Aerosol generator

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generating device having an improved structure for smoothly discharging air inside the aerosol generating device.SOLUTION: An aerosol generating device includes: a case that has a housing space for housing an aerosol generating article and houses at least one electronic component; a heater 130 provided in the housing space for heating the aerosol generating article housed in the housing space; and a cartridge having a storage part 220 detachably connected to the case and storing an aerosol generating substance, and an evaporator 230 to which the aerosol generating substance is transferred from the storage part and which heats the aerosol generating substance. The case includes a vent hole 110h formed between the housing space and the cartridge and configured to allow passage of the air heated by heat generated by the heater or the evaporator.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device in which deformation of components due to heat of the aerosol generating device is minimized.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for technologies to replace the method of supplying aerosol by burning a general cigarette. For example, research is being conducted on methods such as generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating substance in a liquid state or a solid state, or generating a vapor from a liquid state aerosol generating substance and then passing the generated vapor through a solid perfume medium to supply a scented aerosol.

[0003] Recently, as a solution to replace the method of supplying aerosol by burning a cigarette, an aerosol generating device capable of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article has been proposed. For example, an aerosol generating device means a device that can generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance in a liquid or solid state to a predetermined temperature by a heater.

[0004] When using an aerosol generating device, smoking is possible without additional supplies such as a lighter, and smoking can be done as much as the user likes, so recently, research on aerosol generating devices has been increasing gradually.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol by generating heat includes a heating element that generates heat. The air inside the aerosol generating device is heated by the heating element. The hot heat and pressure of the heated air may denature other components of the aerosol generating device. Therefore, a structure for smoothly discharging the heated air is required.

[0006] The embodiment provides an aerosol generator having an improved structure that allows for the smooth discharge of air from inside the aerosol generator.

[0007] The problems to be solved 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 from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may include a case that houses at least one electronic component and has a storage space for housing aerosol products, a heater disposed in the storage space for heating the aerosol products housed in the storage space, a cartridge that is detachably coupled to the case and includes a storage section for storing aerosol generating material, and a vaporizer that receives the aerosol generating material from the storage section and heats the aerosol generating material, the case having a vent formed between the storage space and the cartridge and configured to allow air heated by the heat generated by the heater or vaporizer to pass through. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus, it is possible to prevent the components from being deformed by the heat of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0010] Furthermore, according to the aerosol generating apparatus of the embodiment, it is possible to prevent optical elements from fogging up due to heated air.

[0011] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1]This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment, into which an aerosol product is inserted. [Figure 2] This is a schematic side view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] This is an enlarged perspective view of the upper part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, where the cover is separated. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the case of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of the case shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is a side view of the case shown in Figure 5. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the upper part of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 9] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the aerosol generator shown, with some components omitted. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view showing the airflow inside an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, into which an aerosol product is inserted. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view showing the airflow moving from the inside to the outside of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, into which an aerosol product is inserted. [Figure 12] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] As terms used in the embodiments, general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible have been selected in view of the functions of the present invention, but this may change depending on the intention of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning thereof is described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the name of the terms.

[0014] Throughout the specification, when a part states that a certain component "includes", this means that, unless otherwise stated, other components can be further included and it does not exclude other components. Also, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this can be implemented by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0015] As used in this specification, when an expression such as "at least any one of" is before the arranged components, it modifies the entire components rather than each of the arranged components. For example, the expression "at least any one of a, b, and c" must be interpreted to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

[0016] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that electrically heats a cigarette housed in an internal space to generate an aerosol.

[0017] The aerosol generating device includes a heater. In one embodiment, the heater is an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater includes an electrically conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the electrically conductive track, the heater is heated.

[0018] The heater includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and heats the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0019] A cigarette includes a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, may be made of strands, or may be made of cut tobacco which is finely cut tobacco sheets. Also, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat-conductive material. For example, the heat-conductive material may be a metal foil such as an aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0020] The filter rod is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may be composed of at least one or more segments. For example, the filter rod may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol.

[0021] In another embodiment, an aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol using a cartridge having an aerosol generating substance.

[0022] The aerosol generating device includes a cartridge having an aerosol generating substance and a body for supporting the cartridge. The cartridge is detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be integrally formed with the body, assembled, or fixed so as not to be detached by the user. The cartridge is attached to the body with the aerosol generating substance accommodated therein. However, it is not limited thereto, and the aerosol generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the body.

[0023] The cartridge has an aerosol generating substance in any one of various states such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a gel state. The aerosol generating substance includes a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0024] 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.

[0025] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which is then transmitted 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 transmitted to the user through a cigarette.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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 gaseous phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the transducer, and as a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0030] 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 cause the reduced-viscosity aerosol-generating material to become fine particles, thereby generating an aerosol, but this is not the only example.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator further comprises a cradle.

[0034] 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 the aerosol generator are coupled together.

[0035] 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.

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment, with aerosol products inserted.

[0038] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment comprises a cover 10 and a main body 11.

[0039] The cover 10 is attached to one end of the main body 11, so that the main body 11 and the cover 10 together form the appearance of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0040] The cover 10 has an opening 10h on its upper surface into which the aerosol product 2 can be inserted.

[0041] The cover 10 is equipped with a stopper 10c that opens and closes the opening 10h. The stopper 10c is positioned on the upper surface of the cover 10 and slides to open and close the opening 10h.

[0042] The cover 10 is provided with a sliding groove 10g on its upper surface that extends along the sliding direction of the plug 10c. The sliding groove 10g is open to allow fluid connection between the outside and inside of the cover 10.

