Liquid electronic cigarette having side air intake channel

Abstract

A liquid electronic cigarette including a side air intake channel is disclosed. The liquid electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body housing having a vapor exhaust port at one end that contacts the user's mouth to provide vapor, and an air inlet port at the other end through which external air is introduced; a liquid storage unit mounted at a position adjacent to the vapor exhaust port of the main body housing and structured to store tobacco liquid inside; a vapor generating unit mounted inside the main body housing and positioned adjacent to the vapor exhaust port, structured to vaporize the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit, mix it with air introduced through the side air intake channel, and deliver it to the vapor exhaust port; and a side air intake channel formed inside the main body housing and providing an air flow path that communicates the air inlet port and the vapor generating unit.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid electronic cigarette, and more specifically, to a liquid electronic cigarette comprising a side air intake channel. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid e-cigarettes are rapidly gaining popularity due to their advantages, such as reducing harmful substances from tobacco combustion and enabling the production of various flavors. However, many liquid e-cigarettes currently on the market adopt a structure in which an air inlet is formed along the outer wall of the housing, either at the bottom or on the side, allowing the air to flow directly into the bottom of the coil or heating element. While this structure offers the advantage of ease of manufacturing due to the short distance between the external air and the vapor generation area and the simple airflow path, it contains a structural limitation in that pressure changes generated during inhalation are transmitted directly to the coil area without any buffering.

[0003] In particular, U-shaped or vertical upward structures widely used in conventional technology are configured such that the air inlet and the bottom of the coil are virtually in direct communication. Consequently, when a user inhales strongly or performs continuous inhalation, the inhalation pressure acts directly on the liquid inside the coil. As a result, the liquid is frequently excessively absorbed through the wicking material or pushed up from the bottom of the coil due to pressure, which acts as a major cause of compromised operational stability in electronic cigarettes.

[0004] In the structure of conventional technology, there is also a problem in that negative pressure-based automatic suction sensors react very sensitively to changes in airflow. Because the air path is short and linear, minute changes in the user's suction or external air pressure are immediately transmitted to the sensor. This frequently leads to malfunctions, such as the generation of vapor at unintended times or, conversely, insufficient vapor production despite suction. This phenomenon not only reduces user convenience but also undermines product reliability.

[0005] Furthermore, in conventional structures, when over-inhaled, liquid or condensate easily moves along the air passage in the direction of vapor discharge. Fine droplets or condensate generated around the coil travel through the air passage and are expelled into the mouth, a phenomenon known as spit-back. In severe cases, this leads to liquid leakage and overflow from the device. This not only causes user discomfort but can also result in damage or contamination of the electronic components inside the e-cigarette.

[0006] Conventional technology also has structural limitations in terms of flavor delivery. As air moves along U-shaped or long-distance vertical channels, mist repeatedly comes into contact with the inner walls of the housing or the walls of the channels. During this process, some of the flavor components condense or adhere to the walls and are lost. As a result, the concentration and clarity of the flavor perceived by the actual user are reduced, and a problem arises where flavor reproducibility is poor, especially for highly volatile flavorings such as menthol or fruit flavors.

[0007] The ability to respond to changes in atmospheric pressure or temperature is also pointed out as a weakness of conventional technology. When external atmospheric pressure changes rapidly or the internal temperature rises due to prolonged use, the liquid inside the cartridge expands or forms bubbles. However, existing structures lack separate buffer spaces or flow structures to absorb or mitigate these pressure changes, so the expanded liquid is pushed out toward the air passage, structurally inevitably causing leakage.

[0008] Sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances is also a significant problem with conventional electronic cigarettes. When air passages are formed directly on the outer wall of the cartridge or the pod structure, air flow characteristics vary significantly depending on injection molding errors, assembly errors, and minute deformations of the sealing area. As a result, even within the same model, the sensation of inhalation, vapor volume, and leakage vary between individual products, which acts as a factor making it difficult to ensure quality uniformity in a mass production environment.

[0009] Conventional structures have also failed to make sufficient improvements in terms of condensate management. Condensate generated as the mist cools accumulates in the air passages or near the coils; due to the lack of a dedicated structure to capture or discharge it, it pools inside over time. This condensate can then enter the mouth upon re-inhalation or seep into electrical contacts, causing a decrease in product durability.

