Cartridge and aerosol generating device

Abstract

A cartridge according to an embodiment includes: a container unit accommodating a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated; and a coating layer having superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit, wherein the coating layer has a plurality of microscale protrusions formed in an inward direction of the container unit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a cartridge and an aerosol generating device.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for technologies to replace common methods of combusting a cigarette to supply an aerosol. For example, research has been conducted on a method of generating an aerosol from a liquid or solid aerosol generating material, or a method of supplying an aerosol having a flavor by generating vapor from a liquid aerosol generating material and then passing the generated vapor through a solid flavor medium.

[0003] Recently, an aerosol generating device capable of heating an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol has been proposed as an alternative to a method of combusting a cigarette to supply an aerosol. For example, an aerosol generating device may refer to a device capable of heating an aerosol generating material in a liquid or solid state to a predetermined temperature via a heater to generate an aerosol.

[0004] In the case of using an aerosol generating device, the convenience of smoking for users may be improved, for example, smoking may be performed without an additional article such as a lighter, and smoking may be performed as much as desired by the user, and thus research on aerosol generating devices has gradually increased in recent years.DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0005] A residual liquid composition remains inside the cartridge storing the liquid composition of the aerosol generating device even at the end of use.

[0006] Such a liquid composition has a problem that it has a high viscosity and is difficult to be discharged through a physical method.

[0007] In addition, this residual liquid composition may cause frequent cartridge replacement.

[0008] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a cartridge and an aerosol generating device capable of minimizing the residual liquid composition in the cartridge.Technical Solution

[0009] A cartridge according to an embodiment may include: a container unit accommodating a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated; and a coating layer having superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit, wherein the coating layer may have a plurality of microscale protrusions formed in an inward direction of the container unit.

[0010] The coating layer may include: a base layer disposed along an inner surface of the container unit and having protrusions formed on a surface thereof in an inward direction of the container unit; and a liquid layer disposed between the protrusions of the base layer.

[0011] The liquid layer may support the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

[0012] The liquid layer may have immiscibility with the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

[0013] The liquid layer may have immiscibility with propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin.

[0014] The superhydrophobicity may differ depending on the distance between a heater heating the liquid composition and the coating layer.

[0015] The superhydrophobicity may be enhanced as the distance from the heater increases.

[0016] An aerosol generating device according to another embodiment may include: a battery supplying power used to operate the aerosol generating device; a control unit including at least one processor; and a cartridge, wherein the cartridge may include: a container unit accommodating a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated; and a coating layer having superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit.Advantageous Effects

[0017] The cartridge and the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may allow the liquid composition to be easily discharged through the chemical coating treatment of the inner surface of the liquid cartridge.

[0018] In addition, the inner surface of the container unit may be prevented from being impregnated with the liquid composition having a high viscosity.

[0019] In addition, frequent replacement of the cartridge may be prevented by allowing the liquid composition accommodated in the cartridge to be used as much as possible.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] FIGS. 1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating examples in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIGS. 3 and 4 are diagrams illustrating examples of a cigarette according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing a cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing a coating layer according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIGS. 8 to 9 are diagrams for describing a coating layer according to another embodiment.

[0026] FIGS. 10 to 15 are diagrams for describing a coating layer according to still another embodiment.MODE FOR INVENTION

[0027] The terms used in the embodiments are selected from general terms currently widely used as much as possible in consideration of the functions in the present invention, but may vary depending on the intention or precedent of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, and the like. In addition, in certain cases, there are also terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning thereof will be described in detail in the corresponding part of the detailed description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than the mere names of the terms.

[0028] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to “include” or “comprise” an component, unless otherwise specified, it means that the part may further include other components instead of excluding the other components. In addition, the terms “unit,”“module,” and the like described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be implemented by hardware or software, or may be implemented by a combination of hardware and software.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art may easily implement the embodiments. The present invention may, however, be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0030] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0031] FIGS. 1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating examples in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, an aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, a heater 13, and a vaporizer 14. A cigarette 2 may be inserted into the interior space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0033] In the aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, components related to the present embodiment are shown. Therefore, those skilled in the art may understand that, in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0034] In addition, although the heater 13 is shown to be included in the aerosol generating device 1 in FIGS. 1 and 2, the heater 13 may be omitted as necessary.

[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates that the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in a line. In addition, FIG. 2 illustrates that the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 may vary.

[0036] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may operate the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is delivered to the user.

[0037] When necessary, the aerosol generating device 1 may heat the heater 13 even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0038] The battery 11 supplies power that is used to operate the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 may supply power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 may be heated, and may supply power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. In addition, the battery 11 may supply power necessary for a display, a sensor, a motor, or the like installed in the aerosol generating device 1 to operate.

[0039] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of the battery 11, the heater 13 and the vaporizer 14, as well as other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the control unit 12 may check the state of each of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0040] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that may be executed on the microprocessor. In addition, those skilled in the art may understand that the process may also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0041] The heater 13 may be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 may be located outside of the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 may raise the temperature of the aerosol generating material in the cigarette.