[0043] As the stopper 12 moves along the sliding groove 10g located on the upper surface of the cover 10, the opening 10h is exposed to the outside. Thus, the user inserts the aerosol product 2 into the opening 10h. Here, the aerosol product 2 is an example of a solid-phase aerosol source used in the aerosol generator 1.

[0044] The main body 11 forms part of the exterior of the aerosol generator 1 and can house and protect the components of the aerosol generator 1. For example, a battery (not shown), a processor (not shown), and / or a heater (not shown) are housed inside the main body 11, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The main body 11 also houses the aerosol product 2 inserted through the opening.

[0045] The main body 11 and cover 10 may be made of a plastic material that does not conduct heat well, or a metal material coated with a heat-insulating substance on its surface. The main body 11 and cover 10 may be manufactured, for example, by injection molding, 3D printing, or by assembling small parts manufactured by injection molding.

[0046] A retaining device (not shown) is provided between the main body 11 and the cover 10 to maintain the connected state between the main body 11 and the cover 10. The retaining device comprises, for example, a projection and a groove. By maintaining the projection inserted into the groove, the connected state between the cover 10 and the main body 11 can be maintained. In one embodiment, the projection and the groove may be separated by the user operating an operation button.

[0047] Furthermore, the maintenance device includes, for example, a magnet and a metal member that is attracted to the magnet. When a magnet is used in the maintenance device, the magnet can be provided on either the main body 11 or the cover 10, and the metal member that is attracted to the magnet can be provided on the other, or the magnet can be provided on both the main body 11 and the cover 10.

[0048] The components of the aerosol generator 1 are not limited to the embodiments described above, and the aerosol generator 1 according to other embodiments may not include the cover 10.

[0049] Figure 2 is an exploded side view schematically showing the external appearance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0050] Referring to Figure 2, an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment comprises a cover 10, a main body 11, a case 110, a button 150, and a cartridge 200.

[0051] The cover 10 is released from its connection to the main body 11 and separated from the main body 11. For example, the cover 10 is separated from the main body 11 in the +z direction. Once the cover 10 is separated from the main body 11, the case 110, buttons 150, and cartridge 200, which are located on top of the main body 11, are exposed to the outside.

[0052] The case 110 can house and protect the components located on top of the main body 11. The internal structure of the case 110 houses the components in different directions and places them in different areas.

[0053] The button 150 is positioned so that at least a portion of it is exposed to the outside of the case 110, and can release the fastening relationship between the case 110 and the cartridge 200 upon user input. For example, if user input is applied to the button 150, the cartridge 200 will be separated from the case 110.

[0054] Cartridge 200 stores the aerosol-generating material and generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material. Cartridge 200 is also detachably attached to one side of case 110.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 is coupled to a main body 11 which includes a processor (not shown) and / or a battery (not shown). The cartridge 200 is treated as a component of the aerosol generating device. For example, a heater (not shown) contained in the cartridge 200 is electrically connected to the main body 11 and powered by the battery, and the power supply is controlled by the processor.

[0056] In other words, in an aerosol generating device including cartridge 200, power is supplied to and controlled for a heating element, thereby generating an aerosol from the liquid or gel-like aerosol generating material stored in cartridge 200.

[0057] In another example, the cartridge 200 is coupled to a body 11 which further comprises a containment space (not shown) in which an aerosol product is contained, and a heater (not shown) for heating the aerosol product contained in the containment space.

[0058] In other words, the aerosol generating device including cartridge 200 not only generates aerosols by heating the aerosol-generating material stored in cartridge 200, but also generates aerosols by heating the inserted aerosol product. This realizes a hybrid form of aerosol generating device.

[0059] Figure 2 depicts a configuration in which the cartridge 200 approaches the main body 11 from the side and is coupled to the main body 11, but the coupling method between the cartridge 200 and the main body 11 is not limited to this. For example, the cartridge 200 may be coupled to the main body 11 by moving from the top of the main body 11 in the -z direction, similar to the cover 10.

[0060] For the sake of explanation, we will assume below that the cartridge 200 is attached to the side of the main unit 11.

[0061] Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the upper part of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, with the cover separated.

[0062] Referring to Figure 3, an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment comprises a cover 100, a case 110, a housing 120, a heater 130, a sealing section 170, and a cartridge 200.

[0063] The cover 100 is positioned on top of the case 110 and covers the components positioned on top of the case 110.

[0064] The cover 100 is detachably attached to the upper part of the case 110. The cover 100 has multiple protrusions on its lower part so that it is fixed to the case 110 when attached to it. The case 110 has multiple grooves at the upper end of the side wall at its upper part. The connection between the cover 100 and the case 110 is maintained by keeping the protrusions inserted into the grooves.

[0065] The cover 100 is provided with an insertion port 100h, which is coaxial with the opening (e.g., opening 10h in Figure 1) of the cover (e.g., cover 10 in Figure 1), so that the aerosol product can be inserted into the interior of the case 110. The aerosol product is contained in the containment space 110i by passing through the opening and the insertion port 100h.

[0066] Figure 3 shows that the cover 100 is in contact with and covers a region of the housing 120 and the upper surface of the sealing portion 170, but the components that the cover 100 can cover are not limited to these.

[0067] The case 110 includes a containment space 110i for containing aerosol products (not shown). In this case, the containment space 110i may be not only the space surrounded by the case 110, but also the space surrounded by the housing 120 housed in the case 110.

[0068] The housing 120 is located inside the case 110 and includes a containment space 110i in which the aerosol product is housed. The housing 120 may also house the heater 130 and other components inside the housing 120. The inner wall of the housing 120 supports the aforementioned heater 130 and other components so as not to move.

[0069] The heater 130 is located inside the housing 120 and heats the aerosol product contained in the containment space 110i to generate an aerosol. The heater 130 generates heat using power supplied from a battery (not shown).

