AERIAL SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating system consists of: a holder comprising a heating element composed of a device for heating a tobacco, fitted into a first internal space; and a frame comprising a second internal space formed on one side of which is constructed to contain the holder, which is constructed to heat the tobacco by electrically supplying the heating element in the first state in which the holder is fitted into the second internal space and in the second state in which the holder is detached from the second internal space.

Description

Aerosol generation method and device

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for generating an aerosol. More specifically, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for generating an aerosol as an aerosol generating substance within a cigarette is heated.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods in which aerosols are generated as an aerosol-generating substance within the cigarette is heated, rather than methods that generate aerosols by burning the cigarette. Accordingly, research on heated cigarettes or heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] The invention provides a method and apparatus for generating an aerosol. Additionally, the invention provides a computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing the above method on a computer. The technical problems to be solved are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems may exist.

[0004] An aerosol generating system according to one aspect comprises: a holder that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette; and a cradle having an internal space into which the holder is inserted, wherein the holder is tilted after being inserted into the internal space of the cradle to generate the aerosol.

[0005] The holder can generate an aerosol by heating the cigarette. Additionally, the holder can generate an aerosol independently or when the holder is inserted into a cradle and tilted. In particular, when the holder is tilted, the heater can be heated by the power of the cradle's battery.

[0006] In addition, the heater has a smooth surface to facilitate the insertion of the cigarette, and the heater is not damaged by friction during the insertion process.

[0007] In addition, the operation of the holder can be continuously monitored in any state, such as when the holder is attached to the cradle and tilted, or when the holder device is detached from the cradle.

[0008] In addition, the cooling structure included in the cigarette can cool the aerosol passing through the cooling structure. In particular, since uniform channels are distributed in the cooling structure, the flow of the aerosol can be smooth while enhancing the cooling effect of the aerosol.

[0009] In addition, the cooling structure has the effect of filtering specific substances contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, since the cooling structure can be made of pure polylactic acid, the generation of specific substances as the aerosol passes through the cooling structure can be prevented.

[0010] In addition, as vortices are generated as the aerosol passes through the cooling structure, the cooling of the aerosol and the filtering of specific substances are enhanced.

[0011] In addition, an (integrated) aerosol generating device in which a holder and a cradle are combined may be provided. According to the aerosol generating device, a user can insert a cigarette into the aerosol generating device by pushing the cigarette along the receiving passage of the receiving portion. In addition, after finishing using the cigarette, the user can easily detach the cigarette from the aerosol generating device by a simple operation of separating the cigarette from the receiving portion of the case, making it convenient to use.

[0012] In addition, since the receiving portion can be separated from the case, tobacco material generated during smoking and attached to the surroundings of the cigarette can be easily discharged to the outside of the case along with the receiving portion.

[0013] In addition, when the receiving section is separated from the case, the protruding tube and heater are exposed to the outside, allowing the user to easily perform cleaning while inspecting them directly.

[0014] In addition, when a cigarette is inserted into the receiving portion of the aerosol generating device, the cigarette is stably supported by the protrusions protruding from the receiving passage or the cigarette support projections of the cover coming into contact with the cigarette. Therefore, since the state in which the cigarette is received in the aerosol generating device is stably maintained while using the aerosol generating device, the user can safely enjoy the aerosol generating device.

[0015] In addition, since the protrusion comes into contact with a part of the outer surface of the cigarette, a passage is formed between the receiving passage and the cigarette through which air can pass, so external air to assist in aerosol generation can be sufficiently and smoothly supplied into the interior of the aerosol generating device.

[0016] In addition, by reducing the contact area between the cigarette and the inner surface of the receiving passage, the heat conduction area through which heat is transferred from the cigarette to the case can be reduced.

[0017] In addition, since the cigarette and the receiving passage are spaced apart from each other, even if the cigarette expands due to the insertion of a heater inside the cigarette, the cigarette is easily inserted into the receiving passage of the receiving portion. If there is no clearance between the cigarette and the receiving portion, the outer wall of the cigarette expands during the process of inserting the heater into the cigarette, increasing the frictional force between the cigarette and the receiving portion, making it difficult to insert the cigarette into the receiving portion.

[0018] In addition, the receiving portion can be cooled by introducing an external airflow into the space formed between the outer surface of the cigarette and the receiving passage.

[0019] In addition, the air flowing into the cigarette can be preheated by the configuration of an aerosol generating device equipped with a receiving passage and a protrusion.

[0020] In addition, since a mechanism for moving the receiving part relative to the aerosol generating device is not used while the receiving part remains unseparated from the aerosol generating device, the number of components is reduced, simplifying the overall configuration of the aerosol generating device and preventing problems such as frequent failures associated with the movable receiving part.

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0022] Figure 2 is a drawing to explain an example of a heater.

[0023] Figure 3 is a drawing to explain an example of a staircase plan shown in Figure 2.

[0024] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of electrically conductive tracks.

[0025] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connection between a heater, a battery, and a control unit as shown in Figure 1.

[0026] FIGS. 6A and FIGS. 6B are drawings illustrating an example of a holder from various angles.

[0027] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of a cradle.

[0028] FIGS. 8A and FIGS. 8B are drawings illustrating an example of a cradle from various angles.

[0029] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder being inserted into a cradle.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder being tilted while inserted into a cradle.

[0031] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an example of a smoking action using a holder tilted in a cradle.

[0032] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a method for counting the number of puffs when the holder is tilted and separated.

[0033] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a method for counting operation time when the holder is tilted and separated.

[0034] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0035] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating another example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0036] Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0037] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a method for counting operation time in a holder.

[0038] FIGS. 18A and 18B are drawings illustrating examples in which a holder is inserted into a cradle.

[0039] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how a holder and a cradle operate.

[0040] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how a holder operates.

[0041] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how a cradle operates.

[0042] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating an example of a cigarette inserted into a holder.

[0043] Figures 23A and 23B are structural diagrams illustrating an example of a cigarette.

[0044] FIGS. 24A and FIGS. 24B are drawings to illustrate an example of a fiber bundle.

[0045] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating another example of a fiber bundle.

[0046] FIGS. 26A and FIGS. 26B are drawings for illustrating an example of a cooling structure including a single longitudinal channel.

[0047] FIGS. 27A to 27C are drawings for illustrating other examples of cooling structures including a single longitudinal channel.

[0048] FIGS. 28A and FIGS. 28B are drawings for illustrating another example of a cooling structure including a single longitudinal channel.

[0049] FIG. 29 is a drawing illustrating an example of a cooling structure with a filled interior.

[0050] FIGS. 30A and FIGS. 30B are drawings illustrating other examples of internally filled cooling structures.

[0051] Figure 31 is a drawing illustrating another example of a cooling structure with a filled interior.

[0052] FIGS. 32A and 32B are drawings for illustrating an example of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels.

[0053] FIG. 33 is a drawing illustrating an example in which the interior of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels is filled.

[0054] FIGS. 34A to 34E are drawings for illustrating other examples of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels.

[0055] Figure 35 is a drawing illustrating an example of a sheet-type cooling structure.

[0056] Figures 36A and 36B are drawings illustrating other examples of sheet-type cooling structures.

[0057] Figure 37 is a drawing illustrating an example of a granular cooling structure.

[0058] FIGS. 38A to 38C are drawings for illustrating examples of cooling structures made of implants.

[0059] FIG. 39 is a side view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 40A is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 39.

[0061] FIG. 40B is a perspective view illustrating the operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0062] FIG. 41A is a side view illustrating another operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0063] FIG. 41B is a side view illustrating another operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0064] FIG. 42 is a side view illustrating another operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0065] FIG. 43 is a perspective view showing an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 from a different angle.

[0066] FIG. 44 is a top view of some components of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 43.

[0067] FIG. 45 is a perspective view showing an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 from another angle.

[0068] FIG. 46 is a side cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of a part of a component of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 41.

[0069] FIG. 47 is an enlarged view illustrating the airflow of a portion of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 46.

[0070] FIG. 48 is an enlarged view showing a portion of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 47.

[0071] FIG. 49 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0072] FIG. 50 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0073] FIG. 51 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 52 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0075] FIG. 53 is a perspective view illustrating the operating state of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0076] FIG. 54 is a perspective view showing the operating state of an aerosol generating device with some components removed according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 53.

[0077] FIG. 55 is a side cross-sectional view showing some components of the aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 54.

[0078] FIG. 56 is a perspective view illustrating an operating state in which some components are separated from the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 53.

[0079] FIG. 57 is a bottom perspective view of some components of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 54.

[0080] FIG. 58 is an explanatory diagram illustrating, exemplarily, the operating state when some of the components shown in FIG. 57 are used.

[0081] An aerosol generating system according to one aspect comprises: a holder that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette; and a cradle having an internal space into which the holder is inserted, wherein the holder is tilted after being inserted into the internal space of the cradle to generate the aerosol.

[0082] In the aerosol generating system described above, the holder is tilted from 5° to 90° relative to the state in which it is inserted into the cradle.

[0083] In the aerosol generating system described above, when the holder is tilted, the holder heats a heater included in the holder using power supplied from a battery included in the cradle.

[0084] A heater according to another aspect comprises: a heating portion including a tube-shaped base and a needle tip formed at one end of the base; a first sheet having an electrically conductive track formed on each of both sides and covering at least a portion of the outer surface of the base; a second sheet covering at least a portion of the first sheet and having rigidity; and a coating layer for flattening a stepped surface formed by a laminated structure including the heating portion, the first sheet and the second sheet.

[0085] In the heater described above, the coating layer comprises a heat-resistant composition.

[0086] In the heater described above, the plurality of electrically conductive tracks includes a first electrically conductive track formed on a first surface among the two ends of the first sheet and having a resistance temperature coefficient characteristic used to detect the temperature of the heating part, and a second electrically conductive track formed on a second surface among the two ends of the first sheet and configured to heat the heating part as current flows inside it.

[0087] An aerosol generating system according to another aspect comprises: a holder that generates an aerosol by heating the inserted cigarette when the cigarette is inserted; and a cradle in which an internal space is provided to accommodate the holder, and the holder is tilted together with the internal space so that the cigarette can be inserted into the holder while the holder is accommodated in the internal space; wherein the holder cumulatively monitors a smoking pattern in a first state in which the holder is tilted from the cradle and a second state in which the holder is separated from the cradle, and determines whether the cumulatively monitored smoking pattern satisfies a smoking restriction condition.

[0088] In the aerosol generating system described above, the holder controls a heater provided within the holder so that when smoking proceeds in the first state and then smoking proceeds in the second state, the smoking pattern monitored in the second state is accumulated to the smoking pattern monitored in the first state, and when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition, the heating of the inserted cigarette is stopped.

[0089] In the aerosol generating system described above, the holder accumulates the smoking pattern monitored in the first state to the smoking pattern monitored in the second state when smoking proceeds in the second state and subsequently proceeds in the first state, and controls a heater provided in the holder so that heating of the inserted cigarette is stopped when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition.

[0090] An aerosol generating device according to another aspect comprises: a case; a hollow protruding tube protruding from one end of the case and having an opening open toward the outside; a heater installed in the case such that its end is located inside the protruding tube and generates heat when an electric signal is applied; and a receiving portion having a side wall forming a receiving passage for receiving a cigarette, an insertion hole open toward the outside at one end of the receiving passage for inserting the cigarette, and a heater hole closing the other end of the receiving passage and passing the end of the heater through the opening of the protruding tube, so as to be inserted into the inside of the protruding tube or separated from the protruding tube.

[0091] The aerosol generating device described above further comprises an external hole capable of exposing the insertion hole of the receiving portion to the outside, and a cover capable of being coupled to one end of the case and separable from the case to cover the receiving portion.

[0092] In the aerosol generating device described above, an external air inlet gap is formed at the joint portion between the cover and the case to allow air from the outside of the cover to flow into the inside of the cover, and the receiving portion further comprises an outer wall that surrounds the side wall and is spaced outward in the radial direction of the side wall, and the receiving portion and the protruding tube are joined by inserting the protruding tube between the outer wall and the side wall, and an air circulation gap is formed at the joint portion between the outer wall of the receiving portion and the protruding tube to allow air from the outside of the receiving portion to flow into the inside of the receiving portion, and the protruding tube further comprises an air hole that allows air to pass toward the end of the cigarette received in the receiving portion.

[0093] In an aerosol generating article that generates an aerosol in combination with an aerosol generating device according to another aspect, the aerosol generating article comprises: a tobacco rod; and a cooling structure manufactured by weaving at least one fiber bundle.

[0094] In the aerosol generating article described above, the fiber bundle is manufactured using a biodegradable polymer material, and the biodegradable polymer material comprises at least one of polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), cellulose acetate, poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based thermoplastic resin.

[0095] In the aerosol generating article described above, the fiber bundle is manufactured by weaving the at least one fiber strand.

[0096] The terms used in the embodiments have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions in the present invention; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of the invention.

[0097] When a part of a specification is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Furthermore, terms such as "…part" or "…module" as used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0098] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0099] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0100] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 1, an aerosol generating device (1) (hereinafter referred to as the ‘holder’) includes a battery (110), a control unit (120), and a heater (130). Additionally, the holder (1) includes an internal space formed by a case (140). A cigarette may be inserted into the internal space of the holder (1).

[0102] Only the components related to the present embodiment are shown in the holder (1) illustrated in FIG. 1. Therefore, it can be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that other general components may be included in the holder (1) in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0103] When a cigarette is inserted into the holder (1), the holder (1) heats the heater (130). The temperature of the aerosol-generating substance inside the cigarette rises due to the heated heater (130), and aerosol is generated accordingly. The generated aerosol is delivered to the user through the filter of the cigarette. However, the holder (1) can heat the heater (130) even when the cigarette is not inserted into the holder (1).

[0104] The case (140) can be separated from the holder (1). For example, the case (140) can be separated from the holder (1) by the user rotating the case (140) clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0105] Additionally, the diameter of the hole formed by the end (141) of the case (140) can be made smaller than the diameter of the space formed by the case (140) and the heater (130), and in this case, it can serve as a guide for the cigarette inserted into the holder (1).

[0106] The battery (110) supplies power used to operate the holder (1). For example, the battery (110) can supply power to heat the heater (130) and can supply power required for the control unit (120) to operate. In addition, the battery (110) can supply power required for the operation of a display, sensor, motor, etc. installed in the holder (1).

[0107] The battery (110) may be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited to the examples described above. For example, the battery (110) may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, etc.

[0108] Additionally, the battery (110) may have the shape of a cylinder with a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 37 mm, but is not limited thereto. The capacity of the battery (110) may be 120 mAh or more, and it may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, if the battery (110) is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery (110) may be 10 C, and the discharge rate (C-rate) may be 16 C to 20 C, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, for stable use, the battery (110) may be manufactured so that at least 80% of the total capacity is secured even after 8,000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0109] Here, whether the battery (110) is fully charged or fully discharged can be determined by the level of power stored in the battery (110) relative to the total capacity of the battery (110). For example, if the power stored in the battery (110) is 95% or more of the total capacity, the battery (110) may be determined to be fully charged. Additionally, if the power stored in the battery (110) is 10% or less of the total capacity, the battery (110) may be determined to be fully discharged. However, the criteria for determining whether the battery (110) is fully charged or fully discharged are not limited to the examples described above.

[0110] The heater (130) is heated by power supplied from the battery (110). When the cigarette is inserted into the holder (1), the heater (130) is located inside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater (130) can raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating material inside the cigarette.

