Aerosol generator and aerosol generating apparatus containing the same

Abstract

The aerosol generating device includes a storage unit for storing an aerosol generating material, a transfer unit that receives the aerosol generating material from the storage unit and performs at least one of the functions of filtering foreign matter from the aerosol generating material and adding an additive to the aerosol generating material to change the properties of the aerosol generating material, and an aerosol generator that receives the aerosol generating material from the transfer unit and generates an aerosol, and a coupling unit to which the aerosol generator is coupled.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating apparatus including the same, and more particularly to an aerosol generator including a structure that can alter the properties of an aerosol generating substance, and an aerosol generating apparatus including the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods that generate aerosols by vaporizing aerosol-generating substances, rather than by burning cigarettes to produce aerosols. As a result, research related to such aerosol-generating devices is progressing actively.

[0003] Aerosol generators may need to remove foreign substances such as contaminants and impurities contained in the stored aerosol-generating material. Furthermore, it may be necessary to modify the properties and flow rate of the materials constituting the aerosol-generating material, such as flavor, viscosity, and pH. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] The aerosol generating device also includes a storage unit for storing aerosol-generating material and a generation unit for aerosolizing the aerosol-generating material. Foreign matter in the aerosol-generating material is difficult to remove, and the characteristics and flow rate of the aerosol-generating material are difficult to change.

[0005] The problem that this embodiment aims to solve is to provide an aerosol generator capable of removing foreign matter from aerosol-generating materials, and an aerosol-generating apparatus containing the same.

[0006] Another problem that this embodiment aims to solve is to provide an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating apparatus that can modify the properties of an aerosol generating material by adding a specific substance to the aerosol generating material.

[0007] Another problem that this embodiment aims to solve is to provide an aerosol generator capable of lowering the flash point and / or ignition point of an aerosol generating substance, and an aerosol generating apparatus containing the same.

[0008] Another problem that this embodiment aims to solve is to provide an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating apparatus including the same that can reduce the manufacturing costs required to change the properties of the aerosol generating material.

[0009] The problems to be solved through this embodiment are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment for solving the aforementioned technical problems includes a storage unit for storing an aerosol generating substance, a transmission unit that receives the aerosol generating substance from the storage unit and performs at least one of the functions of filtering foreign matter from the aerosol generating substance and adding an additive to the aerosol generating substance that changes the properties of the aerosol generating substance, an aerosol generator including a generating unit that receives the aerosol generating substance from the transmission unit and generates an aerosol, and a coupling unit to which the aerosol generator is coupled, and capable of transmitting the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator to the outside.

[0011] The means of solving the problem are not limited to those stated above, and also include any matters that can be inferred by an ordinary engineer throughout this specification. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The aerosol generator according to the present embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same can remove foreign matter from an aerosol generating material by including a transmission unit that filters foreign matter from the aerosol generating material between a storage unit and a generating unit.

[0013] The aerosol generator according to the present embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same can change the properties of an aerosol generating material by including a transmission unit that adds an additive substance that changes the properties of the aerosol generating material between a storage unit and a generating unit.

[0014] The aerosol generator according to the present embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same can increase the flash point and / or ignition point of an aerosol generating material by disposing a substance capable of lowering the flash point and / or ignition point of the aerosol generating material separately from the aerosol generating material.

[0015] The aerosol generator according to the present embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same can reduce the manufacturing cost required for changing the properties of an aerosol generating material by including a configuration that allows replacement of at least any one of a storage unit, a transmission unit and a generating unit in the aerosol generator.

[0016] Effects according to the technical idea of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned herein will be clearly understandable to those skilled in the art from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an aerosol generating device including an aerosol generator and a main body according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state where the aerosol generator and the main body of the aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 1 are disassembled. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an aerosol generator according to an embodiment. [Figure 4]This is a diagram illustrating the granular activated carbon in the transmission section according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating a carbon block in a transmission section according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating a mesh structure of a transmission section according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating a fibrous structure of a transmission section according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating a ceramic structure of a transmission unit according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] This is an enlarged view illustrating an embodiment that includes additives in the transmission section. [Figure 10] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the aerosol generator shown. [Figure 11] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus, including an aerosol generator, a main body, and a medium, according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates an example of a medium according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates an example of a medium according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] The terminology used in this embodiment has been selected as widely used and common terms as possible, taking into consideration the function of the present invention. However, these terms may differ depending on the intentions of engineers in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in this invention must not be merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0019] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it includes other components, not excludes them. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" or "...module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0020] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one of” precedes a set of elements, it modifies the entire set of elements, rather than each of the elements themselves. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” must be interpreted as including a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0021] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that electrically heats a cigarette contained in an internal space to generate an aerosol.

[0022] The aerosol generator also includes a heater. In one embodiment, the heater is also an electrical resistive heater. For example, the heater may include an electrical conductive track, and the heater may be heated when an electric current flows through the electrical conductive track.

[0023] The heater may include tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements, or rod heating elements, and depending on the form of the heating elements, it may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette.

[0024] A cigarette also includes a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, a strand, or finely shredded tobacco. The tobacco rod may also be covered with a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to that.

[0025] The filter rod is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may consist of at least one segment. For example, the filter rod may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering out predetermined components contained in the aerosol.

[0026] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates aerosols using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0027] The aerosol generator also includes a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a body that supports the cartridge. The cartridge may, but is not limited to, be detachably coupled to the body. The cartridge may also be formed integrally with the body or assembled and fixed so that it cannot be detached by the user. The cartridge may be mounted on the body with the aerosol-generating substance contained inside. However, it is not limited to this, and the aerosol-generating substance may also be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the body.

[0028] The cartridge may contain an aerosol-generating substance that exists in one of a variety of states, such as liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may also include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0029] The cartridge can perform the function of generating an aerosol by being activated by an electrical or wireless signal transmitted from the main unit, thereby converting the phase of the aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge to a gas phase. The aerosol may refer to a gaseous state in which vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance are mixed with air.

[0030] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which can then pass through a cigarette and be delivered to the user. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition moves along an airflow passage in the aerosol generator, which may be configured to allow the aerosol to pass through a cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0031] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating material using an ultrasonic vibration method. In this case, the ultrasonic vibration method may mean a method of generating aerosols by atomizing the aerosol-generating material with ultrasonic vibrations generated by a transducer.

[0032] Aerosol generating devices may include an oscillator, which generates short-period vibrations and atomizes aerosol-generating materials.

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

[0034] The aerosol generator can be configured with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may charge the aerosol generator's battery, or the heater may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generator are coupled together.