[0070] Figure 3 shows, but is not limited to, that the heater 130 is positioned outside the aerosol product contained in the containment space 110i. For example, the heater 130 includes tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements, or rod heating elements, and depending on the shape of the heating elements, it heats the inside or outside of the aerosol product.

[0071] The sealing portion 170 is positioned between the cover 100 and the case 110, covering at least a portion of the case 110 while also covering the components located on top of the case 110. Thus, the components located on top of the case 110 are double-covered by the sealing portion 170 and the cover 100.

[0072] Figure 3 shows that the sealing portion 170 covers the space below the cover 100 in the x-axis direction, but the direction in which the cover 100 can shield and cover the components is not limited to this.

[0073] In order to prevent aerosols and liquids present inside and outside the aerosol generator 1 from affecting components located in the upper part of the case 110, particularly electronic components (not shown), the space in which the electronic components are located must be sealed.

[0074] In this context, electronic components refer to electrically operated parts, including passive elements such as resistors and capacitors, active elements such as semiconductors, and connecting components such as connectors, switches, wires, and circuit boards.

[0075] The sealing portion 170 covers the aforementioned electronic components and, together with other components in contact with the sealing portion 170, forms a sealed space. The electronic components are placed in this sealed space.

[0076] Furthermore, the cover 100 is coupled to the case 110, covering the sealing portion 170, and pressurizing the sealing portion 170 in the -z direction, which is the direction in which the lower surface of the cover 100 faces. This further enhances the sealing effect of the sealing portion 170.

[0077] Incidentally, after the assembly of the components of the aerosol generator 1 is complete, air is present inside the aerosol generator 1 and in the aforementioned sealed space.

[0078] Inside the aerosol generator 1, the air present in the sealed space where the electronic components are located cannot escape to the outside of the sealed space of the aerosol generator 1 due to the dense or sealed structure between the components, and becomes trapped inside.

[0079] At this time, the heat repeatedly generated by the heater 130 during the use of the aerosol generator 1 heats the air in the enclosed space.

[0080] Not only the heater 130, but also the heat generated by the vaporizer (not shown) for heating the aerosol-generating material, affects the heating of the air in the enclosed space. Hereinafter, "heating element" is used collectively to refer to the heater 130 and the vaporizer for generating heat and producing aerosols.

[0081] When the air in the sealed space inside the aerosol generator 1, where the electronic components are located, is heated by the heat of the heating element, the air expands due to the heating, pushing the components (e.g., electronic components) outwards from the aerosol generator 1.

[0082] The heat and pressure of the heated air can cause the sealed space to expand, potentially deforming the components. Furthermore, in areas where the density or sealing between components is weak, the expansion of air may momentarily create gaps. Aerosols from outside the aerosol generator may flow into the aerosol generator 1 through these gaps.

[0083] Aerosols flowing into the aerosol generator 1 are cooled, causing droplets to form, which then accumulate inside the aerosol generator 1. If this phenomenon occurs repeatedly, the aerosols flowing into the aerosol generator 1 and the accumulated droplets may affect the electronic components located inside the aerosol generator 1.

[0084] For example, in the case of optical elements (such as lenses) included in an optical sensor, the inside of the optical element can become cloudy, which degrades the function of the optical sensor.

[0085] To prevent the aforementioned series of phenomena, namely "deformation of components due to heated air," which is the cause of "adverse effects of heated air," it is necessary to discharge the heated air to the outside. In order to discharge the air heated by the heating element to the outside, case 110 is equipped with vents (not shown) for passing heated air through.

[0086] The components located at the top of the main body will be described in detail below, with reference to Figure 4.

[0087] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 1, cut along the IV-IV direction.

[0088] Referring to Figure 4, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment comprises a cover 100, a case 110, a housing 120, a heater 130, a transmission passage 140, and a cartridge 200. The cartridge 200 comprises a side plate 210, a storage section 220, a vaporizer 230, and an outlet 240.

[0089] At least one component of the aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment is identical or similar to at least one component of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 3, and the following overlapping explanation will be omitted.

[0090] Case 110, through its internal structure, accommodates its components in different directions and places them in different areas.

[0091] The case 110 is divided into several compartments. These compartments include an area at the top where the electronic components 60 are housed, an area where aerosol products are housed and where the housing 120, heater 130, and transmission passage 140 are located, and an area where the cartridge 200 is located. Each of these compartments will be described later with reference to Figures 5 to 7.

[0092] The case 110 is equipped with a vent hole 110h for discharging air heated by the heat generated by the heating element 30 to the outside.

[0093] The ventilation holes 110h are placed in a suitable location in the case 110 where they are most likely to be affected by the "adverse effects of heated air". For example, the ventilation holes 110h may be placed in a location inside the aerosol generator 1 where electronic components 60 are densely packed.

[0094] Furthermore, the ventilation holes 110h are positioned appropriately so that heated air does not accumulate inside the aerosol generator 1 but moves smoothly through the ventilation holes 110h. In addition, the ventilation holes 110h are positioned appropriately so that aerosols from outside the aerosol generator 1 do not flow into the aerosol generator 1.

[0095] Considering these points, the ventilation holes 110h are located inside the aerosol generator 1, which is shielded by other components. The ventilation holes 110h do not appear to the outside even when the cover (for example, cover 10 in Figure 2) is separated from the aerosol generator 1.

[0096] The transmission passage 140 is housed inside the housing 120 and transmits the aerosol generated in the cartridge 200 to a containment space 110i containing the aerosol product (not shown).

[0097] The aerosol transmitted to the containment space 110i passes through the aerosol product inserted into the containment space 110i and is then transmitted to the user.

