space 214. The stick stopper 217 may protrude radially inward. The stick stopper 217 may be formed on the outer wall 211 and / or the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0101] The stick stopper 217 may include multiple stick stoppers. The stick stopper 217 may include three stick stoppers. A plurality of stick stoppers 217 may be arranged along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The stick stoppers 217 may be arranged in the circumferential direction. The stick stoppers 217 may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The stick stopper 217 may have a rib shape or a ring shape extending in the circumferential direction along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The stick 400 may hang around the periphery of the stick stopper 217. The stick stopper 217 may have a shape that gradually widens toward the upper side.

[0102] Thus, when the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, the stick stopper 217 contacts the end of the stick 400, thereby restricting the stick 400 from moving beyond the insertion space 214 into the second chamber C2.

[0103] Also, the reduction in the amount of air flowing from the second chamber C2 into the insertion space 214 can be minimized.

[0104] Furthermore, the stick stopper 217 does not prevent the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 from extracting certain components from the medium of the stick 400.

[0105] 10 and 11 , the pivot axis or shaft 311 of the cover 310 may be disposed above the insertion space 214. The pivot axis or shaft 311 of the cover 310 may be disposed between the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may pivot toward the inside of the insertion space 214 to open the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots toward the inside of the insertion space 214 may be defined as a first direction.

[0106] When the cover 310 pivots in the first direction to open the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be accommodated in the cover groove 215. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be accommodated in the cover groove 215 and may overlap the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 located below the cover groove 215. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be arranged parallel to the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 located below the cover groove 215.

[0107] The first guide 216 may be formed to be inclined from the bottom of the cover groove 215 toward the lower side of the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be formed to be inclined so that the insertion space 214 becomes gradually narrower as it goes downward. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the first guide 216 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the cover 310 on the lower side of the cover 310. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the first guide 216 may protrude into the insertion space 214 beyond the end of the cover 310.

[0108] The cover 310 can pivot toward the outside of the insertion space 214 to close the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots toward the outside of the insertion space 214 can be defined as a second direction. One end of the spring 312 can support the cover 310, and the other end of the spring 312 can support the cap 300. The spring 312 can provide an elastic force to the cover 310 in a direction in which the cover 310 closes the insertion space 214. The cover 310 can pivot in the second direction via the spring 312.

[0109] The second guide 306 may be formed at an angle such that the inner space gradually narrows toward the bottom. The second guide 306 may be disposed adjacent to the pivot radius of the cover 310. The second guide 306 may be disposed outside the pivot radius of the cover 310. The second guide 306 may extend at an angle along the pivot radius of the cover 310.

[0110] One end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the insertion opening 304. One end of the second guide 306 may be located outside the insertion opening 304. One end of the second guide 306 may be located below the insertion opening wall 305. The insertion opening wall 305 may protrude inward beyond one end of the second guide 306. When the cover 310 pivots in the second direction to close the insertion space 214, the cover 310 comes into contact with the insertion opening wall 305, thereby restricting the movement of the cover 310.

[0111] The other end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the insertion space 214. The other end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that defines the periphery of the insertion space 214. The other end of the second guide 306 may be disposed above the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that defines the insertion space 214. The second guide 306 may have a shape that extends obliquely from one end to the other end of the second guide 306.

[0112] 12 to 15, the stick 400 can push the cover 310 inward or in a first direction into the insertion space 214. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 while pushing out the cover 310, the cover 310 can open the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304.

[0113] 13 and 14, when the end of the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the end of the stick 400 can come into contact with the insertion opening wall 305. When the end of the stick 400 comes into contact with the insertion opening wall 305, the insertion opening wall 305 can guide the stick 400 to a fixed position within the insertion opening 304. When the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the end of the stick 400 can push out the cover 310, causing the cover 310 to pivot in a first direction.

[0114] 14 and 15, when the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the cover 310 can be inserted into the cover groove 215. The cover 310 overlaps the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and can form one side wall of the insertion space 214 together with the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0115] 21 and 22 , the stick 400 can be inserted into the insertion space 214 by sliding along the surface of the cover 310. The second guide 306 can be disposed at a position facing the pivot axis of the cover 310, centered around the insertion opening 304. The second guide 306 can be disposed at a position facing the cover groove 215. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, the end of the stick 400 can come into contact with the second guide 306. When the end of the stick 400 comes into contact with the second guide 306, the second guide 306 can guide the stick 400 to a fixed position within the insertion space 214.

[0116] The first guide 216 may be positioned opposite the second guide 306. The first guide 216 may be positioned lower than the second guide 216. The first guide 216 may be positioned below the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be positioned below the cover 310. The first guide 216 may extend circumferentially along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, the end of the stick 400 may contact the first guide 216. The end of the stick 400 may first contact the second guide 306 to be guided into position, and then contact the first guide 216. When the end of the stick 400 contacts the first guide 216, the first guide 216 can guide the stick 400 to a fixed position within the insertion space 214.

[0117] When inserted into the insertion space 214, the end of the stick 400 can come into contact with the stick stopper 217. By coming into contact with the end of the stick 400, the stick stopper 217 can restrict the stick 400 from moving downward in the insertion space 214 or into the second chamber C2.

[0118] Therefore, when a user pushes out the cover 310 using the stick 400, the stick 400 can smoothly pass through the insertion opening 304 and be guided to a precise position so as to push out the cover 310.

[0119] Furthermore, even if the stick 400 pushes out the cover 310 and the cover 310 is positioned inside the insertion space 214, the cover 310 is accommodated in the cover groove 215, allowing the stick 400 to adhere closely to the wall that defines the insertion space 214.

[0120] In addition, since the stick 400 is in close contact with the wall that defines the insertion space 214, unnecessary air flow between the insertion space 214 and the stick 400 is prevented when the user inhales air through the stick 400, thereby reducing wasted suction force and preventing a decrease in the efficiency of air flow.

[0121] In addition, when the user pushes out the cover 310 through the stick 400, the cover 310 can guide the stick 400 so that it is accurately inserted into the insertion space 214 even if an external force is applied to the end of the stick 400 in the second direction.

[0122] In addition, the stick 400 can be restricted from moving inside the second chamber C2.

[0123] 16, the upper body 120 may be coupled to the upper part of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may cover the upper part of the lower body 110. The lower part of the mount 130 may be surrounded by the upper part of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may be coupled to the upper part of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may be coupled to the lower body 110 in a snap-fit ​​manner. The mount 130 may be inseparably fastened to the lower body 110.

[0124] The second sensor 180 may be disposed on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor support portion 185 may have a shape that extends upward from the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor support portion 185 may support the second sensor 180. The second sensor 180 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 185. The second sensor 180 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 185 and disposed facing laterally. The sensor receiving portion 137 of the mount 130 may receive and cover the second sensor 180 and the sensor support portion 185.

[0125] 17 to 19, the fastening holes 135 may be formed in the lower part of the mount 130. The fastening holes 135 may be formed in the side part of the lower part of the mount 130. The fastening holes 135 may include a plurality of fastening holes arranged along the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130. The body latch 115 arranged in the upper part of the lower body 110 can be inserted into the fastening holes 135 to fasten the mount 130 and the lower body 110 together (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0126] The rib groove 136 may be formed on the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The rib groove 136 may have a shape recessed inward from the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The rib groove 136 may have a shape extending along the periphery of the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The body rib 116 extending along the inner periphery of the upper part of the lower body 110 may be inserted into the rib groove 136 to fasten the mount 130 to the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the body rib 116 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The body rib 116 fits tightly into the rib groove 136 to stably fix the position of the mount 130 to the lower body 110 and prevent the upper body 120 from shaking relative to the lower body 110 (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0127] The first fixing portion 138 may be formed on the lower part of the mount 130. The first fixing portion 138 may be recessed upward from the lower part of the mount 130 or protrude downward. The first fixing portion 138 may be formed around the lower part of the mount 130. The first fixing portion 138 may include a plurality of first fixing portions arranged along the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130. The second fixing portion 118 disposed on the upper part of the lower body 110 is coupled to the first fixing portion 138, thereby stably fixing the position of the mount 130 to the lower body 110 and preventing the upper body 120 from shaking relative to the lower body 110 (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0128] The upper body 120 may include an upwardly extending column 140. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. Side walls 141, 142 of the column 140 may be connected to the side walls 131, 132 of the mount 130. The column 140 may surround a portion of the space 134 provided by the mount 130. The inner surface 141 of the column 140 may have a recessed shape that is recessed outward. The column 140 may face the side of the cartridge 200 (see FIG. 6). The column 140 may surround one side of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

[0129] The column 140 can accommodate a PCB assembly 150. The PCB assembly 150 can provide light to the cartridge 200 or sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the information about the cartridge 200 can be at least one of information about a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about whether a stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the extent to which the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is still usable, information about whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information about the type of coupled cartridge 200. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to the above. The column 140 can accommodate a light source 153 that provides light. The column 140 may house a first sensor 154 that senses information about the cartridge 200 .