[0035] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates an aerosol by heating the medium contained within the aerosol generating device using an induction heating method.

[0036] Induction heating can refer to a method of generating heat from a magnetic material by applying an alternating magnetic field.

[0037] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss can occur due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. The lost energy can be released from the magnetic material as thermal energy. The larger the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field, the more thermal energy can be released from the magnetic material.

[0038] An induction heating aerosol generator also includes a susceptor and a coil. For example, the susceptor may be positioned outside the medium, adjacent to it. Alternatively, the susceptor may be positioned inside the medium. When power is supplied to the coil, it forms a magnetic field, which in turn can apply a magnetic field to the susceptor.

[0039] In one embodiment, the susceptor is also a magnetic material that generates heat when an external magnetic field is applied. In another example, the susceptor is a non-magnetic metal. When a magnetic field is applied to a susceptor placed inside a coil, the susceptor generates heat, and the susceptor can heat the medium.

[0040] Furthermore, the direction in which a component is extended refers to the direction in which the length of that component is extended.

[0041] Hereafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so as to be readily implementable by a person ordinary in the art. The present disclosure may be implemented in any form that can be embodied in the aerosol generating apparatus of the various embodiments described above, or in any different form, but will not be limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0042] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 1, including an aerosol generator 10 and a main body 20, according to one embodiment.

[0044] Referring to Figure 1, one embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 also includes an aerosol generator 10 and a main body 20.

[0045] The aerosol generator 10 can be detachably coupled to the main body 20. The aerosol generator 10 is also sometimes referred to as a cartridge.

[0046] The aerosol generator 10 also includes a storage unit 11, a transmission unit 12, and a generation unit 13.

[0047] The storage unit 11 can store aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 11 can be supplied to the transmission unit 12 contained in the aerosol generator 10.

[0048] The transmission unit 12 can filter out foreign matter from the aerosol-generating material. For example, the transmission unit 12 can perform the function of filtering out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol-generating material.

[0049] Furthermore, the transmission unit 12 can perform the function of adding a specific substance to the aerosol-generating material. For example, the transmission unit 12 can add a fragrance substance to the aerosol-generating material.

[0050] The transmission unit 12 can perform both the function of filtering specific substances from aerosol-generating materials and the function of adding specific substances to aerosol-generating materials. In other words, the transmission unit 12 can perform at least one of the functions of filtering specific substances from aerosol-generating materials and adding specific substances to aerosol-generating materials.

[0051] The transmission unit 12 may be positioned between the storage unit 11 and the generation unit 13.

[0052] For example, the transmission unit 12 may be located inside the storage unit 11 and in contact with the generation unit 13. In another example, a fluid passage for the aerosol-generating substance may be formed between the storage unit 11 and the generation unit 13, and the transmission unit 12 may be located on the fluid passage formed between the storage unit 11 and the generation unit 13.

[0053] The transmission section 12 may also include a seal (not shown). The seal may perform functions such as preventing the aerosol-generating material stored in the storage section 11 from leaking outside the aerosol generator 10, or preventing the aerosol-generating material from leaking into the main body 20. The seal may be positioned between the storage section 11 and the transmission section 12. For example, the seal may be bonded to the storage section 11 by a pressure-fitting method, but the bonding method is not limited to this. The seal may also include an elastic material such as rubber.

[0054] The seal may be positioned between the storage section 11 and the transmission section 12. The seal may be positioned at the end portion of the transmission section 12. The seal may be formed integrally with the transmission section 12.

[0055] As another example, a seal may be placed between the transmission unit 12 and the generation unit 13.

[0056] The generation unit 13 can receive aerosol-generating material from the transfer unit 12. The generation unit 13 can generate aerosols from the aerosol-generating material.

[0057] In this disclosure, "aerosol" may mean vapor of an aerosol-generating substance that has been aerosolized.

[0058] The generation unit 13 also includes a heater and a wick. The aerosol-generating material transmitted to the generation unit 13 can be absorbed by the wick and heated by the heater.

[0059] The heater can heat the aerosol-generating material absorbed by the wick. The heater may be arranged so as to be wrapped around the wick. For example, the heater may use power supplied from the battery of the main body 20 to heat the aerosol-generating material absorbed by the wick.

[0060] A heater may also include a metallic material that generates heat through electrical resistance. For example, the heater may include stainless steel to prevent corrosion by aerosol-generating substances absorbed into the wick, but the metallic material of the heater is not limited to stainless steel. In other examples, the heater may also include metallic materials such as copper, nickel, and tungsten.

[0061] The core is positioned inside the generating unit 13 and can absorb the aerosol-generating substance stored inside the storage unit 11.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the core may also contain cotton material. However, the material of the core is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and depending on the embodiment, it may also contain other materials (e.g., glass or ceramics).

[0063] As another example, the generation unit 13 may also include a transducer. This transducer can generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating substance using an ultrasonic vibration method. The generation unit 13 can generate aerosols by atomizing the aerosol-generating substance with the ultrasonic vibrations produced by the transducer.

[0064] The generating unit 13 can atomize the aerosol-generating material by generating short-period vibrations via a transducer. The vibrations generated by the transducer are ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of these ultrasonic vibrations is approximately 100 kHz to approximately 3.5 MHz, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0065] The generating unit 13 may also further include a core. For example, the core may be arranged to cover at least one region of the oscillator, or to be in contact with at least one region of the oscillator.

[0066] 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 can be transmitted to the aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core. The aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core is converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the transducer, and as a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0067] For example, heat generated from the transducer may reduce the viscosity of the aerosol-generating material absorbed into the core, and ultrasonic vibrations generated from the transducer may further atomize the reduced-viscosity aerosol-generating material, thereby generating an aerosol; however, the disclosure is not limited to this.

[0068] The aerosol generator 10 also includes an opening 14. The opening 14 can discharge aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating material to the outside. The opening 14 can fluidly connect the generation unit 13 to the outside. The user can inhale the aerosols generated in the generation unit 13 through the opening 14.

[0069] The aerosol generator 10 may be detachably coupled to the main body 20. The main body 20 may support the aerosol generator 10. Components for the operation of the aerosol generator 1 may be arranged inside the main body 20.

[0070] Anyone with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment will understand that, in addition to the components shown in Figure 2, other components may be further included in the aerosol generator 1.

[0071] In the following section, the coupling relationship between the aerosol generator 10 and the main unit 20 will be explained in detail with reference to Figure 2.

[0072] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the aerosol generator 10 and main body 20 of the aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figure 1, disassembled.