[0098] Cartridge 200 includes an air inlet passage 200i through which air flows in from the outside, and generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating substance.

[0099] The side plate 210 is positioned adjacent to the storage section 220 of the cartridge 200, and an air inlet passage 200i is formed between the side plate 210 and one surface of the storage section 220. The air inlet passage 200i transmits air from outside the cartridge 200 to the vaporizer 230.

[0100] The side plate 210 and one side of the storage section 220 each include multiple protrusions that extend toward the air inlet passage 200i. These multiple protrusions prevent droplets generated in the vaporizer 230 from flowing out to the outside through the air inlet passage 200i.

[0101] The storage unit 220 stores the aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances.

[0102] The vaporizer 230 receives the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit 220, heats the aerosol-generating substance, and generates an aerosol.

[0103] Specifically, the vaporizer 230 includes a liquid transfer means for absorbing the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit 220 and transferring it to a heater, and a heater for heating the aerosol-generating substance transferred by the liquid transfer means.

[0104] The vaporizer 230 is connected to the air inlet passage 200i and receives air from the air inlet passage 200i. At this time, the gas generated from the aerosol-generating material heated in the vaporizer 230 is mixed with the air to produce an aerosol.

[0105] The outlet 240 discharges the aerosol generated in the vaporizer 230 to the outside of the cartridge 200. The outlet 240 is connected to the transmission passage 140. The aerosol generated inside the cartridge 200 is transmitted through the transmission passage 140 to the aerosol product contained in the containment space 110i.

[0106] The direction toward the outlet 240 is perpendicular to the direction toward which the aerosol product is inserted. The transmission passage 140 is bent or curved in the shape of the letter "L" and extends for a long distance in the direction toward the outlet 240 and the direction toward which the aerosol product is inserted. However, the embodiments are not limited to the direction of the outlet and the shape of the transmission passage.

[0107] The connection between the outlet 240 and the transmission passage 140 is sealed. By connecting the outlet 240 and the transmission passage 140 in a sealed manner, it is prevented that the aerosol will leak out of the transmission passage 140 during the process of aerosol moving from the outlet 240 to the transmission passage 140.

[0108] The structure of case 110 and the arrangement of ventilation holes 110h will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 5 to 7.

[0109] Figures 5 to 7 are diagrams illustrating the case and ventilation holes of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0110] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the case of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the case shown in Figure 5, taken in the direction VI-VI. Figure 7 is a side view of the case shown in Figure 5, taken from direction VII.

[0111] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, a case 110 according to one embodiment includes an upper wall 111, a lower wall 112, a partition wall 113, a connecting passage 114, and a side wall 115.

[0112] The case 110 may house components located on the top of the main body (for example, the main body 11 in Figure 2) or may be located inside the top of the main body. For example, the case 110 houses at least one electronic component (for example, the electronic component 60 in Figure 4).

[0113] The case 110 includes a first area A1 in which electronic components are housed, a second area A2 in which a housing space 110i for aerosol products and a heater (e.g., heater 130 in Figure 4) are located, and a third area A3 in which a cartridge (e.g., cartridge 200 in Figure 4) is located.

[0114] At this time, the first area A1 is a space where electronic components are densely packed and is sealed by a sealing part (for example, the sealing part 170 in Figure 3) and a cover (for example, the cover 100 in Figure 3), and is therefore greatly affected by heated air. For this reason, the case 110 includes a ventilation hole 110h in one area of ​​the case 110 in the first area A1.

[0115] The first area A1 and the second area A2 are separated by a sealing section (for example, the sealing section 170 in Figure 3). The first area A1 and the third area A3 are separated by an upper wall 111. The second area A2 and the third area A3 are separated by a partition wall 113.

[0116] The case 110 includes an upper wall 111. The upper wall 111 extends from the first area A1 in a first direction, and at least one electronic component 60 is housed in the upper part of the case 110, with the upper wall 111 being the upper part of the case 110. In this case, "first direction" means the x-axis direction. The ventilation holes 110h are located in one area of ​​the upper wall 111.

[0117] Referring to Figure 5, the upper wall 111 extends only in the -x direction relative to the partition wall 113. The upper area of ​​the upper wall 111 extending in the -x direction relative to the partition wall 113 is the first area A1. The lower area of ​​the upper wall 111 extending in the -x direction relative to the partition wall 113 is the third area A3.

[0118] The ventilation opening 110h is located in a region of the upper wall 111 situated between the first area A1 and the third area A3. The ventilation opening 110h opens in a second direction that crosses the first direction. In this case, the "second direction" refers to the z-axis direction.

[0119] On the other hand, the area in the +x direction relative to the partition wall 113 is the second area A2.

[0120] Case 110 includes a containment space 110i that is open in a second direction and extends in a second direction for containing aerosol products (not shown) in the second area A2.

[0121] Referring to Figure 5, the accommodation space 110i is the space surrounded by the partition wall 113 and side wall 115 of the case 110. However, the embodiment is not limited to the method by which the accommodation space is formed, and the accommodation space may be a space surrounded by a housing (for example, the housing 120 in Figure 3) housed in the case 110.

[0122] In the second area A2, the heater is positioned outside the aerosol product contained in containment space 110i.

[0123] Case 110 includes a lower wall 112 that extends in a first direction opposite to the upper wall 111.

[0124] Referring to Figure 5, the lower wall 112 extends in the +x and -x directions relative to the partition wall 113. The lower wall 112 supports the housing in the second area A2. The lower wall 112 also supports the cartridge in the third area A3.

[0125] The cartridge is inserted between the upper wall 111 and the lower wall 112 and coupled to the case 110. The cartridge coupled to the case 110 closes off the third area A3.