[0042] The heater 13 may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated according to a current flowing through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above-described example, and any heater may be applied without limitation as long as it may be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1 or may be set to a desired temperature by a user.

[0043] Meanwhile, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating type heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette in an induction heating manner, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that may be heated by the induction heating type heater.

[0044] For example, the heater 13 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-like heating element, a needle-like heating element, or a rod-like heating element and may heat the inside or the outside of the cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0045] In addition, a plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed in the aerosol generating device 1. At this time, the plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed to be inserted into the cigarette 2, or may be disposed outside the cigarette 2. In addition, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed to be inserted into the cigarette 2, and the rest may be disposed outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and may be manufactured into various shapes.

[0046] The vaporizer 14 may heat a liquid composition to produce an aerosol, and the generated aerosol may pass through the cigarette 2 and be delivered to a user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 may travel along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow passage may be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 may pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0047] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery means, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery means and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0048] The liquid storage unit may store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, and may also be a liquid including a non-tobacco material. The liquid storage unit may be manufactured such that it may be detached / attached from / to the vaporizer 14, or may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0049] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrant material, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrant material may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavoring ingredients, and the like, but is not limited thereto. The flavoring agents may include ingredients that may provide a variety of flavors or savors to a user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0050] The liquid delivery means may deliver the liquid composition of the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means may be a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics, but is not limited thereto.

[0051] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition delivered by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, or the like, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the heating element may be composed of conductive filaments, such as nichrome wires, and may be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element may be heated by a current supply and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element to heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0052] For example, the vaporizer 14 may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0053] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured in a structure in which the external air may flow in or an internal gas may flow out even in a state in which the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0054] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device 1 may constitute a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled.

[0055] The cigarette 2 may be similar to a common combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 may also include an aerosol generating material. For example, an aerosol generating material produced in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0056] The entire first portion may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1, and the second portion may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first portion may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first portion and a part of the second portion may be inserted. A user may inhale the aerosol with the second portion in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the external air passing through the first portion, and the generated aerosol passes through the second portion and is delivered to the mouth of the user.

[0057] As an example, the external air may flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by a user. Accordingly, the amount of atomization, the smoking feeling, and the like may be adjusted by the user. As another example, the external air may flow into the interior of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0058] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, examples of the cigarette 2 will be described.

[0059] FIGS. 3 and 4 are diagrams illustrating examples of a cigarette.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first portion 21 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second portion 22 includes the filter rod 22.

[0061] The filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment in FIG. 3, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may consist of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment that cools the aerosol and a segment that filters predetermined components contained in the aerosol. In addition, when necessary, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function.

[0062] The diameter of the cigarette 2 may be within a range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of a first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of a second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of a third segment of the filter rod 22 may also be about 12 mm.

[0063] The cigarette 2 may be packaged by at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may be formed with at least one hole through which the external air flow in or an internal gas flows out. As an example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped overlappingly by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Then, the entire cigarette 2 may be repackaged by a single wrapper 245. When the filter rod 22 consists of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0064] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of general filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper. In addition, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of paper and / or an aluminum laminated paper packaging material having oil resistance.

[0065] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may within a range of 88 g / m2 to 96 g / m2, and may preferably be within a range of 90 g / m2 to 94 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be within a range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and may preferably be 125 μm.

[0066] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of an oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be within a range of 88 g / m2 to 96 g / m2, and may preferably be within a range of 90 g / m2 and 94 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be with a range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and may preferably be 125 μm.

[0067] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially prepared so that the tensile strength, the water resistance, the smoothness, and the like are enhanced over ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within a range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2, and may preferably be 60 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within a range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and may preferably be 67 μm.

[0068] The fifth wrapper 245 may include a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change with temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any material, even one that is not silicone, may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation as long as it has the above-described properties.

[0069] The fifth wrapper 245 may prevent the combustion of the cigarette 2. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 13, there is a possibility that the cigarette 2 is combusted. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the materials contained in the tobacco rod 21, the cigarette 2 may be combusted. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper 245 includes a non-combustible material, the combustion of the cigarette 2 may be prevented.

[0070] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 may prevent a holder 1 from being contaminated by materials generated from the cigarette 2. By means of a user's puff, liquid materials may be generated from the cigarette 2. For example, an aerosol generated from the cigarette 2 may be cooled by the external air, thereby generating liquid materials (e.g., moisture, etc.). As the fifth wrapper 245 wraps the cigarette 2, liquid materials produced in the cigarette 2 may be prevented from leaking out of the cigarette 2.