[0073] Referring to Figure 2, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1 also includes an aerosol generator 10 and a main body 20. The components of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as, or similar to, the components of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 1, but in the following, explanations of components that overlap with the explanation given with reference to Figure 1 will be omitted.

[0074] The main unit 20 also includes a coupling part 21, an air inlet 22, an airflow passage 23, a control unit 24, and a battery 25.

[0075] The aerosol generator 10 can be detachably coupled to the coupling portion 21. The coupling portion 21 also includes a configuration for the aerosol generator 10 to be detachably coupled. The aerosol generator 10 also includes a configuration at a position corresponding to the coupling portion 21 for the aerosol generator 10 to be detachably coupled to the coupling portion 21. By coupling to the coupling portion 21, the aerosol generator 10 can be coupled to the main body 20, and by separating from the coupling portion 21, it can be separated from the main body 20.

[0076] If the aerosol generator 10 is connected to the main body 20, the generation unit 13 of the aerosol generator 10 may be located in at least a part of the connection portion 21.

[0077] The main body 20 may have an air inlet 22 that allows outside air to flow into the aerosol generator 1. For example, the air inlet 22 may be formed on one side of the main body 20, as shown in Figure 2, but this is illustrative, and it may be formed in various locations to allow outside air to flow into the aerosol generator 1.

[0078] As another example, unlike the one shown in Figure 2, the air inlet may also be formed in the aerosol generator 10. In that case, the airflow passage, which will be described later, may also be formed in the aerosol generator 10.

[0079] One region of the airflow passage 23 may be formed in the space between the main body 20 and the aerosol generator 10. The airflow passage 23 can form a flow path through which external air flowing in via the air inlet 22 flows into the interior of the aerosol generator 1. The airflow passage 23 is located between the air inlet 22 and the generation unit 13, and can fluidly connect the air inlet 22 and the generation unit 13. That is, air flowing into the interior of the aerosol generator 1 via the air inlet 22 can reach the generation unit 13 along the airflow passage 23.

[0080] When the user inhales through the opening 14, the pressure in the space where the generation unit 13 is located decreases, allowing outside air that has flowed in through the air inlet 22 of the main body 20 to move to the generation unit 13 via the airflow passage 23. In the generation unit 13, the aerosols aerosolized from the aerosol-generating material are mixed with the air that has flowed in through the airflow passage 23 and can be discharged to the outside through the opening 14.

[0081] With the above configuration, the aerosol generating device 1 can transmit the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 10 to the outside.

[0082] Figure 2 illustrates that the control unit 24 and the battery 15 are arranged in a single line inside the main unit 20. However, the internal structure of the main unit 20 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 2. In other words, the arrangement of the coupling part 21, air inlet 22, airflow passage 23, control unit 24, and battery 25 can be changed depending on the design of the main unit 20.

[0083] The control unit 24 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. Specifically, the control unit 24 controls the operation of not only the aerosol generator 10 and the battery 15, but also other components included in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 24 can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether or not the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0084] The control unit 24 includes at least one processor. This processor can be embodied by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. It can also be embodied by other forms of hardware, as will be understood by anyone with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs.

[0085] The battery 25 supplies the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 25 can supply power to the generation unit 13 so that the generation unit 13 can generate aerosols, and can also supply the power necessary for the control unit 24 to operate.

[0086] The aerosol generator 1 may also include other components. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generator 1 may also include a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, etc. Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 may be constructed in such a way that external air can be introduced or internal gas can be released.

[0087] The battery 25 can supply the power necessary for the display, sensors, motors, and other components installed in the aerosol generator 1 to operate.

[0088] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the aerosol generator 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0089] Referring to Figure 3, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 10 also includes a storage unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a generation unit 13, and an opening 14. The components of the aerosol generator 10 are the same as or similar to the components of the aerosol generator 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2, but in the following, explanations of components that overlap with the explanation given with reference to Figures 1 and 2 will be omitted.

[0090] The aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage section 11 of the aerosol generator 10 may contain a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid composition that includes a non-tobacco substance.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the liquid composition may be one of the following components: water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, flavoring agent, and vitamin mixture, or a mixture thereof. The flavoring agent may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. The flavoring agent may also include components that can provide the user with a variety of flavors or aromas. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but is not limited to these. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0092] For example, the liquid composition may also contain a solution of glycerin and propylene glycol in any weight ratio to which a nicotine salt has been added. The liquid composition may also contain two or more nicotine salts. The nicotine salt may be formed by adding a suitable acid, including an organic or inorganic acid, to nicotine. The nicotine may be naturally occurring or synthetic nicotine and may have any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0093] The acid for nicotine salt formation can be appropriately selected considering factors such as the rate of nicotine absorption into the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generator, flavor or aroma, and solubility. For example, the acid for nicotine salt formation may be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the aforementioned group.

[0094] The aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 11 can be moved in one direction toward the generation unit 13. At this time, the transfer unit 12 may be positioned between the storage unit 11 and the generation unit 13. The transfer unit 12 can alter at least some of the components of the aerosol-generating material before it is transferred from the storage unit 11 to the generation unit 13.

[0095] For example, the transmission unit 12 is made of a porous material of a certain size or smaller, and can perform the function of preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol-generating material from being transmitted to the generation unit 13 by filtering out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol-generating material.

[0096] If the transmission section 12 is made of a porous material of a certain size or smaller, and foreign matter of a certain size or larger is filtered from the aerosol generating material, then high-quality aerosols generated by the aerosol generating material can be provided to the user.

[0097] As another example, the transmission unit 12 includes an additive that can alter the properties of the aerosol-generating substance, and the additive can be added to the aerosol-generating substance.

[0098] For example, the transfer unit 12 contains a fragrance substance, and the transfer unit 12 can perform the function of imparting flavor to the aerosol-generating substance by adding the fragrance substance to the aerosol-generating substance. In the process of the transfer unit 12 transferring the aerosol-generating substance to the generating unit, the fragrance substance contained in the transfer unit 12 can impart flavor to the aerosol-generating substance by being mixed with the aerosol-generating substance, dissolving in the aerosol-generating substance, or reacting with the aerosol-generating substance.

[0099] As another example, the transmission unit 12 may also include a viscous substance that adjusts the viscosity of the aerosol-generating substance. The transmission unit 12 can perform the function of changing the viscosity of the aerosol-generating substance by adding the viscous substance to the aerosol-generating substance.

