Aerosol generator equipped with a heater temperature control button and aerosol generating article used in conjunction therewith

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol generating device including a housing forming an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article, a heater unit for heating the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space or a cartridge included in the aerosol generating device, a controller for adjusting the temperature of the heater unit, and a temperature control button disposed on an outer wall surface of the housing for transmitting a temperature control signal to the controller. The aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention can generate aerosols of various components or amounts according to consumer preferences for one aerosol-generating article.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generator equipped with a heater temperature control button and an aerosol generating article used in conjunction with the same. Specifically, the present invention relates to an aerosol generator equipped with a temperature control button that transmits a temperature control signal to a control unit for adjusting the heating temperature of the heater and an aerosol generating article used in conjunction with the same.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0145569 dated 28 October 2021, and incorporates all the contents disclosed in the documents of the said Korean Patent Application as part of this Specification. [Background technology]

[0003] Recently, there has been increasing demand for alternatives that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, there is growing demand for devices that generate aerosols by electrically heating cigarette sticks (e.g., cigarette-type e-cigarettes). Accordingly, research into electrically heated aerosol generators and the cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating articles) to which they are applied is progressing actively.

[0004] Specifically, electric heating aerosol generators and the cigarette sticks used with them have been developed in various forms to suit consumer preferences, such as using granules containing the relevant components instead of flat leaves or shredded tobacco as the tobacco substance in the cigarette sticks, and introducing a separate atomizing unit in the form of a cartridge into the electric heating aerosol generator. Nevertheless, there are limitations to satisfying a diverse range of consumers; a single cigarette stick and electric heating aerosol generator can only satisfy consumers with specific preferences.

[0005] Therefore, the inventors of this invention completed the present invention after researching an electrically heated aerosol generator that can generate a variety of components or amounts of aerosol according to consumer preferences, even for a single cigarette stick. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2014-7021388 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The aim is to provide an aerosol generator that can generate aerosols of various components or quantities according to consumer preferences, even from a single aerosol-generating article. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to the first aspect of the present invention, The present invention provides an aerosol generator that includes a housing that forms a storage space for containing an aerosol generating article, a heater unit that heats the aerosol generating article or a cartridge contained in an aerosol generator housed in the storage space, a control unit that adjusts the temperature of the heater unit, and a temperature control button disposed on the outer wall surface of the housing that transmits a temperature adjustment signal to the control unit.

[0009] In one specific example of the present invention, the temperature control button transmits a temperature control signal to the control unit via a variable resistor.

[0010] In one specific example of the present invention, the control unit outputs the temperature control signal transmitted from the temperature control button as a pulsed supply voltage and transmits it to the heater unit.

[0011] In one specific example of the present invention, the temperature control signal is formed by a value input in analog or digital format.

[0012] In one specific example of the present invention, the heater section includes a first heater section that heats an atomizing section located within an aerosol generator or aerosol generating article, and a second heater section that heats a substrate section located within an aerosol generating article; the temperature control button includes a first temperature control button that transmits a temperature control signal for temperature control of the first heater section, and a second temperature control button that transmits a temperature control signal for temperature control of the second heater section; and the control section includes a first control section that outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the first temperature control button and transmits it to the first heater section, and a second control section that outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the second temperature control button and transmits it to the second heater section.

[0013] In one specific example of the present invention, the first temperature control button is set to either on mode or off mode, and in on mode, the temperature at which the first heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 180°C to 240°C.

[0014] In one specific example of the present invention, the second temperature control button is set to either on mode or off mode, and in on mode, the temperature at which the second heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 150°C to 260°C.

[0015] In one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generating article includes a first filter segment, a second filter segment, and a cavity segment, wherein the cavity segment is formed by the first filter segment and the second filter segment, the cavity segment is filled with tobacco granules, the first filter segment is located upstream of the cavity segment, and the second filter segment is located downstream of the cavity segment.

[0016] In one specific example of the present invention, when the atomizing unit is located within the aerosol generator, the atomizing unit is located adjacent to the first heater unit in a cartridge form.

[0017] In one specific example of the present invention, when an atomizing part is located in the aerosol-generating article, the atomizing part is located in the first filter segment.

Effects of the Invention

[0018] The aerosol-generating device according to one specific example of the present invention includes a temperature adjustment button that transmits a temperature adjustment signal to a control unit so as to adjust the heating temperature of a heater unit. Thus, not only consumers who prefer a strong tobacco flavor with a large amount of nicotine transferred to one aerosol-generating article, but also consumers who prefer a mild tobacco flavor with a small amount of nicotine transferred can be given a high level of satisfaction.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. schematically shows an aerosol-generating device to which an aerosol-generating article according to one specific example of the present invention is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. schematically shows an aerosol-generating device to which an aerosol-generating article according to one specific example of the present invention is applied. [Figure 3] FIG. schematically shows an aerosol-generating device to which an aerosol-generating article according to one specific example of the present invention is applied. [Figure 4] FIG. schematically shows an aerosol-generating article according to one specific example of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Hereinafter, specific examples will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. It should be noted that when attaching reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components should have the same numerals as much as possible even if they are shown on other drawings. Further, in describing the specific examples, when a detailed description of related known configurations or functions is determined to impede the understanding of the specific examples, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0021] Furthermore, when describing the components of a specific example, terms such as 1st, 2nd, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. Such terms are merely for distinguishing a component from other components, and do not limit the essence, order, or sequence of the component in question. When it is stated that a component is "linked," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while that component can be directly linked or connected to other components, other components can also be "linked," "combined," or "connected" between each component.