[0010] Furthermore, in conventional technology, the air passage and liquid zone are physically positioned in very close proximity, leading to recurring problems where airflow and liquid movement interfere with each other. As airflow increases, the liquid moves excessively through the coil or wicking structure; conversely, if the liquid is supplied excessively, airflow becomes unstable, resulting in a vicious cycle of irregular vapor volume. This structure particularly exacerbates the problem in high-power or high-inhalation environments and leads to reduced product reliability during long-term use.

[0011] Furthermore, existing e-cigarette structures lack staged airflow designs for pressure distribution or flow buffering, making it difficult to simultaneously satisfy both initial inhalation response speed and vapor volume stability. At the moment of the user's first inhalation, pressure fluctuates rapidly, causing coil operation to be delayed, or conversely, the device overreacts, resulting in uneven vapor production. This phenomenon repeatedly compromises the consistency of the user experience and acts as a factor that degrades the functional completeness of the e-cigarette.

[0012] As such, liquid electronic cigarettes according to the prior art have complex structural limitations, such as the problem of pressure changes being directly transmitted due to the simplicity of the air passage structure, leakage and spitback phenomena upon over-inhalation, loss of flavor and reduced flavor reproducibility, sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances, and difficulty in managing condensation. Therefore, there is a demand for a liquid electronic cigarette with a new structure that can fundamentally improve the current state of the prior art and the resulting problems, while being resistant to pressure changes, suppressing leakage and spitback phenomena, and simultaneously ensuring flavor reproducibility and product reliability. Ultimately, the present invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art. Prior art literature

[0013] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2468652 (Registration Date: November 15, 2022) The problem to be solved

[0014] The present invention aims to solve the problems of liquid leakage, breathback, over-wicking, and flavor loss that occur when changes in inhalation pressure are directly transmitted to the coil area due to the air passage of conventional liquid electronic cigarettes being formed with a short and straight structure. Furthermore, the invention aims to provide a liquid electronic cigarette that provides a structural buffering function to prevent liquid and condensate from entering the air passage even under conditions of pressure changes, temperature changes, and strong inhalation, while minimizing performance deviations due to manufacturing tolerances and ensuring stable and immediate vapor responsiveness. means of solving the problem

[0015] A liquid electronic cigarette according to one aspect of the present invention for achieving such an objective may comprise: a main body housing having a vapor exhaust port at one end that contacts the user's mouth to provide vapor, and an air inlet port at the other end through which external air is introduced; a liquid storage unit mounted at a position adjacent to the vapor exhaust port of the main body housing and having a structure for storing tobacco liquid inside; a vapor generating unit mounted inside the main body housing and positioned at a location adjacent to the vapor exhaust port, having a structure for vaporizing the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit, mixing it with air introduced through a side air inlet channel, and delivering it to the vapor exhaust port; and a side air inlet channel formed inside the main body housing and providing an air flow path that communicates the air inlet port and the vapor generating unit.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the side air inlet channel may be configured to include a lateral flow channel having a structure in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path communicating from the air inlet to the mist generating part gradually increases, the structure in which the side air inlet channel is formed symmetrically at a position adjacent to the edges of both sides of the main body housing and branches and flows air introduced through the air inlet in a symmetrical manner on both sides.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the side air inlet channel may be configured to include a foreign substance trap module having a structure that is detachably mounted at one end of the lateral flow channel, is positioned adjacent to a mist generating unit, and has a structure that captures moisture, condensate, and foreign substances floating through the lateral flow channel, and can remove the captured substances to the outside.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the side air inlet channel may be configured to include a pressure buffering module that is positioned between the lateral flow channel and the mist generating unit, forms a space that converges the lateral flow channels, which were branched into a symmetrical shape on both sides, into a single space, forms a flow path that has a cross-sectional area of ​​150 to 200% of the largest cross-sectional area of ​​the lateral flow channel, and prevents leakage of liquid or condensate from flowing into the side air inlet channel even under conditions of pressure change, temperature change, and strong suction.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lateral flow channel may form a flow path extending 20 to 40 mm in length along both edges of the main body housing.

