Cartridge and aerosol generating apparatus containing the same

Abstract

There is provided a cartridge and an aerosol generating device including the cartridge. The cartridge includes a container formed to define a first chamber configured to store a liquid, a frame formed to define a second chamber through which air passes, a plate positioned between the container and the frame to separate the first chamber from the second chamber and formed to define a first liquid inlet hole that communicates between the first chamber and the second chamber, a wick disposed in the second chamber and communicating with the first chamber through the inlet hole, a heater for heating the wick, and a needle protruding from the plate into the first chamber and tapering away from the plate.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to reduce the size of bubbles in the liquid stored in the cartridge or remove the bubbles.

[0005] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to reduce the obstruction of the flow of the liquid towards the core by the bubbles.

[0006] Still another object of the present disclosure is to prevent the core from being heated in a state where it does not absorb the liquid.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to one aspect of the subject matter described herein, the cartridge includes a container formed to define a first chamber configured to store a liquid; a frame formed to define a second chamber through which air passes; a plate positioned between the container and the frame and formed to define a first liquid inlet hole separating the first chamber and the second chamber and connecting the first chamber and the second chamber; a wick positioned in the second chamber and communicating with the first chamber through the inlet hole; a heater for heating the wick; and a needle protruding from the plate into the first chamber and gradually tapering away from the plate.

[0008] According to other aspects of the subject matter described herein, the aerosol generator includes the cartridge and a body formed to define an outwardly open insertion space and coupled to the cartridge to communicate with the insertion space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the size of bubbles in the liquid stored in the cartridge can be reduced or bubbles can be removed.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to reduce the obstruction of liquid flow toward the core by bubbles.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to prevent the wick from being heated while it has not absorbed any liquid.

[0012] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of a cartridge and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15]It is a diagram showing an example of a cartridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an aerosol generating device including the same.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Even if the same or similar components are shown in different drawings, they are given the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0015] Suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are used only for the ease of explanation in the specification. "Module" and "part" do not have distinct meanings or roles from each other.

[0016] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Also, the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

[0018] When referring to a certain component being "connected" to another component, it can be understood that other components may exist in the middle. On the other hand, when referring to a certain component being "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that no other components exist in the middle.

[0019] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0020] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator may include at least one of the following: a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, and a cartridge 40. At least one of the following may be located inside the body 110 of the aerosol generator.

[0021] The body 110 may have an insertion space 34 into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The insertion space 34 may open upwards. The insertion space 34 may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. The heater 30 may be formed around the insertion space 34. For example, the heater 30 may surround the insertion space 34.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, the battery 10, control unit 20, cartridge 40, and heater 30 may be arranged in a line. Referring to Figure 2, the cartridge 40 and heater 30 may be arranged side by side facing each other. The internal structure of the aerosol generator 100 is not limited to that shown.

[0023] The battery 10 can supply power to operate at least one of the control unit 20, heater 30, and cartridge 40. The battery 10 can also supply the power necessary for the display, sensors, motor, etc., provided in the aerosol generator 100 to operate.

[0024] The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 100. The control unit 20 can control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, heater 20, and cartridge 40. The control unit 20 can control the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc., provided in the aerosol generator 100. The control unit 20 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 100 and determine whether the aerosol generator 100 is in an operational state.

[0025] The heater 30 can generate heat using power supplied from the battery 10. The heater 30 can heat the stick 200 inserted into the insertion space 34.

[0026] Cartridge 40 can store liquid inside. Cartridge 40 can heat the liquid to generate an aerosol inside. The aerosol generated in cartridge 40 can be transmitted to the user by passing through a stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generator 100.

[0027] The lower part of the stick 200 is inserted into the insertion space 34, and the upper part can be exposed to the outside. The user can hold the upper part of the stick 200 in their mouth and inhale air. When the user inhales air through the stick 200, the air flows into the cartridge 40 and, accompanied by an aerosol, can pass through the insertion space 34 and the stick 200 inserted into the insertion space 34 and be supplied to the user.