[0022] Components included in one specific example and components that share a common function will be described using the same name in other specific examples. Unless otherwise stated, the explanation given in one specific example can be applied to other examples, and the specific explanation will be omitted to the extent that it overlaps.

[0023] In this specification, the term "aerosol generator" means a device capable of generating an aerosol by applying an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. An exemplary structure of such an aerosol generator is shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0024] In this specification, the term "aerosol generating article" means an article that can generate an aerosol, such as a cigarette (paper-wrapped cigarette), a cigar, etc. The aerosol generating article may contain one or more of an aerosol forming agent and an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating article may contain several segments, each having a different function. Generally, aerosol generating articles include not only combustion-type aerosol generating articles that are used by directly igniting them, but also heating-type aerosol generating articles that are used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device, etc. In the present invention, heating-type aerosol generating articles that are used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device are preferably applied.

[0025] In this specification, the term "aerosol-forming agent" means a substance that facilitates the formation of visible smoke and / or aerosol. Examples of such aerosol-forming substances include, but are not limited to, glycerin (GLY), propylene glycol (PG), ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. In the relevant art, the term aerosol-forming agent may be used interchangeably with terms such as humectant, wetting agent, etc.

[0026] In this specification, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" means a substance capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol may include volatile compounds. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid.

[0027] For example, a solid aerosol-forming substrate may include a solid substance derived from tobacco raw materials such as flat tobacco leaves, shredded tobacco, or reconstituted tobacco, and a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include a liquid composition derived from nicotine, tobacco extracts, and / or various flavoring agents. However, it is not necessarily limited to these. The aerosol-forming substrate may further include an aerosol-forming agent to stably form visible smoke and / or aerosols.

[0028] In this specification, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to indicate the relative positions of segments constituting an aerosol generating article, with respect to the direction in which the user draws air using the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article includes an upstream end (i.e., the part in which air enters) and a downstream end (i.e., the part out which air exits) opposite it. When using the aerosol generating article, the user may put the downstream end of the aerosol generating article in their mouth. The downstream end is located downstream of the upstream end, while the term “end” may also be described as “terminal.”

[0029] In this specification, the term "puff" means inhalation by the user, which means drawing something into the user's mouth, nose, or lungs.

[0030] In this specification, the term “longitudinal direction” means the direction corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0031] This invention relates to an aerosol generator, and aims to provide an aerosol generator that can generate aerosols of various components or amounts according to consumer preferences, even when using a single aerosol generating article. To aid in understanding the aerosol generator, Figures 1 to 3 schematically illustrate exemplary aerosol generators.

[0032] According to one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generator 10 includes a housing, a control unit 12, a heater unit 13, and a temperature control button 14. The aerosol generator 10 may further include a battery 11, and may further include components that are common to the average person in the relevant art, in addition to the above configuration. For example, the aerosol generator 10 may further include an input module for receiving input such as commands from the user (e.g., a button, a touchable display, etc.) and an output module for outputting information such as the status of the device and smoking information (e.g., an LED, a display, a vibration motor, etc.). The components of the aerosol generator 10 will be described in detail below.

[0033] The housing forms the external appearance of the aerosol generator 10. When forming the external appearance of the aerosol generator 10, a storage space capable of accommodating the aerosol generating article 20 is formed. Preferably, the housing is made of a material that can protect the internal components.

[0034] The heater unit 13 heats the aerosol generating article 20 housed in the containment space or the cartridge 16 contained in the aerosol generating device. Specifically, when the aerosol generating article 20 is housed in the containment space of the aerosol generating device 10, the heater unit 13 can heat the aerosol generating article 20 or the cartridge 16 using power supplied from the battery 11.

[0035] The heater unit 13 can be configured in a variety of forms and / or methods.

[0036] The heater section 13 can be configured to include, for example, an electrically resistive heating element. For example, the heater section 13 may include an electrically insulating substrate (for example, a substrate formed of polyimide) and an electrically conductive track, and may include a heating element that generates heat as current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, it is not limited to this, and the heating element can be any element that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may already be set in the aerosol generator 10 (for example, if a temperature profile is stored in advance), or it may be set to a temperature desired by the user.

[0037] The heater unit 13 may, as another example, be configured to include a heating element that operates in an induction heating manner. Specifically, the heater unit 13 may include an inductor (e.g., an induction coil) for inductively heating the aerosol generating article 20 or cartridge 16, and a susceptor that is inductively heated by the inductor. The susceptor may be located inside or outside the aerosol generating article 20 or cartridge 16.