[0100] As another example, the transfer unit 12 may also include an acidity-regulating substance that adjusts the acidity of a liquid (the hydrogen ion concentration index (pH), which indicates how many hydrogen ions are present, serving as a measure of acidity or alkalinity). The transfer unit 12 can perform the function of changing the acidity of an aerosol-generating substance by adding an acidity-regulating substance to the aerosol-generating substance.

[0101] As another example, the transmission unit 120 contains a variety of substances that may be included in the aforementioned aerosol-generating substance (e.g., tobacco-containing substances, non-tobacco substances, plant extracts, vitamin mixtures, aerosol-forming agents, nicotine, mixtures thereof, etc.) and can perform the function of altering the properties of the aerosol-generating substance.

[0102] The aerosol generator 10, by including a transfer unit 12, does not hinder the transfer of the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit 11 to the generation unit 13, and can change the properties of the aerosol-generating substance immediately before it is aerosolized.

[0103] The transmission unit 12 can perform a combination of the functions of the transmission unit 12 described above. For example, the transmission unit 12 can filter out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, while simultaneously adding a fragrance substance to the aerosol generating material.

[0104] The transmission unit 12 can add flavoring substances to the aerosol generating substance. The transmission unit 12 can add flavor to the aerosol generating substance. In other words, if the aerosol generator is equipped with the transmission unit 12, there is no need to add flavor to the aerosol generating substance in advance, and the flavor can be added just before the aerosol is provided to the user.

[0105] If various additives that may be included in an aerosol-generating substance are dissolved in or mixed with the aerosol-generating substance, the flash point and / or ignition point of the aerosol-generating substance can be lowered. However, if the flash point and / or ignition point of the aerosol-generating substance is below a certain temperature, the transportation costs of the aerosol-generating substance may increase. For example, in certain areas, if a liquid with a flash point and / or ignition point below a certain temperature is transported by aircraft, explosion-proof designs such as bulkhead installation and individual packaging may be required. In such cases, there is a concern that the transportation costs of the aerosol-generating substance may increase excessively due to these explosion-proof designs, significantly worsening the profitability of the aerosol generator 10, or significantly increasing the cost of providing the aerosol generator 10 to the user.

[0106] According to this disclosure, when dissolved in an aerosol-generating substance, certain substances that may lower the flash point and / or ignition point of the aerosol-generating substance are not transported dissolved or mixed with the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage unit 11, but are transported together in the transfer unit 12, which is handled separately from the storage unit 11. This makes it possible to keep the flash point and / or ignition point of the aerosol-generating substance above a certain temperature, thereby reducing the transportation costs of the aerosol-generating substance and ensuring the profitability of the aerosol generator 10.

[0107] As another example, the thickness of the transmission section 12 can be varied to adjust the rate at which the aerosol-generating substance is transmitted to the generation section 13, thereby adjusting the concentration of the aerosol-generating substance within the aerosol. For example, if the transmission section 12 is relatively thicker, the rate at which the aerosol-generating substance is transmitted to the generation section 13 will be slower than if the transmission section 12 is thinner, allowing the user to obtain an even lower concentration of the aerosol-generating substance under the same conditions. The manufacturer can distribute transmission sections 12 of various thicknesses, and the user can select a transmission section 12 of the thickness that allows them to obtain the desired concentration of the aerosol substance.

[0108] Figures 4 to 8 are schematic diagrams illustrating specific embodiments of the transmission unit 12 described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

[0109] Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams illustrating the transmission section 12, which includes a carbon structure.

[0110] The transmission unit 12 also includes a carbon structure containing activated carbon that filters out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, thereby preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol generating material from being transmitted to the generation unit.

[0111] Carbon structures are materials containing carbon and can be used for removing foreign matter. Specifically, these carbon structures are also activated carbon. Activated carbon is a porous material, like charcoal, whose main component is carbon, and it has a large surface area and strong adsorption properties. Activated carbon can be formed from specially heat-treated wood, coconut, or coal. Activated carbon is a porous material containing countless microscopic pores, and when aerosol-generating substances pass through activated carbon, foreign matter in the aerosol-generating substances can be filtered out.

[0112] Referring to Figure 4, the carbon structure contained in the transmission section 12 also includes multiple granular activated carbon 121a.

[0113] Granules refer to small particles, about the size of grains of sand, and granular activated carbon 121a is activated carbon that has been made into granules. At least a portion of the granular activated carbon 121a can be formed into shapes such as pillars and rods.

[0114] Furthermore, when the aerosol-generating substance passes through the transfer section 12, it exits through the shortest and easiest path within the internal pathways of the granular activated carbon 121a. Due to this characteristic, a kind of tunnel is formed inside the transfer section 12 for the aerosol-generating substance to pass through, and the aerosol-generating substance passing through the transfer section 12 hardly comes into contact with the entire transfer section 12.

[0115] For example, by appropriately designing the tunnels inside the granular activated carbon 121a, minimizing the pathway, and lengthening or shortening the tunnels, the amount of aerosol that passes through the transmission section 12 can be adjusted.

[0116] As another example, fragrance can be added near the tunnel formed inside the granular activated carbon 121a so that the added substance is effectively added to the aerosol-generating material. The granular activated carbon 121a can be formed into a rod shape.

[0117] Referring to Figure 5, the carbon structure included in the transmission section 12 also includes multiple carbon blocks 121b, which are solid materials containing carbon. The carbon blocks 121b are formed from clumps of carbon powder. This carbon powder can be formed from the decomposition of activated carbon.

[0118] In the dense carbon powder that constitutes the carbon block 121b, aerosol-generating substances can pass through, and in the process, foreign matter from the aerosol-generating substances may be adsorbed onto the carbon block 121b. If the carbon powder is coated with an additive such as a flavoring agent, the carbon block 121b can also play a role in imparting flavor to the aerosol-generating substances.

[0119] Referring to Figure 6, the transmission section 12 also includes a porous mesh structure 122 that filters out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, thereby preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol generating material from being transmitted to the generation section.

[0120] The mesh structure 122 may also include capillary fibers. The mesh structure 122 may be formed by welding a mat of capillary fibers. The mesh structure 122 may be formed from woven or nonwoven materials. The fibers of the woven or nonwoven materials may be parallel, twisted, kinked, or any combination of these types of fibers. The mesh structure 122 may also include a single material or multiple materials. The material may be metallic or nonmetallic, natural, synthetic, or a combination of both. For example, the fibers of the mesh structure 122 may be made of cellulose fibers, stainless steel, etc.

[0121] Since the porous mesh structure 122 prevents foreign matter of a certain size or larger from passing through, it can remove foreign matter of a certain size or larger contained in the aerosol-generating substance that passes through the transmission section 12.

