Heater assembly for aerosol generator and aerosol generator containing the same

Abstract

The heater assembly for the aerosol generating device includes a body that forms a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a heater that heats the aerosol product, and a heater that heats the aerosol product. To this end, the device includes a coil that applies a magnetic field to heat a susceptor placed in the storage space, an airflow passage cover that is located outside the body and has an airflow passage formed therein through which air passes, a pressure sensor that is located on the airflow passage cover and detects changes in pressure inside the airflow passage, and a moisture detection sensor that is located on a support unit that supports the coil and detects moisture in the aerosol product placed in the storage space.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating apparatus including the same, which improves the utilization of space for arranging components such as sensors that sense the moisture content of aerosol products and allows for smooth airflow. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for technologies to replace the conventional method of supplying aerosols by burning cigarettes. For example, research is underway on methods such as generating aerosols from liquid or solid aerosol-generating materials, or generating vapor from liquid aerosol-generating materials and then passing the resulting vapor through a solid fragrance medium to supply a flavored aerosol.

[0003] An example of an aerosol generating device includes an induction heating type aerosol generating device that heats the aerosol generating material by generating a magnetic field to heat up a susceptor. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] An induction heating type aerosol generator includes a sensor that detects the moisture content of the aerosol product, a sensor that detects the type of aerosol product, and a sensor that detects pressure changes inside the airflow passage through which the air passes.

[0005] In order to place these sensors inside the aerosol generator, a specific space must be secured in advance. To improve the efficiency of space utilization inside the aerosol generator while ensuring the optimal function of each sensor, it is necessary to position (mount) each sensor in a suitable location.

[0006] Furthermore, for a user to inhale aerosols through the aerosol product, outside air must flow into the aerosol generator. For this reason, the aerosol generator includes an airflow passage, which is a path for air to move inside. However, if air cannot move smoothly within the airflow passage, the user will not be able to easily inhale aerosols through the aerosol product.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generator that can improve the efficiency of space utilization for the arrangement of components such as sensors within the aerosol generator, and an aerosol generator including the same.

[0008] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device that has a compact structure while accommodating various components, and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device having a structure that allows the user to easily inhale aerosols by smoothing the airflow within the air passage, and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0010] The problems to be addressed through these embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain, based on this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a body forming an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article, a coil that applies a magnetic field to generate heat in a susceptor disposed in the accommodation space to heat the aerosol generating article, an air flow path cover located outside the body and having an air flow path through which air passes, a pressure sensor disposed in the air flow path cover to sense a change in pressure inside the air flow path, and a moisture sensor disposed in a support unit that supports the coil to sense moisture of the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0012] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, a battery that provides power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, and a control unit that controls the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0013] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present invention can increase the utilization rate of the space where components are arranged to achieve miniaturization, and can have a compact structure while accommodating various components.

[0014] In addition, the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present invention can smooth the air flow in the air flow path, making it easier for the user to inhale the aerosol.

[0015] The effects according to the technical idea of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment and an aerosol generating article inserted therein. [Figure 2]It is a front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] It is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along the I-I' cross-section line of FIG. 2 to show a mode in which an aerosol generating article is inserted into the heater assembly. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along the II-II' cross-section line of FIG. 2 to show a mode in which an aerosol generating article is inserted into the heater assembly. [Figure 7] It is an exploded perspective view of a holder, a first cover, a temperature sensing unit, and a shielding unit included in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] It is an exploded perspective view of a first cover, an air flow path cover, and a mounting member included in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment showing the coupling relationship of a seal portion, a second cover, an air flow path cover, and a support unit. [Figure 10] It is an assembled perspective view of a support unit, a heater, a housing sensing unit, and a temperature sensing unit included in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a drawing showing an example of an aerosol generating article according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a drawing showing an example of an aerosol generating article according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body that forms a containment space for containing aerosol products, a coil that applies a magnetic field to heat a susceptor placed in the containment space in order to heat the aerosol products, an airflow passage cover located outside the body and having an airflow passage through which air passes, a pressure sensor placed in the airflow passage cover for sensing changes in pressure inside the airflow passage, and a moisture sensing sensor placed in a support unit that supports the coil for sensing the moisture content of the aerosol products contained in the containment space.

[0018] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes an article sensing sensor positioned in the airflow passage cover at a distance from the pressure sensor, which senses the type of aerosol product contained in the containment space.

[0019] The airflow passage cover includes a sensor housing that accommodates at least one of the pressure sensor or the item sensing sensor.

[0020] The pressure sensor and the object sensing sensor are mounted together on a single mounting member located in the airflow passage cover.

[0021] A heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment further includes a sensor protective cover coupled to the airflow passage cover so as to cover at least a portion of the pressure sensor.

[0022] The airflow passage cover has an air inlet into which air flows in, and the air inlet is positioned at a distance from the portion into which the aerosol product is inserted.

[0023] The airflow passage communicates with the containment space, and at least a portion of the air moving through the airflow passage passes through the aerosol product contained in the containment space and is discharged to the outside.

[0024] The moisture-sensing sensor is positioned to correspond to one segment of the aerosol product containing the aerosol-generating substance.

[0025] At least a portion of the moisture sensing sensor includes a curved surface.

[0026] A heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment further includes a sensor bracket located outside the support unit. The moisture sensing sensor is coupled to the sensor bracket and then to the support unit.

[0027] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment further includes a first cover coupled to the body, which includes an article insertion section into which the aerosol product is inserted.

[0028] The first cover extends along the direction in which the coil extends and includes a cover insulation member positioned between the coil and the body.

[0029] A heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment further includes a temperature sensing unit disposed inside the body for sensing the temperature of the coil. The first cover further includes a clearance groove into which the temperature sensing unit is inserted.

[0030] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes a holder coupled to the first cover, which has an insertion hole that communicates with the article insertion section so that the aerosol product can be freely accommodated in the containment space, and a ridge that protrudes toward the insertion hole and supports the aerosol product.

[0031] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes a heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment, a battery that supplies power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating apparatus, and a control unit that controls the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0032] In the embodiments, the terminology used has been selected to be as widely used and general as possible, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, this may change depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected some terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in the present invention must not be merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0033] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, this means, unless otherwise stated, that it may include other components, not exclude them. Furthermore, terms such as "~part" and "~module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied in hardware or software, or in a combination of hardware and software.

[0034] As used herein, when an expression such as "at least one of the listed components" precedes a list of components, it modifies the group of components as a whole, rather than each of the listed components individually. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" must be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0035] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in an internal space.

[0036] The aerosol generator includes a heater. In one embodiment, the heater is an electrical resistive heater. For example, the heater includes a conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the conductive track, the heater is heated.

[0037] The heater includes tubular heating elements, plate-shaped heating elements, needle-shaped heating elements, or rod-shaped heating elements, and heats the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating elements.

[0038] A cigarette includes a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made in sheet form, in strand form, or from shredded tobacco, which is made from finely cut tobacco sheets. The tobacco rod may also be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil.

[0039] The filter rod is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may consist of at least one segment. For example, the filter rod may have a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering out predetermined components contained in the aerosol.

[0040] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates aerosols using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0041] The aerosol generator comprises a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a main body that supports the cartridge. The cartridge is detachably coupled to the main body, but is not limited to this. The cartridge may be integrally formed with the main body, incorporated into it, or fixed in place so that it cannot be attached or detached by the user. The cartridge is attached to the main body with the aerosol-generating substance contained inside, but is not limited to this; the aerosol-generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while it is coupled to the main body.

[0042] The cartridge contains an aerosol-generating substance that exists in one of a variety of states, such as liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance includes a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or it may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0043] The cartridge operates via electrical or wireless signals transmitted from the main unit, converting the aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge into a gaseous phase and generating an aerosol. An aerosol refers to a gaseous state in which vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance and air are mixed.

[0044] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which is then delivered to the user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition moves along an airflow passage in the aerosol generator, which is configured so that the aerosol is delivered to the user through a cigarette.

[0045] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating material using an ultrasonic vibration method. In this case, the ultrasonic vibration method refers to a method of generating aerosols by atomizing the aerosol-generating material with ultrasonic vibrations generated by a transducer.

[0046] The aerosol generator is equipped with a transducer that generates short-period vibrations through the transducer to atomize the aerosol-generating substance. The vibrations generated by the transducer are ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibrations is approximately 100 kHz to approximately 3.5 MHz, but is not limited to this range.