[0038] The heater unit 13 may, as an example, be configured to include a heating element that heats the aerosol generating article 20 from the inside (hereinafter abbreviated as "internal heating element"), a heating element that heats it from the outside (hereinafter abbreviated as "external heating element"), or a combination thereof. The internal heating element may be in the form of, for example, a tube, needle, or rod, and may be arranged to penetrate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 20. The external heating element may be in the form of a plate, cylinder, or the like, and may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 20. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the shape, number, arrangement, etc. of the heating elements can be designed in a variety of ways.

[0039] According to one specific example of the present invention, the heater section 13 includes a first heater section 13A and a second heater section 13B, which are arranged to heat different locations. The first heater section 13A heats an atomizing section located within an aerosol generator or aerosol generating article, and the second heater section 13B heats the base material located within the first heater section and the aerosol generating article. The atomizing section contains an aerosol-forming agent and can concentrate the formation of visible smoke and / or aerosols. Referring to Figures 2 and 4, this could be a first filter segment, and referring to Figures 3 and 4, this could be a cartridge. The first heater section 13A and the second heater section 13B are not particularly limited in form, as long as they are located separately.

[0040] The battery 11 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generator 10. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to enable the heater unit 13 to heat the aerosol generating article 20 or cartridge 16, and can supply the power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. The battery 11 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of electrical components installed in the aerosol generator 10, such as a display (not shown), sensors (not shown), and motors (not shown).

[0041] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 10. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the heater unit 13 and the battery 11, and can also control the operation of other components included in the aerosol generator 10. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied by the battery 11, and can also control the heating temperature of the heater unit 13, etc. The control unit 12 can also check the state of each component of the aerosol generator 10 and determine whether the aerosol generator 10 is in an operational state. As described above, if the heater unit 13 includes a first heater unit 13A and a second heater unit 13B, the control unit 12 also includes a first control unit 12A and a second control unit 12B in order to individually control the first heater unit 13A and the second heater unit 13B, respectively. The first control unit 12A outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the first temperature control button 14A and transmits it to the first heater unit 13A, and the second control unit 12B outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the second temperature control button 14B and transmits it to the second heater unit 13B.

[0042] The control unit 12 can be implemented by at least one processor. The control unit can also be implemented by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller and memory containing a program that can be executed by that microcontroller. Furthermore, a typical engineer in the relevant art would obviously understand that the control unit 12 can also be implemented by different forms of hardware.

[0043] The temperature control button 14 is located on the outer wall surface of the housing and transmits a temperature control signal to the control unit 12. The temperature control button 14 can be driven in analog or digital form, and the temperature control signal is formed by the value input in analog or digital form. According to one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generator 10 further includes a variable resistor 15. The variable resistor 15 is connected to the temperature control button 14 and transmits a temperature control signal generated by the change in the button's value to the control unit 12. The control unit 12 outputs the temperature control signal transmitted from the temperature control button 14 as a pulsed supply voltage and transmits it to the heater unit 13. The pulsed supply voltage has an effective voltage that increases as the pulse width (or duty cycle) increases, and an effective voltage that decreases as the pulse width (or duty cycle) decreases.

[0044] As described above, if the heater unit 13 includes a first heater unit 13A and a second heater unit 13B, the temperature control button 14 also includes a first temperature control button 14A and a second temperature control button 14B so that the user can individually control the first heater unit 13A and the second heater unit 13B, respectively. The first temperature control button 14A transmits a temperature control signal for controlling the temperature of the first heater unit 13A, and the second temperature control button 14B transmits a temperature control signal for controlling the temperature of the second heater unit 13B.

[0045] The first temperature control button 14A can adjust the temperature of the first heater unit 13A, which is a heating means for the atomizing unit. According to one specific example of the present invention, the first temperature control button 14A is set to either on mode or off mode. In on mode, the temperature at which the first heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 180°C to 240°C. In off mode, the first heater unit 13A is not heated, and in on mode, the first heater unit 13A is heated so that it can be maintained at a set temperature. The temperature range in on mode is set so that the user can fully perceive the replenished aerosol or visible smoke while inhaling one aerosol generating article 20, while such aerosol or visible smoke can be maintained until the end of smoking. If the temperature range is exceeded, the aerosol forming agent, etc., contained at a certain level may be exhausted before the end of smoking, and thereafter the paper material without the aerosol forming agent may be directly heated, potentially degrading the taste. Considering this, adding a large amount of aerosol forming agent is undesirable from a practical standpoint.

[0046] The second temperature control button 14B can adjust the temperature of the second heater unit 13B, which is a heating means for the aerosol generating substrate. According to one specific example of the present invention, the second temperature control button 14B is set to either on mode or off mode. In on mode, the temperature at which the first heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 150°C to 260°C. In off mode, the second heater unit 13B is not heated, and in on mode, the first heater unit 13B is heated so that it can be maintained at a set temperature. The temperature range in on mode is set so that the user can adjust the aerosol components such as nicotine to a degree that satisfies their smoking sensation to their liking while inhaling one aerosol generating article 20. If the temperature is below the range, the transfer of nicotine and other components may be insufficient, resulting in a very low smoking sensation for the user. If the temperature exceeds the range, the tobacco granules may be overheated, resulting in a decrease in the taste.