[0020] In addition, the lateral flow channel can form a curved flow path with a radius of curvature of a predetermined size.

[0021] In addition, the lateral flow channel can form a multi-stage channel type flow path that branches into multiple channels and then converges. Effects of the invention

[0022] According to the present invention, air flows stably into the lower part of the coil through the side air inlet channel, and pressure is dispersed in stages, significantly reducing leakage where the liquid is pushed out. Due to the lateral flow channel and the pressure buffering structure, backflow of liquid and condensate is suppressed even during over-inhalation, preventing spittback and splashing. Furthermore, since the air path is structured to minimize collision with the wall surface, the loss of flavor components is reduced, improving flavor reproducibility. Because the air flow path is formed inside the device, it is less affected by cartridge manufacturing variations, improving performance uniformity between products and ensuring stable responsiveness at the start of inhalation. Moreover, condensate management is facilitated through the foreign matter trap and buffer space, improving reliability and durability during long-term use. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0025] Throughout this specification, when it is stated that one component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components. Throughout this specification, when it is stated that a part "includes" a component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a liquid electronic cigarette according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Referring to these drawings, the liquid electronic cigarette (100) according to the present embodiment is equipped with a main body housing (110) of a specific structure, a liquid storage unit (120), a vapor generating unit (130), and a side air inlet channel (140), thereby solving the problem of liquid leakage caused by pressure change, solving the problem of over-wicking that occurs during over-inhalation, improving the problem of flavor loss caused by air path collision, preventing spittback and liquid splashing, improving the manufacturing stability of existing structures sensitive to electronic cigarette tolerances, and providing an electronic cigarette that can secure stable and immediate vapor volume responsiveness.

[0028] Hereinafter, each component constituting the liquid electronic cigarette (100) according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0029] Detailed description of the main body housing (110)

[0030] The main body housing (110) is a basic structure that simultaneously supports the external shape and internal structure of the electronic cigarette, and a vapor exhaust port (101) and an air inlet port (102) are positioned at both ends to ensure stable internal flow. The main body housing (110) may be formed of metal, high-strength synthetic resin, or composite material, and possesses dimensional stability and structural rigidity so that a liquid storage unit (120), a vapor generating unit (130), and a side air inlet channel (140) are precisely positioned inside. This structure serves as a foundation for simultaneously ensuring the user's grip, durability, and assembly precision.

[0031] The internal shape of the main body housing (110) is designed so that air introduced from the air inlet (102) does not rise directly along the outer wall, but is guided to the mist generating section (130) through the side air inlet channel (140) formed inside. This alleviates the rapid pressure transmission caused by the short, straight flow paths seen in conventional technology, and prevents negative pressure generated during inhalation from concentrating in a specific area. Since the internal flow is dispersed in stages, direct pressure transmission to the coil area is structurally suppressed.

[0032] The main body housing (110) includes a coupling structure that ensures accurate positional alignment of each component. Guide grooves, insertion ribs, snap couplings, or fastening structures may be applied so that the liquid storage unit (120) and the mist generation unit (130) are precisely positioned adjacent to the mist exhaust port (101). Such alignment structures reduce assembly errors and suppress performance variations due to manufacturing tolerances, thereby ensuring quality uniformity between products.

[0033] Surface treatments or coatings may be applied to the outer and inner walls of the main body housing (110) to suppress the attachment and retention of condensate. Through a hydrophobic coating or a micro-irregular structure, condensate generated during mist movement does not accumulate on the walls but is guided to a discharge path by gravity or flow. This contributes to reducing internal contamination during long-term use and maintaining the reliability of electrical contacts.

[0034] The main body housing (110) may include reinforcing ribs, a double-wall structure, or local reinforcements to prevent structural deformation under external impact, temperature changes, and repeated suction conditions. Since performance degradation occurs if the internal air passage and mist path are deformed by external forces, the main body housing (110) functions as a core structure that ensures sufficient rigidity to simultaneously maintain the stability of air flow and the durability of the entire device.