[0028] Referring to Figure 3, the cartridge 40 may include a first container 41 and a second container 42. The second container 42 may be coupled to the underside of the first container 41. A cartridge inlet 411 may be formed by an opening on one side of the cartridge 40. A cartridge inlet 411 may be formed by an opening at the upper end of the first container 41. The cartridge inlet 411 may communicate with the outside. Air from outside the cartridge 40 can flow into the cartridge 40 through the cartridge inlet 411.

[0029] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, the cartridge 40 may include a first container 41 and a second container 42. The first container 41 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 42. The plate 45 may be coupled between the first container 41 and the second container 42 or between the first container 41 and the frame 43.

[0030] The first container 41 may include a first chamber C1 that can store liquid inside. The first container 41 surrounds the first chamber C1, and the bottom of the first chamber C1 may be open. The opening of the first chamber C1 may be covered by a plate 45.

[0031] The first container 41 may be equipped with an inlet 412 through which air passes. The first chamber C1 and the inlet 412 may be isolated from each other. The inlet 412 may extend vertically along one side of the first container 41. The first chamber C1 and the inlet 412 may be formed side by side.

[0032] The first container 41 may be equipped with a cartridge inlet 411. The cartridge inlet 411 is formed by an opening in the upper part of the first container 41 and may communicate with an inlet passage 412. The upper end of the inlet passage 412 may communicate with the cartridge inlet 411. The lower end of the inlet passage 412 may communicate with a connecting hole 451, a frame passage 451, and a chamber inlet 431.

[0033] The second container 42 may be coupled to the bottom of the first container 41. The second container 42 may have a space 424 that is open at the top and covered at the bottom. The frame 43 may be housed inside the space 424 of the second container 42.

[0034] The second container 42 may be provided with a cartridge outlet 422. The cartridge outlet 422 may be formed on one side of the second container 42. The cartridge outlet 422 may be formed inside an outlet port 423 that protrudes in the thickness direction from the side of the second container 42. The cartridge outlet 422 may communicate with an internal space 424 of the second container 42.

[0035] The frame 43 can be inserted into the space 424 inside the second container 42 and coupled with the second container 42. Fastening members 426 protruding from the side wall of the second container 42 into the space 424 can be fastened to the frame 43, thereby fixing the frame 43 in place.

[0036] The frame 43 may house a second chamber C2 internally. The frame 43 surrounds the second chamber C2, and the top of the second chamber C2 may be open. The top of the second chamber C2 may be covered by a plate 45.

[0037] The frame 43 may be provided with a chamber inlet 431. The chamber inlet 431 may be formed by opening one side of the side wall surrounding the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 431 may communicate with the second chamber C2. A frame flow path 4310 may open on the upper side of the frame 43. The chamber inlet 431 may be connected to one end of the frame flow path 4310. The frame flow path 4310 may extend downward from its upper end and curve to the chamber inlet 431.

[0038] The frame 43 may be provided with a chamber outlet 432. The chamber outlet 432 may be formed on one side of the frame 43. The chamber outlet 432 may communicate with the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 432 may be formed inside a port that protrudes in the thickness direction from the side of the frame 43. The chamber outlet 432 may communicate with the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 432 may be formed in a position corresponding to the cartridge outlet 422. The chamber outlet 432 may be formed opposite the second chamber inlet 431 with respect to the second chamber C2. The core 441 may be positioned between the chamber inlet 431 and the chamber outlet 432. When the frame 43 is coupled with the second container 32, the chamber outlet 432 and the cartridge outlet 422 may communicate with each other.

[0039] The frame 43 may have a central groove 434 inside. The central groove 434 may communicate with the second chamber C2. The central groove 434 may be formed by the second chamber C2 being recessed on one side. The central grooves 434 may be formed in pairs. A pair of central grooves 434 may be formed on both sides of the second chamber C2. A pair of central grooves 434 may face each other with respect to the second chamber C2. The upper part of the central groove 434 may be open.