[0071] The tobacco rod 21 includes an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. The tobacco rod 21 may also contain other additive materials, such as flavorings, humectants, and / or organic acids. In addition, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a moisturizer may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying the flavoring liquid onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0072] The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in the form of a sheet, or may be manufactured in the form of strands. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in the form of cut tobacco sheets. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of tobacco. In addition, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may function as a susceptor that is heated by the induction heating heater. Here, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0073] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod including a hollow therein. In addition, the filter rod 22 may be a recessed type rod. When the filter rod 22 consists of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured into another shape.

[0074] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure including a hollow therein. It is also possible to prevent the phenomenon that the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 is pushed back when the heater 13 is inserted by the first segment, and the effect of cooling the aerosol may also be generated. As the diameter of the hollow included in the first segment, an appropriate diameter within a range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm may be adopted, but it is not limited thereto.

[0075] As the length of the first segment, an appropriate length within a range of 4 mm to 30 mm may be adopted, but it is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] The hardness of the first segment may be adjusted by adjusting the content of plasticizer in the manufacture of the first segment. In addition, the first segment may be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube of the same or different material into the inside (for example, hollow).

[0077] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user may inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0078] The length or diameter of the second segment may be variously determined according to the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately adopted within a range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] The second segment may be manufactured by weaving polymeric fibers. In this case, the flavoring liquid may be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid and a fiber made of a polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed of a crimped polymer sheet.

[0080] For example, the polymer may be made of a material 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.

[0081] As the second segment is formed of a woven polymer fiber or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include a single or a plurality of channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Herein, the channel refers to a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0082] For example, the second segment formed of a crimped polymer sheet may be formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. In addition, the total surface area of the second segment may be between about 300 mm2 / mm and about 1000 mm2 / mm. In addition, an aerosol cooling element may be formed of a material having a specific surface area of between about 10 mm2 / mg and about 100 mm2 / mg.

[0083] Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing volatile flavoring components. Herein, the volatile flavoring component may be, menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide at least 1.5 mg of menthol to the second segment.

[0084] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately adopted within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may be manufactured such that flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid on the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 cools as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22 and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Thus, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user may be enhanced.

[0086] In addition, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform the function of generating a flavor, and may perform the function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 3 may further include a shear plug 33. The shear plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The shear plug 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from being detached to the outside, and may prevent the aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0088] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 of FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 of FIG. 4.

[0089] The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the cigarette 2 of FIG. 4. For example, the length of the shear plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm, but they are not limited thereto.

[0090] The cigarette 3 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may be formed with at least one hole through which the external air flows in or an internal gas flows out. For example, the shear plug 33 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped by a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped by a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped by fourth wrapper 354. Then, the entire cigarette 3 may be repackaged by a fifth wrapper 355.

[0091] In addition, the fifth wrapper 355 may be formed with at least one perforation 36. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in a region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0092] In addition, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating a flavor and may perform a function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0093] The first wrapper 351 may be a general filter wrapping paper to which a metal foil such as an aluminum foil is bonded. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be within a range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and may preferably be 50.3 μm. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be within a range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and may preferably be 6.3 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be within a range of 50 g / m2 to 55 g / m2, and may preferably be 53 g / m2.

[0094] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be formed of common filter wrapping paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper.

[0095] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, a thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be within a range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and may preferably be 78 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be within a range of 20 g / m2 to 25 g / m2, and may preferably be 23.5 g / m2.

[0096] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be within a range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and may preferably be 68 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be within a range of 20 g / m2 to 25 g / m2, and may preferably be 21 g / m2.

[0097] The fourth wrapper 354 may be formed of polylactic acid (PLA) laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means three-ply paper that includes a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be within a range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and may be preferably 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be within a range of 80 g / m2 to 100 g / m2, and may preferably be 88 g / m2.

[0098] The fifth wrapper 355 may be formed of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially prepared so that the tensile strength, the water resistance, the smoothness, and the like are enhanced over ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be within a range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2, and may preferably be 60 g / m2. In addition, a thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be within a range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and may preferably be 67 μm.

[0099] The fifth wrapper 355 may include a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change with temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any material, even one that is not silicone, may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation as long as it has the above-described properties.

[0100] The shear plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the shear plug 33 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be included within a range of 1.0 to 10.0, and may preferably be included in a range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug 33 may be 5.0. In addition, the cross section of the filament constituting the shear plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug 33 may be within the range of 20000 to 30000, preferably in a range of 25000 to 30000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug 33 may be 28000.

[0101] In addition, when necessary, the shear plug 33 may include at least one channel, and a cross-sectional shape of the channel may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0102] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, a specific description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0103] A first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure including a hollow therein. The first segment 321 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total-denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono denier and total denier of the shear plug 33.

[0104] A second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments that constitute the second segment 322 may be included within a range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within a range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be within a range of 20000 to 30000, and may preferably be 25000.

[0105] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 900 according to another embodiment.