[0130] The column 140 may provide an installation space 144 therein. The installation space 144 may have a shape that extends up and down along the column 140. The inner surface 141 of the column 140 may surround the installation space 144. The installation space 144 may be open toward the space 134 of the mount 130. The installation space 144 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

[0131] The PCB assembly 150 may be provided in the installation space 144. The plate 160 may cover the PCB assembly 150 and be disposed in the installation space 144. The window 170 may cover the PCB assembly 150 and the installation space 144. The PCB assembly 150, the plate 160, and the window 170 may be stacked in order. The installation space 144 may be referred to as the assembly receiving space 144.

[0132] The PCB assembly 150 may include at least one of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 151, a light source 153, and a first sensor 154. The light source 153 may be mounted on the PCB 151. The light source 153 may include at least one light source. The first sensor 154 may be mounted on the PCB. The light source 153 and the first sensor 154 may be mounted at different positions on a single PCB. The first sensor 154 may be mounted in an area that avoids the at least one light source 153.

[0133] The PCB assembly 150 may be disposed inside the column 140 facing the cartridge 200. The PCB assembly 150 may face a first container 210 having a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 214. The PCB assembly 150 may extend vertically along the column 140. A connector 152 for electrical connection may be formed on one end of the PCB assembly 150.

[0134] The PCB 151 may extend vertically along the column 140. The PCB 151 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The connector 152 may be formed at one end of the PCB 151. A plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged on the PCB 151. The first sensor 154 may be located in the center of the PCB 151. At least one light source 153 may be arranged on each side of the first sensor 154. The plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged vertically along the PCB 151. The plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the column 140. The first sensor 154 may be arranged to face the insertion space 214. The light source 153 may be arranged to face the outside of the insertion space 214. The light source 153 may emit light outside the insertion space 214 to provide light to the first chamber C1. The light source 153 may be a light emitting diode (LED).

[0135] Therefore, the light source 153 can provide light uniformly to the first chamber C1.

[0136] In addition, the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 can prevent the path of the light provided by the light source 153 from being blocked.

[0137] The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the PCB 151. The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the first container 210 or the insertion space 214. The first sensor 154 may face the insertion space 214. The first sensor 154 may sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the first sensor 154 may sense at least one of information about a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about whether a stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the extent to which the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is usable, information about whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information about the type of coupled cartridge 200. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to this.

[0138] The first sensor 154 can sense information about the cartridge 200 by sensing changes in the electromagnetic characteristics of the cartridge 200. The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object. For example, the first sensor 154 can be a capacitance sensor. For example, the first sensor 154 can be a magnetic proximity sensor. The type of the first sensor 154 is not limited thereto. For example, when the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 or when there is a change in the volume of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1, a change occurs in the electromagnetic characteristics sensed by the first sensor 154, and the first sensor 154 can measure this change to sense information about the cartridge 200.

[0139] The first sensor 154 may include a conductor. The conductor may be formed to have a length corresponding to the insertion space 214 in the direction in which the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 extends. For example, the conductor may be formed to have a maximum length adjacent to the upper and lower sides of the PCB 151 in the longitudinal direction of the column 140.

[0140] The first sensor 154 may generate and output a signal. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal while a current flows through a conductor. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal corresponding to an electromagnetic characteristic of the surroundings, for example, the capacitance of the surrounding conductor.

[0141] The window 170 may be coupled to the column 140. The window 170 may be made of a transparent material. The window 170 may transmit light. The window 170 may be coupled to the column 140 to cover the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 19). The window 170 may have a shape that extends up and down along the column 140. The window 170 may be disposed between the column 140 and the cartridge 200. The window 170 may be disposed adjacent to the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The window 170 may surround one side of the cartridge 200. The window 170 may face the side of the cartridge 200. The window 170 may be formed thin so that the PCB assembly 150 is adjacent to the cartridge 200.

[0142] One surface 171a of the window 170 can contact the side of the cartridge 200 to support the cartridge 200 (see FIGS. 4 to 6). The other surface 171b of the window 170 can be in close contact with the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 20). The one surface 171a of the window 170 can be referred to as the front surface of the window 170. The other surface 171b of the window 170 can be referred to as the rear surface of the window 170.

[0143] The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a shape corresponding to the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that forms the periphery of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may be located adjacent to the column 140 and the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 8). The insertion space 214 may be located between the first chamber C1 and the column 140. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that surrounds the periphery of the insertion space 214 may have a rounded shape that extends along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a rounded shape that surrounds the outside of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a rounded shape that surrounds the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that forms the periphery of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a concave shape facing the cartridge 200. One surface 171 a of the window 170 can support one side wall of the cartridge 200 .

[0144] At least one groove 174 for accommodating the light source 153 may be formed on the other surface 171b of the window 170. The groove 174 may be referred to as a light source groove 174 or a window groove 174. The light source groove 174 may be formed to be recessed from the other surface 171b of the window 170 toward one surface. Each of the plurality of light source grooves 174 may accommodate and cover one of the plurality of light sources 153. Each of the plurality of light source grooves 174 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of each of the plurality of light sources 153. The plurality of light source grooves 174 may be arranged vertically. At least one of the plurality of light source grooves 174 may be formed on each side of the first sensor 154.

[0145] The other surface 171b of the window 170 may include a flat, planar portion 172. The planar portion 172 may be in close contact with the PCB assembly 150. The planar portion 172 may be inserted into the installation space 144 (see FIG. 17) of the column 140. The light source groove 174 may be formed so that the planar portion 172 is recessed.

[0146] The PCB assembly 150 may include a plurality of through holes 151a. The through holes 151a may be formed on one side of the PCB 151. The through holes 151a may be formed on the upper side of the PCB 151. The through holes 151a may be formed above the light source 153 and / or the first sensor 154. The through holes 151a may be formed on both sides of the PCB 151.

[0147] The window 170 may include a plurality of through protrusions 172a. The through protrusions 172a may protrude from the other surface 171b of the window 170. The through protrusions 172a may be formed at positions corresponding to the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may protrude toward the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may penetrate the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may include a plurality of through protrusions. Each of the plurality of through protrusions 172a may penetrate a corresponding one of the plurality of through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a penetrate the through holes 151a, thereby allowing the PCB assembly 150 and the window 170 to be positioned in place.

[0148] The window 170 may include a locking protrusion 173. The locking protrusion 173 may be formed on the other surface 171b of the window 170. The locking protrusions 173 may protrude from both sides of the flat portion 172. The locking protrusions 173 may include a plurality of locking protrusions arranged in the vertical direction. Each of the plurality of locking protrusions 173 may have a vertically elongated shape corresponding to the flange side portion 1451.

[0149] The column 140 may include a flange 145. The flange 145 may be disposed inside the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The flange 145 may protrude inward from the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The flange 145 may be formed integrally with the column 140. The flange 145 may protrude inward from the column 140 to form an edge. The flange 145 may extend along the periphery of the assembly accommodating space 144. The flange 145 has an open center, through which the assembly accommodating space 144 and the container accommodating space 134 may be connected to each other.

[0150] The flange 145 may include at least one of a flange side portion 1451, a flange lower portion 1452, and a flange upper portion 1453. The flange 145 may be formed by connecting the flange side portion 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453. The flange side portion 1451 may have a shape that extends elongated along the longitudinal direction of the column 140. The flange side portions 1451 may be formed spaced apart from each other on both sides of the column 140. The flange lower portion 1452 and the flange upper portion 1453 may be connected between the pair of flange side portions 1451. The flange side portions 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453 may be connected to each other to form the periphery of the flange 145. The area surrounded by the flange side portion 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453 may be open, thereby allowing the assembly accommodating space 144 and the container accommodating space 134 to communicate with each other.