[0040] The core 441 may have a cylindrical shape that extends laterally into the second chamber C2. Each end of the core 441 may be inserted into and positioned in each of a pair of core grooves 434. The center of the core 441 may be located in the second chamber C2. The ends or opposite ends of the core 441 can be called the first end and the second end, respectively. The first end of the core 441 may be located below the first liquid inlet hole, and the second end of the core 441 may be located below the second liquid inlet hole. The core 441 may extend from one core groove 434 to the other core groove 434 in the second chamber C2. The core 441 is connected to the first chamber C1 and can receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The core 441 may be fixed in the core groove 434 by a frame 43 and a plate 45.

[0041] The heating coil 442 may be wound around the center of the core 441. The heating coil 442 may be wound around the core 441 along its longitudinal direction. The heating coil 442 may be placed in the second chamber C2. The heating coil 442 may be located between a pair of core grooves 434.

[0042] The heating coil 442 may be an electrical resistance heater. When the heating coil 442 receives an electric current, heat is generated due to its internal resistance, and this heat can be released to the outside. The heating coil 442 can generate heat and heat the core 441. The heating coil 442 may be a conductor.

[0043] Leads 443 may extend from the heating coil 442. Leads 443 may be formed in pairs and electrically connected to each end of the heating coil 442. Leads 443 may extend from the ends of the heating coil 442 to the outside of the core 441. Leads 443 may penetrate the bottom of the frame 43 and be electrically connected to electrodes located at the bottom of the second container 42. The battery 10 can sequentially apply current to the leads 443 and the heating coil 442 to heat the heating coil 442. Leads 443 may be conductors.

[0044] Plate 451 can be coupled between the first container 41 and the second container 42, or between the first container 41 and the frame 43. Plate 45 can cover and seal the opening of the first chamber C1. Plate 45 can cover the top of the frame 43. Plate 45 can cover and seal the opening of the second chamber C2. Plate 45 can be positioned between the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2 to separate them.

[0045] Plate 45 may be provided with a connecting hole 451 on one side. The connecting hole 451 may be located between the inlet passage 412 and the frame passage 4310. The connecting hole 451 can connect the inlet passage 412 and the frame passage 4310.

[0046] The plate 45 may be provided with liquid inlet holes 454. One of the liquid inlet holes 454 may be one of a plurality of inlet holes 454. One of the plurality of liquid inlet holes 454 can be called the first liquid inlet hole, and the others can be called the second liquid inlet holes. For example, if a pair of liquid inlet holes 454 are formed in the plate 45, one of the pair of liquid inlet holes 454 can be called the first liquid inlet hole, and the other can be called the second liquid inlet hole. The liquid inlet holes 454 may be formed in pairs at positions corresponding to the core groove 434. The pair of liquid inlet holes 454 may be located on the upper sides of both ends of the core 441. The liquid inlet holes 454 can connect the first chamber C1 and the core groove 434. Each end of the core 441 can be connected to the first chamber C1 via each of the pair of liquid inlet holes 454. The liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can flow into the core groove 434 through the liquid inlet holes 454. The core 441 can absorb the liquid that flows into the core groove 434 through its end.

[0047] A hook groove 435 may be formed above the chamber outlet 432, adjacent to the chamber outlet 432. A hook 453 may protrude downward from one side of the plate 45. The hook 453 can be inserted into and fastened in a hook groove 435 formed on the upper part of the frame 43. With the plate 45 fastened to the frame 43, the first container 41 coupled to the second container 42 can push the edge portion 456 of the plate 45 toward the frame 43.

[0048] The connecting rib 425 may protrude upward from the upper edge of the second container 42. The connecting groove 415 may recess upward from the lower edge of the first container 41. The connecting rib 425 and the connecting groove 415 may correspond to each other. The connecting rib 425 can be inserted into the connecting groove 415 and bonded to the first container 41. The lower end of the first container 41 protrudes inward from the connecting rib 425, pushing the edge 456 of the plate 45 toward the frame 43.

[0049] Air can flow into the cartridge 40 through the cartridge inlet 411 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 40 through the cartridge outlet 412. The air that flows into the cartridge 40 can be discharged to the outside by sequentially passing through the inlet passage 412, connecting hole 451, frame passage 4310, chamber inlet 431, second chamber C2, chamber outlet 432, and cartridge outlet 422.