[0047] According to one specific example of the present invention, the first heater unit 13A and the second heater unit 13B can be driven in such a manner that they are initially preheated and then reheated if they deviate from the set range. Therefore, even if the first temperature control button 14A or the second temperature control button 14B is set to a specific temperature within the above-mentioned temperature range, the first heater unit 13A and the second heater unit 13B can be driven in such a manner that they maintain a temperature profile within ±10% of the specific temperature, rather than being continuously heated at that temperature.

[0048] According to one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generator 10 may further include a cartridge 16 and a cartridge heater section. The cartridge 16 may be referred to herein as an atomizing section, and the cartridge heater section is a means for heating the atomizing section and may be referred to herein as a first heater section 13A. Figure 3 illustrates the structure of the aerosol generator 10 in which the aerosol generating article 20 and the cartridge 16 are arranged in a row (or in series), but the aerosol generating article 20 and the cartridge 16 can also be arranged in parallel. The internal structure of the aerosol generator 10 is not limited to the examples in Figures 1 to 3, and the arrangement of the components can be changed in any way.

[0049] The cartridge 16 may include a liquid storage tank and a liquid transmission means, but is not limited thereto, and the cartridge 16 may further include other components. Furthermore, the cartridge 16 may be manufactured to be detachable from the cartridge heater unit, or it may be manufactured integrally with the cartridge heater unit.

[0050] The liquid storage tank can store a liquid composition. The liquid composition may be, for example, a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance (or a nicotine-containing substance), or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid composition may include, for example, water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract (e.g., tobacco extract), nicotine, a flavoring agent, an aerosol-forming agent, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The flavoring agent may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, or various fruit flavor components. The flavoring agent may include components that can provide the user with a variety of flavors or aromas. The vitamin mixture may be, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E. Examples of the aerosol-forming agent include, but is not limited to, glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0051] The liquid transmission means can transmit the liquid composition stored in the liquid storage tank to the cartridge heater section. The liquid transmission means may, but is not limited to, a wick element such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

[0052] The cartridge heater unit can heat a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., a liquid composition) stored in the cartridge 16 to form an aerosol. The cartridge heater unit 14 can heat a liquid composition transmitted by a liquid transmission means, for example, to form an aerosol. The formed aerosol can be transmitted to the user by passing through the aerosol-generating article 20. In other words, the aerosol formed by heating by the cartridge heater unit can move along the airflow path of the aerosol generator 10, and the airflow path can be configured so that the formed aerosol can be transmitted to the user by passing through the aerosol-generating article 20. The operation of the cartridge heater unit, heating temperature, etc., can be controlled by the control unit 12.

[0053] The cartridge heater section can be, for example, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater section, etc., but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the cartridge heater section can be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and can be arranged in a structure wound around a liquid transfer means, but is not limited thereto.

[0054] In addition, in the relevant technical field, the cartridge heater section and cartridge 16 can also be referred to by terms such as cartomizer, atomizer, or vaporizer.

[0055] The aerosol generating article 20 applied to the aerosol generating device 10 may have a structure similar to that of a typical combustible cigarette. The aerosol generating article 20 may be divided into, for example, a first part (e.g., a cigarette rod) containing tobacco material (or an aerosol-forming substrate) and a second part (e.g., a filter rod) containing a filter or the like. The entire first part may be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 10, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 10, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user can smoke while holding the second part in their mouth.

[0056] This specification provides Figure 4, which schematically illustrates an exemplary aerosol generating article, to aid in understanding the aerosol generating article applied to the aerosol generating apparatus described above. According to one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generating article 20 includes a first filter segment 21, a second filter segment 23, and a cavity segment 22. The cavity segment 22 is formed by the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23. The first filter segment 21, the second filter segment 23, and the cavity segment 22 constitute a configuration included in the first part (or tobacco rod) described above, and the first part can be heated to supply tobacco components (or flavor components) such as nicotine. In relation to the tobacco components in the first part, the cavity segment 22 can be filled with tobacco granules 22A, which are tobacco substances in granular form. The tobacco substance included in the aerosol generating article according to the present invention is not limited to tobacco granules, but can be preferably applied in the aerosol generating apparatus according to the present invention. The first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23 basically function as filters, but when the cavity segment 22 is filled with tobacco granules 22A, they also have the function of designating a section in which the tobacco granules 22A can not flow out and can be retained. The first part, including the first filter segment 21, the second filter segment 23, and the cavity segment 22, can be wrapped with a wrapper.