[0151] The other surface 171b of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145. The edge of the other surface of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145. The other surface 171b of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145 via an adhesive. For example, the adhesive may be tape or glue. The adhesive is not limited to the above. The locking protrusion 173 may engage with the flange 145 to fasten the window 170 and the flange 145. The locking protrusion 173 may engage with the flange side 1451. The flange 145 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the other surface 171b of the window 170 adjacent to the edge of the window 170. The flange lower portion 1452 and the flange upper portion 1453 may have a concave shape.

[0152] Therefore, the PCB assembly 150 can be protected from the outside and prevented from coming off.

[0153] Additionally, light emitted from the PCB assembly 150 can be provided to the cartridge 200 .

[0154] Also, the window 170, the cartridge 200 and the PCB assembly 150 can be stably coupled or fixed.

[0155] The plate 160 may cover an area of ​​the PCB assembly 150 that avoids the at least one light source 153. The plate 160 may be attached to the PCB assembly 150 and cover the first sensor 154. The plate 160 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves. The plate 160 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves but not transparent to visible light or may be semi-transparent.

[0156] A printed circuit connected to the light source 153 may be printed on the PCB 151 around the light source 153. The plate 160 may cover the printed circuit printed on the PCB 151 around the light source 153. The plate 160 may have a shape that extends vertically along the first sensor 154 and may have a shape that extends from the plate 160 in the direction in which the printed circuit is printed.

[0157] The plate 160 may expose the light source 153 without covering it. The light source 153 may be arranged vertically on both sides with the first sensor 154 sandwiched therebetween. The plate 160 may be open at a position corresponding to the position of the light source 153. When the plate 160 is attached to the PCB assembly 150, the light source 153 may be exposed through the area formed by the opening of the plate 160.

[0158] Therefore, the light emitted by the light source 153 is not blocked, and the first sensor 154 and / or the printed circuit printed on the PCB 151 are not exposed to the outside and can be protected from the outside.

[0159] Furthermore, the first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic properties of the surroundings while being covered by the plate 160 .

[0160] 20, the PCB assembly 150 may extend longitudinally along the column 140 within the column 140. The PCB 151 may extend longitudinally along the column 140. A connector 152 formed at one end of the PCB assembly 150 may be exposed to the underside of the upper body 120. The connector 152 may be exposed to the underside of the column 140. The connector 152 may be exposed to the underside of the mount 130. The lower end of the column 140 may be open to form a gap 146. The connector 152 may be exposed to the underside through the gap 146. The gap 146 may communicate with the installation space 144 (see FIG. 17).

[0161] The mount 130 may include a sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on one side wall of the mount 130. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on one side wall of the mount 130 to open downward, thereby providing a space 137b into which the second sensor 180 is inserted. The space 137b provided by the sensor receiving portion 137 may be referred to as the sensor receiving space 137b. An inner surface of the sensor receiving portion 137 may constitute a part of the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. An outer surface of the sensor receiving portion 137 may constitute a part of the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed at a position facing the column 140, with the container receiving space 134 at the center. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130, and the sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on the other side of the mount 130.

[0162] The sensing hole 137a may be formed on the inner surface 131 of the sensor receiving part 137. The sensing hole 137a may be formed between the sensor receiving space 137b and the container receiving space 134, thereby connecting the sensor receiving space 137b and the container receiving space 134. The sensing hole 137a may be located adjacent to the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 8). The sensing hole 137a may face the cartridge inlet 224.

[0163] The sensing hole 137a can face the side. The cartridge inlet 224 is formed by opening the side of the second container 220, and the sensing hole 137a with the open side can face the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 8).

[0164] 21 and 22 , the separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 may cover the upper side of the battery 190. The separation wall 112 may be disposed on the upper part of the lower body 110 in a direction intersecting with the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The separation wall 112 may cover the upper sides of the internal components of the lower body 110. The separation wall 112 may separate a space in which the internal components of the lower body 110 are provided from a space to which the upper body 120 is coupled. The separation wall 112 may be disposed on the lower part of the upper body 120. The side wall 111 of the lower body 110 may extend upwardly beyond the separation wall 112 and surround the periphery of the separation wall 112. The inner peripheral surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110 extending above the separation wall 112 may surround the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130.

[0165] The second sensor 180 may be provided on an upper portion of one side of the lower body 110. The second sensor 180 may be disposed on the upper side of the separation wall 112. The second sensor 180 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the sensor receiving portion 137 of the mount 130. The sensor support portion 185 may extend upward from one side of the separation wall 112 to support the second sensor 180. The second sensor 180 may be disposed facing in a lateral direction.

[0166] The upper body 120 may be coupled to the upper side of the lower body 110. A body latch 115 may be formed on an upper portion of the lower body 110. The body latch 115 may be formed on one end of the separation wall 112. The body latch 115 may have a protruding shape. The body latch 115 may be inserted into a fastening hole 135 of the mount 130 to fasten the mount 130 and the lower body 110 together.

[0167] The body rib 116 may have a shape that protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may have a shape that extends along the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the body rib 116 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The body rib 116 may be positioned above the separation wall 112. The body rib 116 may be inserted into the rib groove 136 of the mount 130 to fit closely.

[0168] The second fixing portion 118 may be disposed on the upper portion of the lower body 110. The second fixing portion 118 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first fixing portion 138. The second fixing portion 118 may be formed around the periphery of the separation wall 112. The second fixing portion 118 may have a shape that protrudes upward or is recessed downward. The second fixing portion 118 may include a plurality of second fixing portions. The second fixing portion 118 may be coupled to the first fixing portion 138 of the mount 130.

[0169] Thus, the upper body 120 can be coupled to the lower body 110 .

[0170] In addition, the mount 130 can be stably fixed to the lower body 110, preventing the upper body 120 from shaking relative to the lower body 110.

[0171] The connection terminal hole 133a may be formed in the bottom 133 of the mount 130. The connection terminal hole 133a may have a slit shape. The connection terminal hole 133a may include a pair of connection terminal holes (see FIG. 20). The first connection terminal 191 may be formed to protrude above the separation wall 112. The first connection terminal 191 may include a pair of first connection terminals. The first connection terminals 191 and the connection terminal hole 133a may be formed at corresponding positions. When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the first connection terminal 191 may pass through the connection terminal hole 133a and be exposed to the container accommodating space 134. When the second cartridge 200 is coupled to the upper body 120, the heater 262 (see FIG. 8) may contact the first connection terminal 191 and be electrically connected to at least one of devices such as the battery 190 and the control device 193. The electrically connected devices are not limited thereto.

[0172] The PCB assembly 150 may be electrically connected to devices inside the lower body 110 via a connector 152 exposed at the lower side of the upper body 120. One side of the separation wall 112 may be open to form a connector insertion opening 117. The connector insertion opening 117 may be formed at a position corresponding to the column 140. The connector insertion opening 117 may be open upward. A connection terminal 192 may be located below the connector insertion opening 117 inside the lower body 110. When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the connector 152 may be inserted into the connector insertion opening 117 and come into contact with the second connection terminal 192. When the connector 152 comes into contact with the second connection terminal 192, the PCB assembly 150 may be electrically connected to at least one device, such as a battery 190 or a control device 193, via the connector 152. The devices to be electrically connected are not limited thereto.

[0173] When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the second sensor 180 may be inserted into the space 137b provided by the sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may surround the second sensor 180. When the mount 130 is coupled to the lower body 110, the second sensor 180 may be inserted upward from below into the sensor receiving space 137b. A sensing hole 137a formed by opening the sensor receiving portion 137 may be open toward the cartridge 200. The second sensor 180 may face the sensing hole 137a inside the sensor receiving portion 137. The second sensor 180 may be positioned inside the sensor receiving portion 137 facing the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 8). The second sensor 180 may sense the flow of air flowing around the sensing hole 137a.

[0174] 23 to 25, the cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 210, a second container 220, a wick 261, and a heater 262. The cartridge 200 may include a sealing member 250.