[0050] When the heating coil 442 generates heat and heats the wick 441, an aerosol may form from the wick 441 in the second chamber C2. The air passing through the cartridge 40 can be discharged to the cartridge outlet 422, accompanied by the aerosol in the second chamber C2.

[0051] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the plate 45 may include an inlet guide 453. The inlet guide 453 may be formed at an angle toward the liquid inlet hole 454. The inlet guide 453 may be formed to slope downward toward the liquid inlet hole 454 from the upper surface of the plate 45 facing the first chamber C1. The inlet guide 453 may be formed by the upper surface of the plate 45 being indented downward. The liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can be guided through the inlet guide 453 to the liquid inlet hole 454.

[0052] The inlet guides 453 may be formed in pairs. Each of the pair of inlet guides 453 may correspond to each of the pair of liquid inlet holes 454. The pair of liquid inlet holes 454 may be formed on both sides of the plate 45.

[0053] One end of the inflow guide 453 may be adjacent to the center of the plate 45, and the other end of the inflow guide 453 may be adjacent to the liquid inflow hole 454. The inflow guide 453 may extend from near the center of the plate 45 toward the liquid inflow hole 454. Each of the pair of inflow guides 453 may extend to both sides from near the center of the plate 45 toward each of the pair of liquid inflow holes 454. The inflow guide 453 can guide the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 to flow toward the liquid inflow hole 454.

[0054] The inlet guide 453 may gradually expand from one end adjacent to the center of the plate 45 to the other end adjacent to the liquid inlet hole 454. The width of the inlet guide 453 may gradually increase toward the liquid inlet hole 454 and gradually decrease toward the bottom. The inlet guide 453 may form a guide channel 4534. The guide channel 4534 may communicate with one side of the liquid inlet hole 454.

[0055] Each inlet guide 453 may have a pair of inclined surfaces 4531 that gradually expand toward the liquid inlet hole 454. Each inlet guide 453 may include an inclined line 4532 located between the pair of inclined surfaces 4531. The pair of inclined surfaces 4531 may intersect at the inclined line 4532. The inclined line 4532 may extend so as to slope downward toward the liquid inlet hole 454. The ends of the inclined line 4532 may be located corresponding vertically to the core supporter 452 and the core 441. The inclined surfaces 4531 can guide the liquid flowing in the inlet guide 453 to the inclined line 4532. The liquid collects from both inclined surfaces 4531 to the inclined line 4532, and the inclined line 4532 can guide the liquid toward the liquid inlet hole 454. The inclined surfaces 4531 can be called guide inclined surfaces 4531.

[0056] The liquid inlet hole 454 may have a shape that extends elongated in the width direction of the inlet guide 453. The long width W21 of the liquid inlet hole 454 may be greater than the short width W22 of the liquid inlet hole 454. The long width W21 of the liquid inlet hole 454 may be greater than the width W1 of the other end of the inlet guide 453. With respect to the space between the liquid inlet hole 454 and the inlet guide 453, the width W21 of the liquid inlet hole 454 may be greater than the width W1 of the inlet guide 453. With respect to the short width direction of the liquid inlet hole 454, the width W22 of the liquid inlet hole 454 may be at its maximum size at a position adjacent to the position corresponding to the end of the inclined line 4532.

[0057] The liquid inlet hole 454 may have an irregular shape. For example, the liquid inlet hole 454 does not have to be a regular shape such as a square, circle, ellipse, or triangle. For example, one side of the liquid inlet hole 454 communicates with the guide channel 4534 surrounded by the inlet guide 453, and the other side of the liquid inlet hole 454 is surrounded by the hole periphery 4541 formed in the plate 45, and may have a squiggly shape. The hole periphery 4541 may have a squiggly shape.

[0058] During the manufacturing process of the cartridge 40, when the first chamber C1 is filled with liquid, bubbles are formed in the liquid phase, and thus, liquid containing bubbles can be stored inside the first chamber C1. However, in the embodiments of this disclosure, as the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 flows along the inclination of the inlet guide 453, the speed at which the liquid and bubbles are transported increases, and collisions between bubbles occur, causing the bubbles to be removed on their own or reduced in size. In addition, the narrow width of one end of the inlet guide 453 can limit the inflow of relatively large bubbles into the inlet guide 453. Thus, the clogging of the liquid inlet hole 454 by large bubbles can be reduced.