[0035] Detailed description of the liquid storage unit (120)

[0036] The liquid storage unit (120) is a space for storing tobacco liquid to be supplied to the vapor generating unit (130), and is positioned adjacent to the vapor exhaust port (101) to minimize the vapor movement path. The liquid storage unit (120) can be implemented in the form of a cartridge or a pod, and is designed to stably preserve the liquid while delivering only the necessary amount to the vapor generating unit (130) through a wicking structure. The placement, which is not in direct contact with the air flow path, prevents pressure changes from acting directly on the liquid.

[0037] A wicking member, a microchannel, or a porous structure is arranged inside the liquid storage unit (120) to control the movement of the liquid. This structure prevents the liquid from leaking out all at once due to gravity or pressure changes and maintains a constant supply amount in accordance with the heating conditions of the mist generation unit (130). The over-wicking phenomenon, which was a problem in the prior art, was caused by structural limitations where air pressure directly acts on the liquid, but the liquid storage unit (120) suppresses this through a structure separated from the air channel and a quantitative supply mechanism.

[0038] The liquid storage unit (120) includes a sealing structure that maintains airtightness. Through a sealing ring, gasket, or welded structure, the liquid is prevented from leaking to the outside, and the liquid is also prevented from leaking out through fine gaps at the connection point with the mist generation unit (130). Such an airtight structure provides a structural basis that prevents the liquid from moving in the direction of the air passage even in situations where the liquid expands due to changes in air pressure or a rise in temperature.

[0039] The material of the liquid storage unit (120) is selected from a material that ensures chemical stability with the liquid components. Polycarbonate, PCTG, chemical-resistant resin, or glass material may be used, and discoloration, swelling, or micro-cracks do not occur even during long-term use. This prevents the deterioration of the fragrance components and contributes to reliably providing user convenience functions such as checking the remaining amount of liquid.

[0040] Additionally, the liquid storage unit (120) can be designed to be detachable and replaceable, allowing the user to easily replenish the liquid or replace the cartridge. The coupling structure is configured to minimize wear caused by repeated attachment and detachment while maintaining compatibility with the main body housing (110). Consequently, the liquid storage unit (120) is a key component that simultaneously satisfies stable preservation of the liquid, precise supply of liquid, prevention of leakage, and user convenience.

[0041] Detailed description of the mist generating unit (130)

[0042] The mist generation unit (130) is configured to perform the function of heating the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit (120) to convert it into mist, and includes a coil, a heating element, a wicking structure, and an electrode unit. The mist generation unit (130) is positioned adjacent to the mist exhaust port (101) so that the generated mist is discharged directly without passing through an unnecessary internal path. This serves to structurally reduce the problems of condensation and fragrance loss during mist movement that occurred in conventional structures.

[0043] The heating element of the mist generating unit (130) may be a nichrome wire, Kanthal wire, stainless alloy, or ceramic heating element, and converts electrical energy into heat to vaporize the liquid. The heating element is closely coupled with the wicking structure to ensure that the liquid is supplied uniformly, and prevents the occurrence of a burnt taste due to local overheating or a lack of liquid. This configuration plays an important role in maintaining consistency in mist quality.

[0044] The mist generation unit (130) is formed so that the mist is efficiently mixed with the air introduced through the side air inlet channel (140). Air is introduced from the bottom or side of the mist generation unit (130), flows around the heating element, is mixed with the vaporized liquid, and moves to the mist exhaust port (101). This method of air introduction relieves pressure concentration and allows the mist to be uniformly mixed with the air, thereby improving flavor reproducibility.

[0045] The mist generation unit (130) may include a structural device that prevents liquid and condensate from moving in the direction of the air passage. A micro barrier, a groove-shaped guide, or a discharge slope guides the liquid generated around the heating element to be guided downward or to the side and moved to a trap structure or discharge path. This structurally suppresses the spittback phenomenon and liquid splashing problems.

[0046] Furthermore, the mist generation unit (130) is designed to maintain stable performance even during repeated heating and cooling cycles. The contact structure is reinforced to ensure contact reliability between the electrode and the heating element, and the material and shape are optimized to minimize changes in electrical resistance even during long-term use. Thus, the mist generation unit (130) is a core operating module that simultaneously achieves efficient vaporization of the liquid, minimizes fragrance loss, prevents leakage and splashing, and ensures long-term reliability.