[0047] The aerosol generator further comprises a core that absorbs the aerosol-generating material. For example, the core is positioned to cover at least one region of the oscillator, or to be in contact with at least one region of the oscillator.

[0048] When a voltage (e.g., AC voltage) is applied to the transducer, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations are generated from the transducer, and these heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted to the aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core. The aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core is converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the transducer, and as a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0049] For example, the heat generated from the transducer reduces the viscosity of the aerosol-generating material absorbed into the core, and the ultrasonic vibrations generated from the transducer break down the reduced viscosity aerosol-generating material into fine particles, thereby generating an aerosol, but this is not the only example.

[0050] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates aerosols by heating the aerosol product contained in the aerosol generating device using an induction heating method.

[0051] The aerosol generator comprises a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil applies a magnetic field to the susceptor. Power is supplied to the coil from the aerosol generator, forming a magnetic field inside the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor is a magnetic material that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field. The susceptor is located inside the coil, and the application of a magnetic field generates heat, thereby heating the aerosol product. Alternatively, the susceptor may be selectively located within the aerosol product.

[0052] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator further comprises a cradle.

[0053] The aerosol generator forms a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle charges the aerosol generator's battery. Alternatively, the heater may be heated while the cradle and aerosol generator are coupled together.

[0054] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present invention can be implemented in a form that can be embodied in the aerosol generating apparatus of the various embodiments described above, or in various different forms, but is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0056] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment and the aerosol product inserted therein.

[0057] Referring to Figure 1, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1 includes a heater assembly 10, a battery 20, a control unit 30, a vaporizer 40, and an aerosol generator main body 50. However, the components of the aerosol generator 1 are not limited to these, and depending on the embodiment, at least one of the components described above (for example, the vaporizer 40) may be omitted, or other components may be added.

[0058] An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol product 2 contained in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 using an induction heating method. The induction heating method refers to a method of generating heat in a magnetic material that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field by applying an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically.

[0059] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss occurs in the magnetic material due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released from the magnetic material as thermal energy. The larger the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic material, the greater the thermal energy that can be released from the magnetic material. An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment can release thermal energy from a magnetic material by applying an alternating magnetic field to it, and can transfer the thermal energy released from the magnetic material to the aerosol product.

[0060] A magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field is also a susceptor.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the susceptor is placed inside the heater assembly 10 and is positioned to surround the aerosol product 2 contained in the containment space. In this case, the susceptor is formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder overall, but its shape is not limited thereto.

[0062] In other embodiments, the susceptor may be located inside the aerosol product 2 housed in the aerosol generator 1. In this case, the susceptor may be contained inside the aerosol product 2 in the form of a section, flake, or strip.

[0063] At least a portion of the susceptor may be made of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the susceptor may contain metal or carbon. The susceptor may contain at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). The susceptor may also contain at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0064] An aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment houses a housing 2 into which an aerosol product 2 is inserted. The aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment has a space for housing the aerosol product 2. Here, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the "heater assembly") is arranged in the space of the aerosol generator 1 for housing the aerosol product 2. For example, the heater assembly 10 includes a cylindrical housing space inside for housing the aerosol product 2. Therefore, when the aerosol product 2 is housed in the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol product 2 can be housed in the housing space of the heater assembly 10. A specific description of the aerosol product 2 housed in the aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment will be given later.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 heats the aerosol product 2 contained in the aerosol generating device 1. As described above, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment can heat the aerosol product 2 by induction heating. According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 can generate heat by applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor.

[0066] In one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 can surround at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 contained in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, in one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 surrounds the tobacco medium contained in the aerosol product 2. This allows heat to be transferred more efficiently from the heater assembly 10 to the tobacco medium.

[0067] The battery 20 supplies power to the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 20 supplies power to the coil (or, may be called, the "heater") of the heater assembly 10. In another example, the battery 20 may also supply power necessary for the operation of other components of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., the control unit 30).

[0068] The battery 20 includes a battery unit that supplies direct current to the coils of the heater assembly 10, and a conversion unit that converts the direct current supplied from the battery unit into alternating current supplied to the coils of the heater assembly 10.

[0069] The battery unit supplies direct current to the aerosol generator 1. The battery unit is a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited to this. For example, the battery unit may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, etc.

[0070] The conversion unit includes a low-pass filter that filters the DC supplied from the battery and outputs AC supplied to the heater assembly 10. The conversion unit may further include an amplifier for amplifying the DC supplied from the battery unit. For example, the conversion unit may be embodied by a low-pass filter that constitutes the load network of a class-D amplifier.

[0071] The control unit 30 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 30 may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program that can be executed by this microprocessor is stored, but is not limited to these.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 30 controls the power supplied to the heater assembly 10. Here, the control object of the control unit 30 is also the coil of the heater assembly 10. The control unit 30 controls the battery 20 so that the power supplied to the coil of the heater assembly 10 is adjusted. For example, the control unit 30 can perform control to maintain a constant temperature at which the coil heats the aerosol product 2, based on the temperature of the coil of the heater assembly 10.

[0073] The vaporizer 40 heats the liquid aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol, which is then transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 2. In other words, the aerosol produced by the vaporizer 40 moves along the airflow passage of the aerosol generator 1, and the airflow passage is configured so that the aerosol produced by the vaporizer 40 is transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 2.

[0074] For example, the vaporizer 40 includes, but is not limited to, a storage unit for storing aerosol-generating material in liquid state, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the storage unit, liquid transfer means, and heating element may be provided in the aerosol generator 1 as independent modules.

[0075] The storage unit stores the aerosol-generating substance in liquid form. For example, the aerosol-generating substance in liquid form may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The storage unit may be manufactured to be detachable from the vaporizer 40, or it may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 40.

[0076] For example, aerosol-generating substances include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. Flavorings include components that provide users with a variety of flavors or aromas. Vitamin mixtures may also include, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E. Furthermore, aerosol-generating substances may include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0077] The liquid transfer means transfers the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be, but is not limited to, a wick made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

[0078] The heating element is an element for heating the aerosol-generating substance that is transmitted by the liquid transmission means. For example, the heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, or a ceramic heater, but is not limited to these. The heating element may also be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid transmission means. The heating element is heated by the supply of electric current, and heat is transferred to the aerosol-generating substance in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substance. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0079] For example, the steam maker 40 is called a cartomizer or atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0080] If the aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment further includes a vaporizer 40, the battery 20 supplies power to heat at least one of the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40, and the control unit 30 can control the power supplied to at least one of the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40.

[0081] When an aerosol product 2 is inserted into an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 can operate the heater assembly 10 and / or vaporizer 40 to generate an aerosol from the aerosol product 2 and / or vaporizer 40. The aerosol generated by the heater assembly 10 and / or vaporizer 40 is transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 2.

[0082] The aerosol generator body 50 forms the overall external shape of the aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment. Components for the operation of the aerosol generator 1 may be arranged inside the aerosol generator body 50. For example, the heater assembly 10, battery 20, control unit 30, and vaporizer 40 described above are arranged inside the aerosol generator 1. However, the heater assembly 10, battery 20, control unit 30, and vaporizer 40 are merely examples of components that may be arranged inside the aerosol generator 1, and other components (e.g., user interface, sensors, etc.) may be further arranged inside the aerosol generator 1 in addition to the components described above.

[0083] The aerosol generating device body 50 has an air inlet 50a into which external air flows.

[0084] The following will specifically describe a heater assembly according to one embodiment, with reference to the attached drawings.

[0085] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment.

[0086] Referring to Figure 2, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, a pressure sensor 400, and a mounting member 450.

[0087] A containment space is formed within the internal space of body 100 for housing the aerosol product 2. A heater may be placed in this containment space of body 100 where the aerosol product 2 is housed. That is, the internal space of body 100 may be a space that houses the aerosol product 2 and where a magnetic field is formed for heating the aerosol product 2. Once the aerosol product 2 is housed in the containment space of body 100, the heater may be arranged to surround the aerosol product 2. On the other hand, as used herein, "heater" may include a coil and a susceptor.

[0088] Body 100 functions as the main body of a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, and a first cover 200 and a second cover 300 are coupled to body 100. The first cover 200 and the second cover 300 are coupled to and supported by body 100. Body 100 is formed in an overall hollow cylindrical shape, but its shape is not limited thereto.

[0089] The holder 150 is positioned on one side of the body 100 (for example, in the +z direction) and can function to support the aerosol product 2 housed in the housing space of the body 100. The holder 150 has an insertion hole 150a into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted, and the insertion hole 150a communicates with the housing space of the body 100. The aerosol product 2 is housed in the housing space of the body 100 through the insertion hole 150a.