[0106] The aerosol generating device 900 may include a control unit 910, a sensing unit 920, an output unit 930, a battery 940, a heater 950, a user input unit 960, a memory 970, and a communication unit 980. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 900 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 5. In other words, it may be understood by those skilled in the art that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 900, some of the components shown in FIG. 5 may be omitted or new components may be further added.

[0107] The sensing unit 920 may sense a state of the aerosol generating device 900 or a state around the aerosol generating device 900, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 910. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 910 may control the aerosol generating device 900 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 950, limiting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, or the like) is inserted, displaying a notification, and the like.

[0108] The sensing unit 920 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 922, an insertion sensing sensor 924, and a puff sensor 926, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] The temperature sensor 922 may sense the temperature at which the heater 950 (or aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 900 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 950, or the heater 950 itself may serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 922 may be disposed around the battery 940 to monitor the temperature of the battery 940.

[0110] The insertion sensing sensor 924 may sense insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 924 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 may sense a signal change as the aerosol generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0111] The puff sensor 926 may sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 926 may sense a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0112] In addition to the sensors 922 to 926 described above, the sensing unit 9420 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. Since the function of each of the sensors may be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0113] The output unit 930 may output and provide information on the state of the aerosol generating device 900 to the user. The output unit 930 may include at least one of a display unit 932, a haptic unit 934, and a sound output unit 936, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 932 and a touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 932 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0114] The display unit 932 may visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 900 to a user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 900 may refer to various information such as a charge / discharge state of the battery 940 of the aerosol generating device 900, a preheating state of the heater 950, an insertion / removal state of an aerosol generating article, or a state in which use of the aerosol generating device 900 is restricted (e.g., abnormal article detection), and the display unit 932 may output the information to the outside. The display unit 932 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. In addition, the display unit 932 may be in the form of an LED element.

[0115] The haptic unit 934 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to tactilely provide information about the aerosol generating device 900 to a user. For example, the haptic unit 934 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0116] The sound output unit 936 may audibly provide information about the aerosol generating device 900 to a user. For example, the sound output unit 936 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0117] The battery 940 may supply power used by the aerosol generating device 900 to operate. The battery 940 may supply power so that the heater 950 may be heated. In addition, the battery 940 may supply power necessary for operation of other components (e.g., the sensing unit 920, the output unit 930, the user input unit 960, the memory 970, and the communication unit 980) provided in the aerosol generating device 900. The battery 940 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 940 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto

[0118] The heater 950 may be supplied power from the battery 940 to heat the aerosol generating material. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the aerosol generating device 900 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts power of the battery 940 to supply to the heater 950. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 900 generates an aerosol in an induction heating manner, the aerosol generating device 900 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts a direct current power source of the battery 940 into an alternating current power source.

[0119] The control unit 910, the sensing unit 920, the output unit 930, the user input unit 960, the memory 970, and the communication unit 9840 may receive power from the battery 940 and perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 5, a power conversion circuit, for example, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts power of the battery 940 to supply to respective components, may be further included.

[0120] In one embodiment, the heater 950 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, a suitable electrically resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the heater 950 may be implemented as a metal wire, a metal plate on which an electrically conductive track is disposed, a ceramic heating element, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0121] In another embodiment, the heater 950 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 950 may include a susceptor that heats up via a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating an aerosol generating material.

[0122] In an embodiment, the heater 950 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 950 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[0123] The user input unit 960 may receive input information from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 960 may include a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (such as a contact capacitive type, a pressure resistive type, an infrared sensing type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integrated tension measurement type, and a piezoelectric effect type), a jog wheel, and a jog switch, but is not limited thereto. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 5, the aerosol generating device 900 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface or the like, and may be connected to another external device to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 940 through the connection interface such as the USB interface or the like.

[0124] The memory 970 is hardware for storing various data processed in the aerosol generating device 900, and may store data processed in the control unit 910 and data to be processed therein. The memory 970 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (such as an SD or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only storage (EEPROM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disc. The memory 970 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 900, a maximum number of puffs, a current number of puff, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern, and the like.

[0125] The communication unit 980 may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 980 may include a short-range communication unit 982 and a wireless communication unit 984.

[0126] The short-range wireless communication unit 982 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, Zigbee communication unit, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication unit, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra wideband (UWB) communication unit, Ant+ communication unit, and the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] The wireless communication unit 984 may include a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, and the like, but is not limited thereto. The wireless communication unit 984 may use subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to confirm and authenticate the aerosol generating device 900 within the communication network.

[0128] The control unit 910 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 900. In an embodiment, the control unit 910 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that may be executed on the microprocessor. In addition, those skilled in the art may understand that the process may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0129] The control unit 910 may control the temperature of the heater 950 by controlling the supply of the power of the battery 940 to the heater 950. For example, the control unit 910 may control power supply by controlling switching of a switching element between the battery 940 and the heater 950. In another example, the heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 950 according to a control instruction of the control unit 910.