[0175] The first container 210 may be formed in a hollow shape. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may surround an internal space. The first container 210 may provide a first chamber C1 for storing a liquid therein. The first chamber C1 may be open on one side or the bottom. The first container 210 may have an insertion space 214 into which the stick 400 can be inserted. The first chamber C1 and the stick 400 may be separated from each other inside the first container 210. The insertion space 214 may have an elongated shape with both ends open. The insertion space 214 may be elongated vertically and open at both the top and bottom ends. The periphery of the insertion space 214 may extend in the circumferential direction. The insertion space 214 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0176] The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is located inside the first container 210 and may divide the interior space of the first container 210. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may define a first chamber C1 on one side of the space surrounded by the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and define an insertion space 214 on the other side. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may extend in the circumferential direction and surround at least a portion of the periphery of the insertion space 214.

[0177] Therefore, the efficiency of the space for storing the liquid can be improved, and the convenience of the inhalation action for the user can be improved.

[0178] The second container 220 may be connected to the first container 210. The second container 220 may be connected to one side or the bottom of the first container 210. The second container 220 may close the open side of the first chamber C1. The second container 220 may provide a second chamber C2 therein that communicates with the insertion space 214. The wick 261 may be provided inside the second container 220.

[0179] The cartridge inlet 224 can connect the second chamber C2 to the outside of the cartridge 200. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed in the outer wall of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed in the side wall 221 of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 can be open toward the side. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed at a position higher than the bottom 222 of the second container 220.

[0180] Therefore, it is possible to prevent droplets present in the connecting channel 2314 from leaking to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224 .

[0181] The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240. The lower case 230 may form the outer shape of the second container 220. The lower case 230 may be disposed below the first container 210. The lower case 230 may be coupled to the first container 210. The lower case 230 may be coupled to an outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The periphery of the lower case 230 may be coupled to the periphery of the first container 210. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in the outer wall of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in a side wall 2311 of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than a bottom 2312 of the lower case 230. The lower case 230 may provide an accommodating space 2310 therein. The lower case 230 may accommodate at least a portion of the frame 240 within the accommodating space 2310. The lower case 230 can support a frame 240 .

[0182] The lower case 230 may include a receiving portion 231. The receiving portion 231 may provide an receiving space 2310 therein. The receiving space 2310 may be formed above the receiving portion 231. The receiving portion 231 may surround the sides and bottom of the receiving space 2310. A sidewall 2311 of the receiving portion 231 may surround the sides of the receiving space 2310. A bottom 2312 of the receiving portion 231 may cover the bottom of the receiving space 2310. The second chamber C2 may be formed at the position where the receiving space 2310 is formed. The receiving portion 231 may surround a portion of the second chamber C2.

[0183] The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side of the receiving portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on an outer wall of the receiving portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be located adjacent to the lower side of the extension portion 232. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom 2312 of the receiving portion 231.

[0184] The receiving portion 231 may have a connecting channel 2314 therein. The connecting channel 2314 may be in communication with the cartridge inlet 224. The connecting channel 2314 may be formed between the receiving portion 231 and the frame 240. The connecting channel 2314 may be surrounded by the receiving portion 231 and the frame 240. The connecting channel 2314 may be located between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The connecting channel 2314 may connect the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424.

[0185] The blocking wall 2317 may be formed on the connecting channel 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may protrude upward from the bottom of the connecting channel 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may protrude upward from the bottom 2312 of the receiving portion 231 or the bottom of the frame 240. The connecting channel 2314 may surround the blocking wall 2317. The blocking wall 2317 may be disposed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may be disposed between one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231 and one side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed parallel to one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231. The blocking wall 2317 may face the one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed parallel to one side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The blocking wall 2317 may face one side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the height of the cartridge inlet 224 and / or the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may extend lower than the height of the extension portion 232 and / or the bottom portion 2411. The blocking wall 2317 may extend long in a direction intersecting the direction in which the cartridge inlet 224 and / or the chamber inlet 2424 open. The cartridge inlet 224 may face the blocking wall 2317. The chamber inlet 2424 may face the blocking wall 2317.

[0186] Therefore, the droplets generated in the second chamber C2 can be prevented from leaking to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224.

[0187] The lower case 230 may include an extension 232 extending outward from the receiving portion 231. The extension 232 may extend outward from an upper end of one side of the receiving portion 231. The extension 232 may extend outward from a sidewall 2311 of the receiving portion 231 in which the cartridge inlet 224 is formed. The extension 232 may be located below the first chamber C1. The extension 232 may support the first frame portion 241.

[0188] The lower case 230 may include a peripheral portion 2322 coupled to the periphery of the first container 210. The peripheral portion 2322 may extend along the periphery of the lower case 230 from the upper end of the lower case 230. The peripheral portion 2322 may extend along the periphery of the receiving portion 231 and the extension portion 232. The peripheral portion 2322 may have a continuous band shape. The peripheral portion 2322 may have a shape that protrudes upward from the periphery of the lower case 230. The peripheral portion 2322 may be coupled to the lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be recessed upward so that the peripheral portion 2322 can be inserted therein. The peripheral portion 2322 and the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be attached to each other via an adhesive member. For example, the adhesive member may be tape or glue. The adhesive member is not limited to those described above.

[0189] The frame 240 may be disposed between the lower case 230 and the first container 210. At least a portion of the frame 240 may be received in the receiving space 2310. The frame 240 may be coupled to the lower case 230 within the receiving space 2310. The frame 240 may close the open side or the bottom side of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may partition the interior of the lower case 230 to provide a second chamber C2. The frame 240 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by the frame 240 and the outer wall of the receiving portion 231. The second chamber C2 may be formed below the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the bottom of the insertion space 214. A chamber inlet 2424 may be formed on one side of the frame 240. The chamber inlet 2424 may be connected to the second chamber C2.

[0190] The frame 240 may include a first frame portion 241 that forms the bottom of the first chamber C1. The first frame portion 241 may close the open side of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may include a second frame portion 242 that partitions the interior of the lower case 230 and provides the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may be housed inside the lower case 230. The second frame portion 242 may be connected to the first frame portion 241. The second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2.

[0191] The second frame portion 242 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 2310. The sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the side of the second chamber C2. The bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242 may form the bottom of the second chamber C2. The accommodation portion 231 may support the second frame portion 242. The bottom 2312 of the accommodation portion 231 may support the bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed in the sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be open laterally. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2 or the bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242.

[0192] Therefore, it is possible to prevent droplets generated in the second chamber C2 from leaking out of the second chamber C2 through the chamber inlet 2424.

[0193] The first frame portion 241 may have a shape that extends outward from one side of the second frame portion 242. The first frame portion 241 may extend from an upper portion of the receiving space 2310 in the same direction as the extension portion 232. The first frame portion 241 may cover a portion of the upper side of the lower case 230. The lower case 230 may support one side of the first frame portion 241.

[0194] The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may extend outward from an upper end of one side wall 2421 of the second frame part 242. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may extend in a direction in which the extension part 232 is formed. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may cover the upper side of the extension part 232 and the connecting channel 2314. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may be supported by the extension part 232.

[0195] The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may extend from one side of the periphery of the bottom 2422 of the second frame part 242 along the periphery of the bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241. The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may have a band shape extending along the edge of the bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241. The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may protrude upward from the periphery of the bottom 2411. A portion of the sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 adjacent to the second frame part 242 may be received in the receiving space 2310. The sidewall 2311 of the receiving part 231 may support a portion of the sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 adjacent to the second frame part 242.

[0196] The sidewall 2311 and the bottom 2312 of the receiving portion 231 may surround one side of the connecting channel 2314. The bottom 2411 of the first frame portion 241 and the sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may surround the other side of the connecting channel 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may extend rounded between the first frame portion 241 and the second frame portion 242. The rounded surface 2418 may face one side of the connecting channel 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may extend rounded from the first frame portion 241 toward the chamber inlet 2424. The rounded surface 2418 may extend rounded from the bottom 2411 of the first frame portion 241 toward the sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The rounded surface 2418 may be located above the connecting channel 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may be spaced upward from the blocking wall 2317. A portion of the connecting channel 2314 may be located between the rounded surface 2418 and the blocking wall 2317 .