[0090] The first cover 200 may be coupled to one side of the body 100 (for example, in the +z direction). The first cover 200 is positioned between the body 100 and the holder 150 and covers one side of the housing space of the body 100.

[0091] The second cover 300 may be coupled to the other side of the body 100 (for example, in the -z direction). The second cover 300, coupled to the other side of the body 100, covers the other side of the housing space of the body 100.

[0092] The airflow passage cover 350 is located on the outside of the body 100 (for example, in the -x direction). An airflow passage is formed in the airflow passage cover 350, and outside air moves through the airflow passage into the interior of the heater assembly 10.

[0093] The pressure sensor 400 is located in the airflow passage cover 350 and senses pressure changes inside the airflow passage. The pressure sensor 400 may also be called a puff sensor, and it senses user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the pressure sensor 400 senses user puffs based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0094] The mounting member 450 provides a space for mounting a sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor 400) included in the heater assembly 10. The mounting member 450 is positioned in the airflow passage cover 350.

[0095] A pressure sensor 400 is mounted on the mounting member 450. With the pressure sensor 400 mounted on one side of the mounting member 450, components of the aerosol generator body are mounted on the other side of the mounting member 450 and can be electrically connected to the components. Here, the components are at least one of a battery, a control unit, and a memory. Information about pressure changes inside the airflow passage sensed by the pressure sensor 400, or information about the user's puff, is transmitted to at least one of the control unit or the memory. The mounting member 450 includes a metallic material, such as copper (Cu).

[0096] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment.

[0097] Referring to Figure 3, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a seal portion 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, a pressure sensor 400, and a mounting member 450. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 shown in Figure 2, but redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0098] A body groove 100a is formed in the body 100. At least a portion of the second cover 300 can be inserted into the body groove 100a. For example, one side of the second cover 300 (for example, the portion facing the -x direction) is inserted into the body groove 100a.

[0099] The sealing portion 180 is coupled to the second cover 300 and the airflow passage cover 350. The sealing portion 180 is positioned on one side of the second cover 300 (e.g., in the -z direction) and on one side of the airflow passage cover 350 (e.g., in the -z direction). The sealing portion 180 functions to seal one side of the second cover 300 and one side of the airflow passage cover 350. The sealing portion 180 includes a material such as rubber.

[0100] The sealing portion 180 and the second cover 300 have holes formed in them for the passage of one end of the mounting member 450, a wire for supplying power to the heater, one end of the containment sensing unit for sensing the insertion of aerosol products, and one end of the temperature sensing unit for sensing the temperature of the heater.

[0101] The following will specifically describe the coupling relationship of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment, with reference to the attached drawings.

[0102] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment shown in Figure 2.

[0103] Referring to Figure 4, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a sealing part 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, a pressure sensor 400, a mounting member 450, an object sensing sensor 500, a moisture sensing sensor 550, a support unit 600, a coil 650, a susceptor 700, a housing sensing unit 750, a temperature sensing unit 800, and a shielding unit 850.

[0104] At least one component of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generator shown in Figures 2 and 3 (for example, the body 100, holder 150, first cover 200, and second cover 300), and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0105] On the other hand, the components of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to these, and at least one of the components described above may be omitted or other components may be added depending on the embodiment.

[0106] The airflow passage cover 350 is connected to a first airflow cover sealing member 380 and a second airflow cover sealing member 390. The first airflow cover sealing member 380 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 where air flows in. The first airflow cover sealing member 380 has the function of preventing the incoming air from leaking into spaces other than the airflow passage (for example, the space inside the aerosol generating device body). The first airflow cover sealing member 380 is positioned between the airflow passage cover 350 and the air inlet of the aerosol generating device body.

[0107] The second airflow cover sealing member 390 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 where air is discharged. The second airflow cover sealing member 390 can prevent air in the airflow passage from leaking into spaces other than the internal space of the support unit 600. The second airflow cover sealing member 390 is positioned between the second cover 300 and the airflow passage cover 350.

[0108] The first airflow cover sealing member 380 and the second airflow cover sealing member 390 can be sandwiched and coupled to the airflow passage cover 350, but the coupling method is not limited to these. The first airflow cover sealing member 380 and the second airflow cover sealing member 390 each contain rubber material.

[0109] The pressure sensor 400 is mounted on the mounting member 450 and placed on the airflow passage cover 350. While positioned on the airflow passage cover 350, the pressure sensor 400 senses pressure changes in the airflow passage formed inside the airflow passage cover 350.

[0110] At least a portion of the pressure sensor 400 may be covered by a protective cover 410. The protective cover 410 is coupled to the airflow passage cover 350 while covering the pressure sensor 400. The protective cover 410 can protect the pressure sensor 400 from foreign matter that flows into the aerosol generator 1 or from external impacts applied to the aerosol generator 1.

[0111] The mounting member 450 is placed on the airflow passage cover 350. According to one embodiment, both a pressure sensor 400 and an object detection sensor 500 can be mounted on the mounting member 450. That is, the pressure sensor 400 and the object detection sensor 500 are electrically connected to the components of the aerosol generator body via a single mounting member 450. As a result, the pressure sensor 400 and the object detection sensor 500 can be electrically connected to the components via a single mounting member 450 and operate, so that the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment can realize a compact sensor arrangement (mounting) structure.

[0112] The item detection sensor 500 detects the type of aerosol product contained in the containment space. In one embodiment, the item detection sensor 500 can detect the type of aerosol product by detecting an identification mark or the like placed on the outer surface of the aerosol product. The item detection sensor 500 can detect and recognize the identification mark by sensing its color, pattern, shape, etc.

[0113] In one embodiment, the identification mark is a color or shape, a barcode, or a QR code (registered trademark) (QR code, Quick Response code), and the item sensing sensor 500 senses the color or shape, barcode, or QR code (registered trademark) to recognize the type of aerosol product.

[0114] Depending on the type of aerosol product detected by the object detection sensor 500, the control unit can heat the aerosol product at a predetermined temperature profile. That is, when the object detection sensor 500 transmits information about the type of aerosol product detected to the control unit or memory, the memory retrieves a predetermined temperature profile based on the input aerosol product, and the control unit controls the coil 650 to heat the aerosol product at the retrieved default temperature profile.

[0115] The item detection sensor 500 includes, depending on the type of identification marking, a color sensor, an optical scanner, an NFC (Near Field Communication) reader, or an RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) reader. However, the item detection sensor 500 is not limited to any device that can recognize the identification marking.

[0116] In one embodiment, the object detection sensor 500 includes a color sensor. The color sensor includes an RGB (Red Green Blue) sensor or an XYZ optical sensor for measuring, identifying, or classifying the color of an identification mark. The RGB sensor includes a three-color light source and detects color information by reflecting light off the object. The XYZ optical sensor includes an optical digital converter and detects xy chromaticity coordinates corresponding to the CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage) 1931 color space. The color sensor may also include a filter that blocks infrared light in the visible light region for more accurate color measurement.

[0117] In one embodiment, the object sensing sensor 500 may include an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a hardness measuring sensor (push-pull gauge), a capacitance sensor, and a resistance measuring circuit.

[0118] The object detection sensor 500 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 at a distance from the pressure sensor 400. In other words, the object detection sensor 500 can be mounted on the mounting member 450 at a different location from the pressure sensor 400.

[0119] The object detection sensor 500 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 while mounted on the mounting member 450, so as to face the containment space where the aerosol product is contained. This allows the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment to have a configuration that allows the object detection sensor 500 to easily detect the identification markings of the aerosol product.

[0120] The moisture-sensing sensor 550 is located in the support unit 600 inside the body 100 and senses the moisture content of the aerosol product contained in the containment space. When the susceptor 700 heats the aerosol product due to the magnetic field generated by the coil 650, an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol contains some moisture, which wets or adheres to the aerosol product. In one embodiment, the moisture-sensing sensor 550 senses the amount of moisture wetting or adhering to the aerosol product and transmits this information to the control unit or memory. If the moisture-sensing sensor 550 senses that the amount of moisture wetting or adhering to the aerosol product exceeds a predetermined amount, the control unit generates a signal for replacing the aerosol product or a signal indicating that the usage cycle has ended.

[0121] In one embodiment, the moisture sensing sensor 550 detects a change in electromagnetic properties caused by an object (aerosol product) adjacent to the heater assembly 10. For example, the moisture sensing sensor 550 may be a capacitance sensor or a magnetic proximity sensor, but the type of moisture sensing sensor 550 is not limited to these.