[0130] The control unit 910 may analyze a result sensed by the sensing unit 920 and control processes to be performed thereafter. For example, based on a result sensed by the sensing unit 920, the control unit 910 may control the power supplied to the heater 950 such that the operation of the heater 950 is started or ended. For another example, based on a result sensed by the sensing unit 920, the control unit 910 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 950 and the time at which the power is supplied so that the heater 950 may be heated to a predetermined temperature or may maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0131] The control unit 910 may control the output unit 930 based on a result sensed by the sensing unit 920. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 926 reaches a preset number, the control unit 910 may notify the user through at least one of the display unit 932, the haptic unit 934, and the sound output unit 936 that the aerosol generating device 900 is about to end.

[0132] In an embodiment, the control unit 910 may control the power supply time and / or the power supply amount to the heater 950 according to the state of an aerosol generating article sensed by the sensing unit 920. For example, when an aerosol generating article 15 is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 910 may control the power supply time to the induction coil (e.g., the induction coil 124 of FIG. 2) to increase the preheating time compared to a case when the aerosol generating article 15 is in a normal state.

[0133] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of a cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0134] A cartridge 400 according to an embodiment may include a container unit 410 accommodating a liquid composition and a coating layer 420 of superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit 410.

[0135] In an embodiment, the container unit 410 may be a component corresponding to the liquid storage unit of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0136] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a cartridge 400 containing an aerosol generating material. The cartridge 400 may be removably coupled with a main body 500, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge 400 may be integrally formed or assembled with the main body 500, and may be fixed so as not to be detached by a user. The cartridge 400 may be mounted on the main body 500 with a liquid composition, which is an aerosol generating material, accommodated therein. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the liquid composition may be injected into the cartridge 400 when the cartridge 400 is coupled to the main body 500.

[0137] For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, and may also be a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

[0138] The cartridge 400 may perform the function of converting the phase of the aerosol generating material within the cartridge 400 into a gas phase to generate an aerosol, such as by being operated by an electrical signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main body 500. An aerosol may refer to a gas in which the vaporized particles generated from an aerosol generating material and the air are mixed.

[0139] The aerosol generating device 1 may heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol may pass through the cigarette to be delivered to the user. In other words, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition may travel along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device, and the airflow passage may be configured such that the aerosol may pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0140] FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing a coating layer according to an embodiment.

[0141] The cartridge 400 according to the embodiment may include a coating layer 420 of superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface. The coating layer 420 may have a plurality of protrusions 421 formed in an inward direction of the container unit 410.

[0142] In the embodiment, the plurality of protrusions 421 may be configured in a microscale. The protrusions 421 may refer to physical texture or surface roughness. The protrusions 421 may be randomly formed, including fractals or patterns. The protrusions 421 may be implemented as microscale features. For example, the protrusions 421 may have a length scale L (e.g., average pore diameter or average protrusion height) of about 15 microns to 20 microns. For example, the protrusions 421 may be formed to include a spherical or hemispherical protrusion unit. The protrusions 421 may be formed by applying mechanical and / or chemical methods to the surface of the coating layer 420, including lithography, self-assembly, deposition, and the like.

[0143] In the embodiment, the surface of the coating layer 420 may have a surface texture demarcated by the protrusions 421. Between the protrusions 421 of the coating layer 420, a gas such as the air may occupy a region between the protrusions. The liquid composition may be in contact with the upper portion of the protrusion 421, and a gas-liquid interface may be formed to prevent the liquid composition from impregnating the entire surface of the coating layer 420.

[0144] This may allow the coating layer 420 to have superhydrophobicity and prevent the liquid composition from remaining inside the cartridge 400.

[0145] However, in certain instances, the liquid composition may displace a gas remaining between the protrusions 421 and penetrate into the regions between the protrusions 421. For example, such penetration may occur when the liquid composition impinges on the surface of the coating layer 420 at a high speed. When the penetration by the liquid composition occurs, the liquid composition partially or completely displaces the gas occupying the regions between the protrusions 421, thereby degrading the superhydrophobicity of the surface of the coating layer 420.

[0146] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a technique for preventing such superhydrophobicity from being degraded through another embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams for describing a coating layer according to another embodiment.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the coating layer 420 according to the embodiment may include: a base layer 423 disposed along an inner surface of the container unit 410 and having protrusions 422 formed on a surface thereof in an inward direction of the container unit 410; and a liquid layer 424 disposed between the protrusions 422 of the base layer 423.

[0149] The coating layer 420 according to the embodiment may be provided with a surface having superhydrophobicity by impregnating the liquid layer 424 between the protrusions 422. The liquid composition in contact with the surface of the coating layer 420 may be located on the upper portion of the protrusions 422 of the surface. The liquid layer 424 may support the liquid composition in the regions between the protrusions 422. The protrusion 422 of the base layer 423 may be formed on a microscale, and the liquid layer 424 may have immiscibility with the liquid composition. For example, the liquid layer 424 may have immiscibility with propylene glycol (PG) and glycerin (vegetable glycerin).