[0111] The heater (130) may have a shape that combines a cylinder and a cone. The diameter of the heater (130) may be of an appropriate size within the range of 2 mm to 3 mm. Preferably, the heater (130) may be manufactured to have a diameter of 2.15 mm, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the length of the heater (130) may be of an appropriate size within the range of 20 mm to 30 mm. Preferably, the heater (130) may be manufactured to have a length of 19 mm, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the end (131) of the heater (130) may be finished at an acute angle, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the heater (130) may be of any shape that can be inserted into the inside of a cigarette without limitation. Additionally, the heater (130) may be heated only in a portion of the body. For example, assuming the length of the heater (130) is 19 mm, only 12 mm from the end (131) of the heater (130) may be heated, and the rest of the heater (130) may not be heated.

[0112] The heater (130) may be an electric resistive heater. For example, the heater (130) may include an electric conductive track, and the heater (130) may be heated as current flows through the electric conductive track.

[0113] For stable use, power according to specifications of 3.2 V, 2.4 A, and 8 W may be supplied to the heater (130), but is not limited thereto. For example, when power is supplied to the heater (130), the surface temperature of the heater (130) may rise to 400°C or higher. Before 15 seconds have passed since power began to be supplied to the heater (130), the surface temperature of the heater (130) may rise to about 350°C.

[0114] Hereinafter, the structure of the heater (130) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5.

[0115] Figure 2 is a drawing to explain an example of a heater.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 2, the heater (130) may include a heating portion (1315), a first sheet (1325) covering a part of the heating portion (1315), a second sheet (1335) protecting the first sheet (1325), and a coating layer (1345).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the heating part (1315) may have a needle shape (e.g., a shape combining a cylinder and a cone). Additionally, the heating part (1315) may include a base and a needle tip. For example, the base of the heating part (1315) may be formed in a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the needle tip of the heating part (1315) may be formed at one end of the base to facilitate insertion into an aerosol-forming substrate. At this time, the base and the needle tip may be formed as a single unit. Alternatively, the base and the needle tip may be manufactured separately and then joined together.

[0118] The heating element (1315) may include a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may include, but is not limited to, ceramics such as alumina or zirconia, anodized metal, coated metal, polyimide (PI), etc.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first sheet (1325) may cover at least a portion of the heating portion (1315). For example, the first sheet (1325) may cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the base portion of the heater (130). An electrically conductive track may be formed on each of the two ends of the first sheet (1325).

[0120] Additionally, a first electrically conductive track formed on one of the two cross-sections of the first sheet (1325) can receive power from a battery. As current flows through the first electrically conductive track, the temperature of the electrically conductive track may rise. Additionally, as the temperature of the electrically conductive track rises, heat is transferred to a heating part (1315) adjacent to the electrically conductive track, thereby heating the heating part (1315).

[0121] The heating temperature of the first electrically conductive track can be determined according to the power consumption of the resistance of the first electrically conductive track. Additionally, the resistance value of the first electrically conductive track can be set based on the power consumption of the resistance of the first electrically conductive track.

[0122] For example, the resistance value of the first electrically conductive track may be between 0.5 ohm and 1.2 ohm at room temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, but is not limited thereto. In this case, the resistance value of the first electrically conductive track may be determined by the constituent material, length, width, thickness, and pattern of the first electrically conductive track.

[0123] According to the resistance temperature coefficient characteristics of the first electrically conductive track, the magnitude of the internal resistance may increase as the temperature rises. For example, in a given temperature range, the magnitude of the resistance of the first electrically conductive track may be proportional to the temperature.

[0124] For example, a predetermined voltage may be applied to the first electrically conductive track, and the current flowing through the first electrically conductive track may be measured through a current sensor. Additionally, the resistance of the first electrically conductive track may be calculated through the ratio of the measured current to the applied voltage. Based on the calculated resistance, the temperature of the first electrically conductive track or the heating part (1315) may be estimated according to the resistance temperature coefficient characteristics of the first electrically conductive track.

[0125] For example, the first electrically conductive track may include tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel, palladium, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the first electrically conductive track may be doped with a suitable doping material and may include an alloy.

[0126] One side or the other of the two cross-sections of the first sheet (1325) may include a second electrically conductive track having a resistance temperature coefficient characteristic used to detect the temperature of the heating unit (1315). According to the resistance temperature coefficient characteristic, the magnitude of the internal resistance of the second electrically conductive track may increase as the temperature rises. For example, in a predetermined temperature range, the magnitude of the resistance of the second electrically conductive track may be proportional to the temperature.

[0127] The second electrically conductive track may be positioned adjacent to the heating section (1315). Accordingly, when the temperature of the heating section (1315) rises, the temperature of the adjacent second electrically conductive track may also rise. A predetermined voltage is applied to the second electrically conductive track, and the current flowing through the second electrically conductive track can be measured through a current sensor. Additionally, the resistance of the second electrically conductive track can be determined through the ratio of the measured current to the applied voltage. Based on the determined resistance, the temperature of the heating section (1315) can be determined according to the resistance temperature coefficient characteristics of the second electrically conductive track.

[0128] The resistance value of the second electrically conductive track may change depending on the temperature of the second electrically conductive track. Therefore, the temperature change of the second electrically conductive track can be measured based on the change in the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track. For example, the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track may have a resistance value between 7 ohms and 18 ohms at room temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, but is not limited thereto. In this case, the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track may be determined by the constituent material, length, width, thickness, and pattern of the second electrically conductive track.

[0129] For example, the second electrically conductive track may include tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel, palladium, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the second electrically conductive track may be doped with a suitable doping material or may include an alloy.

[0130] The first electrically conductive track can be connected to a battery through an electrical connection. As described above, as power is supplied from the battery, the temperature of the first electrically conductive track may increase.

[0131] The second electrically conductive track may include an electrical connection to which a DC (direct current) voltage is applied. The electrical connection of the second electrically conductive track is separated from the electrical connection of the first electrically conductive track. Additionally, when the DC voltage applied to the second electrically conductive track is constant, the magnitude of the current flowing through the second electrically conductive track can be determined based on the resistance of the second electrically conductive track.

[0132] The second electrically conductive track may be connected to an operating amplifier (OP Amp). The OP Amp may include a power supply unit that receives DC power from an external source, an input unit that is electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track and receives a DC voltage and / or current, and an output unit that outputs a signal based on the DC voltage and / or current applied to the input unit.

[0133] The OP Amp can receive a DC voltage through a power supply. Additionally, the OP Amp can receive a DC voltage through an input. At this time, the magnitude of the DC voltage applied through the input of the OP Amp and the magnitude of the DC voltage applied through the power supply of the OP Amp may be the same. Additionally, the DC voltage applied to the input of the OP Amp may be the same as the DC voltage applied to the electrical connection of the second electrically conductive track.

[0134] The electrical connection part of the second electrically conductive track and the input part of the OP Amp can be separated from the electrical connection part of the first electrically conductive track.

[0135] As the temperature of the second electrically conductive track changes, the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track may change. Accordingly, the second electrically conductive track functions as a variable resistor with temperature as a control variable, and as the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track changes, the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track changes. As the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track increases, the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track decreases. At this time, even if the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track changes, the DC voltage applied to the input of the OP Amp may remain constant.

[0136] As the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp changes, the voltage and / or current of the signal output from the output of the OP Amp may change. For example, as the input current of the OP Amp increases, the output voltage of the OP Amp may increase. As another example, as the input current of the OP Amp increases, the output voltage of the OP Amp may decrease.

[0137] In addition, when a constant DC voltage is applied to the input of the OP Amp, the relationship between the temperature and resistance value of the second electrically conductive track, the relationship between the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track and the input current applied to the OP Amp, and the relationship between the input current and output voltage of the OP Amp can be experimentally obtained or set. Accordingly, by measuring the output voltage of the OP Amp and / or the change in the output voltage, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track and / or the change in temperature can be detected.

[0138] For example, an OP Amp may have a characteristic in which the voltage of the output of the OP Amp increases as the input current flowing into the input increases. In this case, as power is supplied to the first electrically conductive track, the temperature of the heater increases. Accordingly, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track increases. At this time, as the resistance of the second electrically conductive track increases, the magnitude of the input current applied to the input of the OP Amp may decrease. Consequently, the voltage of the output of the OP Amp decreases. Conversely, as the power supply to the first electrically conductive track is cut off or the power supplied to the first electrically conductive track is reduced, the temperature of the heater decreases, and the voltage of the output of the OP Amp increases.

[0139] As another example, an OP Amp may have a characteristic in which the voltage of the output section decreases as the input current flowing into the input section increases. In this case, as power is supplied to the first electrically conductive track, the temperature of the heater increases. Consequently, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track increases. At this time, as the resistance of the second electrically conductive track increases, the magnitude of the input current applied to the input section of the OP Amp may decrease. Therefore, the voltage of the output section of the OP Amp increases. Conversely, as the temperature of the heater decreases due to the power supply to the first electrically conductive track being cut off or the power supplied to the first electrically conductive track being reduced, the voltage of the output section of the OP Amp decreases.

[0140] The output of the OP Amp can be connected to a processor. For example, the processor may be a Micro Controller Unit (MCU). The processor can detect the temperature of the second electrically conductive track or the heating section based on the output voltage of the OP Amp. Additionally, the processor can adjust the supply voltage supplied to the first electrically conductive track based on the temperature of the heating section.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may be formed on each of the two ends of the first sheet (1325). For example, the first electrically conductive track may be included on one end of the first sheet (1325) that is in contact with the heating portion (1315), and the second electrically conductive track may be included on the other end. As another example, the second electrically conductive track may be included on one end of the first sheet (1325) that is in contact with the heating portion (1315), and the first electrically conductive track may be included on the other end.

[0142] According to another embodiment, the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may be included on the same surface of both ends of the first sheet (1325). For example, the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may be included on the surface of both ends of the first sheet (1325) that contacts the heating portion (1315). As another example, the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may be included on the surface of both ends of the first sheet (1325) that does not contact the heating portion (1315).

[0143] For example, the first sheet (1325) may be a green sheet composed of a ceramic composite material. In this case, the ceramic may include compounds such as alumina, zircona, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the second sheet (1335) may wrap at least a portion of the first sheet (1325). Additionally, the second sheet (1335) may have rigidity.

[0145] Accordingly, the second sheet (1335) protects the first sheet (1325) and the electrically conductive tracks when the heater (130) is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0146] For example, the second sheet (1335) may be a green sheet composed of a ceramic composite material. In this case, the ceramic may include compounds such as alumina, zircona, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0147] The second sheet (1335) may be coated with a glaze to allow the heater (130) to be easily inserted into the cigarette (3) and to improve the durability of the heater (130). As the second sheet (1335) is coated with a glaze, the rigidity of the second sheet (1335) may be increased.

[0148] Each of the heating element (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335) can be optionally made from the same group of materials, for example, ceramics which are compounds such as alumina, zircona, etc.

[0149] Additionally, the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may each be selectively manufactured from the same group of materials, for example, tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel, palladium, or a combination thereof. In this case, even if the constituent material of the first electrically conductive track and the constituent material of the second electrically conductive track are the same, the resistance values ​​of the first electrically conductive track and the second electrically conductive track may differ from each other due to differences in the length, width, or pattern of the tracks.

[0150] According to one embodiment, a first electrically conductive track for heating the heating unit (1315) may be included in the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), or the second sheet (1335). Alternatively, a plurality of electrically conductive tracks for heating the heating unit (1315), such as the first electrically conductive track, may be included in at least one of the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335).

[0151] According to one embodiment, a second electrically conductive track for detecting the temperature of the heating unit (1315) may be included in the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), or the second sheet (1335). Alternatively, a plurality of electrically conductive tracks for detecting the temperature of the heating unit (1315), such as the second electrically conductive track, may be included in at least one of the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335).

[0152] According to one embodiment, a first electrically conductive track for heating the heating unit (1315) and a second electrically conductive track for detecting the temperature of the heating unit (1315) may each be included in the same portion of the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335). Alternatively, the first electrically conductive track for heating the heating unit (1315) and the second electrically conductive track for detecting the temperature of the heating unit (1315) may each be included in different portions of the heating unit (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335).

[0153] According to one embodiment, as the heater (130) is provided with a coating layer (1345), a stepped surface formed by a laminated structure including a heating part (1315), a first sheet (1325), and a second sheet (1335) can be flattened. For example, a stepped plane (1355) may be formed because the edge of the first sheet (1325) and the edge of the second sheet (1335) do not coincide, or due to the thickness of the first sheet (1325) and the second sheet (1335). For example, due to the stepped plane (1355), friction may increase when the heater (130) is inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate. Additionally, deposits or residues generated from an aerosol-forming substrate may get stuck on the step plane (1355), contaminating the heater (130), which may lead to a decrease in the performance of the heater (130), such as a reduction in the thermal conductivity of the heater (130). Therefore, in order to flatten the step plane (1355), a coating layer (1345) may be formed on the outer surface of the heater (130).

[0154] The outer surface of the heater (130) formed by the coating layer (1345) may include a tip portion of the coating layer (1345) corresponding to the tip portion of the heating part (1315), and a base portion of the coating layer (1345) corresponding to the base portion of the heating part (1315), the first sheet (1325), and the second sheet (1335). At this time, the portion extending from the tip portion of the coating layer (1345) to the base portion of the coating layer (1345) may have a smooth outer surface without a stepped plane (1355) or an uneven surface.

[0155] The coating layer (1345) may include a heat-resistant composition. For example, the coating layer (1345) may include a single coating layer of a glass film coating layer, a Teflon coating layer, and a thermolon coating layer, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the coating layer (1345) may include a composite coating layer composed of a combination of two or more of a glass film coating layer, a Teflon coating layer, and a thermolon coating layer, but is not limited thereto.

[0156] Figure 3 is a drawing to explain an example of a staircase plan shown in Figure 2.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 3, a step plane (1355) can be formed by the base of the heater (130) and the first sheet (1325) and the second sheet (1335) that surround the base.

[0158] For example, a terrace (1321) can be formed by the thickness of the first sheet (1325). Also, a terrace (1331) can be formed by the thickness of the second sheet (1335).

[0159] Additionally, a step (1311) may be formed because the boundary line between the tip and base of the heating part does not coincide with the edge of the first sheet (1325). Additionally, a step (1322) may be formed because the edge of the first sheet (1325) does not coincide with the edge of the second sheet (1335).

[0160] At this time, the heater (130) may be contaminated by the deposit or residue of the aerosol-forming substrate in the space formed by the step plane (1355). As described above with reference to FIG. 2, the coating layer (1345) can fill the gap created by the step plane (1355) and flatten the step plane (1355).

[0161] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of electrically conductive tracks.

[0162] The first surface (1351) of the first sheet (225) may include a first electrically conductive track (1352), and the second surface (1353) may include a second electrically conductive track (1354).

[0163] The first electrically conductive track (1352) can heat the heating portion (1315) of the heater (130) as current flows inside it. The electrically conductive track can be connected to an external power source through a connection. Additionally, as power is supplied to the electrically conductive track from the external power source, current can flow inside the electrically conductive track. Accordingly, the electrically conductive track heats up and can heat the heating portion (1315) by transferring heat to the adjacent heating portion (1315).

[0164] For example, the first electrically conductive track (1352) of the first surface (1351) can be formed in various patterns such as curved or mesh.

[0165] The second surface (1353) of the first sheet (1325) may include a second electrically conductive track (1354) having a resistance temperature coefficient characteristic used to detect the temperature of the heating unit (1315). As described above, the second electrically conductive track (1354) may have an internal resistance that increases as the temperature rises, according to the resistance temperature coefficient characteristic. For example, in a constant temperature range, the temperature and the resistance of the second electrically conductive track (1354) may be proportional.

[0166] The second electrically conductive track (1354) may be positioned adjacent to the heating section (1315). For example, as the heating section (1315) is heated, heat may be transferred from the heating section (1315) to the second electrically conductive track (1354). When the temperature of the heating section (1315) rises, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track (1354) also rises, and the resistance of the second electrically conductive track (1354) may increase. Conversely, when the temperature of the heating section (1315) decreases, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track (1354) also decreases, and the resistance of the second electrically conductive track (1354) may decrease.