[0122] Referring to Figure 7, the transmission section 12 also includes a porous fiber structure 123 made of fiber material that filters out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, thereby preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol generating material from being transmitted to the generation section.

[0123] For example, the fibrous structure is also a cotton structure formed from cotton material. The material of the porous cotton structure is not limited to cotton, but also includes various fibrous materials that can allow fluids to pass through, such as cotton.

[0124] Since the porous fiber structure 123 prevents foreign matter of a certain size or larger from passing through, it can remove foreign matter of a certain size or larger contained in the aerosol-generating substance that passes through the transmission section 12.

[0125] Referring to Figure 8, the transmission section 12 also includes a porous ceramic structure 124 that filters out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, thereby preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol generating material from being transmitted to the generation section.

[0126] The ceramic structure 124 is a structure made by firing porous ceramic powder at high temperature, and can remove foreign matter through fine pores (air holes with a diameter of 0.5 to 1 μm). Since the porous ceramic structure 124 does not allow foreign matter of a certain size or larger to pass through, it can remove foreign matter of a certain size or larger contained in the aerosol generating material that passes through the transmission section 12.

[0127] The embodiments of the transmission unit 12 described with reference to Figures 4 to 8 can be applied individually or in combination.

[0128] Figure 9 is an enlarged view illustrating an example of including an additive in the transmission section 12. Figure 9 shows a magnified view of a part of the transmission section.

[0129] The transmission section 12 is composed of several particles (granules), and additives may be coated onto the particles.

[0130] Figure 9(a) illustrates an example of particles that make up the structure contained in the transmission section 12. The particles shown in Figure 9(a) are not coated with additives. Therefore, no additives are added to the aerosol-generating material passing through the transmission section containing only the particles shown in Figure 9(a).

[0131] Figure 9(b) illustrates an example of a state in which particles forming a structure contained in the transmission section 12 are coated with additives. In Figure 9(b), the substances coating the particles include a variety of substances such as the aforementioned flavoring agents, viscous substances, acidity modifiers, nicotine, vitamins, and aerosol-forming agents.

[0132] The aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 11 passes through the transfer unit 12 and is moved to the generation unit 13. As the aerosol-generating material passes through the transfer unit 12, the additive material coated on the particles in Figure 9(b) may be dissolved in or mixed with the aerosol-generating material and added to it.

[0133] When a certain volume or more of aerosol-generating material passes through the transfer unit 12, the additive is removed from the particles, and the particles may take on the same or similar form as shown in Figure 9(a). In that case, since all the additive has been consumed in the transfer unit 12, the user can replace the transfer unit and / or the aerosol generator.

[0134] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the aerosol generator 10 shown in Figure 3.

[0135] Referring to Figure 10, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 10 also includes an aerosol storage unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a generation unit 13, and an opening 14. The components of the aerosol generator 10 are the same as, or similar to, the components of the aerosol generator 10 shown in Figure 3, but in the following, explanations of components that overlap with the explanation given with reference to Figure 3 will be omitted.

[0136] At least one of the storage unit 11, transmission unit 12, and generation unit 13 included in the aerosol generator 10 can be detachably coupled from the other components.

[0137] For example, the transmission unit 12 may be detachably connected to at least one of the storage unit 11 and the generation unit 13.

[0138] The transmission unit 12 can still perform its function of filtering foreign matter even if a certain volume of aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 11 has been completely consumed after passing through the transmission unit 12 and the generation unit 13.

[0139] As another example, the additives contained in the transfer unit 12 still contain the additives even if a certain volume of aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 11 is completely consumed after passing through the transfer unit 12 and the generation unit 13. In other words, the transfer unit 12 can perform the function of adding additives to the aerosol-generating material.

[0140] In the above-mentioned cases, replacing the entire aerosol generator 10, including the transmission unit 12, on the grounds that the aerosol-generating material has been depleted, could be a waste of resources.

[0141] Furthermore, even if all the aerosol-generating substances in the storage unit 11 are consumed, the generation unit 13 can still maintain its function of generating aerosols.

[0142] Since at least one of the storage unit 11, transmission unit 12, and generation unit 13 included in the aerosol generator 10 is detachably coupled from the other components, only the components that need to be replaced can be selectively replaced, thus preventing the waste of resources.

[0143] For example, if the transmission unit 12 is detachably coupled to the aerosol generator 10, when all the aerosol-generating material in the storage unit 11 is consumed, the user can replace the other components without replacing the transmission unit 12, although the other components will be replaced.

[0144] To give another example, if the additive in the transfer unit 12 of the storage unit 11 is exhausted, the user can replace only the transfer unit 12 without replacing the other components of the aerosol generator 10.

[0145] Therefore, when manufacturing the aerosol generator 10, the manufacturer may manufacture and distribute the aerosol generator 10 without including the transmission unit 12, or manufacture and distribute the transmission unit 12 separately.

[0146] Generally, if a manufacturer wanted to change the properties of an aerosol-generating substance, they had to either modify the production line or add new manufacturing equipment, which required considerable expense.

[0147] If the transfer unit 12 is manufactured to be separable from the aerosol generator 10, the user can change the properties of the aerosol-generating substance by replacing only the transfer unit 12. For example, by changing the transfer unit 12 that was previously used to a transfer unit 12 containing other additives, the user can change various properties of the aerosol-generating substance, such as changing the type of flavor of the aerosol, changing the flavor concentration, changing the atomization amount, or changing the nicotine concentration.

[0148] Furthermore, when the transmission unit 12 is separated from the aerosol generator 10, the aerosol-generating material inside the storage unit 11 may flow out to the outside. To prevent this, a blocking element (not shown) that prevents fluid transmission may be formed between the storage unit 11 and the transmission unit 12. This blocking element may be a blocking plate structure or a blocking valve structure. This blocking element may be moved between a blocked position and an open position.

[0149] For example, the blocking element can be moved between a blocked position and an open position by a separate operation by the user. In that case, the user can move the blocking element to the blocked position by a separate operation, then separate the transmission unit 12 from the aerosol generator 10, connect the transmission unit 12 to the aerosol generator 10, and then move the blocking element to the open position by a separate operation.

[0150] For example, the blocking element may automatically move to the blocking position when the transmission unit 12 is separated from the aerosol generator 10, and automatically move to the open position when the transmission unit 12 is connected to the aerosol generator 10.

[0151] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, the manufacturer can change the properties of the aerosol-generating substance provided to the user simply by changing the additives in the transmission unit 12. This has the advantage of achieving the same objective with less manufacturing equipment costs compared to methods that required a complete redesign of the aerosol generator 10, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the aerosol generator 10 and allowing the aerosol generator 10 to be provided to the user at an even more economical price.