[0057] The first filter segment 21 is a filter segment that forms a cavity segment 22 and can be located upstream of the cavity segment 22. The first filter segment 21 has a basically similar configuration to the second filter segment 22 described later, but additional functionality is required. The first filter segment 21 can prevent the tobacco granules 22A from falling off. In addition, the first filter segment 21 can ensure that the cavity segment 22 is positioned appropriately within the aerosol generator 10 when the aerosol generating article 20 is inserted into the aerosol generator 10. Furthermore, the first filter segment 21 can prevent the tobacco rod from detaching to the outside and prevent liquefied aerosol from flowing out of the tobacco rod into the aerosol generator 10 during smoking.

[0058] According to one specific example of the present invention, the first filter segment 21 may include a paper material. In other words, the first filter segment 21 may consist of a paper filter. To ensure a smooth airflow path, the paper material may preferably be arranged in the longitudinal direction, but is not limited thereto. A tobacco rod suitable for a heated aerosol generator 10 according to one specific example of the present invention can be manufactured. Specifically, cellulose acetate fibers may melt or shrink upon contact with the internal heating element, accelerating the shedding of tobacco granules 22A. However, heat-resistant paper material can greatly mitigate such phenomena. According to one specific example of the present invention, the first filter segment 21 may include a water-resistant or oil-resistant paper material.

[0059] The second filter segment 23 is a filter segment that forms the cavity segment 22 and can be located downstream of the cavity segment 22. In addition to its cavity-forming function, the first filter segment 21 can further perform functions such as filtration and cooling of aerosols.

[0060] According to one specific example of the present invention, the second filter segment 23 includes a paper material. In other words, the second filter segment 23 can consist of a paper filter. To ensure a smooth airflow path, the paper material may preferably be arranged in the longitudinal direction. However, it is not limited to this. A tobacco rod suitable for a heated aerosol generator 10 can be manufactured according to one specific example of the present invention. Specifically, cellulose acetate fibers melt or shrink when heated above a certain temperature, making them difficult to apply to the tobacco rod portion heated by the heater section 13. On the other hand, paper material hardly denatures when heated, so it can be easily applied to the tobacco rod portion, thereby enabling the manufacture of a tobacco rod suitable for a heated aerosol generator 10. However, as another specific example, the second filter segment 23 can also consist of a cellulose acetate filter. In such a case, the effect of improving the removal capacity of the second filter segment 23 can be achieved.

[0061] According to one specific example of the present invention, the second filter segment 23 may include a water-resistant or oil-resistant paper material. In such a case, the problem of reduced visible atomization due to the absorption of smoke components (e.g., water, aerosol-forming agent components) contained in the aerosol as it passes through the second filter segment 23 (e.g., the problem of reduced atomization in smoke mode) can be greatly mitigated. For example, if the first filter segment 23 contains a general paper material, the hygroscopic nature of the paper material may cause the aforementioned smoke components to be absorbed, reducing the visible atomization. However, if a water-resistant or oil-resistant paper material is used, the absorption of the aforementioned smoke components is hardly observed, and this problem of reduced atomization can be solved.

[0062] According to one specific example of the present invention, the suction resistance of the first filter segment 21 or the second filter segment 23 may be 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 150 mmH20 / 60 mm, preferably 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 130 mmH20 / 60 mm, 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 120 mmH20 / 60 mm, 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 110 mmH20 / 60 mm, 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 100 mmH20 / 60 mm, 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 90 mmH20 / 60 mm, 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 100 mmH20 / 80 mm, or 50 mmH20 / 60 mm to 70 mmH20 / 60 mm. Within such numerical ranges, appropriate suction can be ensured. Furthermore, the appropriate suction capacity increases the probability of vortex flow generation within the cavity segment 22, thereby achieving the effect of uniform heating of a large number of tobacco granules 22A.

[0063] On the other hand, the physical properties of the paper material contained in the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23 can be diverse.

[0064] According to one specific example of the present invention, the oil resistance of the paper material may be 4 or higher (i.e., 4 or higher in the range of 1 to 12) when measured by the 3M Kit Test, and preferably 5, 6, 7, or 8 or higher. Within this numerical range, the problem of a decrease in visible atomization (i.e., visible smoke generation) due to moisture absorption by the paper material (for example, a decrease in visible atomization in smoke mode) can be solved.

[0065] According to one specific example of the present invention, the thickness of the paper material may be 30 μm to 50 μm, preferably 33 μm to 47 μm, 35 μm to 45 μm, or 37 μm to 42 μm.

[0066] According to one specific example of the present invention, the basis weight of the paper material is 20 g / m². 2 ~40g / m 2 This may be the case, preferably 23 g / m² 2 ~37g / m 2 25g / m 2 ~35g / m 2, 27 g / m 2 ~33 g / m 2 can be.

[0067] According to a specific example of the present invention, the tensile strength of the paper substance can be 2.5 kgf / 15 mm or more, preferably 2.8 kgf / 15 mm, 3.2 kgf / 15 mm, or 3.5 kgf / 15 mm or more.

[0068] According to a specific example of the present invention, the elongation rate of the paper substance can be 0.8% or more, preferably 1.0%, 1.2%, or 1.5% or more.