[0167] The second electrically conductive track (1354) can be connected to a control unit through a connection. For example, the second electrically conductive track (1354) can be connected to a processor that controls the temperature of the heating unit (1315). By utilizing the relationship between the resistance and temperature of the second electrically conductive track (1354), the resistance of the second electrically conductive track (1354) can be determined from the voltage and current of the second electrically conductive track (1354), and the temperature of the heating unit (1315) can be determined from the determined resistance. Based on the temperature determined using the second electrically conductive track (1354), the power supplied to the first electrically conductive track (1352) can be adjusted.

[0168] The second electrically conductive track (1354) may be positioned adjacent to the heating unit (1315) to receive heat from the heating unit (1315). Additionally, the first electrically conductive track (1352) of the second surface (1353) may be formed in various patterns, such as a curved shape or a mesh shape.

[0169] A first surface (1351) including a first electrically conductive track (1352) may be one surface of the two ends of the first sheet (1325) that is in contact with the heating portion (1315), and a second surface (1353) including a second electrically conductive track (1354) may be the other surface that is not in contact with the heating portion (1315). Conversely, a second surface (1353) including a second electrically conductive track (1354) may be one surface that is in contact with the heating portion (1315), and a first surface (1351) including a first electrically conductive track (1352) may be the other surface that is not in contact with the heating portion (1315).

[0170] FIG. 4 is a drawing for illustrating an embodiment in which a first electrically conductive track (1352) and a second electrically conductive track (1354) are disposed on each of both ends of a first sheet (1325), and as described above, the first electrically conductive track (1352) and the second electrically conductive track (1354) may be formed on the same side of the first sheet (1325).

[0171] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connection between a heater, a battery, and a control unit as shown in Figure 1.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 5, the holder (1) may include a heater (130), a battery (110), and a control unit (120). Since the heater (130) in FIG. 5 is identical to the heater (130) described above with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, a detailed description of the heater (130) is omitted.

[0173] The battery (110) can be connected to the heater (130) through the first connector (1361). For example, the battery (110) can be electrically connected to the first electrically conductive track of the first sheet of the heater (130) to supply power to the first electrically conductive track.

[0174] The battery (110) may include a power source and a circuit for supplying power. For example, the battery (110) may provide a supply voltage to a first electrically conductive track through a first connector (1361). The supply voltage may be a direct current or alternating current voltage, a pulse voltage with a constant period, or a pulse voltage with a varying period, but is not limited thereto.

[0175] The control unit (120) may include a processor. For example, the processor may be an MCU, but is not limited thereto.

[0176] The control unit (120) can be connected to the heater (130) through the second connector (1362). For example, the control unit (120) can be electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track of the first sheet of the heater (130) to determine the temperature of the heater (130). Additionally, the control unit (120) can adjust the temperature of the heater (130) based on the determined temperature of the heater (130). For example, the control unit (120) can determine whether to adjust the temperature of the heater (130) based on the determined temperature of the heater (130). Based on the decision to adjust the temperature of the heater (130), the control unit (120) can adjust the power supplied from the battery (110) to the heater (130). For example, the control unit (120) can adjust the magnitude or period of the pulse voltage supplied from the battery (110) to the heater (130).

[0177] A control unit (120) according to one embodiment may include an OP Amp.

[0178] The second electrically conductive track can be connected to an OP Amp through the second connector (1362). The OP Amp may include a power supply unit that receives DC power from an external source, an input unit that is electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track and receives a DC voltage and / or current, and an output unit that outputs an electrical signal based on the DC voltage and / or current applied to the input unit.

[0179] The OP Amp can receive a DC voltage through the power supply unit. Additionally, the OP Amp can receive a DC voltage through the input unit. At this time, the magnitude of the DC voltage applied through the input unit of the OP Amp and the magnitude of the DC voltage applied through the power supply unit of the OP Amp may be the same. Additionally, the DC voltage applied to the input unit of the OP Amp may be the same as the DC voltage applied to the second connector (1362) of the second electrically conductive track.

[0180] The second connector (1362) of the second electrically conductive track and the input of the OP Amp can be separated from the first connector (1361) of the first electrically conductive track.

[0181] As the temperature of the second electrically conductive track changes, the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track may change. Accordingly, the second electrically conductive track functions as a variable resistor with temperature as a control variable, and as the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track changes, the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track changes. As the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track increases, the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp electrically connected to the second electrically conductive track decreases. At this time, even if the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track changes, the DC voltage applied to the input of the OP Amp may remain constant.

[0182] As the current flowing into the input of the OP Amp changes, the voltage and / or current of the signal output from the output of the OP Amp may change. For example, as the input current of the OP Amp increases, the output voltage of the OP Amp may increase. As another example, as the input current of the OP Amp increases, the output voltage of the OP Amp may decrease.

[0183] In addition, when a constant DC voltage is applied to the input of the OP Amp, the relationship between the temperature and resistance value of the second electrically conductive track, the relationship between the resistance value of the second electrically conductive track and the input current applied to the OP Amp, and the relationship between the input current and output voltage of the OP Amp can be experimentally obtained or set. Accordingly, by measuring the output voltage of the OP Amp and / or the change in the output voltage, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track and / or the change in temperature can be detected.

[0184] For example, an OP Amp may have a characteristic in which the voltage of the output of the OP Amp increases as the input current flowing into the input increases. In this case, as power is supplied to the first electrically conductive track, the temperature of the heater increases. Accordingly, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track increases. At this time, as the resistance of the second electrically conductive track increases, the magnitude of the input current applied to the input of the OP Amp may decrease. Consequently, the voltage of the output of the OP Amp decreases. Conversely, as the power supply to the first electrically conductive track is cut off or the power supplied to the first electrically conductive track is reduced, the temperature of the heater decreases, and the voltage of the output of the OP Amp increases.

[0185] As another example, an OP Amp may have a characteristic in which the voltage of the output section decreases as the input current flowing into the input section increases. In this case, as power is supplied to the first electrically conductive track, the temperature of the heater increases. Consequently, the temperature of the second electrically conductive track increases. At this time, as the resistance of the second electrically conductive track increases, the magnitude of the input current applied to the input section of the OP Amp may decrease. Therefore, the voltage of the output section of the OP Amp increases. Conversely, as the temperature of the heater decreases due to the power supply to the first electrically conductive track being cut off or the power supplied to the first electrically conductive track being reduced, the voltage of the output section of the OP Amp decreases.

[0186] The output of the OP Amp can be connected to a processor. The processor may be, for example, an MCU. The processor can detect the temperature of the second electrically conductive track or the heating section based on the output voltage of the OP Amp. Additionally, the processor can adjust the supply voltage supplied to the first electrically conductive track based on the temperature of the heating section.

[0187] Referring again to FIG. 1, the holder (1) may be equipped with a separate temperature sensing sensor. Alternatively, the holder (1) may not be equipped with a temperature sensing sensor, and the heater (130) may perform the role of the temperature sensing sensor. Alternatively, the heater (130) of the holder (1) may perform the role of the temperature sensing sensor, and at the same time, the holder (1) may be additionally equipped with a separate temperature sensing sensor. In order for the heater (130) to perform the role of the temperature sensing sensor, the heater (130) may include at least one electrically conductive track for heating and temperature sensing. In addition, the heater (130) may separately include a second electrically conductive track for temperature sensing in addition to the first electrically conductive track for heating.

[0188] For example, when the voltage across the second electrically conductive track and the current flowing through the second electrically conductive track are measured, the resistance (R) can be determined. At this time, the temperature (T) of the second electrically conductive track can be determined by the following mathematical formula 1.

[0189]

[0190] In Equation 1, R represents the current resistance value of the second electrically conductive track, R0 represents the resistance value at temperature T0 (e.g., 0°C), and α represents the resistance temperature coefficient of the second electrically conductive track. Since conductive materials (e.g., metals) have a unique resistance temperature coefficient, α can be predetermined depending on the conductive material constituting the second electrically conductive track. Therefore, when the resistance (R) of the second electrically conductive track is determined, the temperature (T) of the second electrically conductive track can be calculated by Equation 1.

[0191] The heater (130) may be composed of at least one electrically conductive track (a first electrically conductive track and a second electrically conductive track). For example, the heater (130) may be composed of two first electrically conductive tracks and one or two second electrically conductive tracks, but is not limited thereto.

[0192] Electrically conductive tracks include electrically resistive materials. As one example, electrically conductive tracks can be made of metallic materials. As another example, electrically conductive tracks can be made of electrically conductive ceramic materials, carbon, metal alloys, or composite materials of ceramic materials and metals.

[0193] Additionally, the holder (1) may include both an electrically conductive track and a temperature sensing sensor that perform the role of a temperature sensing sensor.

[0194] The control unit (120) controls the overall operation of the holder (1). Specifically, the control unit (120) controls the operation of the battery (110) and the heater (130), as well as other components included in the holder (1). Additionally, the control unit (120) may check the state of each component of the holder (1) to determine whether the holder (1) is in an operable state.

[0195] The control unit (120) includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. Additionally, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0196] For example, the control unit (120) can control the operation of the heater (130). The control unit (120) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (130) and the time for which power is supplied so that the heater (130) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature. In addition, the control unit (120) can check the status of the battery (110) (e.g., the remaining amount of the battery (110), etc.) and generate a notification signal if necessary.

[0197] Additionally, the control unit (120) can check the presence or absence of the user's puff and the strength of the puff, and can count the number of puffs. Additionally, the control unit (120) can continuously check the time during which the holder (1) is operating. Additionally, the control unit (120) can check whether the cradle (2), which will be described later, is coupled with the holder (1), and can control the operation of the holder (1) according to the coupling or separation of the cradle (2) and the holder (1).

[0198] Meanwhile, the holder (1) may include additional general-purpose components in addition to the battery (110), control unit (120), and heater (130).

[0199] For example, the holder (1) may include a display capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information. As an example, if the holder (1) includes a display, the control unit (120) may convey to the user through the display information regarding the status of the holder (1) (e.g., whether the holder is available for use, etc.), information regarding the heater (130) (e.g., start of preheating, preheating in progress, preheating completed, etc.), information regarding the battery (110) (e.g., remaining capacity of the battery (110), availability of use, etc.), information regarding the reset of the holder (1) (e.g., time for reset, in progress of reset, reset completed, etc.), information regarding the cleaning of the holder (1) (e.g., time for cleaning, need for cleaning, cleaning in progress, cleaning completed, etc.), information regarding the charging of the holder (1) (e.g., need for charging, charging in progress, charging completed, etc.), information regarding puffs (e.g., number of puffs, puff end notice, etc.), or information regarding safety (e.g., elapsed usage time, etc.). As another example, if the holder (1) includes a motor, the control unit (120) can transmit the above-described information to the user by generating a vibration signal using the motor.

[0200] Additionally, the holder (1) may include at least one input device (e.g., a button) and / or a terminal coupled to a cradle (2) that allows the user to control the functions of the holder (1). For example, the user can execute various functions using the input device of the holder (1). By adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device (e.g., 1 time, 2 times, etc.) or the time the user holds the input device (e.g., 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, etc.), the user can execute a desired function among the multiple functions of the holder (1). As the user operates the input device, the holder (1) may perform functions such as preheating the heater (130), controlling the temperature of the heater (130), cleaning the space where the cigarette is inserted, checking whether the holder (1) is in an operable state, displaying the remaining amount (available power) of the battery (110), and resetting the holder (1). However, the functions of the holder (1) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0201] For example, the holder (1) can clean the space where the cigarette is inserted by controlling the heater (130) as follows. For example, the holder (1) can clean the space where the cigarette is inserted by heating the heater (130) to a sufficiently high temperature. Here, a sufficiently high temperature means a temperature suitable for cleaning the space where the cigarette is inserted. For example, the holder (1) can heat the heater (130) to the highest temperature among the temperature range where aerosol can be generated from the inserted cigarette and the temperature range for preheating the heater (130), but is not limited thereto.

[0202] Additionally, the holder (1) can maintain the temperature of the heater (130) at a sufficiently high temperature for a predetermined time interval. Here, the predetermined time interval refers to a time interval sufficient for the space into which the cigarette is inserted to be cleaned. For example, the holder (1) can maintain the temperature of the heated heater (130) for an appropriate time interval between 10 seconds and 10 minutes, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the holder (1) can maintain the temperature of the heated heater (130) for an appropriate time interval selected within the range of 20 seconds to 1 minute. Additionally, preferably, the holder (1) can maintain the temperature of the heated heater (130) for an appropriate time interval selected within the range of 20 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds.

[0203] As the holder (1) heats the heater (130) to a sufficiently high temperature and maintains the temperature of the heated heater (130) for a predetermined period of time, the material deposited on the surface of the heater (130) and / or the space where the cigarette is inserted is evaporated, thereby producing a cleaning effect.

[0204] Additionally, the holder (1) may include a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, and / or a cigarette insertion detection sensor. For example, the puff detection sensor may be implemented by a general pressure sensor. Alternatively, the holder (1) may detect puff by a change in resistance of an electrically conductive track included in the heater (130) without being provided with a separate puff detection sensor. Here, the electrically conductive track includes an electrically conductive track for heating and / or an electrically conductive track for temperature detection. Alternatively, the holder (1) may further include a puff detection sensor in addition to detecting puff using the electrically conductive track included in the heater (130).

[0205] The cigarette insertion detection sensor can be implemented by a general capacitive sensor or a resistive sensor. Additionally, the holder (1) can be manufactured in a structure that allows external air to flow in / out even when a cigarette is inserted.

[0206] FIGS. 6A and FIGS. 6B are drawings illustrating an example of a holder from various angles.

[0207] FIG. 6A is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder (1) viewed from a first direction. As shown in FIG. 6A, the holder (1) may be manufactured in a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto. The case (140) of the holder (1) can be separated by the action of a user, and a cigarette can be inserted into the end (141) of the case (140). Additionally, the holder (1) may include a button (150) that allows the user to control the holder (1) and a display (160) that outputs an image.

[0208] FIG. 6B is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder (1) viewed from a second direction. The holder (1) may include a terminal (170) that is coupled to a cradle (2). By coupling the terminal (170) of the holder (1) with the terminal (260) of the cradle (2), the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be charged by power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2). Additionally, through the terminal (170) and the terminal (260), the holder (1) may be operated by power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2), and communication (transmission and reception of signals) between the holder (1) and the cradle (2) is possible. For example, the terminal (170) may be composed of four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

[0209] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of a cradle.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 7, the cradle (2) includes a battery (210) and a control unit (220). Additionally, the cradle (2) includes an internal space (230) into which a holder (1) can be inserted. For example, the internal space (230) may be formed on one side of the cradle (2). Thus, the holder (1) can be inserted into and secured to the cradle (2) even if the cradle (2) does not include a separate lid.

[0211] Only the components related to the present embodiment are shown in the cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 7. Therefore, it can be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that other general components may be included in the cradle (2) in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0212] The battery (210) supplies power used to operate the cradle (2). Additionally, the battery (210) can supply power to charge the battery (110) of the holder (1). For example, when the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2) and the terminal (170) of the holder (1) and the terminal (260) of the cradle (2) are connected, the battery (210) of the cradle (2) can supply power to the battery (110) of the holder (1).

[0213] Additionally, when the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are combined, the battery (210) can supply power used to operate the holder (1). For example, when the terminal (170) of the holder (1) and the terminal (260) of the cradle (2) are combined, the holder (1) can operate using the power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2), regardless of whether the battery (110) of the holder (1) is discharged.

[0214] For example, the battery (210) may be a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the capacity of the battery (210) may be greater than the capacity of the battery (110), for example, the capacity of the battery (210) may be 3000mAh or more, provided that the capacity of the battery (210) is not limited to the above-described example.