[0126] Case 110 includes a partition wall 113. As previously mentioned, the partition wall 113 separates a second area where a containment space 110i for containing aerosol products is located from a third area A3 where the cartridge 200 is located.

[0127] The partition wall 113 extends in a second direction while facing a first direction, and is positioned between the upper wall 111 and the lower wall 112.

[0128] The third area A3 of case 110 is open from the partition wall 113 in the first direction. Referring to Figure 5, the third area A3 is open from the partition wall 113 in the -x direction, but the embodiment is not limited to the direction described above.

[0129] The ventilation opening 110h may be located in a region of the upper wall 111, adjacent to the partition wall 113.

[0130] Case 110 includes a connecting passage 114. The connecting passage 114 is located in one area of ​​the partition wall 113 and connects the second area A2 and the third area A3.

[0131] A portion of the transmission passage located in the second area A2 (for example, transmission passage 140 in Figure 4) and a portion of the cartridge outlet located in the third area A3 (for example, outlet 240 in Figure 4) are inserted into the connecting passage 114. Thus, a portion of the transmission passage and a portion of the outlet are connected inside the connecting passage 114, and the connection between the transmission passage and the outlet is sealed inside the connecting passage 114.

[0132] The case 110 includes a side wall 115. The side wall 115 extends circumferentially around the case 110 and forms at least a portion of the exterior of the case 110.

[0133] In the third area A3, one region of the side wall 115 is open in the first direction. Referring to Figure 5, one region of the side wall 115 is open in the -x direction. The cartridge approaches the case 110 in the +x direction through the open region of the side wall 115 and is coupled to the case 110.

[0134] In the third area A3, the side wall 115 includes a buttonhole through which a button (for example, button 150 in Figure 2) is exposed to the outside.

[0135] The side wall 115 surrounds the upper part of the upper wall 111. That is, the upper end of the side wall 115 extends circumferentially, surrounding the upper part of the upper wall 111. The upper end of the side wall 115 surrounding the upper part of the upper wall 111 includes several grooves. Multiple projections of the cover are inserted into the grooves, and the cover is coupled to the upper part of the case 110.

[0136] Furthermore, the upper end of the aforementioned side wall 115 can surround and stably support the electronic component 60 located on the upper part of the upper wall 111.

[0137] The first area A1 is the area above the upper wall 111, which extends in the -x direction with respect to the partition wall 113, and is surrounded by the upper end of the side wall 115.

[0138] The second area A2 is an area surrounded by the side wall 115 and the partition wall 113. The second area A2 is closed in the -z direction by the lower wall 112 and is open in the +z direction.

[0139] The third area A3 is surrounded by a portion of the side wall 115 and a partition wall 113. The third area A3 is open in the -x direction and closed in the z-axis direction by the upper wall 111 and the lower wall 112.

[0140] Below, with reference to Figures 8 and 9, we will describe in detail the "areas and related components adversely affected by heated air."

[0141] Figures 8 and 9 are diagrams illustrating areas adversely affected by heated air.

[0142] Figure 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the upper part of a portion of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 1. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3, with some components omitted.

[0143] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment comprises a case 110, a heating element 30, electronic components 60, a sealing section 170, a play adjustment section 180, and a cartridge 200. Reference numerals not shown in Figures 8 and 9 refer to Figure 6.

[0144] The heating element 30 includes a heater 130 and a vaporizer 230. The heater 130 heats the aerosol-generating material contained in the containment space 110i to generate an aerosol. The vaporizer 230 receives the aerosol-generating material from the storage unit 220, heats it, and generates an aerosol.

[0145] The heater 130 is located inside the housing 120 and is placed in the second area A2 together with the housing 120. The steamer 230 is located inside the cartridge 200 and is placed in the third area A3 together with the cartridge 200.

[0146] As mentioned above, the first area A1 is a space where electronic components 60 are densely packed and is sealed by the sealing section 170 and cover 100, and therefore is subject to many adverse effects from heated air.

[0147] Referring to Figure 5, since the first area A1 is closer to the heater 130 in the second area A2 than to the vaporizer 230 in the third area A3, the heating of the air in the first area A1 is mainly carried out by the heater 130. However, the arrangement of the heater 130 and the vaporizer 230 is not limited to this embodiment, and the cause of heating of the air inside the aerosol generator 1 differs depending on the embodiment.

[0148] The electronic component 60 located in the first area A1 includes an optical sensor 160 and a circuit board 161 for the optical sensor.

[0149] The optical sensor 160 comprises an optical element that transmits light reflected from the aerosol product inserted into the containment space 110i of the second area A2, and a sensing unit that detects light.

[0150] For example, the optical sensor 160 may be a color sensor that detects the color of the aerosol product to prevent its reuse. Alternatively, the optical sensor 160 may be a proximity sensor that detects when the aerosol product has been inserted into the containment space 110i of the second area A2.

[0151] The optical sensor 160, along with the circuit board 161 for the optical sensor, is positioned on the upper surface of the upper wall 111.

[0152] The ventilation holes 110h are located in the upper wall 111 and open toward the optical sensor 160 to prevent the optical elements from fogging up.

[0153] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the ventilation holes 110h located in the upper wall 111 are situated below the optical sensor 160, but the embodiment is not limited to the position of the ventilation holes 110h.

[0154] Heated air does not accumulate in the upper space of the upper wall 111, and the phenomenon of optical elements fogging is prevented as heated air moves through the ventilation holes 110h.

[0155] The electronic component 60 located in the first area A1 comprises a puff sensor 165 and a circuit board 166 for the puff sensor. The puff sensor 165 detects the pressure change in the airflow passage caused by the user's puffing action.