[0059] Furthermore, since the length W21 of the liquid inlet hole 454 is larger than the length W1 of the inlet guide 453, and the shape of the liquid inlet hole 454 is irregular, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of the liquid inlet hole 454 becoming clogged with air bubbles transported by the inlet guide 453.

[0060] The plate 45 may include needles 455. Needles 455 can be described as projections 455 or patterns 455. Needles 455 may protrude from the plate 45 into the first chamber C1. Needles 455 may gradually taper in the direction of protrusion. Needles 455 may have a pointed end. For example, needles 455 may be formed in a pyramidal or conical shape. However, the shape of needles 455 is not limited thereto. Needles 455 may be formed around liquid inflow holes 454 and / or inflow guides 453.

[0061] When the liquid flows from the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlet hole 454 into the core groove 434 and core 441, the needle 455 can come into contact with the air bubbles mixed in the liquid and reduce the size of the bubbles.

[0062] Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of air bubbles mixed in the liquid that clog the liquid inlet hole 454. In addition, by preventing the air bubbles from blocking the flow of the liquid, it is possible to prevent the core 441 from being heated while it has not absorbed any liquid.

[0063] Multiple needles 455 may be arranged around the inflow guide 453. Multiple needles 455 may surround the inflow guide 453. Needles 455 may be arranged adjacent to the edge 4531a of the inflow guide 453. Multiple needles 455 may be arranged in a shape corresponding to the shape of the edge 4531a of the inflow guide 453.

[0064] Multiple needles 455 may be arranged along the edge 4531a of the inlet guide 453 at predetermined intervals d. The interval d between the multiple needles 455 may be smaller than the length W1 of the inlet guide 453 or the length W21 of the liquid inlet hole 454. The interval d between the multiple needles 455 may be smaller than the width W22 of the liquid inlet hole 454. Liquid or bubbles can flow into the inlet guide 453 by passing between the multiple needles 455.

[0065] Therefore, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be limited. In addition, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be reduced or the bubbles can be removed.

[0066] The needle 455 may have a pyramidal shape. For example, the needle 455 may have a triangular pyramidal shape. The needle 455 may include a needle tip 4551. The needle tip 4551 can be defined as the pointed upper end of the needle 455. The needle 455 may include a needle inclined surface 4552. The needle inclined surface 4552 can be defined as one face of the pyramidal needle 455. The sizes of the needle inclined surfaces 4552 may differ from each other. The needle 455 may include a needle edge 4553. The needle edge 4553 can be defined as the edge portion where two needle inclined surfaces 4552 intersect.

[0067] The needle 455 may be formed to gradually narrow in the direction opposite to the direction in which the liquid flows into the inflow guide 453. The needle 455 may be formed to gradually widen in the direction in which the liquid flows into the inflow guide 453. For example, when the needle 455 has a triangular pyramidal shape, the needle 455 may be arranged such that, with respect to one of the needle edges 4553, the two needle inclined surfaces 4552 gradually widen in the direction in which the liquid flows into the inflow guide 453.

[0068] Therefore, bubbles in the liquid can be reduced in size or removed by colliding with the edge of the needle 455.

[0069] One side of the liquid inlet hole 454 may communicate with a guide channel 4534 surrounded by an inlet guide 453. The other side of the liquid inlet hole 454 may be surrounded by a hole periphery 4541 formed in the plate 45.

[0070] The inlet guide 453 may extend below the liquid inlet hole 454. One end of the inclined line 4532 is formed at a height corresponding to the upper surface of the plate 45, and the other end of the inclined line 4532 may be located below the liquid inlet hole 454. The other end of the inclined line 4532 may be spaced below the liquid inlet hole 454 by a predetermined height H. The width W3 between the other end of the inclined line 4532 and the periphery of the hole 4541 may be greater than the shorter width W22 of the laterally formed liquid inlet hole 454.

[0071] Therefore, the cross-sectional area through which the liquid passes along the inclined line 4532 is increased, and the amount of air bubbles that come into contact with the liquid inlet hole 454 is reduced.