[0150] The base layer 423 may include any inherent hydrophobic, oleophobic, and / or metallophobic material or coating. For example, the base layer 423 may include hydrocarbons such as alkanes and fluoropolymers such as Teflon, trichloro(1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl) silane (TCS), octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS), heptadecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrodecyltrichloro silane, fluorinated polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (fluoroPOSS), and / or other fluoropolymers. Additional possible materials or coatings for the base layer 423 include ceramics, polymeric materials, fluorinated materials, intermetallic compounds, and composite materials. The polymeric material may include, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene, fluoroacrylate, fluoroeurathane, fluorosilicone, fluorosilane, modified carbonate, chlorosilane, silicone, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and / or combinations thereof. The ceramic may include, for example, titanium carbide, titanium nitride, chromium nitride, boron nitride, chromium carbide, molybdenum carbide, carbonitride titanium, electroless nickel, zirconium nitride, fluorinated silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, tantalum oxide, tantalam nitride, diamond-like carbon, fluorinated diamond-like carbon, and / or combinations thereof. The intermetallic compound may include, for example, nickel aluminide, titanium aluminide, and / or combinations thereof.

[0151] The protrusions 422 may refer to physical texture or surface roughness. The protrusions 422 may be randomly formed, including fractals or patterns. The protrusions 422 may be implemented as microscale features. For example, the protrusions 422 may have a length scale L (e.g., average pore diameter or average protrusion height) of about 15 microns to about 20 microns. For example, the protrusions 422 may be formed to include a spherical or hemispherical protrusion unit. The protrusions 422 may be formed by applying mechanical and / or chemical methods to the surface of the base layer 423, including lithography, self-assembly, deposition, and the like.

[0152] The liquid layer 424 may be any form of liquid capable of providing superhydrophobicity to the materials constituting the liquid composition. For example, the liquid layer 424 may be oily or aqueous (i.e., water-based). For example, the liquid layer 424 may be an ionic liquid (e.g., BMI-IM). Other examples of materials that constitute the liquid layer 424 include hexadecane, vacuum pump oil, fluorocarbons (e.g., perfluoro-tripentylamine, FC-70), shear thinning fluids, shear thickening fluids, liquid polymers, dissolving polymers, viscoelastic fluids, and / or liquid fluoroPOSS. For example, the liquid layer may be implemented as a liquid metal, a dielectric fluid, a liquid magnet, a magnetic flow (MR) fluid, an electric flow (ER) fluid, an ionic fluid, a hydrocarbon liquid, and / or a fluorocarbon liquid.

[0153] The liquid layer 424 may be manufactured in the manner of shear thickening through the introduction of nanoparticles. For example, a shear thickening liquid layer may be applied to prevent the liquid composition from penetrating between the protrusions 422 and resist impingement from the liquid composition.

[0154] To minimize evaporation of the liquid layer 424 from the surface of the coating layer 420, the liquid layer 424 having a low vapor pressure (e.g., less than 0.1 mmHg, less than 0.001 mmHg, less than 0.00001 mmHg, or less than 0.000001 mmH g) may be used. For example, the freezing point of the liquid layer 424 may be less than −20° C., less than −40° C., or about −60° C. In addition, the surface tension of the liquid layer 424 may be about 15 mN / m, about 20 mN / m, or about 40 mN / m, and the viscosity of the liquid layer 424 may be between about 10 cSt and about 1000 cSt.

[0155] In the embodiment, a coating process such as dip coating, blade coating, or roller coating may be used to apply the liquid layer 424 to the surface of the base layer 423. Alternatively, the liquid layer 424 may be introduced and / or supplemented with a liquid material that flows past the surface (e.g., in a conduit). After the liquid layer 424 is applied, capillary force may hold the liquid of the liquid layer 424 in place. The magnitude of the capillary force may be designed to change inversely to the distance between the protrusions or the pore radius and to keep the liquid of the liquid layer 424 in place despite the movement of the surface and the movement of the air or other fluid over the surface.

[0156] The liquid layer 424 according to the embodiment may resist the penetration of the liquid composition because the liquid may not be compressed over a wide range of pressure.

[0157] In addition, the liquid layer 424 according to the embodiment may reduce the viscous drag between the surface of the base layer 423 and the flowing liquid composition.

[0158] In addition, the liquid layer 424 according to the embodiment may induce a large amount of slippage on the solid surface through its superhydrophobicity. When the liquid layer 424 or a gas supports the liquid composition, the liquid-liquid or liquid-gas interface is free to flow or slide relative to the underlying solid material. A drag reduction as high as 40% may be achieved due to this slippage. However, as described above the liquid composition may permeate the regions between the protrusions formed by the gas, and when such permeation occurs, the advantage of reduced drag may be lost.

[0159] In the embodiment, the liquid layer 424 may reduce viscous drag between the solid surface and the flowing liquid composition. The liquid layer 424 may increase the slippage of the contacting liquid composition and thus drastically reduce the viscous drag between the liquid and the solid.