[0156] The puff sensor 165, along with the circuit board 166 for the puff sensor, is located on the upper surface of the upper wall 111.

[0157] The upper wall 111 includes a puff hole 111p that is open toward the puff sensor 165, allowing air to flow into the puff sensor 165. The puff hole 111p located in the upper wall 111 may be situated above an air inflow passage 200i that extends in the z-axis direction.

[0158] The sealing portion 170 covers at least a part of the case 110 in the first area A1, separating the first area A1 from the second area A2. Referring to Figure 8, with respect to one surface of the sealing portion 170 facing the x-axis, the area in the +x direction is the second area A2, and the area in the -x direction is the first area A1.

[0159] The sealed section 170 covers the case 110 and also covers the electronic components 60 located on the top of the case 110.

[0160] The sealing portion 170 covers the optical sensor 160 and shields the space between the aerosol product inserted into the housing space 110i in the x-axis direction and the optical sensor 160. At this time, the sealing portion 170 includes a transparent or translucent material that allows light to pass through. In this way, the optical sensor 160 can sense the light reflected from the aerosol product and transmitted through the sealing portion 170.

[0161] The ventilation holes 110h are open in the direction from the case 110 toward the sealing portion 170. Referring to Figure 8, the ventilation holes 110h located in the upper wall 111 are open in the z-axis direction, which is the direction from the case 110 toward the sealing portion 170.

[0162] The play adjustment unit 180 is positioned between the case 110 and the electronic component 60. The play adjustment unit 180 contacts the case 110 and the electronic component 60 to eliminate the play between the case 110 and the electronic component 60.

[0163] Referring to Figure 8, the play adjustment section 180 houses the puff sensor 165 and is positioned to cover at least one area of ​​the upper surface of the upper wall 111. The play adjustment section 180 may be open toward the puff hole 111p so that air passing through the puff hole 111p flows into the puff sensor 165.

[0164] At least a portion of the play adjustment section 180 is in contact with the sealing section 170. Referring to Figure 8, the sealing section 170 covers the play adjustment section 180, which is in contact with the upper surface of the upper wall 111. A sealed space is formed between the sealing section 170 and the play adjustment section 180, in which the electronic components 60 are arranged.

[0165] One area of ​​the play adjustment section 180 that contacts the upper wall 111 is left open so as not to obstruct the ventilation hole 110h. Air in the sealed space passes through the open area of ​​the play adjustment section 180 and moves through the ventilation hole 110h located in the upper wall 111.

[0166] The air moving through the ventilation hole 110h needs to be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0167] When the cartridge 200 is inserted between the upper wall 111 and the lower wall 112 of the cartridge 200 and coupled to the case 110, a gap may occur between the upper wall 111 and the cartridge 200. In this case, the gap becomes a passage for air to move.

[0168] In other words, an air discharge passage 200e is formed between the upper wall 111 and the cartridge 200, and the ventilation hole 110h is fluidly connected to the air discharge passage 200e.

[0169] Below, with reference to Figures 10 and 11, we will describe in detail the "path through which air that has moved through the ventilation hole 110h is discharged to the outside."

[0170] Figures 10 and 11 are diagrams illustrating the path through which air that has moved through the vents is discharged to the outside.

[0171] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the airflow inside an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, into which an aerosol product is inserted. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the airflow moving from the inside to the outside of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, into which an aerosol product is inserted.

[0172] Figure 11 shows the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 10 with the cover 10 attached to the top. Although not shown in Figure 11, other components may be placed between the top of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 10 and the cover 10.

[0173] The following information will be omitted as it overlaps with the content mentioned above. For reference numerals not shown in Figures 10 and 11, please refer to Figures 4 and 6.

[0174] The vent hole 110h is fluidly connected to the air discharge passage 200e. This forms a first airflow path P1 passing through the vent hole 110h and the air discharge passage 200e.

[0175] According to the first airflow path P1, the heated air in the first area A1 passes through the vent 110h and then through the air exhaust passage 200e located in the third area A3, and is discharged to the outside of the case 110.

[0176] Conversely, relatively cold air present outside case 110 may flow not only into the air inlet passage 200i but also into the air outlet passage 200e. According to the first airflow path P1, the cold air passes through the air outlet passage 200e located in the third zone A3, goes past the vent 110h and arrives in the first zone A1.

[0177] In summary, through the first airflow path P1, the heated air in the first area A1 is discharged to the outside of the case 110, and the relatively cooler air outside the case 110 flows into the first area A1. As a result, the temperature of the air in the first area A1 decreases.

[0178] On the other hand, separate from the first airflow path P1, a second airflow path P2 may be formed inside the aerosol generator 1, through which the aerosol generated from the cartridge 200 and the aerosol product 2 is transmitted to the user.

[0179] The second airflow path P2 is an airflow path through which a primary aerosol, generated when the aerosol generating material in cartridge 200 is heated by vaporizer 230, and a secondary aerosol, generated when the aerosol product 2 is heated by heater 130, are mixed and inhaled by the user.

[0180] Referring to Figure 10, the second airflow path P2 begins at the inlet of the air inlet passage 200i of the cartridge 200.

[0181] Air from outside the case 110 and cartridge 200 flows into the air inlet passage 200i. The air travels along the air inlet passage 200i and reaches the vaporizer 230.

[0182] The air that reaches the vaporizer 230 is mixed with the primary aerosol and moves outside the cartridge 200 through the outlet 240.

[0183] The primary aerosol, mixed with air, moves along the transmission passage 140 connected to the outlet 240 and flows into one end of the aerosol product 2 contained in the containment space 110i.

[0184] While the primary aerosol, mixed with air, passes through aerosol product 2, a secondary aerosol is generated in aerosol product 2. Therefore, the primary aerosol, mixed with air, is mixed with the secondary aerosol as it passes through aerosol product 2.