[0069] According to a specific example of the present invention, the stiffness of the paper substance can be 100 cm 3 or more, preferably 120 cm 3 , 150 cm 3 , or 180 cm 3 or more.

[0070] According to a specific example of the present invention, the ash content of the paper substance can be 1.5% or less, preferably 1.2%, 1.0%, or 0.8% or less.

[0071] According to a specific example of the present invention, the paper width of the paper substance can be 80 mm to 250 mm, preferably 90 mm to 230 mm, 100 mm to 200 mm, 120 mm to 180 mm, or 120 mm to 150 mm. It has been confirmed that within such a numerical range, the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23 have appropriate suction resistance and ensure an appropriate atomization amount.

[0072] An aerosol generating article 20 according to one specific example of the present invention is an article filled with tobacco granules 22A, and the aerosol generating device 10 can be operated to heat the aerosol generating article 20 at a heating temperature of approximately 270 degrees or less. In such a case, no visible smoke is generated or the generation of visible smoke can be minimized during smoking, because the tobacco granules 22A have a significantly lower content of moisture and / or aerosol forming agents than tobacco substances such as shredded tobacco (e.g., shredded tobacco leaves, shredded leaf sheets) and leaf sheets, and can reduce the generation of visible smoke. Furthermore, the tobacco granules 22A can produce a sufficient flavor even at a lower heating temperature than tobacco substances such as shredded tobacco and leaf sheets (for example, the heating temperature of shredded tobacco is usually 270 degrees or higher), (i.e., nicotine can be sufficiently transferred), and the heating temperature of the heater section 13 can be lowered, and the generation of visible smoke can be further reduced by the lower heating temperature.

[0073] As described above, when the aerosol generating article 20 contains tobacco granules 22A as a tobacco substance, the generation of aerosols or visible smoke may decrease, so a configuration that can compensate for this is required. As such a configuration, as described above, a cartridge containing an aerosol forming agent can be added to the aerosol generating device 10, or such a configuration can be included in the aerosol generating article 20 other than the aerosol generating device 10.

[0074] According to one specific example of the present invention, the first filter segment 21 contains an aerosol-forming agent. Considering the flow of aerosols within the aerosol-generating article 20, in order for the generated aerosols to pass through the cavity segment 22 containing tobacco granules, the aerosols must be generated upstream of the cavity segment 22, and the first filter segment 21 may be a preferred location for aerosol generation. In such a case, the first filter segment 21 becomes the atomizing section. The aerosol-forming agent can be applied in a form impregnated into the paper material constituting the first filter segment 21. Examples of the aerosol-forming agent include, but are not limited to, glycerin (GLY), propylene glycol (PG), ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol.

[0075] Additives commonly used in the relevant art, such as fragrances, flavorings, and vitamin mixtures, may be used in conjunction with the aerosol-forming agent. The fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. The flavorings may include components that can provide users with a variety of flavors or aromas. The vitamin mixture may be, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E.

[0076] The cavity segment 22 is a segment having a cavity and can be located between the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23. That is, the cavity segment 22 can be formed by the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23.

[0077] The cavity segment 22 can be manufactured in a variety of ways. For example, the cavity segment 22 can be manufactured in a form that includes a tubular structure such as a paper tube. As another example, the cavity segment 22 can also be manufactured by wrapping a cavity formed by the first filter segment 21 and the second filter segment 23 with a wrapper of a suitable material. However, it is not limited to these methods, and the cavity segment 22 can be manufactured in any way as long as it can be filled with tobacco granules 22A. According to one specific example of the present invention, the length of the cavity segment 22 can be freely selected within 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0078] As shown in Figure 4, the cavity segment 22 can be filled with tobacco granules 22A. Generally, the tobacco granules 22A have a significantly lower moisture and / or aerosol-forming agent content than other types of tobacco materials (e.g., shredded tobacco leaves, flat leaves, etc.), which can greatly reduce the generation of visible smoke. This necessitates a separate configuration that can compensate for the generation of aerosols and visible smoke, and according to the above, the first filter segment 21 can also have such a configuration. The diameter, density, filling rate, composition ratio of constituent materials, heating temperature, etc. of the tobacco granules 22A can vary and may differ depending on the embodiment.

[0079] According to one specific example of the present invention, the diameter of the tobacco granules 22A may be 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm. Within this numerical range, appropriate hardness and ease of manufacture of the tobacco granules 22A are ensured, and the probability of generating vortex airflow within the cavity segment 22 can be increased.

[0080] According to one specific example of the present invention, the size of the tobacco granules 22A can be 15 mesh to 50 mesh, preferably 15 mesh to 45 mesh, 20 mesh to 45 mesh, 25 mesh to 45 mesh, or 25 mesh to 40 mesh. Within such numerical ranges, appropriate hardness and ease of manufacture of the tobacco granules 22A can be ensured, shedding phenomena can be minimized, and the probability of vortex flow generation within the cavity segment 22 can be increased.