[0215] The control unit (220) controls the overall operation of the cradle (2). The control unit (220) can control the operation of all components of the cradle (2). Additionally, the control unit (220) determines whether the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are coupled, and can control the operation of the cradle (2) depending on whether the cradle (2) and the holder (1) are coupled or separated.

[0216] For example, when the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are combined, the control unit (220) can charge the battery (110) or heat the heater (130) by supplying power from the battery (210) to the holder (1). Therefore, even when the remaining amount of the battery (110) is low, the user can continuously smoke by combining the holder (1) and the cradle (2).

[0217] The control unit (220) includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. Additionally, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0218] Meanwhile, the cradle (2) may include additional general-purpose components in addition to the battery (210) and the control unit (220). For example, the cradle (2) may include a display capable of outputting visual information. For example, if the cradle (2) includes a display, the control unit (220) can generate a signal to be displayed on the display to convey to the user information related to the battery (220) (e.g., remaining capacity of the battery (220), availability, etc.), information related to the reset of the cradle (2) (e.g., reset time, reset in progress, reset completed, etc.), information related to the cleaning of the holder (1) (e.g., cleaning time, need for cleaning, cleaning in progress, cleaning completed, etc.), and information related to the charging of the cradle (2) (e.g., need for charging, charging in progress, charging completed, etc.).

[0219] Additionally, the cradle (2) may include at least one input device (e.g., a button) that allows a user to control the function of the cradle (2), a terminal (260) that connects to the holder (1), and / or an interface (e.g., a USB port, etc.) for charging the battery (210).

[0220] For example, the user can perform various functions using the input device of the cradle (2). By adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device or the time the user presses the input device, the user can perform a desired function among the multiple functions of the cradle (2). As the user operates the input device, the cradle (2) can perform functions such as preheating the heater (130) of the holder (1), controlling the temperature of the heater (130) of the holder (1), cleaning the space where the cigarette is inserted inside the holder (1), checking whether the cradle (2) is in an operable state, displaying the remaining amount (available power) of the battery (210) of the cradle (2), and resetting the cradle (2). However, the functions of the cradle (2) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0221] FIGS. 8A and FIGS. 8B are drawings illustrating an example of a cradle from various angles.

[0222] FIG. 8A is a drawing illustrating an example of a cradle (2) viewed from a first direction. On one side of the cradle (2), there is a space (230) into which a holder (1) can be inserted. Additionally, the holder (1) can be inserted into and secured to the cradle (2) even if the cradle (2) does not include a separate fixing means such as a lid. Additionally, the cradle (2) may include a button (240) that allows a user to control the cradle (2) and a display (250) that outputs an image.

[0223] FIG. 8B is a drawing illustrating an example of a cradle (2) viewed from a second direction. The cradle (2) may include a terminal (260) that is coupled to an inserted holder (1). By coupling the terminal (260) with the terminal (170) of the holder (1), the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be charged by power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2). Additionally, through the terminal (170) and the terminal (260), the holder (1) may be operated by power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2), and the transmission and reception of signals between the holder (1) and the cradle (2) is possible. For example, the terminal (260) may be composed of four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

[0224] As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8B, the holder (1) can be inserted into the internal space (230) of the cradle (2). Additionally, the holder (1) may be fully inserted into the interior of the cradle (2) or tilted while inserted into the cradle (2). Hereinafter, examples of the holder (1) being inserted into the cradle (7) will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 10.

[0225] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder being inserted into a cradle.

[0226] Referring to FIG. 9, an example is shown in which a holder (1) is inserted into a cradle (2). Since a space (230) into which the holder (1) is inserted exists on one side of the cradle (2), the inserted holder (1) may not be exposed to the outside by other sides of the cradle (2). Therefore, the cradle (2) may not include other components (e.g., a lid) to prevent the holder (1) from being exposed to the outside.

[0227] The cradle (2) may include at least one fastening member (271, 272) to increase the fastening strength with the holder (1). Additionally, the holder (1) may also include at least one fastening member (181). Here, the fastening members (181, 271, 272) may be magnets, but are not limited thereto. In FIG. 5, for convenience of explanation, the holder (1) is shown as including one fastening member (181) and the cradle (2) as including two fastening members (271, 272), but the number of fastening members (181, 271, 272) is not limited thereto.

[0228] The holder (1) may include a fastening member (181) at a first position, and the cradle (2) may include fastening members (271, 272) at a second position and a third position, respectively. At this time, the first position and the third position may be positions facing each other when the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2).

[0229] As the holder (1) and the cradle (2) include fastening members (181, 271, 272), the holder (1) and the cradle (2) can be more strongly fastened even if the holder (1) is inserted into one side of the cradle (2). In other words, as the holder (1) and the cradle (2) include additional fastening members (181, 271, 272) in addition to the terminals (170, 260), the holder (1) and the cradle (2) can be more strongly fastened. Therefore, even if the cradle (2) does not have a separate component (e.g., a lid), the inserted holder (1) may not be easily separated from the cradle (2).

[0230] Additionally, when it is determined that the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2) by means of the terminals (170, 260) and / or the fastening members (181, 271, 272), the control unit (220) can charge the battery (110) of the holder (1) using the power of the battery (210).

[0231] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of a holder being tilted while inserted into a cradle.

[0232] Referring to FIG. 10, the holder (1) is tilted inside the cradle (2). Here, tilt means that the holder (1) is tilted at a certain angle while inserted into the cradle (2).

[0233] As illustrated in FIG. 9, when the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2), the user cannot smoke. In other words, when the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2), a cigarette cannot be inserted into the holder (1). Therefore, the user cannot smoke when the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2).

[0234] As illustrated in FIG. 10, when the holder (1) is tilted, the end (141) of the holder (1) is exposed to the outside. Thus, the user can insert a cigarette into the end (141) and inhale (smoke) the generated aerosol. The tilt angle (θ) can be sufficient to ensure that the cigarette is not bent or damaged when the cigarette is inserted into the end (141) of the holder (1). For example, the holder (1) can be tilted at a minimum angle or a greater angle such that the entire cigarette insertion hole contained in the end (141) is exposed to the outside. For example, the range of the tilt angle (θ) can be greater than 0° and less than or equal to 180°, and preferably greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 90°. More preferably, the range of the tilt angle (θ) may be 5° or more and 20° or less, 5° or more and 30° or less, 5° or more and 40° or less, 5° or more and 50° or less, or 5° or more and 60° or less. More preferably, the tilt angle (θ) may be 10°.

[0235] Additionally, even if the holder (1) is tilted, the terminal (170) of the holder (1) and the terminal (260) of the cradle (2) are connected to each other. Therefore, the heater (130) of the holder (1) can be heated by power supplied by the battery (210) of the cradle (2). Thus, even if the remaining amount of the battery (110) of the holder (1) is low or non-existent, the holder (1) can generate an aerosol using the battery (210) of the cradle (2).

[0236] FIG. 10 illustrates an example in which the holder (1) includes one fastening member (182) and the cradle (2) includes two fastening members (273, 274). For example, the position of each of the fastening members (182, 273, 274) is as described above with reference to FIG. 5. If the fastening members (182, 273, 274) are assumed to be magnets, the magnetic strength of the fastening member (274) may be greater than the magnetic strength of the fastening member (273). Therefore, even if the holder (1) is tilted, the holder (1) may not be completely separated from the cradle (2) by the fastening member (182) and the fastening member (274).

[0237] Additionally, if it is determined that the holder (1) is tilted by the terminals (170, 260) and / or the fastening members (182, 273, 274), the control unit (220) can heat the heater (130) of the holder (1) or charge the battery (110) using the power of the battery (210).

[0238] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an example of a smoking action using a holder tilted in a cradle.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 11, the cradle (2) is provided with an internal space for accommodating a holder (1), and the holder (1) can be tilted together with the internal space so that a cigarette (3) can be inserted into the holder (1) while the holder (1) is accommodated in the internal space. The holder (1) can be tilted at any tilt angle (θ) while attached to the cradle (2). As previously described, the range of the tilt angle (θ) can be greater than 0° and less than or equal to 180°, and preferably greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 90°. More preferably, the range of the tilt angle (θ) can be greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 20°, greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 30°, greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 40°, greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 50°, or greater than or equal to 5° and less than or equal to 60°. More preferably, the tilt angle (θ) can be 10°. The user can insert a cigarette (3) into one end of the holder (1) and smoke while holding the cradle (2) in their hand. An aerosol generating system may be constructed including at least one of the holder (1), the cradle (2), and the cigarette (3).

[0240] When the holder (1) performs a smoking operation while tilted from the cradle (2), the holder (1) can generate an aerosol from the cigarette (3) by heating the heater (130 in FIG. 1) using power supplied from the battery (210) of the cradle (2). Meanwhile, even though the holder (1) is in a tilted state, the holder (1) remains connected to the cradle (2), so the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be charged by power supplied from the battery (210) of the cradle (2). Meanwhile, the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be used to heat the heater (130 in FIG. 1) only when the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), but is not limited thereto.

[0241] The control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can determine whether the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are combined and whether the holder (1) is tilted. When the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are combined, the control unit (220) can control the charging of the battery (110) by the battery (210). When the holder (1) is tilted, the control unit (220) can control the heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) of the holder (1) by the power supply of the battery (210), that is, the temperature of the heater (130 in FIG. 1). As described above, when the holder (1) is tilted, the holder (1) can continuously perform several smokings using the power of the battery (210). At this time, for example, one smoking can be set to a unit of 14 puffs.

[0242] The control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively monitor the smoking pattern in a first state in which the holder (1) is tilted from the cradle (2) and in a second state in which the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), and determine whether the cumulatively monitored smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition.

[0243] Specifically, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can detect the presence or absence of puffs and count the number of puffs. Additionally, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can count the operating time during which the heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) is sustained. Furthermore, the control unit (120) can determine whether the holder (1) is coupled to, tilted to, or separated from the cradle (2).

[0244] When the holder (1) is tilted and the cigarette (3) is inserted into the holder (1), the control unit (120) determines whether the number of puffs by the user reaches the puff limit or whether the operating time of the holder (1) reaches the operating limit. When the number of puffs or the operating time reaches the puff limit or the operating limit while the holder (1) is tilted, the control unit (120) can control the heater (130 in FIG. 1) so that the heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) is stopped. At this time, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can stop the heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) by commanding the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) to stop the power supply of the battery (210).

[0245] The holder (1) may be operated based on a smoking pattern and a smoking restriction condition. The smoking pattern may include, for example, the number of puffs for the inserted cigarette (3). The smoking restriction condition may include a puff limit number. Accordingly, the holder (1) may control the heater (130 in FIG. 1) provided within the holder (1) so that heating of the inserted cigarette (3) is stopped when the number of puffs cumulatively monitored in the first state and the second state reaches the puff limit number. Additionally, the smoking pattern may include the operating time of the holder (1) (for example, the heating time of the heater (130 in FIG. 1)), and the smoking restriction condition may include an operating limit time. At this time, the holder (1) may control the heater (130 in FIG. 1) provided within the holder (1) so that heating of the inserted cigarette is stopped when the operating time cumulatively monitored in the first state and the second state reaches the operating limit time.

[0246] As described above, the control unit (120) can stop heating the heater (130 in FIG. 1) when the holder (1) is tilted and then separated from the cradle (2) by the user, and the user can start the next smoking by reattaching the holder (1) to the cradle (2).

[0247] Meanwhile, even if the holder (1) is tilted and then separated by the user, the control unit (120) can determine whether to heat the heater (130 in FIG. 1) by accumulating and summing the number of puffs counted in the tilted state and the number of puffs counted in the separated state, and then comparing the total number of puffs with the puff limit. That is, even if the holder (1) is tilted or the holder (1) is separated, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) continuously monitors the number of puffs. Similarly to the number of puffs, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) continuously monitors the operating time of the holder (1) even if the holder (1) is tilted or the holder (1) is separated. Ultimately, the termination of the operation of the holder (1), that is, the termination of heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1), may depend on the judgment of the control unit (120) of the holder (1).

[0248] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a method for counting the number of puffs when the holder is tilted and separated.

[0249] In step 5110, the holder (1) or the cradle (2) receives a request to start smoking from the user. The request to start smoking may be received from the user through an input device provided in the holder (1) or the cradle (2). The control unit (120) of the holder (1) or the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) may determine that a request to start smoking has been received if user input is present. Meanwhile, smoking is possible when the holder (1) is in a tilted state or when the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2). However, if the holder (1) is not separated from the cradle (2) and the holder (1) is not tilted, the holder (1) may operate to prevent the user from smoking, and may not operate the heater or may heat the heater only to a temperature or time that is insufficient for the user to smoke. Below, the operation of the holder (1) will be described assuming that the holder (1) is tilted or separated from the cradle (2).

[0250] In step 5120, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) determines whether the holder (1) coupled to the cradle (2) is tilted. Meanwhile, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can also determine whether the holder (1) is tilted. If the holder (1) is tilted, the process proceeds to step 5130. However, if the holder (1) is detached, the process proceeds to step 5170.

[0251] In step 5130, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) counts the number of puffs in the tilted state.

[0252] In step 5140, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) sums the number of puffs in the tilted state and the number of puffs in the separated state. If the user puffs the cigarette (3) only in the tilted state, the number of puffs in the separated state is 0.

[0253] In step 5150, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) compares the total sum of puffs with a preset puff limit. For example, the puff limit may be 14 times, but is not limited to this. If the total sum of puffs is less than or equal to the puff limit, the process proceeds to step 5120. However, if the total sum of puffs reaches the puff limit, the process proceeds to step 5160.

[0254] In step 5160, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) controls the heater (130) so that heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) is stopped. Meanwhile, if the holder (1) is still tilted, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can also control the heater (130) so that heating of the heater (130) is stopped.

[0255] In step 5170, when the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), the control unit (120) of the holder (1) counts the number of puffs in the separated state. Accordingly, in step 5140, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can count the total number of puffs by adding the number of puffs counted in the separated state and the number of puffs counted in the tilted state.

[0256] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a method for counting operation time when the holder is tilted and separated.

[0257] In step 5210, the holder (1) or cradle (2) receives a request from the user to start smoking.

[0258] In step 5220, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) determines whether the holder (1) coupled to the cradle (2) is tilted. Meanwhile, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can also determine whether the holder (1) is tilted. If the holder (1) is tilted, the process proceeds to step 5230. However, if the holder (1) is detached, the process proceeds to step 5270.

[0259] In step 5230, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) counts the operating time in the tilted state.

[0260] In step 5240, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) sums the operating time in the tilted state and the operating time in the separated state. If the user operates the holder (1) only in the tilted state, the operating time in the separated state is 0 hours.

[0261] In step 5250, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) compares the total operation time with a preset operation limit time. For example, the operation limit time may be 10 minutes, but is not limited to this. If the total operation time is less than or equal to the operation limit time, the process proceeds to step 5220. However, if the total operation time reaches the operation limit time, the process proceeds to step 5260.

[0262] In step 5260, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) controls the heater (130) so that heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) is stopped. Meanwhile, if the holder (1) is still tilted, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can also control the heater (130) so that heating of the heater (130) is stopped.

[0263] In step 5270, when the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), the control unit (120) of the holder (1) counts the operation time in the separated state. Accordingly, in step 5240, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can count the total operation time by adding the operation time counted in the separated state and the operation time counted in the tilted state.

[0264] Meanwhile, the holder (1) can control the heating of the heater (130 in FIG. 1) to stop when at least one of the number of puffs described in FIG. 12 and the operating time described in FIG. 13 satisfies a preset limit condition.