[0185] The air containing both primary and secondary aerosols moves into the user's oral cavity, which is the final destination of the second airflow path P2.

[0186] The second airflow path P2 represents the path of air and aerosol movement when the user inhales the aerosol product 2. Referring to Figures 10 and 11, the second airflow path P2 provides a single path for air flow, however, the direction of air and aerosol movement is not limited thereto.

[0187] The air discharge passage 200e is formed in a direction that crosses the air inlet passage 200i. At this time, the inlet of the air inlet passage 200i is open toward the upper wall 111, and the air discharge passage 200e is connected to the inlet of the air inlet passage 200i.

[0188] As a result, the first airflow path P1 passing through the air exhaust passage 200e intersects with the second airflow path P2 formed along the air inlet passage 200i at the entrance to the air inlet passage 200i.

[0189] On the other hand, since the first airflow path P1 and the second airflow path P2 are airflow paths formed inside the aerosol generator 1, each airflow path needs to be connected to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0190] Referring to Figure 11, a common airflow path PC is formed outside the case 110 and the cartridge 200. The common airflow path PC is connected to the first airflow path P1 and the second airflow path P2 and extends to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0191] According to the common airflow path PC, air from outside the aerosol generator 1 flows into the interior of the cover 10 through the sliding groove of the cover 10 (for example, the sliding groove 10g in Figure 1). The incoming air then passes through the space between the cover 10 and other components to reach the air inlet passage 200i and the air outlet passage 200e.

[0192] According to the common airflow path PC, the air may move in the opposite direction to the direction described above. That is, the air moves from the air inlet passage 200i and the air outlet passage 200e to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0193] However, when the user puts the aerosol product 2 in their mouth and inhales air, a pressure difference is created between the outside of the aerosol generator 1 and the user's oral cavity. Due to this pressure difference, most of the air moves from the outside of the aerosol generator 1 into the user's oral cavity.

[0194] Referring to Figure 11, the inlet of the air inlet passage 200i is open toward the upper wall 111, and the common airflow path PC is connected to the first airflow path P1 and the second airflow path P2 at the inlet of the air inlet passage 200i.

[0195] However, the embodiments are not limited to the arrangement of the air intake passage inlet described above. For example, the air intake passage inlet may be arranged in a direction that crosses the side plate 210, thereby preventing the air intake passage from being connected to the air exhaust passage.

[0196] In this case, the first airflow path formed along the air discharge passage and the second airflow path formed along the air inlet passage do not intersect with each other, and are each connected to the common airflow path PC.

[0197] Furthermore, outside air from the aerosol generator 1 also flows in through the joint between the cover 10 and the main body 11 and joins the common airflow path PC, but this is not shown separately in Figure 11.

[0198] The first airflow path P1 and the second airflow path P2 are connected to a common airflow path PC, and the air discharge passage 200e and the air inlet passage 200i are fluidly connected to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0199] Through the second airflow path P2 and the common airflow path PC, air and / or aerosols move from outside the aerosol generator 1 into the user's oral cavity.

[0200] Through the first airflow path P1 and the common airflow path PC, the heated air in the first area A1 is discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1, and the relatively cooler air outside the aerosol generator 1 flows into the first area A1. As a result, the temperature of the air in the first area A1 decreases.

[0201] The ventilation holes 110h provide fluid communication between the first area A1 and the air discharge passage 200e, so that the first area A1 is fluidly connected to the outside of the aerosol generator 1 through the ventilation holes 110h. In other words, the arrangement of the ventilation holes 110h prevents "deformation of components due to heated air" and reduces "the adverse effects of heated air".

[0202] Figure 12 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0203] The aerosol generator 1200 comprises a control unit 1210, a sensing unit 1220, an output unit 1230, a battery 1240, a heater 1250, a user input unit 1260, a memory 1270, and a communication unit 1280. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1200 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 1200, some of the components shown in Figure 12 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0204] The sensing unit 1220 senses the state of the aerosol generator 1200 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1200 and transmits the sensed information to the control unit 1210. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1210 controls the aerosol generator 1200 so that various functions can be performed, such as controlling the operation of the heater 1250, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert aerosol products (e.g., cigarettes, cartridges, etc.), and displaying notifications.

[0205] The sensing unit 1220 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the temperature sensor 1222, insertion sensing sensor 1224, and puff sensor 1226.

[0206] The temperature sensor 1222 senses the temperature at which the heater 1250 (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1200 may have a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 1250, or the heater 1250 itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1222 may be positioned around the battery 1240 to monitor the temperature of the battery 1240.

[0207] The insertion sensing sensor 1224 detects the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 1224 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.

[0208] The puff sensor 1226 detects user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1226 detects user puffs based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0209] In addition to the sensors 1222 to 1226 described above, the sensing unit 1220 further includes at least one of the following: a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric 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.

[0210] The output unit 1230 outputs information about the status of the aerosol generator 1200 and provides it to the user. The output unit 1230 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 1232, the haptic unit 1234, and the acoustic output unit 1236. When the display unit 1232 and the touchpad are arranged in a layered structure to form a touchscreen, the display unit 1232 is used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0211] The display unit 1232 visually provides the user with information about the aerosol generator 1200. For example, the information about the aerosol generator 1200 can include various types of information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 1240 of the aerosol generator 1200, the preheating status of the heater 1250, the insertion / removal status of aerosol products, or conditions under which the use of the aerosol generator 1200 is restricted (e.g., detection of abnormal items), and the display unit 1232 outputs this information to the outside. The display unit 1232 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) or an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED). Alternatively, the display unit 1232 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0212] The haptic unit 1234 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1200. For example, the haptic unit 1234 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0213] The acoustic output unit 1236 provides the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1200. For example, the acoustic output unit 1236 converts electrical signals into acoustic signals and outputs them externally.