[0047] Detailed description of the side air intake channel (140)

[0048] The side air inlet channel (140) is a main flow path for transferring external air introduced through the air inlet (102) to the mist generating section (130). Unlike conventional structures formed inside the main body housing (110) that rise directly along the outer wall, it provides a flow path that is guided laterally along the inside of the device. The side air inlet channel (140) is designed to transport air stepwise to the mist generating section (130) adjacent to the mist exhaust port (101), so that pressure changes occurring during inhalation are not concentrated at a specific point but are distributed throughout the channel. This arrangement of the flow path suppresses direct pressure transfer to the coil or heating element area, thereby structurally mitigating unstable phenomena such as liquid displacement even in situations of over-inhalation or external air pressure changes.

[0049] The cross-sectional shape and length of the side air inlet channel (140) are designed to take into account the balance between air flow velocity and pressure loss. Starting with a relatively small cross-section at the air inlet (102) side, the cross-section may be formed to gradually expand or change along a gentle curvature as it moves toward the mist generation section (130). This shape suppresses local pressure drop or turbulence caused by the Bernoulli effect and allows air to flow stably within the channel, thereby maintaining consistency in the sensation of inhalation. Consequently, the side air inlet channel (140) operates not as a simple connecting passage, but as a functional flow path that simultaneously performs pressure buffering and flow stabilization.

[0050] The side air inlet channel (140) is shaped to increase the mixing efficiency of air and mist at the connection point with the mist generating unit (130). Air flows into the bottom or side of the mist generating unit (130), surrounds the heating element, and is uniformly mixed upon contact with the vaporized liquid. At this time, the air inlet angle and the shape of the connection point are set to minimize collision of the mist with the wall surface, thereby suppressing the condensation and loss of fragrance components that were problematic in the prior art. This structure improves flavor reproducibility and stabilizes the size and distribution of mist particles, thereby improving the perceived quality upon inhalation.

[0051] The side air intake channel (140) may also include a structural device to prevent leakage and spitback. A bottom space may be formed at the bottom of the channel to allow condensate or fine droplets to naturally collect by gravity, or it may be configured to collect moisture and droplets floating in the flow in conjunction with a foreign matter trap module (142). This structure blocks the condensate generated in the mist generation unit (130) from moving along the airflow toward the mist exhaust port (101) and suppresses internal contamination and liquid splashing even during long-term use.

[0052] Furthermore, the side air inlet channel (140) is formed as a structure integrated with the main body housing (110) to reduce sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances and assembly errors. Since the air flow path is fixedly implemented inside the device without relying on the outer wall of the pod or cartridge, the air flow characteristics do not change significantly even with minute differences in injection molding deviations or sealing conditions. Accordingly, uniformity in inhalation sensation and vapor volume between products is ensured, and stable performance can be maintained even in a mass production environment. Ultimately, the side air inlet channel (140) is a key flow structure that simultaneously achieves pressure buffering, flow stabilization, leakage prevention, suppression of fragrance loss, and improved manufacturing reliability.

[0053] Detailed description of the lateral flow channel (141)

[0054] The lateral flow channel (141) is a core component of the side air inlet channel (140) and is formed symmetrically at a location adjacent to the edges of both sides of the main body housing (110), and is structured to divert air introduced through the air inlet (102) to both the left and right sides. Since the lateral flow channel (141) disperses the air flow into a dual path rather than a single straight path, the pressure generated during inhalation is not concentrated at one point but is divided and transmitted to both sides. As a result, the local pressure concentration and the resulting liquid displacement and over-wicking phenomena that occurred in the U-shaped or vertically upward structure of the prior art are structurally mitigated.

[0055] The lateral flow channel (141) can be formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path connecting the air inlet (102) to the mist generation section (130) gradually increases. In the initial section, the air is received with a relatively small cross-section to stably control the velocity of the externally incoming air, and as it moves downstream, the cross-section is expanded to gradually reduce the flow velocity and disperse the pressure. This change in cross-section suppresses the generation of turbulence and reduces the phenomenon of the air flow strongly colliding with the wall, thereby preventing the condensation and loss of fragrance components. Consequently, the lateral flow channel (141) functions as a flow control structure that simultaneously performs flow velocity control and pressure buffering.