[0265] Specifically, the holder (1) accumulates the smoking pattern monitored in the second state to the smoking pattern monitored in the first state when smoking proceeds in the first state and subsequently proceeds in the second state, and controls the heater (130 in FIG. 1) provided within the holder (1) so that heating of the inserted cigarette is stopped when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition. Additionally, the holder (1) accumulates the smoking pattern monitored in the first state to the smoking pattern monitored in the second state when smoking proceeds in the second state and subsequently proceeds in the first state, and controls the heater (130 in FIG. 1) provided within the holder (1) so that heating of the inserted cigarette is stopped when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition.

[0266] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 14, smoking can begin when the holder (1) is tilted from the cradle (2) and the cigarette (3) is inserted into the holder (1). The user can puff the cigarette (3) from the first puff to the sixth puff while the holder (1) is tilted, and then separate the holder (1) from the cradle (2). The control unit (120) of the holder (1) cumulatively counts the number of puffs while the six puffs are being performed.

[0268] The user can puff eight more times using the separated holder (1). At this time, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count the first puff performed in the separated holder (1) as the 7th puff following the 6th puff in the tilted state. That is, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count all puffs performed from the time the holder (1) is tilted until it is separated. The control unit (120) of the holder (1) can control the operation of the holder (1) to end when the total accumulated number of puffs reaches the puff limit (i.e., when the 14th puff is completed).

[0269] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating another example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0270] Referring to FIG. 15, the opposite case to FIG. 14 is described. Smoking can begin after the cigarette (3) is inserted into the holder (1) while the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2). The user can puff the cigarette (3) from the first puff to the fourth puff using the separated holder (1), and then attach the holder (1) to the cradle (2) and tilt it. The control unit (120) of the holder (1) cumulatively counts the number of puffs while the four puffs are being performed.

[0271] The user can puff 10 more times using the tilted holder (1). At this time, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count the first puff performed in the tilted holder (1) as the 5th puff following the 4th puff in the separated state. That is, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count all puffs performed from the time the holder (1) is separated until it is tilted. The control unit (120) of the holder (1) can control the operation of the holder (1) to end when the total accumulated number of puffs reaches the puff limit (i.e., when the 14th puff is completed).

[0272] Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of counting the number of puffs in a holder.

[0273] Referring to FIG. 16 (a), even if the user uses the holder (1) in a tilted state, then separates the holder (1) from the cradle (2) and uses it, and then tilts the holder (1) again, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count the puffs that have been performed since smoking began (i.e., the first puff). Similarly, referring to FIG. 16 (b), even if the user uses the holder (1) in a detached state, then tilts the holder (1) and uses it, and then separates the holder (1) again, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count the puffs that have been performed since smoking began (i.e., the first puff).

[0274] That is, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) can cumulatively count the number of puffs performed regardless of the tilt or separation of the holder (1) after smoking has started, and control the operation of the holder (1) based on the total number of accumulated puffs.

[0275] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a method for counting operation time in a holder.

[0276] Referring to FIG. 17, smoking can begin when the holder (1) is tilted from the cradle (2) and the cigarette (3) is inserted into the holder (1). The user can puff the cigarette (3) for 6 minutes while the holder (1) is tilted, and then remove the holder (1) from the cradle (2). The control unit (120) of the holder (1) counts the operating time while the holder (1) is tilted.

[0277] If the operating time in the tilted state has not yet reached the operating time limit, the user can puff further using the separated holder (1). In the example of FIG. 20, the user can puff further for 4 minutes. At this time, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) may consider the operating time before separation as the operating time that has already elapsed. That is, the control unit (120) of the holder (1) may cumulatively count all operating times elapsed from the time the holder (1) is tilted until it is separated. The control unit (120) of the holder (1) may control the operation of the holder (1) to end when the total accumulated operating time reaches the operating time limit (i.e., when 10 minutes have elapsed).

[0278] FIGS. 18A and 18B are drawings illustrating examples in which a holder is inserted into a cradle.

[0279] FIG. 18A illustrates an example in which the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2). When the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2), the internal space (230) of the cradle (2) may be manufactured to be sufficiently secured so as to minimize contact between the user and the holder (1). When the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2), the control unit (220) supplies power from the battery (210) to the holder (1) so that the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be charged.

[0280] FIG. 18B illustrates an example in which the holder (1) is tilted while inserted into the cradle (2). When the holder (1) is tilted, the control unit (220) supplies power from the battery (210) to the holder (1) so that the battery (110) of the holder (1) can be charged or the heater (130) of the holder (1) can be heated.

[0281] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how a holder and a cradle operate.

[0282] The method for generating an aerosol illustrated in FIG. 19 consists of steps processed sequentially in the holder (1) or cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 18B. Therefore, it can be seen that the description above regarding the holder (1) and cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 18B, even if omitted below, also applies to the method of FIG. 19.

[0283] In step 5310, the holder (1) determines whether it is inserted into the cradle (2). For example, the control unit (120) can determine whether the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2) based on whether the terminals (170, 260) of the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are connected to each other and / or whether the connecting members (181, 271, 272) are operated.

[0284] If the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2), proceed to step 5320, and if the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), proceed to step 5330.

[0285] In step 5320, the cradle (2) determines whether the holder (1) is tilted. For example, the control unit (220) can determine whether the holder (1) is tilted based on whether the terminals (170, 260) of the holder (1) and the cradle (2) are connected to each other and / or whether the connecting members (182, 273, 274) are operated.

[0286] In step 5320, it was explained that the cradle (2) determines whether the holder (1) is tilted, but it is not limited thereto. In other words, whether the holder (1) is tilted may be determined by the control unit (120) of the holder (1).

[0287] If the holder (1) is tilted, proceed to step 5340, and if the holder (1) is not tilted (i.e., if the holder (1) is fully inserted into the cradle (2)), proceed to step 5370.

[0288] In step 5330, the holder (1) determines whether the usage conditions of the holder (1) are satisfied. For example, the control unit (120) can determine whether the usage conditions are satisfied by checking the remaining amount of the battery (110) and whether other components of the holder (1) can operate normally.

[0289] If the usage conditions of the holder (1) are satisfied, proceed to step 5340, otherwise, terminate the procedure.

[0290] In step 5340, the holder (1) informs the user that it is available for use. For example, the control unit (120) may output an image indicating availability on the display of the holder (1), or control the motor of the holder (1) to generate a vibration signal.

[0291] In step 5350, the heater (130) is heated. As an example, when the holder (1) is separated from the cradle (2), the heater (130) can be heated by the power of the battery (110) of the holder (1). As another example, when the holder (1) is tilted, the heater (130) can be heated by the power of the battery (210) of the cradle (2).

[0292] The control unit (120) of the holder (1) or the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) can check the temperature of the heater (130) in real time and adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater (130) and the time for which power is supplied to the heater (130). For example, the control unit (120, 220) can check the temperature of the heater (130) in real time through a temperature sensing sensor included in the holder (1) or an electrically conductive track of the heater (130).

[0293] In step 5360, the holder (1) performs an aerosol generation mechanism. For example, the control unit (120, 220) can check the temperature of the heater (130) as the user performs puffing and adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater (130) or stop the supply of power to the heater (130). Additionally, the control unit (120, 220) can count the number of times the user puffs and output information indicating that cleaning of the holder is required when a certain number of puffs (e.g., 1500 times) is reached.

[0294] In step 5370, the cradle (2) performs charging of the holder (1). For example, the control unit (220) can charge the holder (1) by supplying power from the battery (210) of the cradle (2) to the battery (110) of the holder (1).

[0295] Meanwhile, the control unit (120, 220) may stop the operation of the holder (1) depending on the number of puffs by the user or the operation time of the holder (1). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 20, an example of the control unit (120, 220) stopping the operation of the holder (1) will be described.

[0296] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating another example of how a holder operates.

[0297] The method for generating an aerosol illustrated in FIG. 20 consists of steps processed sequentially in the holder (1) and cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 18B. Therefore, it can be seen that the description above regarding the holder (1) or cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 18B, even if omitted below, also applies to the method of FIG. 20.

[0298] In step 5410, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the user has puffed. For example, the control unit (120, 220) may determine whether the user has puffed through a puff detection sensor included in the holder (1). Alternatively, the control unit (120, 220) may determine whether the user has puffed by using a change in resistance of an electrically conductive track included in the heater (130). Here, the electrically conductive track includes an electrically conductive track for heating and / or an electrically conductive track for temperature detection. Alternatively, the control unit (120, 220) may determine whether the user has puffed by using both the change in resistance of the electrically conductive track included in the heater (130) and the puff detection sensor.

[0299] In step 5420, an aerosol is generated according to the user's puff. As described above with reference to FIG. 19, the control unit (120, 220) can adjust the power supplied to the heater (130) according to the user's puff and the temperature of the heater (130). Additionally, the control unit (120, 220) counts the number of times the user puffs.

[0300] In step 5430, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the number of puffs used by the user is greater than or equal to the puff limit. For example, assuming the puff limit is set to 14 times, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the counted number of puffs is 14 times or more. However, the puff limit is not limited to 14 times. For example, the puff limit can be set to an appropriate number between 10 and 16 times.

[0301] Meanwhile, when the number of puffs by the user approaches the puff limit (for example, when the number of puffs by the user is 12), the control unit (120, 220) can output a warning signal through a display or a vibration motor.

[0302] If the number of puffs used by the user is greater than or equal to the puff limit, proceed to step 5450, and if the number of puffs used by the user is less than the puff limit, proceed to step 5440.

[0303] In step 5440, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the time the holder (1) has operated is longer than the operation limit time. Here, the time the holder (1) has operated refers to the time accumulated from the point when the holder started operating until the present. For example, assuming the operation limit time is set to 10 minutes, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the holder (1) has operated for 10 minutes or more.

[0304] Meanwhile, when the operating time of the holder (1) approaches the operating limit time (for example, when the holder (1) has been operating for 8 minutes), the control unit (120, 220) can output a warning signal through a display or a vibration motor.

[0305] If the holder (1) is operating for longer than the operating time limit, proceed to step 5450, and if the operating time of the holder (1) is less than the operating time limit, proceed to step 5420.

[0306] In step 5450, the control unit (120, 220) forcibly terminates the operation of the holder. In other words, the control unit (120, 220) stops the aerosol generation mechanism of the holder. For example, the control unit (120, 220) can forcibly terminate the operation of the holder by cutting off the power supplied to the heater (130).

[0307] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how a cradle operates.

[0308] The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 21 consists of steps processed chronologically in the cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 7 to FIG. 18B. Therefore, it can be seen that the description above regarding the cradle (2) illustrated in FIG. 7 to FIG. 18B applies to the flowchart in FIG. 21, even if the details are omitted below.

[0309] Although not illustrated in FIG. 21, the operation of the cradle (2) described below can be performed regardless of whether the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2).

[0310] In step 5510, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) determines whether the button (240) is pressed. If the button (240) is pressed, proceed to step 5520, and if the button (240) is not pressed, proceed to step 5530.

[0311] In step 5520, the cradle (2) displays the state of the battery. For example, the control unit (220) can output information about the current state of the battery (210) (e.g., remaining amount, etc.) to the display (250).

[0312] In step 5530, the control unit (220) of the cradle (2) determines whether a cable is connected to the cradle (2). For example, the control unit (220) determines whether a cable is connected to an interface (e.g., a USB port, etc.) included in the cradle (2). If a cable is connected to the cradle (2), the process proceeds to step 5540, and if not, the procedure is terminated.

[0313] In step 5540, the cradle (2) performs a charging operation. For example, the cradle (2) charges the battery (210) using power supplied through a connected cable.

[0314] As described above with reference to FIG. 1, a cigarette may be inserted into the holder (1). The cigarette contains an aerosol-generating substance, and an aerosol is generated by a heated heater (130).

[0315] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 22 to 38c, an example of a cigarette that can be inserted into a holder (1) will be described.

[0316] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating an example of a cigarette inserted into a holder.

[0317] Referring to FIG. 11, a cigarette (3) can be inserted into a holder (1) through the end (141) of a case (140). When the cigarette (3) is inserted, a heater (130) is positioned inside the cigarette (3). Thus, the aerosol-generating material of the cigarette (3) is heated by the heated heater (130), and an aerosol is generated accordingly.

[0318] The cigarette (3) may be similar to a conventional combustion type cigarette. For example, the cigarette (3) may be divided into a first part (310) containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part (320) containing a filter, etc. Meanwhile, the cigarette (3) according to one embodiment may include an aerosol generating substance in the second part (320). For example, an aerosol generating substance made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part (320).

[0319] The entire first part (310) may be inserted into the interior of the holder (1), and the second part (320) may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part (310) may be inserted into the interior of the holder (1), or a part of both the first part (310) and the second part (320) may be inserted.

[0320] The user can inhale an aerosol while holding the second part (320) in their mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part (310), and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0321] External air may be introduced (1120) through at least one air passage formed in the holder (1). For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the holder (1) and / or the size of the air passage may be controlled by the user. Accordingly, the amount of vapor, smoking sensation, etc., may be controlled by the user.

[0322] Alternatively, external air may be introduced (1110) through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette (3).

[0323] Figures 23A and 23B are structural diagrams illustrating an example of a cigarette.

[0324] Referring to FIGS. 23A and FIGS. 23B, the cigarette (3) includes a tobacco rod (310), a first filter segment (321), a cooling structure (322), and a second filter segment (323). The first part (310) described above with reference to FIG. 11 includes the tobacco rod (310), and the second part (320) includes the first filter segment (321), the cooling structure (322), and the second filter segment (323).

[0325] Referring to FIG. 23A, the cigarette (3) can be wrapped by a total of five wrappers (341, 342, 343, 344, 345). Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 23B, the cigarette (3) can be wrapped by a total of six wrappers (341, 342, 343, 344, 346, 347). The tobacco rod (310) is wrapped by the first wrapper (341), and the first filter segment (321) is wrapped by the second wrapper (342). Additionally, the cooling structure (322) is wrapped by the third wrapper (343), and the second filter segment (323) is wrapped by the fourth wrapper (344).

[0326] The fifth wrapper (345) of FIG. 23A can be wrapped around the outer edge of the first wrapper (341), the second wrapper (342), the third wrapper (343), and the fourth wrapper (344). In other words, the entire cigarette (3) can be double-wrapped by the fifth wrapper (345).

[0327] Meanwhile, the sixth wrapper (346) of FIG. 23B may be wrapped around the outer perimeter of the first wrapper (341), the second wrapper (342), and the third wrapper (343). In other words, the tobacco rod (310), the first filter segment (321), and the cooling structure (322) of the cigarette (3) may be double-wrapped by the sixth wrapper. Additionally, the seventh wrapper (347) of FIG. 23B may be wrapped around at least a portion of the third wrapper (343) and the outer perimeter of the fourth wrapper (344). In other words, at least a portion of the cooling structure (322) and the second filter segment (323) of the cigarette (3) may be re-wrapped by the seventh wrapper (347).

[0328] The first wrapper (341) and the second wrapper (342) can be made of ordinary filter paper. For example, the first wrapper (341) and the second wrapper (342) can be porous paper or non-porous paper. Additionally, the first wrapper (341) and the second wrapper (342) can be made of oil-resistant paper and aluminum laminate packaging materials.

[0329] The third wrapper (343) may be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (343) may be 90 g / m2, but is not limited thereto.

[0330] The fourth wrapper (344) may be made of oil-resistant hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (344) may be 92 g / m2 and the thickness may be 125 µm, but is not limited thereto.

[0331] The fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) may be made of sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to improve tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) may be 60 g / m2 and the thickness may be 67 µm, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the tensile strength of the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) may be within the range of 8 kgf / 15 mm to 11 kgf / 15 mm on a dry basis and 1.0 kgf / 15 mm on a wet basis, but is not limited thereto.

[0332] The fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) may have a specific material added to them. Here, examples of the specific material may include silicone, but are not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change with temperature, oxidation resistance that does not oxidize, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicone, any material having the properties described above may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) without limitation.