[0197] The hooks 2415 may be formed on the first frame portion 241. The hooks 2415 may be formed adjacent to the periphery of the first frame portion 241. The hooks 2415 may protrude upward from the bottom 2411 of the first frame portion 241 and have an outwardly curved shape. The hooks 2415 may be located adjacent to or in contact with the sidewalls 2412 of the first frame portion 241. The ends of the hooks 2415 may be curved outward and may be positioned above the sidewalls 2412 of the first frame portion 241. There may be multiple hooks 2415. The multiple hooks 2415 may be arranged along the periphery of the first frame portion 241. There may be three hooks 2415. The sealing member 250 may be fastened to the hooks 2415.

[0198] The wick 261 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 261 may receive the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from the first chamber C1. The heater 262 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261. The heater 262 may wind up the wick 261. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261 that has received the liquid to generate an aerosol in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be fixed to the second frame part 242. The wick insertion groove 2426 may be formed so that the side wall 2421 of the second frame part 242 is recessed downward. A pair of wick insertion grooves 2426 may be formed on both sides. Both ends of the wick 261 may be inserted into and fixed in the wick insertion grooves 2426 on both sides, respectively.

[0199] Air can flow into the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224. The air flowing in through the cartridge inlet 224 can sequentially pass through the connecting channel 2314, the chamber inlet 2424, the second chamber C2, and the insertion space 214. The air passing through the connecting channel 2314 can flow along the rounded surface 2418 between the blocking wall 2317 and the rounded surface 2418 and can flow into the chamber inlet 2424. The air passing through the second chamber C2 can flow with the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

[0200] Therefore, the loss of air flow in the connecting channel 2314 can be reduced.

[0201] Alternatively, the aerosol may be provided to the insertion space 214 and / or the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 .

[0202] The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first container 210 and the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first chamber C1, which has an open side, and the second container 220, which closes the open side of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be disposed or inserted between the first chamber C1 and the frame 240. The sealing member 250 may surround the lower end of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be in close contact with the first container 210 and the frame 240. A portion of the sealing member 250 may be in close contact with the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may have a continuous strip shape.

[0203] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from leaking through gaps formed at the joining portions between the members that define the first chamber C1.

[0204] The sealing member 250 may include at least one of a first sealing portion 251 and a second sealing portion 252. The first sealing portion 251 may be disposed or inserted between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the first frame portion 241. The first sealing portion 251 may extend along the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may be in close contact with the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the side wall 2411 of the first frame portion 241. The first sealing portion 251 may be fastened to a hook 2415 formed on the first frame portion 241. A plurality of hooks 2415 may be arranged along the periphery of the first sealing portion 251. At least a portion of the first sealing portion 251 may be inserted between an end of the hook 2415 and the side wall 2412 of the first frame portion 241 to be in close contact.

[0205] The second sealing portion 252 may be connected to the first sealing portion 251. The second sealing portion 252 may be disposed between the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and the second frame portion 242. The second sealing portion 252 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2. The second sealing portion 252 may extend from the first sealing portion 251 along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may be in close contact with the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and the upper end of the second frame portion 242. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may press the upper portion of the second sealing portion 252 toward the second frame portion 242. A portion of the second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the second frame portion 242.

[0206] 25, the side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may surround the side of the second chamber C2. The side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may be located adjacent to the lower end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0207] The lower support surface 2522 and the side support surface 2523 may surround and closely contact the lower edge of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The lower support surface 2522 may support the lower surface of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The lower support surface 2522 may extend along the periphery of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0208] The side support surface 2523 can extend along the periphery of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The side support surface 2523 can support the side surface adjacent to the lower end surface of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0209] The support portion 2428 may be disposed below the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The support portion 2428 may be located on an extension of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0210] The first container 210 may be coupled to the second container 220. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be coupled to the periphery of the lower case 230. The lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be recessed upward so that the periphery 2322 may be inserted therein. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be attached to the periphery 2322.

[0211] When the first container 210 is coupled to the lower case 230 , the first sealing portion 251 can be in close contact with the first frame portion 241 and the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 .

[0212] When the first container 210 is coupled to the lower case 230, the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 can press the second sealing portion 252 toward the second frame portion 242. When the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 presses the second sealing portion 252, the second sealing portion 252 can be in close contact with the inner wall 212 and the second frame portion 242 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 can transmit the force received from the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 to the first sealing portion 251 and the second frame portion 242.

[0213] Therefore, the number of parts to be joined via adhesive members can be reduced, the number of parts for joining components can be reduced, the internal joining structure of the cartridge 200 can be simplified, and manufacturability can be improved.

[0214] In addition, the sealing member 250 can be stably bonded or fixed without a separate adhesive member, and can closely seal the periphery.

[0215] 26, the stick 400 may include a medium portion 410. The stick 400 may include a cooling portion 420. The stick 400 may include a filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The stick 400 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may encase the medium portion 410. The wrapper 440 may encase the cooling portion 420. The wrapper 440 may encase the filter portion 430. The stick 400 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0216] The medium portion 410 may include a medium 411. The medium portion 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium portion 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be disposed between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be disposed at one end of the stick 400. The length of the medium portion 410 may be 24 mm.

[0217] The medium 411 may contain various substances. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances. The medium 411 may be composed of a plurality of granules. Each of the granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The medium 411 may be filled with the granules approximately 70% of the interior thereof. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of an acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of an acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of a paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material and may have a wrinkled shape, forming a plurality of gaps between them for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

[0218] Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot be separated from the medium portion 410 and the stick 400 .

[0219] The cooling portion 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling portion 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the second medium portion 415 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the cooling passage 424 therein. The cooling portion 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling portion 420 may be made of a paper material that is thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 400 is inserted into the aerosol generation device (see FIG. 3), at least a portion of the cooling portion 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generation device.

[0220] Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the stick 400. In addition, the cooling unit 420 supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, thereby ensuring a location where the wrapper 440 is adhered. In addition, the heated air and aerosol can be cooled while passing through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

[0221] The filter part 430 may be made of an acetate filter. The filter part 430 may be disposed at the other end of the stick 400. When the stick 400 is inserted into the aerosol generating device (see FIG. 3), the filter part 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device. A user can inhale air by holding the filter part 430 in their mouth. The length L5 of the filter part 430 may be 14 mm.

[0222] The wrapper 440 may wrap or surround the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430. The wrapper 440 may form the outer shape of the stick 400. The wrapper 440 may be made of a paper material. The adhesive portion 441 may be formed on one side edge of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430, and the adhesive portion 441 formed on one side edge and the other side edge may be adhered to each other. The wrapper 440 wrapping the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 400.

[0223] Therefore, the wrapper 440 can fix the medium portion 410 , the cooling portion 420 and the filter portion 430 and prevent them from coming off the stick 400 .

[0224] The first thin film 443 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metal material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0225] The second thin film 445 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metal material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0226] Therefore, when a capacitance sensor that recognizes a stick is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the capacitance sensor can detect whether the stick 400 is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0227] FIG. 27 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0228] Referring to FIG. 27, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a communication interface 1100, an input / output interface 1200, an aerosol generating module 1300, a memory 1400, a sensor module 1500, a battery 1600, and / or a control unit 1700.

[0229] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1000 may be composed of only the body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1000 may be located in the body 100. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1000 may be composed of the body 100 and a cartridge 200 that holds an aerosol generating material. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1000 may be located in at least one of the body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0230] The communication interface 1100 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 1100 may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 1100 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee (registered trademark), or near field communication (NFC).

[0231] The input / output interface 1200 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and / or an output device that outputs information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, physical buttons, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display or LED, an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

[0232] The input / output interface 1200 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by a user via an input device to other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 1000, and can output information corresponding to data received from other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 1000 via an output device.

[0233] The aerosol generating module 1300 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, where the aerosol-generating material can be any one or a combination of two or more substances in various states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, or a gel state, that can generate an aerosol.

[0234] In one embodiment, the liquid aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance, including volatile tobacco flavor components, and in other embodiments, may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance, such as water, solvent, nicotine, plant extracts, flavorings, flavoring agents, vitamin mixtures, etc.

[0235] The solid-state aerosol-forming material may include a solid material based on tobacco raw materials, such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, or granules. The solid-state aerosol-forming material may also include a solid material containing a taste modifier, a flavoring substance, or the like. For example, the taste modifier may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, or the like. For example, the flavoring substance may include natural substances such as herb granules, or silica, zeolite, dextrin, or the like containing flavoring ingredients.