[0160] In the embodiment, the liquid layer 424 may provide a self-cleaning function. For example, particles and chemicals on the surface of the liquid layer 424 may be absorbed and swept away by droplets that are removed from the surface. This self-cleaning property may help maintain cleanliness within the cartridge 400.

[0161] The liquid layer 424 may also be used to facilitate condensation of the liquid composition. For example, the liquid layer 424 may be used to easily remove condensate to enhance condensation heat transfer (e.g., dropwise condensation).

[0162] In the embodiment, the liquid composition accommodated in the cartridge 400 may include PG and glycerin (vegetable glycerin). For example, the liquid layer 424 may have a thickness of 100 microns to 500 microns. When the thickness of the liquid layer 424 is less than 100 microns, the force to prevent the penetration of PG and glycerin (vegetable glycerin), which are the main constituents of the liquid composition, may not be sufficient, and when it exceeds 500 microns, the overall thickness of the coating layer 420 increases.

[0163] PG is a viscous, colorless liquid with little odor but a faintly sweet taste, the chemical formula being CH3CH(OH)CH2OH, and may have a viscosity of about 60.5 cp at a temperature of 20° C.

[0164] Glycerin (glycerol) is a colorless, odorless liquid. It is characterized by a very strong viscosity. Glycerin may have a viscosity of about 825 mpas (=825 cp) at a temperature of 25° C., a viscosity of about 367.5 mPa·s at a temperature of 35° C., and a viscosity of about 178.5 mPa·s at the temperature of 45° C., as shown in Table 1 below.TABLE 1Glycerol (99%)Temperature (° C.)Viscosity (mPa · s)2582535367.545178.5

[0165] The viscosity of the materials constituting the liquid composition may vary depending on the temperature and the content of the materials. As shown in Table 1, it may be seen that the viscosity of glycerin, which has a relatively high viscosity compared to PG, decreases significantly as the temperature increases. Therefore, the cartridge 400 according to the embodiment may be configured to have superhydrophobicity with glycerin having a high viscosity, and at the same time, may have superhydrophobicity with PG. In addition, the cartridge 400 according to the embodiment may implement the coating layer 420 such that the superhydrophobicity differs depending on the distance from the heater, which is a heat source, in consideration of the viscosity characteristics that change according to the temperature.

[0166] FIGS. 10 to 15 are diagrams for describing a coating layer according to still another embodiment.

[0167] The coating layer 420 according to the embodiment may implement the protrusion scale such that the superhydrophobicity differs depending on the distance between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420. For example, a region of the coating layer 420 that is close to the heater 510 may exhibit a low viscosity of PG and glycerin constituting the liquid composition due to the relative high temperature. In addition, a region of the coating layer 420 that is far from the heater 510 may exhibit a high viscosity of PG and glycerin constituting the liquid composition due to the relatively low temperature.

[0168] In consideration of these viscosity characteristics, the protrusion scale in a region that is far from the heater 510 may be implemented to be smaller than that in a region that is close to the heater 510. As described above, the smaller the protrusion scale, that is, the smaller the protrusions 425 are implemented and the narrower the spacing between protrusions 425, the stronger the superhydrophobicity may be. Therefore, by implementing the protrusion scale in a region that is far from the heater 510 on a smaller scale than in a region relatively close to the heater 510, it is possible to implement the coating layer 420 in which the superhydrophobicity is more strongly exhibited in a region in which the viscosity is higher. Here, the scale may be used as a concept defined by the size (height, length, width, etc.) of the protrusions 425 and the spacing between the protrusions 425.

[0169] In other words, according to the embodiment, it is possible to implement the coating layer 420 in which the superhydrophobicity is enhanced as the distance from the heater 510 increases.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 10, the size of the protrusions 425 may be reduced in proportion to the distance D between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420. The larger the size of the protrusions 425 is, the larger the scale of the protrusions 425 is, and the lower the superhydrophobicity is. As a result, enhanced superhydrophobicity may be realized in regions located relatively far from the heater 510 as compared to regions located close to the heater 510.

[0171] For example, the temperature inside the cartridge 400 during the operation of the heater 510 may be measured for each region, and the size of the protrusions 425 may be determined in proportion to the measured temperature. In other words, the surface of the coating layer 420 may be formed such that the size of the protrusions 425 increases in proportion to the measured temperature.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 11, the spacing between the protrusions 425 may be narrowed in proportion to the distance D between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420. The larger the distance between the protrusions 425 is, the larger the scale of the protrusions 425 is, and the lower the superhydrophobicity is. As a result, enhanced superhydrophobicity may be realized in regions located relatively far from the heater 510 as compared to regions located close to the heater 510.