[0333] The fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette (3) burning. For example, if the cigarette rod (310) is heated by the heater (130), there is a possibility that the cigarette (3) will burn. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the ignition point of any of the materials contained in the cigarette rod (310), the cigarette (3) may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) contain non-combustible materials, the phenomenon of the cigarette (3) burning can be prevented.

[0334] Additionally, the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) can prevent the holder (1) from being contaminated by substances generated from the cigarette (3). Liquid substances may be generated within the cigarette (3) by the user's puff. For example, liquid substances (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be generated by cooling an aerosol generated from the cigarette (3) by external air. As the fifth wrapper (345), the sixth wrapper (346), and the seventh wrapper (347) wrap the tobacco rod (310) and / or the first filter segment (321), the liquid substances generated within the cigarette (3) may be prevented from leaking out of the cigarette (3). Thus, the case (140) of the holder (1), etc., may be prevented from being contaminated by liquid substances generated from the cigarette (3).

[0335] The diameter of the cigarette (3) may be within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the diameter of the cigarette (3) may be 7.2 mm, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the length of the tobacco rod (310) may be about 12 mm, the length of the first filter segment (321) may be about 10 mm, the length of the cooling structure (322) may be about 14 mm, and the length of the second filter segment (323) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0336] The structure of the cigarette (3) shown in FIGS. 23A and FIGS. 23B is merely an example, and some components may be omitted. For example, the cigarette (3) may not include one or more of the first filter segment (321), the cooling structure (322), and the second filter segment (323).

[0337] The tobacco rod (310) contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol.

[0338] Additionally, the tobacco rod (310) may contain other additives such as flavorings, humectants, and / or organic acids. For example, flavorings may include licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, isosweet, cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, cascarilla, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint oil, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, ginger, coriander, or coffee. Additionally, humectants may include glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0339] As an example, the tobacco rod (310) can be filled with tobacco leaves. Here, the tobacco leaves can be produced by cutting a tobacco sheet into small pieces.

[0340] In order for a wide cigarette sheet to be filled into a narrow cigarette rod (310), an additional special process is required to allow the cigarette sheet to be easily folded. Therefore, compared to filling the cigarette rod (310) with a cigarette sheet, it is easier to fill the cigarette rod (310) with cigarette sticks, and the productivity and efficiency of the process for producing the cigarette rod (310) can be increased.

[0341] As another example, the tobacco rod (310) may be filled with multiple tobacco strands from which the tobacco sheet has been cut. For example, the tobacco rod (310) may be formed by combining multiple tobacco strands in the same direction (parallel) or randomly. Specifically, the tobacco rod (310) may be formed by combining multiple tobacco strands, and multiple longitudinal channels through which a heater (130) can be inserted or aerosol can pass may be formed. At this time, the longitudinal channels may be uniform or non-uniform depending on the size and arrangement of the tobacco strands.

[0342] For example, tobacco strands can be manufactured by the following process. First, tobacco raw materials are crushed to create a slurry in which an aerosol generating substance (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, etc.), a flavoring liquid, a binder (e.g., guar gum, xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), etc.), water, etc., are mixed, and then a sheet is formed using the slurry. When making the slurry, natural pulp or cellulose may be added to modify the physical properties of the tobacco strand, and one or more binders may be mixed and used. Then, after drying the sheet, tobacco strands can be produced by cutting or shredding the dried sheet.

[0343] The tobacco raw material may be tobacco leaf fragments, tobacco stems, and / or tobacco fines generated during tobacco processing. Additionally, the tobacco sheet may contain other additives, such as wood cellulose fibers.

[0344] 5% to 40% of an aerosol-generating substance may be added to the slurry, and 2% to 35% of the aerosol-generating substance may remain in the finished tobacco strand product. Preferably, 10% to 25% of the aerosol-generating substance may remain in the finished tobacco strand product.

[0345] Additionally, prior to the process of packaging the tobacco rod (310) by the first wrapper (341), a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a moisturizer may be sprayed into the center of the tobacco rod (310) to be added.

[0346] The tobacco strand may be manufactured in a rectangular shape with a width of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, a length of 5 mm to 50 mm, and a thickness (height) of 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the tobacco strand may be manufactured in a rectangular shape with a width of 0.9 mm, a length of 20 mm, and a thickness (height) of 0.2 mm. Additionally, a single tobacco strand may be manufactured to have a basis weight of 100 g / m² to 250 g / m², but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the tobacco strand may be manufactured to have a basis weight of 180 g / m².

[0347] Compared to a tobacco rod (310) filled with tobacco sheets, a tobacco rod (310) filled with tobacco strands can generate a larger amount of aerosol. Assuming they are filled in the same space, tobacco strands provide a larger surface area compared to tobacco sheets. A larger surface area means there is a greater opportunity for the aerosol-generating material to come into contact with the outside air. Therefore, when a tobacco rod (310) is filled with tobacco strands, more aerosol can be generated compared to when it is filled with tobacco sheets.

[0348] Additionally, when separating the cigarette (3) from the holder (1), the cigarette rod (310) filled with cigarette strands can be separated more easily than when filled with a cigarette sheet. In other words, when the cigarette rod (310) is filled with cigarette strands, it can be separated more easily from the holder (1) compared to when filled with a cigarette sheet.

[0349] The first filter segment (321) may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first filter segment (321) may be a tube-shaped structure containing a hollow interior. The length of the first filter segment (321) may be appropriately long within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first filter segment (321) may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0350] The diameter of the hollow included in the first filter segment (321) may be appropriately adopted within the range of 3 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0351] The hardness of the first filter segment (321) can be adjusted by controlling the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first filter segment (321).

[0352] In order to prevent the size of the first filter segment (321) from decreasing over time, the outer edge of the first filter segment (321) can be manufactured to be wrapped by a wrapper. Accordingly, the first filter segment (321) can be easily combined with other configurations (e.g., other filter segments).

[0353] Additionally, the first filter segment (321) can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube of the same or different material into the interior (e.g., hollow).

[0354] The first filter segment (321) can be manufactured using cellulose acetate. Accordingly, when the heater (130) is inserted, the internal material of the tobacco rod (310) may be prevented from being pushed backward, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may be produced.

[0355] The second filter segment (323) may also be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the second filter segment (323) may be made of a recessed filter, but is not limited thereto. The length of the second filter segment (323) may be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the second filter segment (323) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0356] In the process of manufacturing the second filter segment (323), the second filter segment (323) may be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto it. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the interior of the second filter segment (323). The aerosol generated from the tobacco rod (310) is cooled as it passes through the cooling structure (322), and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the second filter segment (323). Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the second filter segment (323), the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user may occur.

[0357] Additionally, the second filter segment (323) may include at least one capsule (324). Here, the capsule (324) may be a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is wrapped in a film. For example, the capsule (324) may have a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0358] The coating of the capsule (324) may be made of agar, pectin, sodium alginate, carrageenan, gelatin, or gums such as guar gum. Additionally, a gelling agent may be further used as a material for forming the coating of the capsule (324). Here, for example, calcium chloride group may be used as the gelling agent. Additionally, a plasticizer may be further used as a material for forming the coating of the capsule (324). Here, glycerin and / or sorbitol may be used as the plasticizer. Additionally, a coloring agent may be further used as a material for forming the coating of the capsule (324).

[0359] For example, menthol, plant essential oils, etc., may be used as flavorings included in the liquid contents of the capsule. In addition, medium-chain fatty acid triglycerides (MCTs), for example, may be used as solvents for the flavorings included in the liquid contents. Furthermore, the liquid contents may contain other additives such as colorants, emulsifiers, and thickeners.

[0360] The cooling structure (322) cools the aerosol generated by the heater (130) heating the tobacco rod (310). Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0361] The cooling structure (322) can cool the aerosol through a phase transition action. For example, the material forming the cooling structure (322) can cause a phase transition action, such as melting or glass transition, which requires the absorption of thermal energy. As such an endothermic reaction occurs at the temperature at which the aerosol enters the cooling structure (322), the temperature of the aerosol passing through the cooling structure (322) is lowered.

[0362] The length or diameter of the cooling structure (322) can be varied depending on the shape of the cigarette (3). For example, the length of the cooling structure (322) can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the cooling structure (322) can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0363] The cooling structure (322) can be manufactured using a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material. For example, polymer materials include, but are not limited to, gelatin, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), fluoroethylene propylene (FEP), and combinations thereof. Additionally, biodegradable polymer materials include, but are not limited to, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), cellulose acetate, poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based thermoplastic resins.

[0364] Preferably, the cooling structure (322) may be made solely of pure polylactic acid. For example, the cooling structure (322) may be a three-dimensional structure shape made using one or more fiber strands (hereinafter referred to as "fiber strands") made of pure polylactic acid. Here, the thickness and length of the fiber strands, the number of fiber strands constituting the cooling structure (322), and the shape of the fiber strands may vary. Since the cooling structure (322) is made of pure polylactic acid, the generation of specific substances during the process of an aerosol passing through the cooling structure (322) can be prevented.

[0365] The cooling structure (322) may be produced by one or more processes, and a process of wrapping the outside of the cooling structure (322) with a wrapper made of paper or a polymer material may be added. Here, the polymer material includes, but is not limited to, gelatin, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), fluoroethylene propylene (FEP), and combinations thereof.

[0366] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 24A to 25, an example of a fiber strand and a fiber bundle formed by a plurality of fiber strands will be described.

[0367] FIGS. 24A and FIGS. 24B are drawings to illustrate an example of a fiber bundle.

[0368] Examples of fiber bundles forming a cooling structure are illustrated in FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B. Referring to FIG. 24A, the cooling structure (3100) may be manufactured by weaving at least one fiber bundle (3110). Referring to FIG. 24B, one fiber bundle (3120) may be formed from at least one fiber strand (3130). For example, one fiber bundle (3120) may be formed by twisting multiple fiber strands (e.g., 40 strands).

[0369] The cooling structure (322) can be manufactured by weaving at least one fiber bundle (3110, 3120). If necessary, the fiber bundle (3110, 3120) can be formed using fiber strands coated with a flavoring liquid. Alternatively, the fiber bundle (3110, 3120) can be formed by using a separate fiber strand coated with a flavoring liquid together with a fiber strand (3130) made of polylactic acid. Additionally, the fiber strand (3130) can be dyed in a predetermined color, and the fiber bundle (3110, 3120) can be formed using the dyed fiber strand (3130).

[0370] The advantages of manufacturing the cooling structure (3100) using fiber bundles (3110, 3120) are as follows.

[0371] As a first advantage, the aerosol can flow between the fiber strands (3130), and a vortex may be formed depending on the shape of the cooling structure (3100). The formed vortex increases the contact area of ​​the aerosol with the cooling structure (3100) and increases the time the aerosol stays within the cooling structure (3100). Thus, the heated aerosol can be effectively cooled.

[0372] As a second advantage, fiber strands (3130) are produced using raw materials (e.g., polylactic acid), and cooling structures (3100) produced using fiber strands have a higher manufacturing yield compared to conventional implants. In other words, cooling structures (3100) made from fiber strands (3130) are easier to cut compared to conventional implants. Therefore, since a large number of cooling structures (3100) can be obtained by cutting a single cooling rod, the manufacturing yield is higher compared to the process of producing implants.

[0373] Furthermore, when cooling structures are manufactured by methods such as extrusion molding, process efficiency decreases due to the addition of processes such as cutting the structure. Additionally, there are limitations to manufacturing cooling structures in various shapes.

[0374] As a third advantage, the cooling structure (3100) produced using fiber strands (3130) has an advantage in the cigarette production process compared to the film-type cooling structure. In other words, the film-type cooling structure crumbles easily, making it difficult to insert into a cigarette (3) with a small volume. In contrast, the cooling structure (3100) manufactured using fiber strands is easy to insert into the cigarette (3).

[0375] In addition, when a film-type cooling structure is inserted into a cigarette (3), the film-type cooling structure may crumble due to external impact. In this case, the cooling structure's effect of cooling the aerosol is reduced.

[0376] By manufacturing the cooling structure (3100) according to one embodiment using polylactic acid fibers (e.g., weaving), the risk of the cooling structure being deformed or losing function due to external impact can be reduced. Additionally, by changing the method of combining the fiber bundles (3110, 3120), cooling structures (3100) having various shapes can be manufactured.

[0377] In addition, by fabricating the cooling structure (3100) using cooling fibers (3130), the surface area in contact with the aerosol is increased. Therefore, the aerosol cooling effect of the cooling structure (3100) can be further enhanced.

[0378] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating another example of a fiber bundle.

[0379] Referring to FIG. 25, the fiber bundle (3200) may include one main stream (3210) and a plurality of substreams (3220). Here, the main stream (3210) may be in the form of a plurality of fiber strands woven together. Additionally, the substream (3220) is at least one fiber strand coupled to a space formed in the main stream (3210), so the fiber bundle (3200) may have a shape similar to a bird's wing.

[0380] There is no limit to the number of fiber strands forming the main stream (3210) or substream (3220). Therefore, the thickness of the main stream (3210) or substream (3220) can vary depending on the number of fiber strands.

[0381] Additionally, the substreams (3220) connected to the main stream (3210) may not be aligned in any single direction. In other words, if the main stream (3210) contains multiple substreams (3220), the directions in which each of the substreams (3220) faces may differ from one another, or the directions in which some of the substreams (3220) face may differ from one another.

[0382] Referring again to FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B, the cross-section of the cooling structure (322) may include at least one channel. The channel functions as a passage through which an aerosol can pass. However, the direction of the channel is not limited to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the axial direction of the cooling structure (322)), and the channel may be formed in various directions.

[0383] Depending on the production process of the cooling structure (322), the diameter of the channel may be determined in various ways. For example, the diameter of the channel may be adjusted according to the thickness and / or number of fiber bundles constituting the cooling structure (322), or the diameter of the channel may be adjusted according to the weaving pattern of the cooling structure (322).

[0384] Additionally, uniform channels may be distributed in the cooling structure (322). In other words, the cooling structure (322) may be manufactured so that channels are uniformly distributed across all cross-sections. Therefore, the flow of aerosol passing through the cooling structure (322) can be smooth.

[0385] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 26A to 28B, an example of a cooling structure (322) including a single longitudinal channel will be described.

[0386] FIGS. 26A and FIGS. 26B are drawings for illustrating an example of a cooling structure including a single longitudinal channel.

[0387] Referring to FIG. 26A, the cooling structure (3300) may be cylindrical in shape. For example, the cooling structure (3300) may be cylindrical in shape and include a filter of a single channel (3310). Additionally, FIG. 26B shows a cross-sectional view of the cooling structure (3300) illustrated in FIG. 26A. In FIG. 26B, the hollow (3320) of the cooling structure (3300) corresponds to the channel.

[0388] FIGS. 27A to 27C are drawings for illustrating other examples of cooling structures including a single longitudinal channel.

[0389] FIGS. 27A to 27C illustrate an example of a cooling structure (3400) manufactured by weaving multiple fiber bundles. Here, a fiber bundle refers to at least one fiber strand woven or bundled together. Specifically, FIGS. 27A to 27C illustrate cross-sections at different locations of the cooling structure (3400) shown in FIG. 27A. The hollow (3410) shown in FIG. 27B and the hollow (3420) shown in FIG. 27C correspond to channels.

[0390] For example, the number of fiber bundles constituting the cooling structure (3400) may be two or more, and there is no limit to the number. Also, the number of fiber strands contained in a single fiber bundle may be one or more, and there is no limit to the number. Additionally, the number of fiber strands contained in each of the fiber bundles may be the same or different from each other.

[0391] Referring to FIG. 27B, the cooling structure (3400) is shown as being manufactured using eight fiber bundles, but is not limited thereto. For example, the cooling structure (3400) may be manufactured using six or nine fiber bundles.