[0122] The moisture-sensing sensor 550 includes a curved surface in at least part of it to correspond to the external shape of the aerosol product. This ensures that the distance between the moisture-sensing sensor 550 and the aerosol product remains approximately constant along the circumferential direction of the moisture-sensing sensor 550, regardless of the orientation in which the aerosol product is contained within the containment space. This allows the moisture-sensing sensor 550 to accurately sense the amount of moisture in the aerosol product, regardless of its containment orientation.

[0123] The moisture-sensing sensor 550 is positioned on the support unit 600 via a sensor bracket 550a. That is, the moisture-sensing sensor 550 is coupled to the sensor bracket 550a and positioned on the support unit 600. The sensor bracket 550a includes at least a curved surface to correspond to the outer shape of the support unit 600. The moisture-sensing sensor 550 can be attached to the sensor bracket 550a via tape, but the coupling method between the moisture-sensing sensor 550 and the sensor bracket 550a is not limited to this.

[0124] The support unit 600 is positioned inside the body 100 and functions to support the coil 650. Once the aerosol product is contained within the housing space of the body 100, the support unit 600 is positioned to surround the aerosol product. The support unit 600, also called a bobbin, is formed in an overall hollow cylindrical shape, but its shape is not limited to this as long as it can support the coil 650.

[0125] The coil 650 is positioned inside the body 100 to generate heat for the susceptor 700, which is located in the containment space. Once the aerosol product is contained in the containment space of the body 100, the coil 650 is positioned to surround the aerosol product.

[0126] Coil 650 applies an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied to the coil from the battery, a magnetic field is formed inside the coil. When an alternating current is applied to the coil, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil can change continuously. When the susceptor is located inside the coil and exposed to a periodically changing alternating magnetic field, the susceptor generates heat, and the aerosol product contained in the containment space of body 100 is heated by the susceptor. This generates an aerosol.

[0127] The coil 650 extends in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the coil 650 may extend to a length corresponding to the length of the support unit 600, or to a length shorter than the length of the support unit 600.

[0128] The coil 650 can be positioned in a location suitable for applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 700. For example, the coil 650 is positioned on the support unit 600 so as to be located in a position corresponding to the susceptor 700. The size and position of such a coil 650 improve the efficiency of applying the alternating magnetic field of the coil 650 to the susceptor 700.

[0129] If the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by coil 650 changes, the degree to which the susceptor 700 heats the aerosol product may also change. Since the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field formed by coil 650 changes depending on the power applied to coil 650, the aerosol generator 1 can control the heating of the aerosol product by adjusting the power applied to coil 650. For example, the aerosol generator 1 controls the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to coil 650.

[0130] As one example, coil 650 can be embodied as a solenoid. Coil 650 is a solenoid wound along the direction of extension of the support unit 600 (e.g., the z-axis direction), with the susceptor 700 and aerosol products located in the internal space of the solenoid. The material of the conductor constituting the solenoid is copper (Cu). However, it is not limited to copper, and alloys containing one or at least one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) may be used as the material of the conductor constituting the solenoid.

[0131] The susceptor 700 is positioned inside the body 100, surrounding the aerosol product contained in the containment space. In one embodiment, the containment space is defined as the internal space of the susceptor 700. The susceptor 700 heats the aerosol product by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by the coil 650. The susceptor 700 includes, but is not limited to, SUS (stainless steel) material.

[0132] The containment sensing unit 750 is located inside the body 100 and senses whether the aerosol product is contained in the containment space. The information sensed by the containment sensing unit 750 is transmitted to the control unit or memory of the aerosol generator. If the containment sensing unit 750 senses the presence of the aerosol product, the control unit generates a signal for the operation of a component of the aerosol generator (e.g., coil 650).

[0133] For example, the aerosol product includes a metallic substance such as aluminum, and the containment sensing unit 750 includes an inductance sensor that senses the change in inductance that occurs when the aerosol product is contained in the containment space.

[0134] Other examples include a capacitance sensor or magnetic proximity sensor that can detect changes in electromagnetic properties caused by aerosol products adjacent to the containment space. However, the containment sensing unit 750 may also include other types of sensors, such as optical sensors, temperature sensors, and resistance sensors.

[0135] The containment sensing unit 750 is positioned to surround the support unit 600 and the coil 650, and to surround the containment space of the body 100. As a result, when an aerosol product is contained in the containment space of the body 100, the containment sensing unit 750 is positioned to surround the aerosol product.

[0136] The temperature sensing unit 800 is located inside the body 100 and senses the temperature inside the housing space of the body 100. In one embodiment, the temperature sensing unit 800 senses the temperature of at least one of the coil 650 or the susceptor 700. The information sensed by the temperature sensing unit 800 is transmitted to the control unit or memory of the aerosol generator 1.

[0137] The temperature sensing unit 800 is positioned on one side of the coil 650 and extends in one direction (for example, the z-axis direction). The temperature sensing unit 800 is a thermocouple wire, but can be used without limitation as long as it can sense the internal temperature of the containment space.

[0138] The shielding unit 850 is positioned inside the body 100, surrounding the support unit 600 and the coil 650. The shielding unit 850 functions to shield the magnetic field generated inside the body 100 from propagating to the outside. The shielding unit 850 is made of materials such as aluminum (Al) and silver (Ag), and is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape overall, but the material and shape are not limited thereto.

[0139] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, taken with reference to the I-I' cross-sectional line in Figure 2, to show an embodiment in which an aerosol product is inserted into the heater assembly. Figure 5 shows that an aerosol product has been inserted into the heater assembly of Figure 2.

[0140] Referring to Figure 5, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a sealing part 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, an object sensing sensor 500, a moisture sensing sensor 550, a support unit 600, a coil 650, a susceptor 700, a housing sensing unit 750, and a shielding unit 850.

[0141] At least one component of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generator shown in Figure 4, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0142] Body 100 is positioned on the outermost side of the components of the heater assembly 10 (for example, moisture sensing sensor 550, support unit 600, coil 650, susceptor 700, housing sensing unit 750, temperature sensing unit 800, and shielding unit 850). That is, the moisture sensing sensor 550, support unit 600, coil 650, susceptor 700, housing sensing unit 750, temperature sensing unit 800, and shielding unit 850 are arranged inside body 100. Body 100 is made of materials such as stainless steel (SUS) and aluminum.

[0143] A first cover 200 is attached to the upper part of the body 100 (for example, the part facing the +z direction), and a second cover 300 is attached to the lower part of the body 100 (for example, the part facing the -z direction), thereby forming a containment space 10a for containing the aerosol product 2 inside the body 100.

[0144] The aerosol product 2 and the susceptor 700 are placed in the containment space 10a. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, if the heater assembly 10 includes the susceptor 700, the aerosol product 2 is housed inside the susceptor 700 and heated by the susceptor 700. In another embodiment, if the susceptor is arranged inside the aerosol product 2 in the shape of a section, flake, or strip, the coil 650 may be positioned corresponding to the susceptor to generate heat by applying a magnetic field to the susceptor.

[0145] When a susceptor is placed inside the aerosol product 2, the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generator according to one embodiment does not include the susceptor 700 surrounding the aerosol product 2. Therefore, the space where the susceptor 700 is not located is omitted, and the structure can be realized in which other components can be placed in the omitted space. This improves the space utilization of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generator according to one embodiment.

[0146] Although not shown in the diagram, at least a portion of the inner surface of at least one of the body 100, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300 is coated with a material that reflects the heat generated by the coil 650 and / or the susceptor 700 back to the containment space 10a. This reduces the likelihood that the heat generated by the coil 650 and / or the susceptor 700 will be immediately released to the outside of the heater assembly 10, thereby improving the thermal insulation performance of the heater assembly 10. For example, the material coated on the inner surface of at least one of the body 100, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300 may include a metallic material such as silver (Ag).

[0147] The first cover 200 includes a cover body 210 and a cover insulation member 220.

[0148] The cover body 210 functions as the main body of the first cover 200. A holder 150 is positioned on one side of the cover body 210 (for example, in the +z direction), and a body 100 is positioned on the other side of the cover body 210 (for example, in the -z direction).

[0149] The cover insulation member 220 extends from the cover body 210 in one direction (for example, the -z direction) and is positioned outside the coil 650. This allows the cover insulation member 220 to function as a physical barrier preventing heat generated in the containment space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment can improve its thermal insulation performance by using a double physical barrier, in addition to the body 100, via the cover insulation member 220.