[0152] As another example, when the storage unit 11 can be separated from the aerosol generator 10, the user can continue to use the transmission unit 12 and the generation unit 13 by replacing only the storage unit 11 with a new storage unit 11 while leaving the other components of the aerosol generator 10 as they are.

[0153] As yet another example, when the generation unit 13 is separated from the aerosol generator 10, the user can continue to use the storage unit 11 and the transmission unit 12 by simply replacing the generation unit 13 with a new generation unit 13.

[0154] As mentioned above, the aerosol generating device includes components that can output information externally, such as a display, and also includes components that can control other components, such as a control unit.

[0155] The control unit of the main body can calculate whether or not the alternation cycle of the transmission unit 12 has passed.

[0156] For example, after the transmission unit 12 is first connected to the aerosol generator 10, if the operating time of the aerosol generator 1 exceeds a predetermined time, the control unit can recognize that the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12 has been completed.

[0157] As another example, after the transmission unit 12 is initially connected to the aerosol generator 10, if the puff sensor of the aerosol generator 1 detects a predetermined number of puffs or more, the control unit may recognize that the transmission unit 12's replacement cycle has elapsed.

[0158] As another example, in an embodiment in which the storage unit 11 is separable and replaceable, if the storage unit 11 is detected to have been replaced more than a predetermined number of times after the transmission unit 12 is first coupled to the aerosol generator 10, the control unit may recognize that the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12 has been exceeded.

[0159] The control unit may output information related to the replacement of the transmission unit to the outside if the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12 has elapsed. For example, if the aerosol generator has elapsed the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12, it may output a text message on the display indicating that the transmission unit 12 needs to be replaced.

[0160] As another example, the control unit may include a speaker and, if the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12 has elapsed, output an audio message via the speaker indicating that the transmission unit 12 needs to be replaced.

[0161] As another example, the control unit may include a vibration motor, and when the replacement cycle of the transmission unit 12 has elapsed, the vibration motor will vibrate, thereby informing the user through touch that the transmission unit 12 needs to be replaced.

[0162] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 1, which includes an aerosol generator 10, a main body 20, and a medium 30, according to one embodiment.

[0163] Referring to Figure 11, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1 also includes an aerosol generator 10, a main body 20, and a medium 30. The components of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as or similar to the components of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2, but in the following, explanations of components that overlap with the explanation given with reference to Figures 1 and 2 will be omitted.

[0164] In one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1, a medium 30 (for example, a cigarette) can be contained in the aerosol generator 10. The aerosol generator 10 also includes a containment section for containing the medium 30, and the aerosol generated inside the aerosol generator 10 can pass through the medium 30 contained in the containment section and be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1. At this time, the user can bring their mouth into contact with the medium 30 and inhale the aerosol through the medium 30. A specific description of the medium 30 in one embodiment will be given later with reference to Figures 12 and 13.

[0165] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate examples of media according to other embodiments. The following explanation of examples of media will refer to Figures 12 and 13.

[0166] Referring to Figure 12, the medium 3 includes a tobacco rod 31 and a filter rod 32. The first part of the aforementioned medium 3 includes the tobacco rod 31, and the second part includes the filter rod 32.

[0167] Figure 12 illustrates the filter rod 32 as a single segment, but it is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 32 can also be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 32 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering predetermined components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, if necessary, the filter rod 32 may also include at least one additional segment that performs other functions.

[0168] The diameter of the medium 3 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and its length is approximately 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 32 is approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 32 is approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 32 is approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0169] The medium 3 can be packaged by at least one flaps 34. The flaps 34 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gas exits. For example, the medium 3 can be packaged by one flaps 34. As another example, the medium 3 can also be superimposed on two or more flaps 34. For example, a tobacco rod 31 may be packaged by a first flaps 341, and a filter rod 32 may be packaged by flaps (second flaps 342, third flaps 343, fourth flaps 344). The entire medium 3 may then be further packaged by a single flaps 34. If the filter rod 32 consists of multiple segments, each segment may be packaged by flaps (second flaps 342, third flaps 343, fourth flaps 344).

[0170] The first and second flaps 341 and 342 can be made from general filter paper. For example, the first and second flaps 341 and 342 can be porous or non-porous paper. Alternatively, the first and second flaps 341 and 342 can be made from oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum-laminated paper packaging materials.

[0171] The third flap 343 can be made from hard-wound paper. For example, the basis weight of the third flap 343 may be 88 g / m². 2 ~96g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 90 g / m². 2 ~94g / m 2 It may fall within this range. Also, the thickness of the third trumpet 343 is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably 125 μm.

[0172] The fourth flap 344 can be made from oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth flap 344 may be 88 g / m². 2 ~96g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 90 g / m². 2 ~94g / m 2may be included within the range. Further, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 344 is included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and is preferably 125 μm.

[0173] The fifth wrapper 345 may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Herein, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to specially manufactured paper whose tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness and other properties are improved compared with ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 345 is 57g / m 2 to 63g / m 2 is included within the range, and is preferably 60g / m 2 Further, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 345 is included in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and is preferably 67 μm.

[0174] A predetermined substance may be internally added to the fifth wrapper 345. Herein, silicone may be mentioned as an example of the predetermined substance, but the predetermined substance is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance against oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if the substance is not silicone, as long as it has the aforementioned properties, it can be applied (or coated) on the fifth wrapper 345 without limitation.

[0175] The fifth wrapper 345 can prevent the combustion of the medium 3. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 31, the medium 3 may be combusted. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 345 contains a non-combustible substance, the combustion of the medium 3 can be prevented.

[0176] Further, the fifth wrapper 345 can prevent the aerosol generating device 1 from being contaminated by substances generated from the medium 3. A liquid substance may be generated inside the medium 3 by a user's puff. For example, when the aerosol generated by the medium 3 is cooled by external air, a liquid substance (e.g., moisture) may be generated. Since the fifth wrapper 345 wraps the medium 3, leakage of the liquid substance generated inside the medium 3 to the outside of the medium 3 can be prevented.

[0177] The tobacco rod 31 contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 31 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 31 by spraying it.

[0178] The tobacco rod 31 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 31 can be made from a sheet or from a strand. It can also be made from shredded tobacco, which is a tobacco sheet that has been finely cut. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 31 can be covered with a heat-conducting material. For example, this heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. As an example, a heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 31 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 31, improving the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco flavor.