[0214] Battery 1240 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generator 1200. Battery 1240 also supplies power to heat the heater 1250. In addition, battery 1240 supplies power necessary for the operation of other components within the aerosol generator 1200 (e.g., the sensing unit 1220, the output unit 1230, the user input unit 1260, the memory 1270, and the communication unit 1280). Battery 1240 is either a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 1240 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0215] The heater 1250 is powered by the battery 1240 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Figure 12, the aerosol generator 1200 further includes a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 1240 and supplies it to the heater 1250. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1200 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1200 further includes a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 1240 into AC power supply.

[0216] The control unit 1210, sensing unit 1220, output unit 1230, user input unit 1260, memory 1270, and communication unit 1280 are powered by the battery 1240 and perform their functions. Although not shown in Figure 12, the system further includes a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power from the battery 1240 and supplies it to each component.

[0217] In one embodiment, the heater 1250 is formed of any suitable electrical-resistant material. For example, suitable electrical-resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 1250 is also not limited to, but can be embodied as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0218] In other embodiments, the heater 1250 is an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 1250 includes a susceptor that heats the aerosol-generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0219] The user input unit 1260 receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1260 may include, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (contact-type capacitive type, pressure-type resistive type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Also, although not shown in Figure 12, the aerosol generator 1200 is further equipped with a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and connects with other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 1240.

[0220] Memory 1270 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1200, and stores data processed by the control unit 1210 and data being processed. Memory 1270 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 1270 stores data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1200, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0221] The communication unit 1280 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1280 comprises a short-range communication unit 1282 and a wireless communication unit 1284.

[0222] The short-range communication unit 1282 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.

[0223] The wireless communication unit 1284 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 1284 may also verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 1200 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0224] The control unit 1210 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1200. In one embodiment, the control unit 1210 comprises at least one processor. The processor may be embodied 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 embodied as other forms of hardware.

[0225] The control unit 1210 controls the temperature of the heater 1250 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 1240 to the heater 1250. For example, the control unit 1210 controls the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 1240 and the heater 1250. In another example, a direct heating circuit may control the power supply to the heater 1250 by a control command from the control unit 1210.

[0226] The control unit 1210 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 1220 and controls subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1220, the control unit 1210 controls the power supplied to the heater 1250 so that the heater 1250 starts or stops operating. As another example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1220, the control unit 1210 controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 1250 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 1250 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0227] The control unit 1210 controls the output unit 1230 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1220. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 1226 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 1210 notifies the user that the aerosol generator 1200 will soon be finished, through at least one of the display unit 1232, the haptic unit 1234, and the acoustic output unit 1236.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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.

Claims

1. A case having a containment space for housing aerosol products and housing at least one electronic component, A heater is provided in the containment space for heating the aerosol product contained in the containment space. The case is detachably coupled to the cartridge and comprises a storage section for storing an aerosol-generating substance, and a vaporizer for receiving the aerosol-generating substance from the storage section and heating the aerosol-generating substance. The case includes a plurality of regions formed by the structure of the case, The plurality of areas comprises a first area in which the electronic components are housed, a second area in which the housing space is arranged, and a third area in which the cartridge is arranged. The case further comprises a vent formed between the first and third sections, configured to allow air heated by the heat generated in the heater or vaporizer to pass through, An aerosol generating apparatus wherein the ventilation holes are arranged to open toward the first area and are fluidly connected to the first area.

2. The aforementioned case physically separates the third area from the other areas through a portion of the plurality of areas, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation holes are formed in a region located on a part of the case between the first region and the third region.

3. The first area and the second area are separated, and the first area further includes a sealing portion that covers at least a part of the case and the electronic components, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation holes are open in a direction toward the sealed portion from the case.

4. The case further comprises a partition wall separating the second area and the third area. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation holes are located adjacent to the partition wall.

5. The case further comprises an upper wall extending in a first direction from the first area for housing the electronic components in the upper part of the case. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation holes are located in the upper wall.

6. The upper wall separates the first area and the third area. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the ventilation holes are located in the upper wall between the first and third areas.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the containment space is open in a second direction that crosses the first direction and extends in the second direction in order to contain aerosol products in the second area.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the ventilation hole is open in a second direction that crosses the first direction.

9. The electronic component includes an optical sensor comprising an optical element that transmits light reflected from the aerosol product contained in the second area and is positioned on the upper surface of the upper wall, and a sensing unit that detects the light. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the ventilation holes are open toward the optical sensor to prevent the optical element from fogging up.

10. The case further comprises a lower wall extending in the first direction opposite to the upper wall, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the cartridge is inserted between the upper wall and the lower wall to close the third area.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the cartridge is coupled to the case and an air discharge passage is formed between the upper wall and the cartridge.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the ventilation hole is fluidly connected to the air discharge passage, forming a first airflow path passing through the ventilation hole and the air discharge passage.

13. The cartridge further comprises an air inlet passage for supplying air to the vaporizer, The air discharge passage is formed in a direction that crosses the air inflow passage, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the first airflow path intersects with the second airflow path formed along the air inlet passage at the entrance of the air inlet passage.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the second airflow path is an airflow path through which a primary aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating substance in the cartridge by the vaporizer and a secondary aerosol generated by heating the aerosol product by the heater are mixed and inhaled by the user.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first airflow path and the second airflow path are connected to a common airflow path formed outside the case and the cartridge, and the air discharge passage and the air inlet passage are fluidly connected to the outside of the aerosol generating apparatus through the common airflow path.

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