[0150] The cover insulation member 220 is positioned between the body 100 and the coil 650. Specifically, the cover insulation member 220 is positioned inside the shielding unit 850, between the housing sensing unit 750 and the coil 650. In one embodiment, the cover insulation member 220 may be formed integrally with the cover body 210.

[0151] The airflow passage cover 350 is positioned on one side of the body 100 (for example, in the -x direction). An airflow passage 360 ​​is formed in the airflow passage cover 350. Air flows into the interior of the heater assembly 10 through the airflow passage 360 ​​and moves to the containment space 10a where the aerosol product 2 is contained. That is, the airflow passage 360 ​​communicates with the containment space 10a, and at least a portion of the air moving through the airflow passage 360 ​​passes through the aerosol product 2 contained in the containment space 10a and is discharged to the outside.

[0152] An air inlet 350a is formed in the airflow passage cover 350. Air flows into the airflow passage 360 ​​inside the airflow passage cover 350 through the air inlet 350a. The air inlet 350a is formed at one end of the airflow passage cover 350 and at the first airflow cover sealing member 380. The air inlet 350a communicates with the air inlet of the aerosol generating device body.

[0153] In one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment has a structure in which air flows into the containment space 10a only through the airflow passage 360 ​​formed in the airflow passage cover 350. As a result, since only one airflow is generated from the outside through the airflow passage 360 ​​formed in the airflow passage cover 350, the pressure sensor 400 can measure the pressure in the airflow passage 360 ​​with greater precision and accuracy.

[0154] In one embodiment, the air inlet 350a is positioned at a distance from the holder 150, which is the part into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted. As a result, the air inlet 350a can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the aerosol product 2 that the user inhales by contacting it with their mouth, so that the pressure change value (Δ value) inside the aerosol generator increases when inhaled.

[0155] The pressure change value (△ value) is a measure of the fluidity of air / airflow within an aerosol generator. A larger pressure change value (△ value) indicates greater airflow. This is because a larger difference between the internal pressure of the aerosol generator and the external pressure (which is nearly constant at atmospheric pressure) allows air to flow more easily into the aerosol generator. A large pressure change value (△ value) means that the internal pressure of the aerosol generator will become lower than the initial pressure.

[0156] In the comparative example, where the air inlet 350a is located in the holder 150, the part where the user inhales air and the part where air flows in are located close together. Therefore, in the comparative example, since air flows in through the part where the user inhales, the pressure change value (△ value) is easily affected by the user's inhalation. For example, if the pressure change value (△ value) inside the aerosol generator does not increase due to the user's usage characteristics (e.g., weak inhalation), then it becomes difficult for outside air to flow into the aerosol generator. As a result, the comparative example has the problem of reduced air mobility within the aerosol generator.

[0157] In one embodiment of the heater assembly 10, the airflow passage 360 ​​is not formed in the holder 150 or the body 100, but is formed on a separate airflow passage cover 350 located on one side of the body 100. That is, the air inlet 350a, which is part of the airflow passage 360, is positioned at a predetermined distance from the aerosol product 2 that the user inhales by contacting it with their mouth. As a result, the heater assembly 10 in one embodiment includes a structure in which the pressure change value (△ value) is not significantly affected by the user's inhalation, and the pressure change value (△ value) increases regardless of the inhalation characteristics. Therefore, the air mobility within the aerosol generating device is increased.

[0158] An air outlet 350b is formed in the airflow passage cover 350. The air outlet 350b is formed in the airflow passage cover 350 at a position separated from the air inlet 350a. Air moves from inside the airflow passage cover 350 to the housing space 10a inside the heater assembly 10 through the air outlet 350b. This is because a hole is formed in the support unit 600 that communicates with the air outlet 350b. The air outlet 350b may be formed at the other end of the airflow passage cover 350 that communicates with the hole in the support unit 600 and at the second airflow cover sealing member 390, respectively.

[0159] Air flowing into the air inlet of the aerosol generator body moves to the containment space 10a through the air inlet 350a, air passage 360, air outlet 350b formed in the air passage cover 350, and the internal space of the support unit 600.

[0160] The object detection sensor 500 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 so as to be located on one side of the aerosol product (for example, in the -x direction). The object detection sensor 500 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 so as to be located at a point corresponding to an identification mark (not shown) placed on the outer surface of the aerosol product 2.

[0161] The moisture-sensing sensor 550 is positioned on one side of the aerosol product 2 (e.g., in the +x direction). The moisture-sensing sensor 550 is positioned to correspond to a segment of the aerosol product 2 containing the aerosol-generating substance. For this purpose, the sensor bracket 550a can be coupled to the support unit 600 so as to be positioned to correspond to the segment of the aerosol product 2. Moisture generated by aerosol formation from the aerosol-generating substance contained in the aerosol product 2 may concentrate and wet or adhere to the segment, but by positioning itself to correspond to the segment, the moisture-sensing sensor 550 can accurately and precisely measure the moisture content of the aerosol product 2. For example, the moisture-sensing sensor 550 is positioned in a direction away from the middle portion of the support unit 600, downwards (e.g., in the -z direction).

[0162] The support unit 600 is positioned to surround the containment space 10a and supports the coil 650 that generates heat for the susceptor 700. The support unit 600 is positioned inside the cover insulation member 220 and is supported by the first cover 200.

[0163] The coil 650 is positioned on the support unit 600 and can generate heat for the susceptor located in the housing space 10a. The coil 650 is wound and installed on the outer surface of the support unit 600. The coil 650 can be formed into a shape with a circular cross-sectional area when cut with respect to a plane (e.g., the xz plane) passing through a first direction in which the support unit 600 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction) and a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that intersects the direction in which the support unit 600 extends. That is, when the coil 650 is viewed from the y-axis direction, the coil 650 can be formed to have a circular cross-sectional area.

[0164] The susceptor 700 is positioned to surround the containment space 10a and heats the aerosol product 2 placed in the containment space 10a. The susceptor 700 is positioned inside the support unit 600 and is supported by the support unit 600. The susceptor 700 is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, but its shape is not limited thereto.

[0165] The containment sensing unit 750 is positioned to surround the containment space 10a. The containment sensing unit 750 may also be positioned outside the coil 650, between the cover insulation member 220 and the shielding unit 850.

[0166] The shielding unit 850 is positioned within the internal space of the body 100 so as to surround the housing space 10a, and is located between the body 100 and the housing sensing unit 750. In other words, by being positioned outside the coil 650, the shielding unit 850 can perform the function of shielding the magnetic field generated by the coil 650.

[0167] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, taken with reference to the II-II' cross-sectional line in Figure 2, in order to show an embodiment in which an aerosol product is inserted into the heater assembly.

[0168] Referring to Figure 6, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a sealing part 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, a pressure sensor 400, an object sensing sensor 500, a moisture sensing sensor 550, a support unit 600, a coil 650, a susceptor 700, a housing sensing unit 750, and a shielding unit 850.

[0169] At least one component of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generator shown in Figure 5, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0170] The pressure sensor 400 is positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 to sense pressure changes in the airflow passage. Figure 6 shows an embodiment in which the pressure sensor 400 is positioned above (for example, in the +z direction) the middle portion of the airflow passage cover 350, but this is illustrative, and the position can be set in various ways as long as it can sense pressure changes inside the airflow passage.

[0171] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the holder, first cover, temperature sensing unit, and shielding unit included in a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment. The coupling relationship between the holder, first cover, temperature sensing unit, and shielding unit will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0172] Referring to Figure 7, one embodiment of the heater assembly 10 includes a holder 150, a first cover 200, a temperature sensing unit 800, and a shielding unit 850.

[0173] At least one component of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generator shown in Figures 4 and 5, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0174] The holder 150 is located on one side of the first cover 200 (for example, in the +z direction) and is coupled to the first cover 200. The holder 150 may be coupled to the first cover 200 using coupling members such as screws, but the coupling method is not limited to this.

[0175] The holder 150 includes a ridge 150b that supports the aerosol product 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. The ridge 150b protrudes toward the insertion hole 150a and contacts the aerosol product 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. In one embodiment, a plurality of ridges 150b may be spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the insertion hole 150a.

[0176] The first cover 200 includes a cover body 210, a cover insulation member 220, and a avoidance groove 230.

[0177] The cover body 210 has an article insertion section 200a, and aerosol products inserted through the insertion hole 150a can pass through the cover body 210 and be contained in the containment space 10a. Although not shown in the figures, the cover body 210 has holes into which fastening members such as screws can be inserted, and the cover body 210 can be fixedly connected to the aerosol generating device body by fastening screws through these holes.