[0392] FIGS. 28A and FIGS. 28B are drawings for illustrating another example of a cooling structure including a single longitudinal channel.

[0393] FIGS. 28A and FIGS. 28B illustrate another example of a cooling structure (3500) manufactured by weaving multiple fiber bundles. Specifically, FIG. 28B illustrates a cross-section of the cooling structure (3500) shown in FIG. 28A. For example, the cooling structure (3500) shown in FIG. 28A and FIG. 28B and the cooling structure (1600) shown in FIG. 28A and FIG. 28B may have different hardnesses. Also, the hollow (3510) shown in FIG. 28B corresponds to a channel.

[0394] Meanwhile, the interior of the channel of the cooling structure (3300, 3400, 3500) illustrated in FIGS. 26A to 28B may be filled with a specific material (e.g., a sheet produced using polylactic acid, another structure produced from fiber strands, crimped fiber strands, etc.). Additionally, depending on the production process of the cooling structure (3300, 3400, 3500), the degree to which the specific material is filled into the channel (filling rate) may be determined in various ways.

[0395] The number of fiber strands filled inside the cooling structure (3300, 3400, 3500) can be adjusted according to various purposes, and the shape of the structure can also be varied and produced. For example, various shapes of cooling structures (3300, 3400, 3500) can be produced by changing the total area of ​​the fibers or the arrangement of the fiber strands.

[0396] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 29 to 31, an example is described in which the interior of a cooling structure (3300, 3400, 3500) is filled with a predetermined material (e.g., another cooling structure).

[0397] FIG. 29 is a drawing illustrating an example of a cooling structure with a filled interior.

[0398] FIG. 29 illustrates an example of a cooling structure (3600) in which a second substructure (3620) is filled inside a first substructure (3610). Here, the first substructure (3610) may be a cooling structure comprising at least one channel. For example, the first cooling structure (3610) may be the cooling structures (3300, 3400, 3500) described above with reference to FIG. 26A through FIG. 28B, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the first substructure (3610) may be manufactured by weaving at least one fiber strand or at least one fiber bundle.

[0399] At least one channel formed in the first substructure (3610) can be filled with the second substructure (3620). For example, FIG. 29 shows a wound sheet filter as the second substructure (3620). The sheet filter will be described later with reference to FIG. 35.

[0400] FIGS. 30A and FIGS. 30B are drawings illustrating other examples of internally filled cooling structures.

[0401] FIGS. 30A and FIGS. 30B illustrate an example of a cooling structure (3700) in which a second substructure (3720) is filled inside a first substructure (3710). FIG. 30B shows a cross-section of the cooling structure (3700) illustrated in FIG. 30A. The first substructure (3710) may be a cooling structure comprising at least one channel. For example, the first cooling structure (3710) may be the cooling structures (3300, 3400, 3500) described above with reference to FIGS. 26A through 28B, but is not limited thereto.

[0402] The second substructure (3720) filled in the channel of the first substructure (3710) may be a structure manufactured by weaving multiple fiber bundles. For example, the second substructure (3720) may have the same diameter as the channel of the first substructure (3710), so that the second substructure (3720) can be filled in the channel of the first substructure (3710). Additionally, while FIG. 30A and FIG. 30B show only one second substructure (3720), this is not limited thereto. In other words, depending on the diameter of the second substructure (3720), multiple second substructures (3720) may be filled in the channel of the first substructure (3710).

[0403] Figure 31 is a drawing illustrating another example of a cooling structure with a filled interior.

[0404] The cooling structure (3900) illustrated in FIG. 31 may have the same structure as the cooling structures (3600, 3700) illustrated in FIG. 29 to FIG. 30B. In other words, the cooling structure (3900) may be in the form in which a different material is filled into the channel (3910) of the first substructure. For example, the channel (3910) may be filled with a plurality of fiber strands. In this case, the filled fiber strands may have an irregularly clumped shape (e.g., a shape like cotton), but are not limited thereto.

[0405] As described above with reference to FIGS. 26A through 31, the cooling structure may include a single longitudinal channel. However, it is not limited thereto. In other words, to increase the surface area per unit area (i.e., the surface area in contact with the aerosol), the cooling structure may include multiple channels, and the number of channels is not limited. Hereinafter, a cooling structure including multiple channels will be described with reference to FIGS. 32A through 34E.

[0406] FIGS. 32A and 32B are drawings for illustrating an example of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels.

[0407] Referring to FIG. 32A, the cooling structure (4100) may be cylindrical in shape and include a plurality of channels (4110). FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B show the cooling structure (4100) including 13 channels (4110), but the number of channels is not limited thereto. FIG. 32B also shows a cross-sectional view of the cooling structure (4100) shown in FIG. 32A. In FIG. 32B, each of the plurality of hollows (4120) of the cooling structure (4100) corresponds to a channel.

[0408] For example, a cooling structure (4100) can be produced by grouping a plurality of cooling structures (3300) shown in FIGS. 26A to 26B. That is, the number of channels (4110) included in the cooling structure (4100) can be determined according to the number of cooling structures (3300). However, the method of producing the cooling structure (4100) is not limited to that described above.

[0409] As the cooling structure (4100) is manufactured by grouping multiple cooling structures (4100), the space (4130) between adjacent cooling structures (3300) can also serve as a channel. Therefore, even if any of the channels among the multiple cooling structures (3300) become blocked due to phase transition, the aerosol can easily pass through the cooling structure (4100).

[0410] FIG. 33 is a drawing illustrating an example in which the interior of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels is filled.

[0411] Referring to FIG. 33, a cooling structure (4200) may be formed by grouping a plurality of cooling structures (4210). For example, a cooling structure (4210) may include one channel, and as a plurality of cooling structures (4210) are grouped, the cooling structure (4200) may include a plurality of channels.

[0412] For example, the cooling structure (4210) can be manufactured using the fiber bundle (3200) shown in FIG. 25. In other words, the cooling structure (4210) is manufactured by weaving a plurality of fiber bundles (3200), and substreams (3220) of the fiber bundles (3200) can be located in the channels of the cooling structure (4210). In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the cooling structure (4210) in contact with the aerosol is increased by the substreams (3220), so the aerosol cooling effect can be further enhanced.

[0413] As described above with reference to FIGS. 32A to 33, the cooling structure may include a plurality of channels of the same shape in the longitudinal direction. Meanwhile, the plurality of channels formed in the cooling structure are not limited to those shown in FIGS. 32A to 33. Hereinafter, another example of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels will be described with reference to FIGS. 34A to 34E.

[0414] FIGS. 34A to 34E are drawings for illustrating other examples of a cooling structure including a plurality of channels.

[0415] FIGS. 34A to 34E illustrate examples of a cooling structure (4300) including a plurality of channels. Specifically, FIGS. 34B to 34E illustrate cross-sections of various modified examples of the cooling structure (4300) shown in FIG. 34A.

[0416] Referring to FIG. 34A, each cross-section of the cooling structure (4300) may include a plurality of channels (4310). Also, referring to FIG. 34B through FIG. 34D, the position and / or size of each of the plurality of channels (4320, 4330, 4340) may vary depending on the production process of the cooling structure (4300). Also, referring to FIG. 34E, depending on the position of each of the plurality of channels, the entire cooling structure (4300) may be produced to include a single continuous airflow passage (4350).

[0417] As described above with reference to FIGS. 26A to 34E, the cooling structure may be manufactured to include at least one hollow channel. However, the cooling structure may be manufactured in various shapes in addition to the shape including the hollow channel.

[0418] For example, the cooling structure may be manufactured in the form of a sheet. Hereinafter, an example of a cooling structure manufactured in the form of a sheet is described with reference to FIGS. 35 to 36B. Additionally, the cooling structure may be manufactured in the form of granules. Hereinafter, an example of a cooling structure manufactured in the form of granules is described with reference to FIG. 37. Furthermore, the cooling structure may be manufactured as an implant made of polylactic acid (PLA). Hereinafter, an example of a cooling structure manufactured as an implant is described with reference to FIGS. 38A to 38C.

[0419] In addition, through a heat curing process, cooling structures (322) with various hardnesses can be produced.

[0420] Figure 35 is a drawing illustrating an example of a sheet-type cooling structure.

[0421] The cooling structure (4400) may be produced in the form of a sheet (hereinafter referred to as a "sheet-type cooling structure"). For example, the sheet-type cooling structure (4400) may be produced by compressing fiber strands arranged densely without a specific directionality, but is not limited thereto.

[0422] Additionally, a predetermined material (e.g., activated carbon granules) may be inserted into the interior of the sheet-type cooling structure (4400). For example, a predetermined material may be applied to the first sheet-type cooling structure, and then the second sheet-type cooling structure is placed on the first sheet-type cooling structure and compressed, thereby inserting the predetermined material into the interior of the compressed sheet-type cooling structure (4400). However, the production process of the sheet-type cooling structure (4400) is not limited to the example described above.

[0423] Figures 36A and 36B are drawings illustrating other examples of sheet-type cooling structures.

[0424] FIGS. 36A and FIGS. 36B illustrate an example of a cooling structure (4500) with an internally filled interior. Specifically, FIG. 36B illustrates a cross-section of the cooling structure (4500) illustrated in FIG. 36A. For example, the cooling structure (4500) of FIG. 36A can be produced by wrapping the outer surface of a curled sheet-type cooling structure with another sheet-type cooling structure.

[0425] Figure 37 is a drawing illustrating an example of a granular cooling structure.

[0426] FIG. 37 illustrates an example of a granular cooling structure (4600) manufactured using at least one fiber strand or at least one fiber bundle. For example, the cooling structure (4600) may be manufactured by bundling or randomly weaving at least one fiber strand or at least one fiber bundle.

[0427] FIGS. 38A to 38C are drawings for illustrating examples of cooling structures made of implants.

[0428] Referring to FIG. 38A, the cooling structure (4710) may be filled with granules made of polylactic acid, charcoal, or charcoal, respectively. Additionally, the granules may be made of a mixture of polylactic acid, charcoal, and charcoal. Meanwhile, in addition to polylactic acid, charcoal, and / or charcoal, the granules may further include elements that can increase the cooling effect of the aerosol.

[0429] Referring to FIG. 38B, the cooling structure (4720) may include a first section (4721) and a second section (4722).

[0430] The first section (4721) is adjacent to the first filter segment (321) shown in FIGS. 23A to 23B and may include a pore into which an aerosol is introduced. The second section (4722) is adjacent to the second filter segment (323) shown in FIGS. 23A to 23B and may include a pore into which an aerosol can be released. For example, the first section (4721) and the second section (4722) may include a single pore with the same diameter, but the diameter and number of pores included in the first section (4721) and the second section (4722) are not limited thereto.

[0431] Additionally, the cooling structure (4720) may include a third section (4723) containing a plurality of voids between the first section (4721) and the second section (4722). For example, the diameter of the plurality of voids included in the third section (4723) may be smaller than the diameter of the voids included in the first section (4721) and the second section (4722). Also, the number of voids included in the third section (4723) may be greater than the number of voids included in the first section (4721) and the second section (4722).

[0432] Referring to FIG. 38C, the cooling structure (4730) may include a first cross-section (4731) bordering the first filter segment (321) and a second cross-section (4732) bordering the second filter segment (323). Additionally, the cooling structure (4730) may include one or more channels (4733). Additionally, the channels (4733) may be wrapped in a microporous packaging material and filled with a filler (e.g., granules described above with reference to FIG. 38A) that can increase the cooling effect of the aerosol.

[0433] As described above, the holder (1) can generate an aerosol by heating the cigarette (3). Additionally, the holder (1) can generate an aerosol independently or when the holder (1) is inserted into the cradle (2) and tilted. In particular, when the holder (1) is tilted, the heater (130) can be heated by the power of the battery of the cradle (2).

[0434] Hereinafter, the aerosol generating device (10000) according to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 39 to 58 is an example of an integrated aerosol generating device in which a holder (1) and a cradle (2) are combined in the embodiments described above. Accordingly, each embodiment of the holder (1) and cradle (2) described in FIGS. 1 to 21 may be applied to the aerosol generating device described in FIGS. 39 to 58. In addition, a cigarette (3) described in FIGS. 22 to 38C may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (10000) described in FIGS. 39 to 58, and the aerosol generating device may generate an aerosol by heating the cigarette (3) described in FIGS. 22 to 38C. In addition, the heater (10300) of the aerosol generating device (10000) described in FIGS. 39 to 58 may be the heater (130) described in FIGS. 1 to 5. In other words, the holder (1) (particularly, the heater (130) employed in the holder (1)) and the cigarette (3) (particularly, the cooling structure (322) employed in the cigarette (3)) described in FIGS. 1 to 38C can be applied to the embodiments described in FIGS. 39 to 58.

[0435] The numbers indicating components in FIGS. 39 through 58 are used independently without association with the numbers used in FIGS. 1 through 38C. Therefore, the numbers indicating components in FIGS. 1 through 38C and the numbers indicating components in FIGS. 39 through 58 should be understood as being used independently to indicate different components.

[0436] FIG. 39 is a side view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment, FIG. 40A is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 39, and FIG. 40B is a perspective view exemplarily illustrating the operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0437] The aerosol generating device (10000) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 39, FIG. 40A, and FIG. 40B may include a case (10010) and a cover (10020). By the cover (10020) being coupled to one end of the case (10010), the cover (10020) together with the case (10010) forms the exterior of the aerosol generating device (10000).

[0438] The case (10010) forms the exterior of the aerosol generating device (10000) and performs the function of accommodating and protecting various components in the space formed inside.

[0439] The cover (10020) and the case (10010) may be made of a plastic material that does not conduct heat well, or a metal material coated with a heat-blocking material on its surface. The cover (10020) and the case (10010) may be manufactured, for example, by injection molding, 3D printing, or by assembling small parts produced by injection molding.

[0440] A locking device may be installed between the cover (10020) and the case (10010) to maintain the combined state of the cover (10020) and the case (10010). The locking device may include, for example, a protrusion and a groove. The combined state of the cover (10020) and the case (10010) may be maintained by keeping the protrusion inserted into the groove, and a structure may be used in which the protrusion is moved by an operation button that can be pressed by a user to separate the protrusion from the groove.

[0441] Additionally, the locking device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member that adheres to the magnet. If a magnet is used in the locking device, a magnet may be installed on either the cover (10020) or the case (10010) and a metal member that adheres to the magnet may be installed on the other, or magnets may be installed on both the cover (10020) and the case (10010).

[0442] In the aerosol generating device (10000) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40A, the cover (10020) is not an essential component, and the cover (10020) may not be installed if necessary.

[0443] An external hole (10020p) into which a cigarette (3) can be inserted is formed on the upper surface of the cover (10020) coupled to the case (10010). Additionally, a rail (10030r) is formed on the upper surface of the cover (10020) at a position adjacent to the external hole (10020p). A door (10030) capable of sliding along the upper surface of the cover (10020) is installed on the rail (10030r). The door (10030) can slide linearly along the rail (10030r).

[0444] The door (10030) functions to expose an external hole (10020p) and an insertion hole (10040p) to the outside, allowing the cigarette (3) to pass through the cover (10020) and be inserted into the case (10010) by moving along the rail (10030r) in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 40B. The external hole (10020p) of the cover (10020) functions to expose to the outside the insertion hole (10040p) of the receiving passage (10040h) capable of receiving the cigarette (3).

[0445] When the outer hole (10020p) is exposed to the outside by the door (10030), the user can insert the end (3b) of the cigarette (3) into the outer hole (10020p) and the insertion hole (10040p) and mount the cigarette (3) in the receiving passage (10040h) formed inside the cover (10020).