[0236] The aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0237] The aerosol generation module 1300 can include at least one heater.

[0238] The aerosol generation module 1300 can include an electrical resistive heater (e.g., heater 262, see FIG. 2). For example, the electrical resistive heater can include at least one electrically conductive track and can be heated by passing an electric current through the electrically conductive track. Here, the heated electrical resistive heater can heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0239] The electrically conductive tracks may include an electrically resistive material. For example, the electrically conductive tracks may be made of a metal material. For other examples, the electrically conductive tracks may be made of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0240] The electric resistance heater may include an electrically conductive track formed in a variety of shapes, for example, the electrically conductive track may be formed in any one of a tube shape, a plate shape, a needle shape, a rod shape, and a coil shape.

[0241] The aerosol generation module 1300 may include a heater that uses induction heating. For example, an induction heater may include an electrically conductive coil, and an alternating magnetic field whose direction periodically changes may be generated by adjusting the current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss may occur in the magnetic material. The lost energy is released as thermal energy, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat due to the magnetic field may be referred to as a susceptor.

[0242] On the other hand, the aerosol-generating module 1300 can also generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0243] The aerosol generation module 1300 may be referred to as a cartomizer, atomizer, vaporizer, or the like.

[0244] The memory 1400 can store programs for signal processing and control within the control unit 1700, and can store processed data and data to be processed.

[0245] For example, memory 1400 can store application programs designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by control unit 1700, and can selectively provide portions of the stored application programs upon request of control unit 1700.

[0246] For example, the memory 1400 can store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device 1000, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, etc. Here, a puff can refer to the user's inhalation, and inhalation can be the act of the user drawing air through the mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs.

[0247] The memory 1400 may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0248] The memory 1400 may be disposed in at least one of the body 100, the cartridge 200, and the cap 300. The memory 1400 may be disposed in each of the body 100 and the cartridge 200. For example, the memory of the body 100 may store information about components disposed inside the body 100, such as information about the total capacity of the battery 190, and the memory of the cartridge 200 may store information about components disposed inside the cartridge 200, such as the resistance value of the heater 262.

[0249] The sensor module 1500 can include at least one sensor.

[0250] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor), for example, the second sensor 180 (see FIG. 2). Here, the puff sensor may be implemented using a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0251] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that senses the temperature of the heater 262 included in the aerosol generation module 1300, the temperature of the aerosol-generating material, and the like.

[0252] Here, the heater 262 included in the aerosol generation module 1300 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater 262 is a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance, and the sensor module 1500 can sense the temperature of the heater 262 by measuring the resistance of the heater 262, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0253] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the body 100 and / or cartridge 200 of the aerosol generating device 1000, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick sensor).

[0254] For example, if the aerosol generating device 1000 includes the cartridge 200, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge detection sensor) that detects the attachment / detachment, position, etc. of the cartridge 200 relative to the body 100.

[0255] Here, the stick sensor and / or cartridge detection sensor may be implemented using an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor using the Hall effect, etc. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first sensor 154 (see FIG. 17) may be a stick detection sensor. Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge detection sensor may include a first connection terminal 191 (see FIG. 21).

[0256] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery 1600) provided in the aerosol generating device 1000 and / or a current sensor that detects the current.

[0257] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "motion sensor") that detects the movement or operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. Here, the motion sensor may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor.

[0258] The battery 1600 can supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 under the control of the control unit 1700. The battery 1600 can supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generating device 1000, such as the communication module included in the communication interface 1100, the output device included in the input / output interface 1200, and the heater 262 included in the aerosol generating module 1300. For example, the battery 1600 can be the battery 190 housed inside the lower body 110.

[0259] The battery 1600 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1600 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery, a lithium polymer battery, a lithium-ion phosphate battery, etc. For example, the battery 1600 may also be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, etc.

[0260] The aerosol generating device 1000 may further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 1600. The battery protection module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the battery 1600. For example, to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 1600, the battery protection module (PCM) may cut off the electrical path to the battery 1600 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 1600, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 1600, when an overcurrent flows through the battery 1600, or the like.

[0261] The aerosol generating device 1000 may further include a charging terminal to which externally supplied power is input. For example, a charging terminal (e.g., a charging port 119 (see FIG. 2)) may be formed on one side of the body 100 of the aerosol generating device 1000, and the aerosol generating device 1000 may charge the battery 1600 using power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0262] The aerosol generating device 1000 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 1100. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can receive power wirelessly via an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 1600 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0263] The control unit 1700 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, the control unit 1700 can include a control device 193 housed inside the lower body 110.

[0264] The control unit 1700 is connected to each component provided in the aerosol generating device 1000, and can transmit and / or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0265] The control unit 1700 may include at least one processor, and may use the processor included therein to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC, or a processor based on other hardware.

[0266] The control unit 1700 can achieve any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, the control unit 1700 can achieve any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 1000 (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, a cleaning function, etc.) depending on the state of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 1000, a user command received via the input / output interface 1200, etc.

[0267] The control unit 1700 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000 based on the data stored in the memory 1400. For example, the control unit 1700 can control the battery 1600 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generating module 1300 for a predetermined period of time based on data about the temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory 1400.

[0268] The control unit 1700 can determine whether a puff has occurred through the puff sensor included in the sensor module 1500. For example, the control unit 1700 can check a temperature change, a flow rate change, a pressure change, a voltage change, etc. in the aerosol generating device 1000 based on the sensing value of the puff sensor, and can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the checked results.

[0269] The control unit 1700 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000 based on the occurrence of puffs and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 1700 can control the heater 262 to change or maintain the temperature based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 1400.

[0270] The control unit 1700 may control the heater 262 to cut off the power supply according to a predetermined condition. For example, the control unit 1700 may control the heater 262 to cut off the power supply when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, when the cartridge 200 is separated from the body 100, when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, when the remaining capacity of the battery 1600 is less than a predetermined value, etc.

[0271] The control unit 1700 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the battery 1600. For example, the control unit 1700 may calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 1600 based on the sensing values ​​of the voltage sensor and / or the current sensor included in the sensor module 1500.

[0272] The control unit 1700 can control the supply of power to the heater 262 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0273] For example, the control unit 1700 may use a PWM method to control the supply of a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater 262. Here, the control unit 1700 may control the power supplied to the heater 262 by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0274] For example, the control unit 1700 can determine a target temperature as a control target based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 1700 can control the power supplied to the heater 262 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference between the temperature of the heater 262 and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0275] Meanwhile, although the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater 262, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various control methods such as the PI (Proportional-Integral) method and the PD (Proportional-Differential) method can be used.

[0276] 28, when the body 100 and the cartridge 200 are coupled together, the resistance detection sensor 197 of the body 100 may be electrically connected to the heater 262 of the cartridge 200. For example, the resistance detection sensor 197 may be a current sensor that detects a current.

[0277] The power supply circuit 195 disposed inside the body 100 can supply the power stored in the battery 190 to the heater 262. Here, the power supplied from the power supply circuit 195 to the heater 262 can be adjusted under the control of the control unit 1700.

[0278] The power supply circuit 195 may include at least one switching element operated under the control of the control unit 1700. Here, the operation of the switching element may supply power to the heater 262. For example, the switching element may be a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0279] When the heater 262 and the resistance detection sensor 197 are electrically connected, the same level of current may flow through the heater 262 and the resistance detection sensor 197. Here, the resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor included in the resistance detection sensor 197 may be a value that does not change depending on the temperature.

[0280] The control unit 1700 can determine the voltage V1 applied to the heater 262 and the resistance detection sensor 197 based on the power supplied from the power supply circuit 195 to the heater 262, the current flowing through the heater 262 and the resistance detection sensor 197, etc. The control unit 1700 can calculate the voltage V2 applied to the shunt resistor based on the current flowing through the shunt resistor of the resistance detection sensor 197 and the resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor. Here, the control unit 1700 can calculate the voltage applied to the heater 262 as the difference (V1-V2) between the voltage V1 applied to the heater 262 and the resistance detection sensor 197 and the voltage V2 applied to the shunt resistor. The control unit 1700 can also calculate the resistance value Rh of the heater 262 based on the voltage applied to the heater 262 and the current flowing through the heater 262.