[0179] The filter rod 32 is also a cellulose acetate filter. There are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 32. For example, the filter rod 32 can be a cylindrical rod, a tubular rod containing a hollow interior, or a recessed rod. If the filter rod 32 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0180] The first segment of the filter rod 32 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment may be, but is not limited to, a suitable diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm.

[0181] The length of the first segment may be, but is not limited to, a suitable length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited to that.

[0182] During the manufacturing of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by controlling the plasticizer content. Furthermore, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube of the same or different material into its interior (for example, hollow).

[0183] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the form of the medium 3. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited to that.

[0184] The second segment may be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance solution may be applied to the polymer-made fibers. Alternatively, the second segment may be made by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a fragrance solution and the polymer-made fiber. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed from a rolled polymer sheet.

[0185] For example, polymers can be made from materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0186] By forming the second segment from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may also include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction, where the channels represent passages through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0187] For example, the second segment, which consists of a rolled polymer sheet, may be formed from a material having a thickness between approximately 5 μm and approximately 300 μm, for example, between approximately 10 μm and approximately 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is approximately 300 mm². 2 / mm and approximately 1,000mm 2 It can be between / mm. Also, the specific surface area of ​​the aerosol cooling element is approximately 10 mm². 2 / mg and approximately 100mm 2 It can be formed by materials between / mg.

[0188] The second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component. This volatile flavor component may be menthol, but is not limited to it. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0189] The third segment of the filter rod 32 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment can be appropriately set within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment can be as long as approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to that.

[0190] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may also be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid can be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 31 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 32, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user via the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user may be enhanced.

[0191] Furthermore, the filter rod 32 may contain at least one capsule 33. Here, the capsule 33 may perform the function of generating flavor or the function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 33 is a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring substance is covered with a film. The capsule 33 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to these.

[0192] Referring to Figure 13, the medium 4 also further includes a front plug 43. The front plug 43 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 41 opposite the filter rod 42. The front plug 43 prevents the tobacco rod 41 from being detached to the outside and prevents the liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod 41 from flowing into the aerosol generator 1 during smoking.

[0193] The filter rod 42 also includes a first segment 421 and a second segment 422. Here, the first segment 421 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 32 in Figure 12, and the second segment 422 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 32 in Figure 12.

[0194] The diameter and overall length of medium 4 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of medium 3 in Figure 12. For example, the length of the front plug 43 is approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 41 is approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 421 is approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 422 is approximately 14 mm, but is not limited to these.

[0195] The medium 4 may be packaged by at least one flaps 45. The flaps 45 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gas exits. For example, the front plug 43 may be packaged by a first flaps 451, the tobacco rod 41 by a second flaps 452, the first segment 421 by a third flaps 453, and the second segment 422 by a fourth flaps 454. The entire medium 4 may then be further packaged by a fifth flaps 455.

[0196] Furthermore, at least one perforation 46 may be formed in the fifth trumpet 455. For example, the perforation 46 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 41, but is not limited thereto.

[0197] Furthermore, the second segment 422 may include at least one capsule 44. Here, the capsule 44 may perform the function of generating flavor or the function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 44 is also a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring substance is covered with a film. The capsule 44 may, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0198] The first wrapper 451 is also a general filter wrapping paper to which a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, is bonded. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper 451 is within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 451 is within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 451 is 50 g / m². 2 ~55g / m 2It falls within the range, preferably 53 g / m². 2 But so.

[0199] The second and third flaps 452 and 453 can be made from common filter paper. For example, the second and third flaps 452 and 453 can be porous or non-porous paper.

[0200] For example, the porosity of the second flank 452 is 35,000 CU, but is not limited to that. Also, the thickness of the second flank 452 is within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably 78 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the second flank 452 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 23.5 g / m². 2 But so.

[0201] For example, the porosity of the third flank 453 is 24,000 CU, but is not limited to that. Also, the thickness of the third flank 453 is within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably 68 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the third flank 453 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It is included within the range, preferably 21 g / m² 2 But so.

[0202] The fourth flank 454 may be made from polylactic acid (PLA) laminate. Here, the polylactic acid (PLA) laminate means a triple-layered paper comprising a paper layer, a polylactic acid (PLA) layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth flank 454 is within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth flank 454 is 80 g / m². 2 ~100g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 88 g / m² 2 But so.

[0203] The fifth trumpet 455 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth trumpet 455 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It is included within the range, preferably 60 g / m². 2 Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth trumpet 455 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

[0204] The fifth trumpet 455 may have a specified substance added to it. Here, an example of a specified substance is silicon, but it is not limited to silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that prevents oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the aforementioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth trumpet 455 without limitation.

[0205] The front plug 43 can be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the front plug 43 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate tow is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filament of the front plug 43 is also 5.0. The cross-section of the filament constituting the front plug 43 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 43 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 43 is also 28,000.

[0206] Furthermore, if necessary, the front plug 43 may also include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be manufactured in a variety of ways.

[0207] The tobacco rod 41 may correspond to the tobacco rod 31 described with reference to Figure 12. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the tobacco rod 41 will be omitted below.

[0208] The first segment 421 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment 421 may also be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment 421 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 421 may be the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front plug 43.

[0209] The second segment 422 may be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 422 is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the monodenier of the filaments of the second segment 422 is also 9.0. The cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 422 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 422 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000.

[0210] Figure 14 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0211] The aerosol generator 1 also includes a control unit 1000, a sensing unit 2000, an output unit 3000, a battery 4000, a heater 5000, a user input unit 6000, a memory 7000, and a communication unit 8000. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 14. In other words, it will be understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that some of the components shown in Figure 14 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0212] The sensing unit 2000 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the surrounding state of the aerosol generator 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1000. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1000 can control the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed, such as controlling the operation of the heater 5000, restricting smoking, determining whether a medium (e.g., cigarettes, cartridges, etc.) should be inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0213] The sensing unit 2000 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the temperature sensor 2100, the insertion sensing sensor 2200, and the puff sensor 2300.

[0214] The temperature sensor 2100 can sense the temperature at which the heater 5000 (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 5000, or the heater 5000 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 2100 may be positioned around the battery 4000 to monitor its temperature.

[0215] The insertion sensing sensor 2200 can sense the insertion and / or removal of a medium. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 2200 may include 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 can sense a change in signal due to the insertion and / or removal of a medium.