[0056] The length and shape of the lateral flow channel (141) can be implemented in various forms to finely control flow characteristics. A straight flow path extending for a certain length along the edges of both sides of the main body housing (110) can be formed, and the direction of the airflow can be gradually changed through a flow path curved with a predetermined radius of curvature. In addition, by applying a multi-stage channel structure that branches into multiple channels and then converges again, the airflow can be redistributed in stages and pressure changes can be controlled more finely. This structure contributes to maintaining flow stability even in situations of strong suction or rapid changes in air pressure.

[0057] The lateral flow channel (141) is organically linked with the foreign matter trap module (142) and the air pressure buffer module (143) to effectively manage condensate and fine droplets generated during flow. Moisture and foreign matter in the air moving along the lateral flow channel (141) are captured by the trap structure, and pressure is further relieved through the expansion of the cross-sectional area in the section where the flow converges. As a result, the spittback, liquid splashing, and leakage through the air passage that repeatedly occurred in the prior art are structurally suppressed, and the accumulation of internal contamination is minimized.

[0058] In addition, the lateral flow channel (141) is fixedly formed inside the device, thereby minimizing performance variations due to manufacturing tolerances. Since the air flow path is not dependent on the outer wall or sealing condition of the cartridge, air flow characteristics are maintained stably even with injection molding errors, assembly deviations, and part wear. Accordingly, suction pressure, vapor volume, and fragrance delivery characteristics are uniformly realized across products, and performance degradation is suppressed even during long-term use. Ultimately, the lateral flow channel (141) is a key flow control element that simultaneously achieves air branching, pressure buffering, suppression of fragrance loss, prevention of leakage, and improved manufacturing stability.

[0059] Detailed description of the foreign substance trap module (142)

[0060] The foreign substance trap module (142) is positioned at one end of the lateral flow channel (141) of the side air inlet channel (140) or at a location adjacent to the mist generating unit (130) and performs the function of capturing moisture, condensation, fine droplets, and dust floating in the air flow. The foreign substance trap module (142) includes an internal space shaped to selectively separate and store liquid components and solid foreign substances without obstructing the air flow. Since the air is purified primarily before entering the mist generating unit (130), spitsback, liquid splashing, and movement of foreign substances toward the mist exhaust port (101), which repeatedly occurred in conventional structures, are structurally suppressed.

[0061] The interior of the foreign substance trap module (142) is designed with a separation structure that utilizes the difference in inertia between air and foreign substances. For example, by forming sections where the flow path expands rapidly or changes direction gradually, relatively large droplets and condensate are induced to escape to the wall or bottom due to inertia. At the same time, air passes stably along the continuous flow path at the top or center. This flow separation structure is configured to effectively capture liquid components while minimizing airflow loss, thereby ensuring hygiene and stability without changes in the sensation of suction.

[0062] The foreign substance trap module (142) is implemented with a detachable structure to allow the captured substance to be removed to the outside. A cartridge-type trap inserted inside the main body housing (110), a rotary-coupled cap, or a slide-type insertion structure may be applied, and the user can periodically detach the trap to discharge condensate and residual liquid droplets. Such a maintenance structure prevents contamination caused by moisture and foreign substances accumulating inside during long-term use, and inhibits corrosion around electrical contacts and heating parts, thereby improving the durability and reliability of the device.

[0063] The material of the foreign substance trap module (142) is selected from a material that ensures chemical resistance and water resistance against moisture and liquid components. Silicone, chemical-resistant resin, stainless steel fine mesh, or a porous member with a hydrophobic coating may be used, and it has structural characteristics that trap liquid components while allowing airflow to pass through smoothly. In addition, hydrophobic or hydrophilic properties may be selectively applied to the surface to induce condensate to aggregate and be discharged in a specific direction. Such material and surface design ensure both the sustainability of trap performance and ease of cleaning.