[0281] Therefore, even while the wick 261 is being heated by the heater 262, the control unit 1700 can determine the temperature of the heater 262 in real time using the current flowing through the heater 262 calculated via the resistance detection sensor 197.

[0282] Meanwhile, the resistor of the heater 262 may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance, and the resistance value Rh of the heater 262 may change depending on the temperature of the resistor. The controller 1700 may calculate the temperature of the heater 262 based on the temperature coefficient of the resistor of the heater 262, the resistance value Rh of the heater 262, and the resistance value of the heater 262 at a reference temperature using a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater 262. Here, the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater 262 may be expressed as the following Equation 1. TCR = (R1 - R0) / R0 ÷ (T1 - T0)

[0283] In Equation 1, TCR is the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heater 262, T1 is the temperature of the heater 262, R1 is the resistance value of the heater 262, T0 is the reference temperature, and R0 is the resistance value of the heater 262 at the reference temperature, where T0 is 25°C and R0 is the resistance value of the heater 262 at 25°C.

[0284] Meanwhile, although the drawings have been described as an example of a resistance detection sensor connected in series to the heater 262, the present invention is not limited thereto. The resistance detection sensor 197 may be a temperature sensor disposed adjacent to the heater 262 to detect the temperature of the heater 262, or a voltage sensor to detect the voltage applied to the heater 262.

[0285] 29 and 30 are flowcharts illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0286] 29, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether use of the stick 400 has ended in operation S2910. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when it determines through the first sensor 154 that the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion space 214. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when the aerosol generating device 1000 is turned off with the stick 400 inserted in the insertion space 214. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when the number of puffs corresponding to inhalations detected after the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 is equal to or greater than the number of puffs set for the stick 400.

[0287] In operation S2920, when use of the stick 400 has ended, the aerosol generation device 1000 can cut off the supply of power to the heater 262. For example, when use of the stick 400 has ended, the aerosol generation device 1000 can control the operation of the switching element of the power supply circuit 195 to cut off the supply of power to the heater 262.

[0288] The aerosol generation device 1000 may determine whether use of the stick 400 has started in operation S2930. For example, when the aerosol generation device 1000 determines via the first sensor 154 that the stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 after the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion space 214, the aerosol generation device 1000 may determine that use of the stick 400 has started. For example, when the aerosol generation device 1000 is powered on with the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214, the aerosol generation device 1000 may determine that use of the stick 400 has started.

[0289] In operation S2940, when use of the stick begins, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine a reference resistance value that is a criterion for judging the temperature of the heater 262. For example, the reference resistance value can be the resistance value of the heater 262 at a reference temperature that is used in a formula for calculating the temperature of the heater 262. Determining the reference resistance value will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 30.

[0290] 30 , the aerosol generation device 1000 can check the elapsed time from the end of use of the stick 400 to the start of use of the stick 400 in operation S3010. For example, the elapsed time may correspond to the time from the time the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214 to the time the stick 400 is reinserted into the insertion space 214. For example, the elapsed time may correspond to the time from the time the aerosol generation device 1000 is turned off with the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 to the time the aerosol generation device 1000 is turned on with the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214. For example, the elapsed time may correspond to the time from the time the aerosol generation device 1000 is turned off with the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 to the time the aerosol generation device 1000 is turned on and the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214. For example, the elapsed time may correspond to the time from when the number of puffs corresponding to the inhalation sensed after the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 is equal to or exceeds the number set for the stick 400, to when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214 and then inserted back into the insertion space 214.

[0291] Meanwhile, the aerosol generation device 1000 can determine the elapsed time as the time that has elapsed since the power supply to the heater 262 was cut off until the use of the stick 400 began.

[0292] In operation S3020, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine whether the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. Here, the predetermined time may correspond to the time it takes for the temperature of the heater 262 to decrease from a state where the temperature is increased by the power supplied to the heater 262 to a predetermined temperature. For example, the predetermined time may correspond to the time it takes for the temperature of the heater 262 to decrease from the temperature at the time when the power supply to the heater 262 is cut off to a temperature corresponding to the reference temperature.

[0293] Here, the predetermined time may be changed depending on the temperature of the heater 262 at the end of use of the stick 400. For example, the higher the temperature of the heater 262 at the end of use of the stick 400, the longer the predetermined time may be.

[0294] In operation S3030, if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 based on the current flowing through the heater 262, which is sensed via the resistance detection sensor 197.

[0295] In operation S3040, the aerosol generating device 1000 can change the reference resistance value based on the resistance value of the heater 262. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine the resistance value of the heater 262 calculated by the resistance detection sensor 197 as the reference resistance value. Here, the aerosol generating device 1000 can change the reference resistance value stored in the memory 1400 to the resistance value of the heater 262 calculated by the resistance detection sensor 197.

[0296] Meanwhile, in the operation S3050, if the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may maintain the currently set reference resistance value.

[0297] Referring to FIG. 31, the temperature 3100 of the heater 262 may gradually decrease from T0, which is the temperature at the time when the power supply to the heater 262 is cut off, after the stick 400 is no longer in use and the power supply to the heater 262 is cut off.

[0298] If the stick 400 begins to be used at time t1, which is before time t2 after a predetermined time has elapsed, the temperature of the heater 262 may be higher than T2, which corresponds to the reference temperature. For example, if a user uses multiple sticks 400 consecutively, another stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214 before the heater 262 cools down to temperature T2. Here, since the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may maintain the currently set reference resistance value.

[0299] On the other hand, when the stick 400 starts to be used after the predetermined time t2, the temperature of the heater 262 may correspond to the temperature T2. Here, since the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 and determine the reference resistance value.

[0300] 32 and 33 are flowcharts showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the content that overlaps with the content described in FIGS. 29 to 31 will be omitted.

[0301] Referring to FIG. 32, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine whether use of the stick 400 has ended in operation S3210.

[0302] In operation S3220, when use of the stick 400 is finished, the aerosol generating device 1000 can monitor the resistance value of the heater 262. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 based on the current flowing through the heater 262 sensed via the resistance detection sensor 197.

[0303] The aerosol generating device 1000 may calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 at predetermined intervals. For example, when use of the stick 400 is finished, the aerosol generating device 1000 may switch the mode of the aerosol generating device 1000 from the use mode to the standby mode. Here, the aerosol generating device 1000 may switch the mode of the aerosol generating device 1000 to the use mode at predetermined intervals in order to calculate the resistance value of the heater 262. Here, the standby mode may be a mode in which power supply to the heater 262 is cut off to minimize the use of power stored in the battery 1600. On the other hand, the use mode may be a mode in which power is supplied to the heater 262 as needed to perform a function.

[0304] In operation S3230, the aerosol generating device 1000 can check the time that has elapsed since the use of the stick 400 ended.

[0305] In operation S3240, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine a reference resistance value that is a criterion for judging the temperature of the heater 262, based on at least one of the monitored resistance value of the heater 262 and the elapsed time. For example, the reference resistance value may be the resistance value of the heater 262 at a reference temperature used in a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater 262. Determining the reference resistance value will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 33.

[0306] 33, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value in operation S3310. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine that the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value if the monitored resistance value of the heater 262 is within a resistance range corresponding to the currently set reference resistance value.

[0307] In operation S3320, when the resistance value of the heater 262 does not correspond to the reference resistance value, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine whether the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

[0308] In operation S3330, if the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether use of the stick 400 has begun. For example, if the aerosol generating device 1000 determines through the first sensor 154 that the stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 after the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion space 214, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether use of the stick 400 has begun. start For example, when the aerosol generation device 1000 is turned on with the stick 400 inserted in the insertion space 214, it can be determined that the stick 400 is ready for use. start It can be judged that

[0309] In operation S3340, if use of the stick 400 begins when the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 can maintain the currently set reference resistance value. For example, if a user uses multiple sticks 400 consecutively, another stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214 before the heater 262 has cooled sufficiently. In this case, since the resistance value of the heater 262 does not correspond to the reference resistance value and the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 can maintain the currently set reference resistance value.

[0310] Meanwhile, in operation S3350, if the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value when the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time, or if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may end monitoring the resistance value of the heater 262. For example, when ending monitoring the resistance value of the heater 262, the aerosol generating device 1000 may maintain the mode of the aerosol generating device 1000 in a standby mode.