[0173] For example, the temperature inside the cartridge 400 during operation of the heater 510 may be measured for each region, and the spacing between the protrusions 425 may be determined in proportion to the measured temperature. In other words, the surface of the coating layer 420 may be formed such that the spacing between the protrusions 425 increases in proportion to the measured temperature.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 12, by combining the protrusion characteristics of FIGS. 10 and 11, the size of the protrusions 425 may be reduced in proportion to the distance between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420, and the spacing between the protrusions 425 may be increased.

[0175] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13 to FIG. 15, microscale protrusions 426 may be formed in a region having a predetermined temperature or higher, and nanoscale protrusions 427 may be formed in a region having a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature to form the coating layer 420. Since the manufacturing process is relatively difficult in the case of the nanoscale protrusions as compared with the microscale protrusions, in a region where the liquid composition may have a sufficiently low viscosity, the liquid composition may be prevented from remaining inside the container unit even when microscale protrusions are implemented.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 13, the size of the protrusions 426 formed in a region where the temperature inside the cartridge 400 is higher than or equal to a preset temperature may be greater than the size of the protrusions 427 formed in a region of the cartridge inside 400 where the temperature is lower than the preset temperature. In other words, when the linear distance between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420 is within a certain distance, protrusions 426 having the size of ‘a’ may be formed, and when the linear distance from the heater 510 to the coating layer 420 deviates from the certain distance, a protrusion 427 having the size of ‘b’ (a>b) may be formed. As a result, enhanced superhydrophobicity may be implemented in regions located relatively far away compared to regions located within a certain distance from the heater 510.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 14, the spacing between protrusions 428 formed in a region in which the temperature inside the cartridge 400 is higher than or equal to a preset temperature may be wider than the spacing between protrusions 429 formed in the region in which the temperature inside the cartridge 400 is lower than the preset temperature. In other words, the coating layer 420 may be implemented such that when the linear distance between the heater 510 and the coating layer 420 is within a certain distance, the spacing between the protrusions 428 may be ‘c,’ and when the linear distance from the heater 510 to the coating layer 420 deviates from the certain distance, the spacing between the protrusions 429 is ‘d’ (c>d). As a result, enhanced superhydrophobicity may be implemented in regions located relatively far away compared to regions located within a certain distance from the heater 510.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 15, by combining the protrusion characteristics of FIGS. 10 and 11, protrusions 428 in a region where the temperature inside the cartridge 400 is higher than or equal to a preset temperature may be formed to be larger than protrusions 429 formed in a region below the preset temperature, and may be formed with a wider spacing therebetween.

[0179] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium that includes computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that may be accessed by a computer and includes all volatile and nonvolatile media and removable and non-removable media. Moreover, the computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media includes all volatile and nonvolatile media and removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Communication media typically include computer readable instructions, data structures, other data in a modulated data signal such as program modules, or other transport mechanism and include any information delivery media.

Claims

1. A cartridge comprising:a container unit accommodating a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated; anda coating layer having superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit,wherein the coating layer has a plurality of microscale protrusions formed in an inward direction of the container unit.

2. The cartridge of claim 1,wherein the coating layer includes:a base layer disposed along an inner surface of the container unit and having protrusions formed on a surface thereof in an inward direction of the container unit; anda liquid layer disposed between the protrusions of the base layer.

3. The cartridge of claim 2,wherein the liquid layer supports the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

4. The cartridge of claim 2,wherein the liquid layer has immiscibility with the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

5. The cartridge of claim 4,wherein the liquid layer has immiscibility with propylene glycol (PG) and glycerin.

6. The cartridge of claim 5,wherein the liquid layer has immiscibility with a material having a viscosity of 825 cp or less.

7. The cartridge of claim 1,wherein the superhydrophobicity differs depending on the distance between a heater heating the liquid composition and the coating layer.

8. The cartridge of claim 7,wherein the superhydrophobicity is enhanced as the distance from the heater increases.

9. The cartridge of claim 7,wherein the size of the protrusions and the spacing between the protrusions differ depending on the distance from the heater.

10. An aerosol generating device comprising:a battery supplying power used to operate the aerosol generating device;a control unit including at least one processor; anda cartridge,wherein the cartridge includes:a container unit accommodating a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated; anda coating layer having superhydrophobicity formed along an inner surface of the container unit, andthe coating layer has a plurality of microscale protrusions formed in an inward direction of the container unit.

11. The aerosol generating device of claim 10,wherein the coating layer includes:a base layer disposed along an inner surface of the container unit and having protrusions formed on a surface thereof in an inward direction of the container unit; anda liquid layer disposed between the protrusions of the base layer.

12. The aerosol generating device of claim 11,wherein the liquid layer supports the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

13. The aerosol generating device of claim 11,wherein the liquid layer has immiscibility with the liquid composition accommodated in the container unit.

14. The aerosol generating device of claim 10,wherein the superhydrophobicity differs depending on the distance between a heater heating the liquid composition and the coating layer.

15. The aerosol generating device of claim 10,wherein the size of the protrusions and the spacing between the protrusions differ depending on a distance from the heater.

Images