[0064] Furthermore, the foreign substance trap module (142) operates in conjunction with the pressure buffer module (143). As air moving along the lateral flow channel (141) passes through the foreign substance trap module (142) before entering the pressure buffer section, droplet scattering that may occur during high-speed flow is prevented in advance. Consequently, only relatively dry and purified air is introduced into the pressure buffer module (143), allowing the pressure buffering function to be performed more stably. As a result, the foreign substance trap module (142) is a key auxiliary module that simultaneously achieves prevention of spittback, suppression of leakage, improved hygiene, and long-term reliability.

[0065] Detailed description of the pressure buffer module (143)

[0066] The pressure buffer module (143) is positioned between the lateral flow channel (141) and the mist generation unit (130) to converge the air flow branched symmetrically on both sides into a single space, while simultaneously mitigating pressure changes in stages. The pressure buffer module (143) forms an expanded flow space having a cross-sectional area of ​​150 to 200% of the largest cross-sectional area of ​​the lateral flow channel (141), thereby rapidly reducing the velocity of the incoming air and stabilizing the static pressure. This cross-sectional expansion is a key design element that structurally blocks the direct transmission of pressure during inhalation, which was a problem in conventional structures.

[0067] The internal space of the pressure buffer module (143) is formed with a gentle curvature and a gradual change in cross-section to suppress the generation of turbulence caused by a sudden change in flow velocity. Even if air flows in at high speed from the lateral flow channel (141), the residence time within the buffer space increases and the pressure is naturally dispersed. In this process, since instantaneous negative pressure rise or back pressure is not transmitted to the mist generation unit (130), the liquid backflow, over-wicking, and displacement of the liquid inside the coil that occurred repeatedly in the prior art are structurally suppressed.

[0068] The pressure buffer module (143) ensures stable operation even under abnormal operating conditions such as changes in external pressure, internal temperature rise, and strong continuous suction. Even if the internal pressure fluctuates due to liquid expansion or bubble formation caused by the temperature rise, the buffer space absorbs the pressure change and blocks rapid pressure transmission toward the mist generation unit (130). Accordingly, leakage of liquid or condensate into the air passage is significantly reduced, and the risk of contamination and electrical damage inside the device is structurally eliminated.

[0069] The shape of the pressure buffer module (143) is optimized by considering the mixing efficiency of air and mist at the connection point with the mist generation unit (130). Air passing through the buffer space flows into the lower or side of the mist generation unit (130) in a stable pressure state and flows around the heating element in a uniform manner. This reduces the phenomenon of mist particles colliding excessively with the wall or being biased in a specific direction, thereby suppressing the condensation and loss of fragrance components and improving flavor reproducibility. In addition, the initial reactivity of inhalation is stabilized, so the amount of mist is maintained at a constant level.

[0070] Furthermore, the pressure buffer module (143) is fixedly formed inside the device to minimize performance fluctuations due to manufacturing tolerances and assembly deviations. Since the volume and cross-sectional shape of the buffer space are consistently maintained by the main body housing (110), the pressure buffering characteristics are stably maintained even with minute dimensional errors in the cartridge or changes in the sealing state. Consequently, the pressure buffer module (143) is a core pressure control module that simultaneously achieves leakage suppression, prevention of spittback, reduction of fragrance loss, stabilization of suction pressure, and improved manufacturing reliability.

[0071] As described above, the liquid electronic cigarette according to the present invention is configured such that air moves stepwise from the air inlet to the vapor generation section along the side air inlet channel inside the main body, thereby fundamentally mitigating the problem of rapid pressure transmission that occurred in conventional short and straight air passages. As a result, the negative pressure generated during inhalation does not act directly on the coil and wicking structure, thereby structurally suppressing the phenomenon of liquid displacement caused by pressure changes.

[0072] In addition, air branches out and flows along the lateral flow channels, and is then delivered to the mist generation section via a converging structure, thereby preventing localized pressure concentration even during over-inhalation. The over-wicking phenomenon that frequently occurred in conventional technology was caused by a structural limitation in which the liquid phase was excessively supplied as the inhalation pressure acted directly on the wicking material, but the present invention ensures that the liquid phase supply is maintained stably by buffering and dispersing the airflow.

[0073] Furthermore, since the air introduced from the lateral flow channel is redistributed across a wide cross-sectional area by the pressure buffering module, leakage phenomena—where liquid or condensate inside the coil is pushed into the air passage—are significantly reduced even under conditions such as changes in external pressure, internal temperature rise, and strong continuous suction. The problems of pressure reversal and liquid backflow, which were structurally unavoidable in conventional structures, are resolved by the shape design of the air passage itself.