[0081] According to one specific example of the present invention, the density of the tobacco granules 22A is 0.5 g / cm³. 3 ~1.2g / cm 3 This may be the case, preferably 0.6 g / cm³. 3 ~1.0g / cm 3 , 0.7 g / cm³ 3 ~0.9g / cm 3 , or 0.6 g / cm³ 3 ~0.8g / cm 3 This is possible. Within this numerical range, the appropriate hardness of the tobacco granules 22A can be ensured, and the probability of vortex flow generation within the cavity segment 22 can increase.

[0082] According to one specific example of the present invention, the hardness of the tobacco granules 22A may be 80% or more, preferably 85% or 90% or more, and more preferably 91%, 93%, 95%, or 97% or more. Within this numerical range, the ease of manufacturing the tobacco granules 22A is improved, the phenomenon of pulverization is minimized, and the ease of manufacturing the aerosol-generating article 20 can also be improved. In this specification, the hardness of the tobacco granules 22A may be a numerical value measured based on the national standard test method KSM-1802 ("Activated Carbon Test Method"). For details of the hardness measurement method and the meaning of the measured values, refer to the national standard KSM-1802.

[0083] According to one specific example of the present invention, the filling rate of tobacco granules 22A in the cavity segment 22 may be 80 volume% or less, preferably 70 volume%, 60 volume%, or 50 volume% or less. Within this numerical range, the probability of generating vortex airflow within the cavity segment 22 can increase. Furthermore, the filling rate of tobacco granules 22A is preferably 20 volume%, 30 volume%, or 40 volume% or more in order to ensure a suitable smoking taste.

[0084] According to one specific example of the present invention, the tobacco granules 22A may contain 20% by weight or less of moisture, preferably 15% by weight, 12% by weight, 10% by weight, 7% by weight, or 5% by weight or less of moisture. Within this numerical range, the generation of visible smoke can be greatly reduced, and the smokeless function of the aerosol generator 10 can be easily realized.

[0085] According to one specific example of the present invention, the tobacco granules 22A may contain 10% by weight or less of an aerosol-forming agent, preferably 7% by weight, 5% by weight, 3% by weight, or 1% by weight of an aerosol-forming agent. Alternatively, the tobacco granules 22A may not contain an aerosol-forming agent. Within such numerical ranges, the generation of visible smoke can be greatly reduced, and the smokeless function of the aerosol generator 10 can be easily realized.

[0086] According to one specific example of the present invention, the wet-based nicotine content of the tobacco granules 22A is approximately 1.0% to 4.0%, preferably 1.5% to 3.5%, 1.8% to 3.0%, or 2.0% to 2.5%. Within this numerical range, an appropriate level of smoking sensation can be guaranteed.

[0087] According to one specific example of the present invention, the dry-basis nicotine content of the tobacco granules 22A is 1.2% to 4.2%, preferably 1.7% to 3.7%, 2.0% to 3.2%, or 2.2% to 2.7%. Within this numerical range, an appropriate level of smoking sensation can be guaranteed.

[0088] According to one specific example of the present invention, the aerosol generating article 20 further includes a cooling segment 24 and a mouthpiece segment 25. The cooling segment 24 and the mouthpiece segment 25 are components of the second part (or filter rod) described above and are located downstream of the tobacco rod to perform a filtering function for the aerosol. The filter rod may include a filter material such as paper or cellulose acetate fiber. The filter rod may further include a wrapper that wraps the filter material.

[0089] The filter rod can be manufactured in a variety of shapes. For example, the filter rod may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod containing a hollow interior. It may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0090] The filter rod may also be manufactured to generate flavor. For example, a fragrance liquid may be sprayed onto the filter rod, or a separate fiber coated with the fragrance liquid may be inserted into the filter rod. In other examples, the filter rod may also include at least one capsule (not shown) containing the fragrance liquid.

[0091] The filter rod may consist of a cooling segment 24 that performs a cooling function for aerosols and a mouthpiece segment 25 that performs a filtering function for aerosols. Alternatively, the filter rod may optionally further include at least one segment that performs other functions.

[0092] The cooling segment 24 can be manufactured in a variety of forms. For example, the cooling segment 24 can be manufactured in the form of a paper tube, a cellulose acetate filter with a hollow structure, a cellulose acetate filter with multiple pores, or a filter filled with a polymer or biodegradable polymer. However, it is not limited to these forms, and the cooling segment 24 may be manufactured in any form as long as it can perform the function of cooling the aerosol. The polymer or biodegradable polymer may be, but is not limited to, a woven material made of polylactic acid (PLA).

[0093] The mouthpiece segment 25 may, for example, be a cellulose acetate filter (i.e., a filter made of cellulose acetate fibers), but is not limited thereto. The description of the filter rod described above can also be applied to the mouthpiece segment 25.

[0094] The aerosol-generating article 20 can be packaged with at least one wrapper (not shown). For example, the aerosol-generating article 20 can be packaged with one wrapper. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article 20 can be superimposed with two or more wrappers. For example, a tobacco rod can be packaged with a first wrapper, and a filter rod with a second wrapper. The tobacco rod and filter rod, each individually wrapped, can then be joined together, and the entire aerosol-generating article 20 can be repackaged with a third wrapper. If each tobacco rod or filter rod consists of multiple segments, each segment can be individually wrapped. The entire aerosol-generating article 20, with the segments individually wrapped and joined together, can then be repackaged with another wrapper. The wrapper may also have at least one hole through which external air can enter or internal gas can exit.