[0216] The puff sensor 2300 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 2300 can detect a user's puff based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0217] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (temperature sensor 2100, insertion sensor 2200, and puff sensor 2300), the sensing unit 2000 also includes at least one of the following: a temperature / humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS (global positioning system)), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (red-green-blue) sensor (illuminance sensor). The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name by an average engineer, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0218] The output unit 3000 can output and provide to the user information relating to the state of the aerosol generator 1. The power unit 3000 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 3100, the haptic unit 3200, and the acoustic output unit 3300. When the display unit 3100 and the touchpad form a layered structure and are configured as a touchscreen, the display unit 3100 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0219] The display unit 3100 can visually provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 1 can include a variety of information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 4000 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heater 5000, the insertion / removal status of the medium, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal object). The display unit 3100 can output the aforementioned information to the outside. The display unit 3100 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or an LED (light-emitting diode) light-emitting element.

[0220] The haptic unit 3200 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli and provide the user with tactile information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, the haptic unit 3200 may also include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0221] The acoustic output unit 3300 can provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1 audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit 3300 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0222] Battery 4000 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. Battery 4000 can supply power so that the heater 5000 can be heated. Battery 4000 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components provided inside the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., sensing unit 2000, output unit 3000, user input unit 6000, memory 7000, and communication unit 8000). Battery 4000 can be a rechargeable battery or a single-use battery. For example, battery 4000 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to that.

[0223] The heater 5000 is powered by the battery 4000 and can heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Figure 14, the aerosol generator 1 also further includes a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC (direct current) / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 4000 and supplies it to the heater 5000. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 also further includes a DC / AC (alternating current) converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 4000 into AC power supply.

[0224] The control unit 1000, sensing unit 2000, output unit 3000, user input unit 6000, memory 7000, and communication unit 8000 are powered by the battery 4000 and can perform their functions. Although not shown in Figure 14, the system also further includes a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low drop out) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power from the battery 4000 and supplies it to each component.

[0225] In one embodiment, the heater 5000 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, such suitable electrical resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 5000 may also be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with an electrically conductive track, or a ceramic susceptor.

[0226] In other embodiments, the heater 5000 is also an induction heating heater. For example, the heater 5000 may also include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0227] The user input unit 6000 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 6000 may be a key pad, dome switch, touch pad (contact-type capacitive type, pressure-type resistive type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), jog wheel, jog switch, etc., but is not limited to these. Although not shown in Figure 14, the aerosol generator 1 may also include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may connect to other external devices via such a connection interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 4000.

[0228] Memory 7000 is hardware that stores various data processed inside the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 1000, as well as data being processed. Memory 7000 also 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 (Secure Digital) memory or XD (Extreme Digital) memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 7000 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0229] The communication unit 8000 also includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 8000 also includes a short-range wireless communication unit 8100 and a wireless communication unit 8200.

[0230] The 8100 short-range communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a near-field communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) (Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity)) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA: infrared data association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and others.

[0231] The wireless communication unit 8200 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN (local area network) or WAN (wide area network)) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 8200 may also use subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) to verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 1 within the communication network.

[0232] The control unit 1000 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 1000 also includes at least one processor. This processor may be embodied by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. It may also be embodied by other forms of hardware, as will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs.

[0233] The control unit 1000 can control the temperature of the heater 5000 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 4000 to the heater 5000. For example, the control unit 1000 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 4000 and the heater 5000. In another example, the control unit 1000 can control the power supply to the heater 5000 by a control command from the direct heating circuit.

[0234] The control unit 1000 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000, the control unit 1000 can control the power supplied to the heater 5000 so that the operation of the heater 5000 is started or stopped. Another example is that based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000, the control unit 1000 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 5000 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 5000 is heated to a predetermined temperature or can maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0235] The control unit 1000 can control the output unit 3000 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 2300 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 1000 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will soon shut down via at least one of the display unit 3100, the haptic unit 3200, and the acoustic output unit 3300.

[0236] One embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium is also any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, and isolated and non-isolated media. Furthermore, a computer-readable medium also includes both computer recording media and communication media. The computer recording media includes both volatile and non-volatile, isolated and non-isolated media embodied by any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The communication medium typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data such as modulated data signals, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information transmission medium.

[0237] The descriptions relating to the embodiments described above are illustrative only, and a person with ordinary skill in the art will understand from them that a variety of modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention is determined by the attached claims, and all differences that are equivalent to those described in the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

[0238] A person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that it can be embodied in modified forms, provided that they do not deviate from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered from an explanatory rather than restrictive viewpoint. The scope of the present invention is defined in the claims, not in the foregoing description, and all differences within an equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. A storage section for storing aerosol-generating materials, A transmission unit receives the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit and performs both the function of filtering out foreign matter from the aerosol-generating substance and the function of adding an additive to the aerosol-generating substance that changes the properties of the aerosol-generating substance. An aerosol generator comprising a generating unit that receives the aerosol-generating substance from the transmission unit and generates an aerosol.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit is detachably coupled to at least one of the storage unit and the generation unit.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes a carbon structure containing activated carbon that filters out foreign matter of a certain size or larger from the aerosol generating material, thereby preventing foreign matter contained in the aerosol generating material from being transmitted to the generating unit.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes granular activated carbon containing a plurality of granules.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission section includes a carbon block made of a solid material containing carbon.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes a mesh structure that prevents substances of a certain size or larger from being transmitted to the generation unit by filtering them from the aerosol generating material.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes a fibrous structure of a fibrous material that prevents substances of a certain size or larger from being transmitted to the generation unit by filtering them from the aerosol generating material.

8. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes a ceramic structure made of a ceramic material that prevents substances of a certain size or larger from being transmitted to the generation unit by filtering them from the aerosol generating material.

9. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit includes a flavoring substance that imparts flavor to the aerosol generating substance.

10. A storage section for storing an aerosol-generating substance, A transmission unit receives the aerosol-generating substance from the storage unit and performs at least one of the following functions: filtering out foreign matter from the aerosol-generating substance, and adding an additive to the aerosol-generating substance that alters the properties of the aerosol-generating substance. The system includes a generating unit which receives the aerosol-generating substance from the transmission unit and generates an aerosol, The transmission unit is an aerosol generator that includes a viscous substance for adjusting the viscosity of the aerosol generating substance.

11. an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, An aerosol generating apparatus comprising a coupling portion to which the aerosol generator is coupled.

12. The aerosol generator is detachably coupled to the coupling portion, as described in claim 11.

13. The transmission unit is detachably coupled to at least one of the storage unit and the generation unit. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising an output unit for outputting information related to the replacement of the transmission unit when the replacement cycle of the transmission unit has elapsed.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising an opening configured to allow the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator to be released to the outside and pass through a medium.

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