[0074] The present invention also includes a foreign substance trap structure on the air passage to capture condensation, fine droplets, and foreign substances generated around the coil moving in the direction of mist discharge. Accordingly, the spittback phenomenon in which liquid splashes into the user's mouth or the leakage phenomenon in which liquid flows out of the device in the prior art are structurally blocked, thereby significantly improving safety and hygiene.

[0075] In terms of flavor delivery, the present invention effectively improves upon the limitations of conventional technology. It is designed so that air is not moved over long distances along the inner wall of the housing or repeatedly collides with the wall surface, but is instead directly introduced into the lower part of the vapor generating section and mixed, thereby minimizing the condensation and loss of flavor components. As a result, the loss of flavor and degradation of taste that were problematic in conventional structures are suppressed, and a clearer taste can be reproduced even with highly volatile flavorings such as menthol and fruit flavors.

[0076] In terms of manufacturing and quality, the present invention also improves upon the structural weaknesses of the prior art. Since the air passage is formed as a side channel inside the device rather than on the outer wall of the pod or cartridge, variations in inhalation sensation and vapor volume caused by injection molding tolerances, assembly errors, and sealing deviations are significantly reduced. Consequently, performance variations between products are reduced even in mass production environments, ensuring quality uniformity and providing users with a consistent inhalation experience.

[0077] Furthermore, the present invention simultaneously ensures initial responsiveness and vapor volume stability through a structure that buffers and disperses air flow in stages. This resolves the problem of uneven vapor generation caused by delayed or excessive response during the initial inhalation, which was present in conventional technology. Additionally, the condensate management space and trap structure suppress internal contamination even during prolonged use, thereby improving durability and reliability. Ultimately, the present invention realizes an electronic cigarette capable of providing stable, high-quality vapor by resolving issues such as leakage, breathback, flavor loss, pressure sensitivity, and manufacturing tolerances—problems that conventional liquid electronic cigarettes could not structurally address—through the air flow path design itself.

[0078] The above detailed description of the present invention describes only specific embodiments thereof. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific forms mentioned in the detailed description, but rather should be understood to include all variations, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0079] In other words, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and descriptions described above, and any person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can make various modifications without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0080] 100: Liquid electronic cigarette 101: Smoke exhaust vent 102: Air inlet 110: Main body housing 120: Liquid reservoir 130: Smoke Generation Unit 140: Side air intake channel 141: Lateral flow channel 142: Foreign object trap module 143: Pressure buffer module

Claims

Claim 1 A main body housing (110) having a vapor exhaust port (101) that contacts the user's mouth to provide vapor at one end and an air inlet port (102) for external air to be introduced at the other end; a liquid storage unit (120) having a structure that stores tobacco liquid inside and is installed at a position adjacent to the vapor exhaust port (101) of the main body housing (110); and a vapor generating unit (130) having a structure that is installed inside the main body housing (110), is positioned at a location adjacent to the vapor exhaust port (101), and vaporizes the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit (120), mixes it with air introduced through a side air inlet channel (140), and delivers it to the vapor exhaust port (101). and a side air inlet channel (140) formed inside the main body housing (110) and providing an air flow path connecting the air inlet (102) and the mist generating unit (130); wherein the side air inlet channel (140) is formed in a symmetrical shape at a position adjacent to both edges of the main body housing (110) and has a structure that branches and flows air introduced through the air inlet (102) in a symmetrical shape on both sides, and has a lateral flow channel (141) having a structure in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path connecting from the air inlet (102) to the mist generating unit (130) gradually increases; and a foreign matter trap module (142) disposed at one end of the lateral flow channel (141) and having an internal space for selectively separating foreign matter floating in the air flow. A liquid electronic cigarette characterized by including: a pressure buffering module (143) disposed between the lateral flow channel (141) and the vapor generating unit (130), and forming a space that converges the lateral flow channel (141), which had branched out symmetrically on both sides, into a single space. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 delete Claim 4 delete Claim 5 delete

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