[0178] The cover insulation member 220 extends from the cover body 210 along one direction (for example, the -z direction) and is positioned to surround the coil 650 and the susceptor 700.

[0179] The avoidance grooves 230 are formed in the cover insulation member 220. The avoidance grooves 230 extend together along the direction in which the cover insulation member 220 extends (for example, in the z-axis direction). Multiple avoidance grooves 230 are formed in the cover insulation member 220, spaced apart from each other.

[0180] At least a portion of the temperature sensing unit 800 is inserted into the avoidance groove 230. As a result, when the assembly to the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is completed, the cover insulation member 220 and the temperature sensing unit 800 can be arranged inside the body without interfering with each other. Therefore, since there is no need to secure a separate space inside the heater assembly 10 to separate the temperature sensing unit 800 from the cover insulation member 220, the heater assembly 10 can be made smaller.

[0181] If the cover insulation member 220 includes multiple avoidance grooves 230, a temperature sensing unit 800 may be inserted into one of the avoidance grooves 230, and the wires of the coil 650 may be inserted into one of the remaining avoidance grooves 230. This further reduces the size of the heater assembly 10.

[0182] The shielding unit 850 may be positioned to surround the cover insulation member 220 and to be located inside the temperature sensing unit 800. In this case, the shielding unit 850 may have a temperature sensing unit insertion groove 850a into which at least a portion of the temperature sensing unit 800 can be inserted. Thus, when the assembly to the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is completed, the temperature sensing unit 800 and the shielding unit 850 can be positioned inside the body without interfering with each other.

[0183] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the first cover, airflow passage cover, and mounting member included in a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment. The coupling relationship between the first cover, airflow passage cover, and mounting member will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0184] Referring to Figure 8, one embodiment of the heater assembly 10 includes a first cover 200, an airflow passage cover 350, a pressure sensor 400, a mounting member 450, and an item sensing sensor 500.

[0185] At least one component of the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generator shown in Figures 4 to 7, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0186] The airflow passage cover 350 includes an airflow passage cover body 351 and a cover locking member 352.

[0187] The airflow passage cover body 351 functions as the main body of the airflow passage cover 350. An airflow passage is formed inside the airflow passage cover body 351, with an air inlet 350a and an air outlet 350b formed at positions separated from each other. The airflow passage, the air inlet 350a, and the air outlet 350b are in communication with each other.

[0188] The cover locking member 352 is formed on the airflow passage cover body 351. The cover locking member 352 is formed to protrude from the airflow passage cover body 351 toward the first cover 200. The cover locking member 352 can be inserted into the airflow passage cover coupling groove 240 formed in the cover body 210, and if the cover locking member 352 is inserted into the airflow passage cover coupling groove 240, the airflow passage cover 350 is fixedly coupled to the first cover 200. Thus, according to the heater assembly 10 of one embodiment, the first cover 200 and the airflow passage cover 350 can be coupled to each other using a simple hook coupling structure. The airflow passage cover coupling groove 240 is formed on the upper surface of the cover body 210 (for example, the surface facing the +z direction).

[0189] The airflow passage cover 350 further includes a housing section 370.

[0190] The housing section 370 is formed in the airflow passage cover body 351 and functions to position the mounting member 450 and sensors 400 and 500 on the airflow passage cover 350.

[0191] The housing section 370 includes a pressure sensor housing section 371, an item sensing sensor housing section 372, and a mounting member housing section 373. The housing sections 371, 372, and 373 are in communication with each other and are located in different parts of the airflow passage cover 350.

[0192] In one embodiment, the pressure sensor housing 371 is located on the first side surface of the airflow passage cover 350 (for example, the portion facing the +y direction), the item sensing sensor housing 372 is located on the second side surface of the airflow passage cover 350 (for example, the portion facing the +x direction), and the mounting member housing 373 is located on the first side surface (for example, the portion facing the +y direction) and the second side surface (for example, the portion facing the +x direction), respectively.

[0193] The pressure sensor 400 is housed in the pressure sensor housing 371. While housed in the pressure sensor housing 371, the pressure sensor 400 senses the internal pressure of the airflow passage. The airflow passage cover body 351 has a through hole 350c that communicates with the pressure sensor housing 371, and the pressure sensor 400 can be inserted into the through hole 350c to easily sense changes in the internal pressure of the airflow passage. This is because the through hole 350c communicates with the airflow passage.

[0194] The object detection sensor 500 is housed in the object detection sensor housing 372. While housed in the object detection sensor housing 372, the object detection sensor 500 detects the identification mark of the aerosol product.

[0195] The mounting member 450 is coupled to the airflow passage cover 350 by being housed in the housing section 370. The pressure sensor 400 and the object sensing sensor 500 are mounted together via a single mounting member 450. This allows the pressure sensor 400 and the object sensing sensor 500 to be simultaneously positioned on the airflow passage cover 350 through a compact mounting structure.

[0196] The mounting member 450 includes a first mounting member 451, a second mounting member 452, and a third mounting member 453.

[0197] The first mounting member 451 functions as the main body of the mounting member 450 and is connected to the second mounting member 452, the third mounting member 453, and the connecting portion 450a, respectively. The first mounting member 450 extends along the direction in which the airflow passage cover 350 extends (for example, in the z-axis direction) and is housed in the mounting member housing portion 373.

[0198] The second mounting member 452 extends from the first mounting member 451 in one direction (for example, the +z direction). A pressure sensor 400 is positioned on the second mounting member 452. The pressure sensor 400 is housed in the pressure sensor housing 371 while mounted on the second mounting member 452. The second mounting member 452 is housed in both the mounting member housing 373 and the pressure sensor housing 371.

[0199] The third mounting member 453 includes a first portion extending in one direction (e.g., the +x direction) from the first mounting member 451, a second portion extending in one direction (e.g., the -y direction) from the first portion, and a third portion extending in one direction (e.g., the +z direction) from the second portion. An object detection sensor 500 is disposed on the third mounting member 453. Specifically, the object detection sensor 500 is disposed on the third portion of the third mounting member 453. The object detection sensor 500 is housed in the pressure sensor housing 371 while mounted on the third mounting member 453. The third mounting member 453 is housed in both the mounting member housing 373 and the pressure sensor housing 371.

[0200] The mounting member 450 includes a connecting portion 450a. The connecting portion 450a is connected to the end of the first mounting member 451 and passes through a seal portion to connect to the memory or control unit of the aerosol generator body. Information sensed by the pressure sensor 400 and the object sensing sensor 500 is transmitted to the memory or control unit through the connecting portion 450a of the mounting member 450. The connecting portion 450a, the third mounting member 453, the second mounting member 452, and the first mounting member 451 are integrally formed.

[0201] Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, showing the coupling relationship between the seal portion, the second cover, the airflow passage cover, and the support unit. The coupling relationship between the seal portion 180, the second cover 300, the airflow passage cover 350, and the support unit 600 will be described below.

[0202] A heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a sealing portion 180, a second cover 300, an airflow passage cover 350, and a support unit 600. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generators shown in Figures 4 to 8, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0203] The airflow passage inside the airflow passage cover 350 communicates with the inside of the support unit 600, but the airflow passage cover 350 is not directly connected to the support unit 600, but is connected to the support unit 600 via the second cover 300.

[0204] In one embodiment, the airflow passage cover 350 is connected to the second cover 300 using a connecting member such as a screw, but the connection method is not limited to this. The seal portion 180 is connected to the second cover 300 and the airflow passage cover 350 on their undersides (for example, in the -z direction).

[0205] Figure 10 is a coupled perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, showing the support unit, heater, housing sensing unit, and temperature sensing unit. The coupling relationships of the support unit 600, coil 650, housing sensing unit 750, and temperature sensing unit 800 will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0206] Referring to Figure 10, the heater assembly 10 according to one embodiment includes a support unit 600, a coil 650, a housing sensing unit 750, and a temperature sensing unit 800. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for aerosol generators shown in Figures 4 to 9, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0207] The coil 650 is located outside the support unit 600 and is electrically connected via the connection part 650a to at least one of the battery, memory, or control unit of the aerosol generator main body.

[0208] The housing sensing unit 750 is positioned to surround the outside of the support unit 600 and the coil 650, and extends along the direction in which the support unit 600 and the coil 650 extend (for example, in the z-axis direction). The housing sensing unit 750 is electrically connected to at least one of the battery, memory, or control unit of the aerosol generator body via the connection portion 750a.