[0072] Referring to Figures 6 and 9, the plate 45 may include a core supporter 452. The core supporter 452 may protrude from the lower side of the plate 45. The core supporter 452 may extend downward from a position adjacent to the other end of the inlet guide 453. The core supporter 452 may be adjacent to the liquid inlet hole 454. The core 441 and the core supporter 452 may be positioned corresponding to the inclined line 4532. The lower surface of the core supporter 452 may be recessed upward in a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the core. For example, the lower surface of the core supporter 452 may have a curved shape corresponding to one side of the shape of the cylindrical core 441.

[0073] Core supports 452 may be provided in pairs. Each of the pair of core supports 452 may be adjacent to each of the pair of liquid inflow holes 454. The pair of core supports 452 may correspond to each of the ends of the core 441. The pair of core supports 452 can support or secure both ends of the core 441. The lower end of the core 441 may be supported by the frame 43 from the core groove 434, and the upper end of the core 441 may be supported by the core support 452. The ends of the core 441 may be positioned below the liquid inflow holes 454.

[0074] Referring to Figure 10, the needle inclined surface 4552 may have a shape that gradually tapers from the lower end of the needle 455 to the needle tip 4551. The needle inclined surface 4552 may have a triangular shape. The needle inclined surface 4552 may be inclined from the upper surface of the plate 45. A needle inclined surface 4552 adjacent to the edge 4531a of the guide inclined surface 4531 may be inclined in the same direction as the guide inclined surface 4531. The inclination of the needle inclined surface 4552 may be the same as or similar to the inclination of the guide inclined surface 4531. The needle inclined surface 4552 may be connected to the guide inclined surface 4531. The needle inclined surface 4552 can form a continuous inclined surface with the guide inclined surface 4531. The needle inclined surface 4552 may have a shape that extends upward from the guide inclined surface 4531.

[0075] Therefore, bubbles in the liquid flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be reduced in size or removed by the needle tip 4551, and the liquid can be guided by the needle inclined surface 4552 to flow into and be collected in the inflow guide 453. In addition, the needle inclined surface 4552 can reduce the size or remove bubbles by accelerating the liquid and bubbles flowing in the inflow guide 453.

[0076] Referring to Figure 11, multiple first needles 455a may be arranged along the edge 4531a of the inflow guide 453. The first needles 455a may be arranged at a predetermined distance d apart from each other. The second needles 455b may be arranged at regular intervals between the multiple first needles 455a, at a predetermined distance d' apart from the first needles 455a. The distance d between the multiple first needles 455a and the distance d' between the first needles 455a and the second needles 455b may be the same or similar. Liquid or bubbles can flow into the inflow guide 453 by passing between the multiple first needles 455a and the second needles 455b.

[0077] Therefore, the size of bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be limited. In addition, the size of bubbles can be reduced or bubbles can be removed by increasing the collision frequency between bubbles and the needle or between bubbles themselves.

[0078] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the needles 455 may protrude from the inlet guide 43. The needles 455 may protrude from the inclined surface 453 of the inlet guide 43. Multiple needles 455 may be formed on the inclined surface 453. Multiple needles 455 may be adjacent to the edge 4531a of the inclined surface 453. Multiple needles 455 may be spaced apart in the direction in which the edge 4531a of the inclined surface 453 extends. Multiple needles 455 may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance d. Liquid can flow into the liquid inlet 454 through the spaces between the multiple needles.

[0079] The needle 455 may have a triangular pyramidal shape. The needle 455 may be formed to gradually narrow in the direction opposite to the direction in which the liquid flows into the inlet guide 453. The needle 455 may be formed to gradually widen in the direction in which the liquid flows into the inlet guide 453. For example, the needle 455 may be arranged such that two needle inclined surfaces 4552 gradually widen in the direction in which the liquid flows into the inlet guide 453, with respect to one of the needle edges 4553.

[0080] Therefore, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be limited. In addition, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be reduced or the bubbles can be removed.