[0311] In operation S3360, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine whether use of the stick 400 has begun.

[0312] In operation S3370, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 when use of the stick 400 begins.

[0313] In operation S3380, the aerosol generating device 1000 can change the reference resistance value based on the resistance value of the heater 262. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can determine the resistance value of the heater 262 calculated by the resistance detection sensor 197 as the reference resistance value. Here, the aerosol generating device 1000 can change the reference resistance value stored in the memory 1400 to the resistance value of the heater 262 calculated by the resistance detection sensor 197.

[0314] Referring to FIG. 34, from the point at which the use of the stick 400 is finished and the power supply to the heater 262 is cut off, the temperature 3400 of the heater 262 may gradually decrease over time from T0, which is the temperature at the point at which the power supply to the heater 262 was cut off.

[0315] When the stick 400 starts to be used at time t1, which is before time t2 after a predetermined time has elapsed, the temperature of the heater 262 may be a temperature T1 higher than T2, which corresponds to the reference temperature. For example, when a user uses multiple sticks 400 consecutively, another stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214 before the heater 262 cools down to temperature T2. Here, because the stick 400 starts to be used when the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may maintain the currently set reference resistance value.

[0316] Meanwhile, at time t2 after a predetermined time has elapsed, monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 may be terminated, where the temperature of the heater 262 may correspond to temperature T2.

[0317] If use of the stick 400 begins after time t2 when monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 ends, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 and determine the reference resistance value.

[0318] 35, when the use of the stick 400 starts at time t1 before the predetermined time has elapsed, the temperature of the heater 262 may be a temperature T1' higher than T2, which is the temperature corresponding to the reference temperature. Here, since the use of the stick 400 starts when the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 can maintain the currently set reference resistance value.

[0319] Meanwhile, at time t3, which is before time t2 after a predetermined time has elapsed, the temperature 3500 of the heater 262 may correspond to T2, which is a temperature corresponding to the reference temperature. Here, the resistance value of the heater 262 may correspond to the reference resistance value. If the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value at time t3 before the predetermined time has elapsed, the aerosol generating device 1000 may end monitoring the resistance value of the heater 262.

[0320] If use of the stick 400 begins after time t3 when monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 ends, the aerosol generating device 1000 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 262 and determine the reference resistance value.

[0321] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the efficiency of the gas flow can be improved, thereby improving the efficiency of the heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick 400.

[0322] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the reference resistance value that is the basis for determining the temperature of the heater 262 can be accurately determined.

[0323] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater 262 can be accurately detected based on the resistance value of the heater 262 .

[0324] 1 to 35, an aerosol generating device 1000 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a cartridge 200 having a long insertion space 214 formed therein, a body 100 coupled to the cartridge 200, a heater 262 for heating an aerosol generating material, a stick detection sensor 154 for outputting a signal corresponding to a stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214, a resistance detection sensor 197 for outputting a signal corresponding to a resistance value of the heater 262, and a controller 1700. The controller 1700 may determine a reference resistance value, which is a criterion for judging the temperature of the heater 262, based on at least one of the elapsed time since use of the stick 400 ended and the resistance value of the heater 262 monitored from the time use of the stick 400 ended.

[0325] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700 may cut off the supply of power to the heater 262 when use of the stick 400 ends, and the elapsed time may be the time elapsed from the time when the supply of power to the heater 262 is cut off to the time when use of the stick 400 begins.

[0326] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time, the control unit 1700 can determine the resistance value of the heater 262 detected via the resistance detection sensor 197 as the reference resistance value.

[0327] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700 may maintain the reference resistance value when use of the stick 400 begins when the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time.

[0328] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined time may correspond to the temperature of the heater 262 at the end of use of the stick 400.

[0329] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700 may determine whether to end monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 based on at least one of the elapsed time and the resistance value of the heater 262 while monitoring the resistance value of the heater 262, and may determine the resistance value of the heater 262 detected via the resistance detection sensor 197 as the reference resistance value if use of the stick begins after monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 has ended.

[0330] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700, while monitoring the resistance value of the heater 262, determines whether the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value, and can terminate monitoring of the resistance value of the heater 262 if the resistance value of the heater 262 corresponds to the reference resistance value when the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time, or if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

[0331] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700 may determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when it determines through the stick detection sensor 154 that the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion space 214.

[0332] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1700 can determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when the power of the aerosol generating device 1000 is turned off while the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0333] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device may further include a puff sensor 180 that outputs a signal corresponding to the user's inhalation, and the control unit 1700 may determine that use of the stick 400 has ended when the number of puffs corresponding to the inhalation detected by the third sensor while the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

[0334] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the controller 1700 determines through the stick detection sensor 154 that the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 in a state where the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the controller 1700 determines that the stick 400 is no longer in use. start It can be judged that

[0335] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 and the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1000 is turned on, the control unit 1700 may start It can be judged that

[0336] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 200 may include a chamber C1 for storing a liquid, a first container 210 having the chamber C1, a second container 220 coupled to the first container 210, a wick 261 connected to the chamber C1, and the heater 262 for heating the wick 261. The first container 210 may include an inner wall 212 defining an elongated insertion space 214 and an outer wall 211 surrounding the inner wall 212. The chamber C1 may be defined between the inner wall 212 and the outer wall 211, and the wick 261 may be provided within the second container 220.

[0337] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and the structure or function of any or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined with other elements or combined with each other.

[0338] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible unless it is described that the combination is not possible.

[0339] While the embodiments have been described above in accordance with a number of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments are possible for those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More particularly, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject 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 be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. a cartridge having a long insertion space; a body coupled to the cartridge; a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; a stick detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick inserted into the long insertion space; a resistance detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater; a control unit; The control unit determines a reference resistance value, which is a criterion for judging the temperature of the heater, based on at least one of the elapsed time since the use of the stick ended and the resistance value of the heater monitored from the time the use of the stick ended.

2. The control unit further cuts off the supply of power to the heater when use of the stick is finished, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the elapsed time is the time elapsed from the time when the power supply to the heater is cut off to the time when the stick starts to be used.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further determines the reference resistance value as the resistance value of the heater when the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further maintains the reference resistance value when use of the stick begins when the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the predetermined time period is longer as the temperature of the heater increases when the stick is no longer in use.

6. The control unit further determining whether to terminate monitoring of the heater resistance value based on at least one of the elapsed time and the heater resistance value while monitoring the heater resistance value; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, characterized in that when use of the stick begins after monitoring of the resistance value of the heater has ended, the reference resistance value is determined as the resistance value of the heater detected by the resistance detection sensor.

7. The control unit further monitoring the resistance value of the heater and determining whether the resistance value of the heater corresponds to the reference resistance value; The aerosol generating device described in claim 6, characterized in that monitoring of the resistance value of the heater is terminated when the elapsed time is less than a predetermined time and the resistance value of the heater corresponds to the reference resistance value, or when the elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further determines that use of the stick has ended when it determines that the stick has been removed from the long insertion space using the stick detection sensor.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further determines that use of the stick has ended when the power of the aerosol generating device is turned off with the stick inserted into the long insertion space.

10. and a puff sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the user's inhalation. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control unit further determines that use of the stick has ended when the number of puffs corresponding to the inhalation detected by the puff sensor while the stick is inserted into the long insertion space is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further determines that use of the stick has started when it determines using the stick that a new stick has been inserted into the long insertion space using the stick detection sensor.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further characterized in that the control unit determines that use of the stick has begun when the power of the aerosol generating device is turned on with the stick inserted into the long insertion space.

13. The cartridge comprises: a first container having a chamber formed therein for storing the aerosol-generating material; a second container coupled to the first container; a wick disposed within the second container and communicating with the chamber; the heater for heating the wick; the first container includes an inner wall defining an elongated insertion space and an outer wall surrounding the inner wall; the chamber is formed between the inner wall and the outer wall; 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the wick is located within the second container.

14. a cartridge having a long insertion space; a body coupled to the cartridge; a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; a stick detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick inserted into the long insertion space; a resistance detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater; a control unit; The control unit determining a reference resistance value based on at least one of the elapsed time since the end of use of the stick and the resistance value of the heater monitored since the end of use of the stick; An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the temperature of the heater is determined based on the reference resistance value.

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