[0209] The housing sensing unit 750 is positioned inside the body, surrounding a portion of the outside of the support unit 600 and the coil 650. This allows the housing sensing unit 750 to be easily inserted into the body 100, compared to a comparative example in which the housing sensing unit 750 surrounds the entire outside of the support unit 600 and the coil 650, as in one embodiment of the heater assembly 10. Thus, the ease of assembly into the heater assembly 10 is improved.

[0210] The temperature sensing unit 800 is positioned inside the body on one side of the support unit 600 (for example, in the +x direction) and is capable of sensing the temperature of at least one of the coil 650 or the susceptor. In one embodiment, the temperature sensing unit 800 can sense the temperature of the coil 650 or the susceptor by contacting the support unit 600 or the susceptor.

[0211] The temperature sensing unit 800 includes a sensing body 810 and a sensing connection part 820.

[0212] The sensing body 810 functions as the main body of the temperature sensing unit 800 and extends along the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (for example, the z-axis direction). The sensing body 810 is positioned between the body and the shielding unit. The sensing body 810 may be formed integrally with the sensing coupling portion 820.

[0213] The sensing connector 820 is connected to the support unit 600 or the susceptor. The sensing connector 820 is bent JPEG0007850352000001.jpg712 It has the shape of a letter. The sensing connector 820 includes a first portion extending in a direction that crosses the direction in which the sensing body 810 extends (e.g., the -x direction) and a second portion extending in a direction that crosses the direction in which the first portion extends (e.g., the -z direction). At least a portion of the first portion is supported by the support unit 600, and at least a portion of the second portion is connected to the support unit 600 or a susceptor. In this case, the support unit 600 may have a groove 600a into which the first portion of the sensing connector 820 is inserted.

[0214] The temperature sensing unit 800 is electrically connected to at least one of the battery, memory, or control unit of the aerosol generator body via the connection part 800a. The connection part 800a extends from the sensing body 810 in one direction (for example, the -z direction).

[0215] Figures 11 and 12 are drawings showing an example of an aerosol product according to one embodiment.

[0216] Below, an example of aerosol product 2 will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0217] Figures 11 and 12 are drawings showing an example of an aerosol product according to one embodiment.

[0218] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol product 2 comprises a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22.

[0219] Figure 11 shows the filter rod 22 as a single segment, but is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 22 may consist of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering out predetermined components contained in the aerosol. Additionally, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs other functions, as needed.

[0220] The diameter of the aerosol product 2 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is approximately 48 mm, but is not limited to these dimensions. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 is approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to these dimensions.

[0221] The aerosol product 2 is packaged by at least one trumpet 24. The trumpet 24 has at least one hole through which outside air enters or internal gases exit. As an example, the aerosol product 2 is packaged by one trumpet 24. As another example, the aerosol product 2 may be packaged in layers by two or more trumpets 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by a first trumpet 24a, and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by trumpets 24a, 24b, and 24c. The entire aerosol product 2 may then be repackaged by a single trumpet 24e. If the filter rod 22 consists of multiple segments, each segment may be packaged by trumpets 24b, 24c, and 24d.

[0222] The first and second flaps 24a and 24b are made from general filter paper. For example, the first and second flaps 24a and 24b are made from porous or non-porous paper. Alternatively, the first and second flaps 24a and 24b may be made from oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminated packaging material.

[0223] The third flap 24c may be made of hard-wound paper. For example, the basis weight of the third flap 24c may be 88 g / m². 2 or 96g / m 2 The thickness of the third trumpet 24c is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, preferably 125 μm.

[0224] The fourth wrapper 24d may be made of hard tissue paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 24d is in the range of 88 g / m 2 to 96 g / m 2 and preferably in the range of 90 g / m 2 to 94 g / m 2 and is included within the range. Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 24d is included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably is 125 μm.

[0225] The fifth wrapper 24e can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) means paper that is specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 24e is included within the range of 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and preferably is 60 g / m 2 and is included within the range. Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 24e is included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is 67 μm.

[0226] The fifth wrapper 24e can be internally added with a predetermined substance. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-described properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 24e without limitation.

[0227] The fifth wrapper 24e prevents the phenomenon of the aerosol generating article 2 being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 21 is heated by a heater, there is a possibility that the aerosol generating article 2 will be burned. Specifically, when any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 21 is heated to above the ignition point, there is a risk that the aerosol generating article 2 will be burned. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 24e contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the aerosol generating article 2 being burned is prevented.

[0228] Furthermore, the fifth wrapper 24e can prevent the aerosol generator 1 from being contaminated by substances generated in the aerosol product 2. The user's puff generates liquid substances within the aerosol product 2. For example, liquid substances (e.g., water) are generated when the aerosol generated in the aerosol product 2 is cooled by external air. The fifth wrapper 24e encloses the aerosol product 2, preventing the liquid substances generated within the aerosol product 2 from leaking out of the aerosol product 2.

[0229] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance includes, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it.

[0230] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be made from a sheet or from a strand. Alternatively, the tobacco rod 21 may be made from shredded tobacco, which is obtained by finely cutting a tobacco sheet. The tobacco rod 21 may also be surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the heat conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. As an example, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco flavor. The heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can also function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include a susceptor in addition to the heat conductive material surrounding its exterior.

[0231] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod, or a tubular rod containing a hollow inside. The filter rod 22 may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0232] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment can prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward when a heater is inserted, and can also generate an aerosol cooling effect. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment is a suitable diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to these values.

[0233] The length of the first segment can be any length between 4 mm and 30 mm, but is not limited to these. Preferably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited to these.

[0234] The hardness of the first segment is adjusted by controlling the plasticizer content during its manufacture. The first segment is also manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube of the same or different material into its interior (for example, hollow).

[0235] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0236] The length or diameter of the second segment is determined in various ways depending on the form of the aerosol product 2. For example, the length of the second segment is appropriately taken within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment is 14 mm, but it is not limited to this.

[0237] The second segment is produced by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance solution may be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment may be produced by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a fragrance solution and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment is formed from a rolled polymer sheet.

[0238] For example, the polymer is made from a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0239] The second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, and the second segment comprises one or more longitudinally extending channels, where a channel means a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0240] For example, the second segment, which consists of a rolled polymer sheet, is formed from a material with a thickness between approximately 5 μm and approximately 300 μm, for example, between approximately 10 μm and approximately 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is approximately 300 mm². 2 / mm and approximately 1000mm 2 It falls between / mm. Furthermore, the aerosol cooling element has a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10mm². 2 / mg and approximately 100mm 2 Formed from materials between / mg

[0241] On the other hand, the second segment contains threads containing volatile flavor components. Here, the volatile flavor component is menthol, but is not limited to menthol. For example, the threads are filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0242] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment is appropriately chosen within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be 12 mm, but is not limited to these values.

[0243] The third segment may be manufactured in such a way that flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto it during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of improving the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user occurs.

[0244] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 includes at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating flavor or a function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 has a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is enclosed in a film. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these.

[0245] Referring to Figure 12, the aerosol product 3 further comprises a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside and prevents liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generator 1 during smoking.

[0246] The filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 11, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 11.

[0247] The diameter and overall length of aerosol product 3 correspond to the diameter and overall length of aerosol product 2 in Figure 11. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is approximately 14 mm, but are not limited to these.

[0248] The aerosol product 3 is packaged by at least one trumpet 35. The trumpet 35 has at least one hole through which outside air enters or internal gases exit. For example, the front plug 33 is packaged by the first trumpet 35a, the tobacco rod 31 is packaged by the second trumpet 35b, the first segment 321 is packaged by the third trumpet 35c, and the second segment 322 is packaged by the fourth trumpet 35d. The entire aerosol product 3 may then be repackaged by the fifth trumpet 35e.

[0249] Furthermore, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth trumpet 35e. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited to this. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater into the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0250] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 has a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is enclosed in a film. The capsule 34 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these.

[0251] The first wrapper 35a is made of general filter paper bonded with a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper 35a is within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 35a is within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 35a is 50 g / m². 2 or 55g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 53 g / m². 2 That is the case.

[0252] The second and third flaps 35b and 35c may be made of general filter paper. For example, the second and third flaps 35b and 35c may be porous or non-porous paper.

[0253] For example, the porosity of the second flank 35b is 35,000 CU, but is not limited to this. The thickness of the second flank 35b is within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second flank 35b is 20 g / m². 2 or 25g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 23.5 g / m². 2 That is the case.