[0081] Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the inlet guide 453 may be omitted. The liquid inlet 454 may be surrounded by a first hole perimeter 4541 and a second hole perimeter 4541. The first hole perimeter 4541 may cover one side of the liquid inlet 454. The first hole perimeter 4541 may have an irregular shape. The first hole perimeter 4541 may have a winding shape. The second hole perimeter 4542 may cover the other side of the liquid inlet 454. The first hole perimeter 4541 and the second hole perimeter 4542 may be connected to each other.

[0082] The needles 455 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the plate 45. The needles 455 may be adjacent to the edge of the second hole perimeter 4542. Multiple needles 455 may be arranged spaced apart along the second hole perimeter 4542. Multiple needles 455 may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance d. Liquid can flow into the liquid inlet 454 through the spaces between the multiple needles.

[0083] The needles 455 may have a triangular pyramidal shape. The needles 455 may be arranged to gradually expand in the direction toward the liquid inlet 454 from the center of the plate 45. In any one needle 455, any one needle edge 4553 may be inclined toward the liquid inlet 454. With the needle edge 4553 as the center, the two needle inclined surfaces 4552 may be formed to gradually expand toward the liquid inlet 454.

[0084] Therefore, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be limited. In addition, the size of the bubbles flowing into the inflow guide 453 can be reduced or the bubbles can be removed.

[0085] Referring to Figures 1 to 15, a cartridge according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a container formed to define a first chamber configured to store liquid; a frame formed to define a second chamber through which air passes; a plate positioned between the container and the frame and formed to define a first liquid inlet hole separating the first chamber and the second chamber and connecting the first chamber and the second chamber; a wick positioned in the second chamber and communicating with the first chamber through the inlet hole; a heater for heating the wick; and a needle protruding from the plate into the first chamber and gradually tapering away from the plate.

[0086] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the plate may include an inlet guide that is recessed so as to be inclined toward the first liquid inlet hole from the surface facing the first chamber.

[0087] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the needle may be adjacent to the inflow guide.

[0088] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the needle is one of a plurality of needles, and the plurality of needles may be spaced apart from each other around the inflow guide.

[0089] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of needles may be formed to gradually widen in the direction in which the liquid flows from the first chamber into the inflow guide.

[0090] According to other aspects of this disclosure, each of the plurality of needles may have a pyramidal shape.

[0091] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the inflow guide may have a gradually increasing width in the direction toward the first liquid inflow hole and a gradually decreasing width in the direction toward the downward side.

[0092] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the inlet guide may include an inclined line that slopes downward from one end toward the first liquid inlet hole, and a pair of inclined surfaces that gradually increase in width toward the first liquid inlet hole along the inclined line and gradually decrease in width toward the inclined line and intersect at the inclined line.

[0093] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the needle may include a needle inclined surface adjacent to the edge of the inclined surface and inclined in the direction in which the inclined surface is inclined.

[0094] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the plate is formed to define a second liquid inlet hole connecting the first chamber and the second chamber, and the core extends laterally with respect to the second chamber and may include a first end and a second end located below the first and second liquid inlet holes, respectively.

[0095] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the other end of the inclined line may be positioned to correspond to the center.

[0096] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the inflow guide may be inclined downward with respect to the first liquid inflow hole, and the lower end of the inflow guide may be located below the bottom of the first liquid inflow hole.

[0097] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the width of a portion of the inflow guide adjacent to the first liquid inflow hole may be smaller than the width of the first liquid inflow hole.

[0098] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the needle may protrude from one side of the inflow guide.

[0099] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the needle may be formed around the first liquid inflow hole.

[0100] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include the cartridge and a body formed to define an outwardly open insertion space and coupled to the cartridge to communicate with the insertion space.

[0101] The specific or other embodiments of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or all elements of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined with or combined with other elements in terms of configuration or function.

[0102] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of this disclosure and drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of this disclosure and drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if combinations between configurations are not directly described, such combinations are possible unless otherwise stated as impossible.

[0103] While the embodiments have been described above with reference to numerous exemplary examples, those skilled in the art in the field relating to the principles of this disclosure should understand that many other modifications and embodiments are possible. More specifically, a variety of modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of this disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other applications will also become apparent to those skilled in the art.

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