[0095] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the first filter segment 21 and cavity segment 22 of the aerosol generating article 20 are housed in the containment space of the aerosol generator 10, and the heater section 13 can be positioned to heat the cavity segment 23. Specifically, Figure 1 relates to a specific example in which the aerosol generator 10 and the aerosol generating article 20 do not have a separate atomizing section, in which case the heater section 13 of the aerosol generator 10 is positioned to heat the cavity segment 23 containing the aerosol generating substrate. Figure 2 relates to a specific example in which the first filter segment 21 of the aerosol generating article 20 has an atomizing section, in which case the first heater section 13A of the aerosol generator 10 is positioned to heat the first filter segment 21 containing the aerosol forming agent, and the second heater section 13B of the aerosol generator 10 is positioned to heat the cavity segment 23 containing the aerosol generating substrate. Figure 3 shows a specific example of an aerosol generator 10 having an atomizing section in its cartridge 16. In this case, the first heater section 13A of the aerosol generator 10 is positioned to heat the cartridge 16 containing the aerosol forming agent, and the second heater section 13B of the aerosol generator 10 is positioned to heat the cavity segment 23 containing the aerosol generating substrate. In Figure 1, the temperature control button 14, variable resistor 15, control unit 12, and heater section 13 are electrically connected and operate in conjunction. In Figures 2 and 3, the first temperature control button 14A, first variable resistor 15A, first control unit 12A, and first heater section 13A are electrically connected and operate in conjunction, and the second temperature control button 14B, second variable resistor 15B, second control unit 12B, and second heater section 13B are electrically connected and operate in conjunction.

[0096] As described above, although specific examples have been explained with limited examples and drawings, a person with ordinary skill in the relevant art can make various modifications and variations from the above description. For example, appropriate results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or if the components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or assembled in a different manner than described, or substituted or replaced by other components or equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 10: Aerosol generator 11: Battery 12: Control Unit 12A: First control unit 12B: Second Control Unit 13: Heater section 13A: First heater section 13B: Second heater section 14: Temperature control button 14A: First temperature control button 14B: Second temperature control button 15: Variable resistor 15A: First variable resistor 15B: Second variable resistor 16: Cartridge 20: Aerosol-generating articles 21: First filter segment 22: Cavity Segment 22A: Tobacco granules 23: Second filter segment 24: Cooling segment 25: Mouthpiece Segment

Claims

1. A housing that forms a containment space in which an aerosol-generating item is contained, A heater unit for heating the aerosol generating article or cartridge contained in the aerosol generating device housed in the aforementioned containment space, A control unit that adjusts the temperature of the heater section, The housing includes a temperature control button that is positioned on the outer wall surface of the housing and transmits a temperature control signal to the control unit, The heater section includes a first heater section that heats the atomizing section located within the aerosol generator or the aerosol generating article, and a second heater section that heats the base material located within the aerosol generating article. The temperature control button includes a first temperature control button that transmits a temperature control signal for controlling the temperature of the first heater unit and a second temperature control button that transmits a temperature control signal for controlling the temperature of the second heater unit. The control unit includes a first control unit that outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the first temperature control button and transmits it to the first heater unit, and a second control unit that outputs a temperature control signal transmitted from the second temperature control button and transmits it to the second heater unit. The aerosol generating article includes a tobacco rod and a filter rod located downstream of the tobacco rod. The tobacco rod includes a first filter segment, a second filter segment, and a cavity segment. The cavity segment is formed by the first filter segment and the second filter segment, The cavity segment is filled with tobacco granules. The first filter segment is located upstream of the cavity segment, and the second filter segment is located downstream of the cavity segment. The first heater unit heats the first filter segment, and the second heater unit heats the cavity segment. The tobacco granules have a size of 15 mesh to 50 mesh, a density of 0.5 g / cm³ to 1.2 g / cm³, and a hardness of 80% or more. The filter rod includes a cooling segment and a mouthpiece segment. Aerosol generator.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control button transmits a temperature control signal to the control unit via a variable resistor.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the control unit outputs the temperature control signal transmitted from the temperature control button as a pulsed supply voltage and transmits it to the heater unit.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the temperature control signal is formed by a value input in analog or digital format.

5. The first temperature control button is set to either on mode or off mode. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein in the ON mode, the temperature at which the first heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 180°C to 240°C.

6. The second temperature control button is set to either on mode or off mode. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein in the ON mode, the temperature at which the second heater unit is driven is adjusted within the range of 150°C to 260°C.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein, when the atomizing unit is located within the aerosol generator, the atomizing unit is located adjacent to the first heater unit in a cartridge form.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the atomizing unit is located within the aerosol generating article, the atomizing unit is located in the first filter segment.

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