[0254] For example, the porosity of the third flank 35c is 24,000 CU, but is not limited to this. The thickness of the third flank 35c is within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third flank 35c is 20 g / m². 2 or 25g / m 2 It is included within the range, preferably 21 g / m² 2 That is the case.

[0255] The fourth flank 35d is made of PLA laminate. Here, PLA laminate refers to a triple layer of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth flank 35d is within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, preferably 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth flank 35d is 80 g / m².2 or 100g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 88 g / m² 2 That is the case.

[0256] The fifth trumpet 35e can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth trumpet 35e is 57 g / m². 2 or 63g / m 2 It is included within the range, preferably 60 g / m². 2 Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth trumpet 35e is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, preferably 67 μm.

[0257] The fifth trumpet 35e may have a predetermined substance added to it. Here, an example of a predetermined substance is silicon, but it is not limited to silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that prevents oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any substance that has the aforementioned properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth trumpet 35e without limitation, even if it is not silicon.

[0258] The front plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the front plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate tow is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filament of the front plug 33 is 5.0. The cross-section of the filament constituting the front plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 is 28,000.

[0259] Furthermore, the front plug 33 may include at least one channel as needed, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be manufactured in a variety of ways.

[0260] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 mentioned above, as shown in Figure 11. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0261] The first segment 321 is made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment 321 is made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front plug 33.

[0262] The second segment 322 is made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the monodenier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. The cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0263] Figure 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0264] The aerosol generator 1 comprises a control unit 1000, a sensing unit 2000, an output unit 3000, a battery 4000, a heater 5000, a user input unit 6000, a memory 7000, and a communication unit 8000. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 12. That is, a person skilled in the art will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1, some of the components shown in Figure 12 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0265] The sensing unit 2000 senses the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1 and transmits the sensed information to the control unit 1000. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1000 controls the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed, such as controlling the operation of the heater 5000, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert aerosol products (e.g., cigarettes, cartridges, etc.), and displaying notifications.

[0266] The sensing unit 2000 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the temperature sensor 2100, insertion sensing sensor 2200, and puff sensor 2300.

[0267] The temperature sensor 2100 senses the temperature at which the heater 5000 (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 5000, or the heater 5000 itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 2100 may be positioned around the battery 4000 to monitor the temperature of the battery 4000.

[0268] The insertion sensing sensor 2200 detects the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 2200 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and detects a change in signal caused by the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products.

[0269] The puff sensor 2300 detects user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 2300 detects user puffs based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0270] In addition to the aforementioned sensors 2100 to 2300, the sensing unit 2000 further includes at least one of the following: a temperature / humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0271] The output unit 3000 outputs information about the status of the aerosol generator 1 and provides it to the user. The output unit 3000 comprises, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 3100, the haptic unit 3200, and the acoustic output unit 3300. When the display unit 3100 and the touchpad are arranged in a layered structure to form a touchscreen, the display unit 3100 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0272] The display unit 3100 visually provides the user with information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generator 1 can include various types of information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 4000 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heater 5000, the insertion / removal status of aerosol products, or conditions under which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of abnormal items), and the display unit 3100 outputs this information to the outside. The display unit 3100 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or an LED light-emitting element.

[0273] The haptic unit 3200 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the haptic unit 3200 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0274] The audio output unit 3300 provides information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user auditorily. For example, the audio output unit 3300 converts an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and outputs it externally.

[0275] The battery 4000 supplies power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The battery 4000 supplies power so that the heater 5000 is heated. Also, the battery 4000 supplies power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000) provided in the aerosol generating device 1. The battery 4000 is a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 4000 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0276] The heater 5000 is supplied with power from the battery 4000 and heats the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 4000 and supplies it to the heater 5000. Also, when the aerosol generating device 1 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power source of the battery 4000 into an AC power source.

[0277] The control unit 1000, the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000 are supplied with power from the battery 4000 and perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 13, a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit that converts the power of the battery 4000 and supplies it to each component may be further included.

[0278] In one embodiment, the heater 5000 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, the heater 5000 may be embodied as, but is not limited to, a metallic hot wire, a metal hot plate with conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0279] In other embodiments, the heater 5000 is an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 5000 includes a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

[0280] The user input unit 6000 receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 6000 includes, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch type, pressure resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface acoustic wave conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Also, although not shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and through the connection interface such as the USB interface, connects to other external devices to transmit and receive information or charges the battery 4000.

[0281] Memory 7000 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and stores data processed by the control unit 1000 and data being processed. Memory 7000 includes at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 7000 stores data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0282] The communication unit 8000 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 8000 comprises a short-range communication unit 8100 and a wireless communication unit 8200.

[0283] The short-range communication unit 8100 includes, but is not limited to, Bluetooth® communication units, BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication units, short-range wireless communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee communication units, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication units, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication units, UWB (ultra wideband) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc.

[0284] The wireless communication unit 8200 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 8200 can verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 1 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0285] The control unit 1000 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 1000 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Those skilled in the art will understand that it may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0286] The control unit 1000 controls the temperature of the heater 5000 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 4000 to the heater 5000. For example, the control unit 1000 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 4000 and the heater 5000. In another example, the direct heating circuit may control the power supply to the heater 5000 by a control command from the control unit 1000.

[0287] The control unit 1000 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 and controls subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000, the control unit 1000 controls the power supplied to the heater 5000 so that the heater 5000 starts or stops operating. As another example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000, the control unit 1000 controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 5000 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 5000 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0288] The control unit 1000 controls the output unit 3000 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 2300 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 1000 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will soon be finished through at least one of the display unit 3100, the haptic unit 3200, and the acoustic output unit 3300.

[0289] One embodiment also embodies a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as a program module executed by a computer. Computer-readable media are any available medium accessible by a computer, and include both volatile and non-volatile media, and isolated and non-isolated media. Computer-readable media also include both computer recording media and communication media. Computer recording media include both volatile and non-volatile, isolated and non-isolated media, embodied in any method or technique for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data such as modulated data signals or other data, and include any information transmission medium.

[0290] The above-mentioned descriptions of embodiments are illustrative only, and those skilled in the art will understand that a wider variety of modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be defined by the attached claims, and all differences that are equivalent to those described in the claims must be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

[0291] Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be embodied in modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered in an explanatory rather than restrictive manner. The scope of the invention is defined in the claims, not in the foregoing description, and all differences within an equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the invention.

Claims

1. A body including a containment space for containing aerosol products, A coil is provided to apply a magnetic field to heat the aerosol product, such that a susceptor placed in the containment space generates heat. An airflow passage cover located on the outside of the aforementioned body, having an airflow passage through which air passes; A pressure sensor is placed in the airflow passage cover to sense changes in the pressure inside the airflow passage, A heater assembly for an aerosol generator, comprising: a moisture sensing sensor disposed in a support unit supporting the coil, which senses the moisture content of the aerosol product housed in the containment space.

2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an article sensing sensor positioned in the airflow passage cover at a distance from the pressure sensor, for sensing the type of aerosol product contained in the containment space.

3. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the airflow passage cover includes a sensor housing portion that houses at least one of the pressure sensor or the article sensing sensor.

4. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the pressure sensor and the article sensing sensor are mounted together on a single mounting member arranged in the airflow passage cover.

5. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor protective cover coupled to the airflow passage cover so as to cover at least a portion of the pressure sensor.

6. The aforementioned airflow passage cover has an air inlet formed in which air flows in. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the air inlet is positioned at a distance from the portion into which the aerosol product is inserted.

7. The aforementioned airflow passage is in communication with the aforementioned containment space, The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the air moving through the airflow passage passes through the aerosol product contained in the containment space and is discharged to the outside.

8. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moisture sensing sensor is positioned to correspond to one segment of the aerosol product containing the aerosol generating substance.

9. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the moisture sensing sensor includes a curved surface.

10. The support unit further includes a sensor bracket positioned on the outside of the support unit, The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moisture sensing sensor is coupled to the sensor bracket and then to the support unit.

11. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a first cover coupled to the body and including an article insertion section into which the aerosol product is inserted.

12. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first cover extends along the direction in which the coil extends and includes a cover insulating member disposed between the coil and the body.

13. The body further includes a temperature sensing unit positioned inside the body for sensing the temperature of the coil, The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first cover further includes a clearance groove into which the temperature sensing unit is inserted.

14. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a holder coupled to the first cover, having an insertion hole that communicates with the article insertion section so that the aerosol product can be freely accommodated in the containment space, and a ridge that protrudes toward the insertion hole and supports the aerosol product.

15. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, A battery that provides power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising a control unit for controlling the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating apparatus.

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