[0446] In the embodiment, the door (10030) is installed so that it can move linearly relative to the cover (10020). However, the embodiment is not limited by the structure in which the door (10030) is coupled to the cover (10020). For example, the door (10030) may be rotatably installed on the cover (10020) through a hinge assembly. When using a hinge assembly, the door (10030) may rotate to the side of the outer hole (10020p) along the extension direction of the upper surface of the cover (10020), or the door (10030) may rotate in a direction away from the upper surface of the cover (10020).

[0447] The rail (10030r) has a concave groove shape, but the embodiment is not limited by the shape of the rail (10030r). For example, the rail (10030r) may have a convex shape and may be extended in a curved shape rather than a straight shape.

[0448] A button (10090) is installed in the case (10010). The operation of the aerosol generating device (1000) can be controlled as the button (10090) is operated.

[0449] When the cover (10020) is joined to the case (10010), an external air inlet gap (10020g) is formed at the joint between the cover (10020) and the case (10010) to allow air to flow into the interior of the cover (10020).

[0450] FIG. 41A is a side view illustrating another operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0451] As shown in FIG. 41A, with the cigarette (3) inserted into the aerosol generating device, the user can bite the cigarette (3) with their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0452] When separating the cigarette (3) from the aerosol generating device after using the cigarette (3), the user can pull the cigarette (3) out from the heater inside the aerosol generating device inserted into the cigarette (3) by holding and turning the cigarette (3) with their hand.

[0453] FIG. 41B is a side view illustrating another operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A.

[0454] After separating the cigarette (3) from the aerosol generating device, the user can perform a cleaning operation to remove any tobacco material that may remain inside the aerosol generating device.

[0455] The cleaning operation of the aerosol generating device can be performed by removing tobacco material by the user separating the cover (10020) from the case (10010) of the aerosol generating device (10000) and then separating the receiving portion (10040) from the case (10010), thereby exposing the internal space and heater of the aerosol generating device to the outside. The cover (10020) can be attached to one end (10010a) of the case (10010) to cover the receiving portion (10040) which is attached to one end (10010a) of the case (10010), and can be separated from the case (10010) as needed.

[0456] FIG. 42 is a side view illustrating another operating state of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 40A, FIG. 43 is a perspective view illustrating the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 from a different angle, FIG. 44 is a top view of some components of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 43, and FIG. 45 is a perspective view illustrating the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 42 from another angle.

[0457] Referring to FIGS. 42 to 45, the aerosol generating device comprises a case (10010), a hollow protruding tube (10200) having an opening (10200p) that protrudes from one end (10010a) of the case (10010) and is open to the outside, a heater (10300) installed in the case (10010) to be located inside the protruding tube (10200), a receiving portion (10040) that can be coupled to the protruding tube (10200) and can be separated from the protruding tube (10200), and a protruding portion (10050) that protrudes from inside the protruding tube (10200) and supports a cigarette (3) inserted into the receiving portion (10040) by penetrating the receiving portion (10040).

[0458] As shown in FIG. 42, while the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the case (10010), a user can separate the receiving portion (10040) from the case (10010) by grasping the receiving portion (10040) with their hand.

[0459] The protruding tube (10200) surrounds and protects the heater (10300) and performs the function of supporting the receiving portion (10040) when the receiving portion (10040) is coupled. Since the protruding tube (10200) has a hollow shape with an empty interior, the protruding tube (10200) is provided with a coupling passage (10200h) in which at least a portion of the receiving portion (10040) can be inserted. The upper end of the coupling passage (10200h) is connected to an opening (10200p) that opens toward the upper direction outside the aerosol generating device.

[0460] A heater (10300) that performs the function of heating a cigarette (3) is installed in the case (10010). The heater (10300) is installed in the case (10010) such that one end (10310) is positioned inside the protruding tube (10200). When the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving portion (10040) while the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) is inserted into the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3).

[0461] An electric power supply unit (10700) placed inside a case (10010) is electrically connected to the lower end of the heater (10300) through electric wiring (10710). When electricity from the electric power supply unit (10700) is supplied to the heater (10300) while a cigarette (3) is inserted into the end (10310) of the heater (10300), the heater (10300) is heated, thereby heating the cigarette (3).

[0462] Referring to FIGS. 43 and 45, the receiving portion (10040) can be inserted into the coupling passage (10200h) inside the protruding tube (10200) through the opening (10200p) of the protruding tube (10200) and has a side wall (10040w) forming a receiving passage (10040h) that can receive a cigarette (3), an insertion hole (10040p) that is open toward the outside at one end of the receiving passage (10040h) so that the cigarette (3) can be inserted, and a bottom wall (10040b) having a heater hole (10040c) that closes the other end of the receiving passage (10040h) and passes through the end (10310) of the heater (10300).

[0463] The size of the heater hole (10040c) formed in the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040) may correspond to the thickness of the end portion (10310) of the heater (10300). For example, if the end portion (10310) of the heater (10300) has a circular cross-section, the heater hole (10040c) also has a circular cross-sectional shape, and the inner diameter of the heater hole (10040c) is formed to correspond to the outer diameter of the end portion (10310) of the heater (10300).

[0464] The embodiment is not limited by the size of the inner diameter of the heater hole (10040c), for example, the inner diameter of the heater hole (10040c) may be formed larger than the outer diameter of the end (10310) of the heater (10300) so that the inner surface of the heater hole (10040c) may be spaced apart from the outer surface of the end (10310) of the heater (10300).

[0465] The receiving portion (10040) surrounds the side wall (10040w) and is provided with an outer wall (10040t) that is spaced outward in the radial direction of the side wall (10040w). When the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the protruding tube (10200) is inserted between the outer wall (10040t) and the side wall (10040w), thereby stably maintaining the coupled state of the receiving portion (10040) and the protruding tube (10200).

[0466] When the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the side wall (10040w) of the receiving portion (10040) is inserted into the coupling passage (10200h) of the protruding tube (10200). While the side wall (10040w) of the receiving portion (10040) moves downward along the coupling passage (10200h) of the protruding tube (10200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) located inside the protruding tube (10200) passes through the heater hole (10040c) of the receiving portion (10040).

[0467] When the receiving portion (10040) is connected to the protruding tube (10200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) passes through the heater hole (10040c) of the receiving portion (10040) and is located inside the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040). Therefore, when the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) while the receiving portion (10040) is connected to the protruding tube (10200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) is inserted into the cigarette (3).

[0468] When a user of the aerosol generating device inserts a cigarette (3) into the receiving passage (10040h), the cigarette (3) moves along the receiving passage (10040h), and when the end of the cigarette (3) reaches the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving section (10040), the user holding the cigarette (3) feels the bottom wall (10040b) and the end of the cigarette (3) in contact with the user's hand. Therefore, the user can easily attach the cigarette (3) to the aerosol generating device by holding the cigarette (3) in their hand and performing a simple action of pushing the cigarette (3) into the insertion hole (10040p) of the receiving passage (10040h).

[0469] When the user separates the cigarette (3) from the receiving portion (10040), the user can take the cigarette (3) out of the receiving portion (10040) by holding the cigarette (3) with their hand and rotating it. While the user is holding the cigarette (3) with their hand and rotating it, the cigarette (3) and the heater (10300), which are bonded together by tobacco material, can be completely separated.

[0470] After separating the cigarette (3) from the receiving portion (10040), the user can perform cleaning work on the inside of the receiving portion (10040). When the user separates the receiving portion (10040) from the case (20010) to perform cleaning work, the user can grasp the receiving portion (10040) with their hand and pull the receiving portion (10040) out of the case (20010).

[0471] A plurality of protrusions (10050) for supporting a cigarette (3) are installed to protrude from the inner wall surface of the coupling passage (10200h) of the protruding tube (10200). The protrusions (10050) contact the outer surface of the cigarette (3) inserted into the receiving portion (10040) by penetrating the side wall (10040w) of the receiving portion (10040) coupled to the protruding tube (10200).

[0472] Additionally, the protruding tube (10200) can also perform the function of directly supplying external air to the end of the cigarette (3). To this end, the protruding tube (10200) is provided with an air hole (10200g) connecting the inside and outside of the protruding tube (10200). Multiple air holes (10200g) may be installed spaced apart along the circumferential direction with respect to the center in the longitudinal direction of the protruding tube (10200). The air holes (10200g) form an air flow passage so that external air of the protruding tube (10200) flows into the inside of the protruding tube (10200).

[0473] FIG. 46 is a side cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of a part of a component of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 41, FIG. 47 is an enlarged view showing the airflow of a part of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 46, and FIG. 48 is an enlarged view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 47.

[0474] With the receiving portion (10040) connected to the protruding tube (10200), an air circulation gap (10040g) is formed at the connection point between the receiving portion (10040) and the protruding tube (10200), that is, between the outer wall (10040t) of the receiving portion (10040) and the protruding tube (10200), so that air from the outside of the receiving portion (10040) can flow into the inside of the receiving portion (10040). Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 39, FIG. 40A, and FIG. 40B, with the cover (10020) coupled to the case (10010), air from outside the cover (10020) is introduced into the interior of the cover (10020) through the external air inflow gap (10020g) between the cover (10020) and the case (10010), and then is introduced into the interior of the receiving portion (10040) through the air circulation gap (10040g).

[0475] Referring to FIG. 47, the first flow of air (10000f) that passes through the external air inlet gap (10020g) and the air circulation gap (10040g) in sequence passes through the air hole (10200g) of the protruding tube (10200) and reaches the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3) received in the receiving portion (10040).

[0476] The cigarette (3) has a cylindrical shape, and the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) also has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the cigarette (3). The diameter of the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) is formed to be larger than the diameter of the cigarette (3). Therefore, when the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving portion (10040), the outer surface of the cigarette (3) and the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) are separated from each other. That is, in FIG. 47, external air flows through the insertion hole (10040p) into the space formed between the outer surface of the cigarette (3) and the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040), thereby forming a second flow of air (10000g).

[0477] Additionally, the receiving portion (10040) is provided with a through hole (10040d) formed by penetrating the side wall (10040w) to allow the protrusion (10050) to pass through. The protrusion (10050) is formed to protrude toward the cigarette (3) from the surface of the receiving passage (10040h) so as to contact the outer surface of the cigarette (3).

[0478] The protrusions (10050) are spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3), thereby forming a passageway through which a second flow of air (10000g) passes between the protrusions (10050). Multiple through holes (10040d) are also formed corresponding to the number of protrusions (10050). Although the protrusions (10050) support the outer surface of the cigarette (3), adjacent protrusions (10050) are spaced apart from each other, so air can flow freely inside the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040).

[0479] The number of protrusions (10050) and through holes (10040d) shown in the drawing is 4, but the embodiment is not limited by the number of protrusions (10050) and through holes (10040d). The number of protrusions (10050) and through holes (10040d) can be varied.

[0480] In addition, the installation location or shape of the protrusion (10050) and the through hole (10040d) can be varied. For example, the protrusion (10050) can be extended in a circumferential direction, that is, in a circular direction, relative to the center of the cigarette (3), so as to come into contact with a part of the outer surface of the cigarette (3) along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the cigarette (3). Even when the protrusion (10050) is extended in a circumferential direction, adjacent protrusions (10050) can be spaced apart from each other to form a flow path through which air passes inside the receiving passage (10040h).

[0481] The end surface of the protrusion (10050) that contacts the outer surface of the cigarette (3) can be formed as a cylindrical surface that is concavely curved to correspond to the shape of the outer surface of the cigarette (3).

[0482] Referring to FIGS. 46 and 47, when the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the position of the protruding portion (10050) is positioned at a predetermined height above the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040). Accordingly, in order to accommodate the protruding portion (10050) while the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the through hole (10040d) of the receiving portion (10040) is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the receiving passage (10040h) to correspond to the position of the protruding portion (10050).

[0483] An alignment inclined surface (10040y) is installed on the upper edge of the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving section (10040) facing the receiving passage (10040h), which functions to align the position of the cigarette (3) received in the receiving section (10040) to the center of the receiving section (10040) by guiding the end edge of the cigarette (3).

[0484] Referring to FIGS. 47 and 48, the protrusion (10050) is provided with an inclined surface (10050d) that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the receiving passage (10040h) to guide the movement of the cigarette (3) when the cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving passage (10040h).

[0485] The inclined surface (10050d) of the protrusion (10050) performs the function of guiding the movement of the cigarette (3) so that when the end of the cigarette (3) moves through the receiving passage (10040h) after being inserted into the receiving passage (10040h) and reaches the position of the protrusion (10050) protruding from the receiving passage (10040h), the end of the cigarette (3) can be inserted into the protrusion (10050).

[0486] While the receiving portion (10040) is connected to the protruding tube (10200) and a cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040), the receiving passage (10040h) is connected to the outside through the insertion hole (10040p), so a second flow of air (10000g) from the outside flows into the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) through the insertion hole (10040p). In addition, the first flow of air (10000f) that passes through the air circulation gap (10040g) passes through the air hole (10200g) of the protruding tube (10200) and reaches the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3) received in the receiving portion (10040).

[0487] The cigarette (3) is supported by the protrusion (10050), and since no component contacts the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3), the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3) is surrounded by air. When the heater (10300) heats the cigarette (3) and aerosol particles are generated from the cigarette (3), and the user bites the cigarette (3) with their mouth and sucks in the air, the air on the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3) passes through the cigarette (3), thereby allowing a flow of air containing aerosol particles to be delivered to the user.

[0488] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 39 to 48, the user can easily attach the cigarette (3) to the aerosol generating device by a simple operation in which the user opens the outer hole (10020p) of the cover (10020), inserts the cigarette (3) into the insertion hole (10040p) of the receiving portion (10040), and then pushes the cigarette (3) along the receiving passage (10040h).

[0489] In addition, after finishing using the cigarette (3), the user can take the cigarette (3) out of the case (10010) by turning it with their hand.

[0490] Additionally, for cleaning purposes, the user can separate the cover (10020) from the case (10010) and the receiving portion (10040) from the case (10010).

[0491] In addition, after the receiving portion (10040) is completely separated from the outside of the case (10010), the protruding tube (10200) and the heater (10300) are exposed to the outside, so the user can directly check the protruding tube (10200) and the heater (10300) and easily perform cleaning work.

[0492] In addition, when a cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) mounted on the case (10010) of the aerosol generating device, the protrusion (10050) protruding from inside the receiving passage (10040h) contacts the outer surface of the cigarette (3), thereby stably supporting the cigarette (3). Therefore, while using the aerosol generating device, the cigarette (3) is not separated from the aerosol generating device, and the state in which the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving passage (10040h) of the aerosol generating device is stably maintained, so the user can safely enjoy the aerosol generating device.

[0493] In addition, since the protrusion (10050) of the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) comes into contact with a part of the outer surface of the cigarette (3), a passage through which air can pass is formed between the receiving passage (10040h) and the cigarette (3), so that external air to assist in aerosol generation can be sufficiently and smoothly supplied into the interior of the aerosol generating device.

[0494] FIG. 49 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0495] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 49, a plurality of protrusions (10050, 10050b) are arranged spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3).

[0496] In FIG. 49, the lower longitudinal region of the cigarette (3) is supported by the lower protrusion (10050). Also, the upper longitudinal region of the cigarette (3) is supported by the upper protrusion (10050b).

[0497] Multiple protrusions (10050) on the lower side are arranged and spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3).

[0498] Multiple upper protrusions (10050b) are also arranged and spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3).

[0499] The through hole (10040d) formed in the side wall (10040w) of the receiving portion (10040) is formed to extend long along the length direction of the receiving passage (10040h) so as to accommodate both the upper protrusion (10050b) and the lower protrusion (10050).

[0500] In this way, a plurality of protrusions (10050, 10050b) are spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3), and are also spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette (3) on the outer surface of the cigarette (3), so that a passageway for air to pass through is formed between adjacent protrusions (10050, 10050b).

[0501] FIG. 50 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0502] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 50, when a cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving portion (10040), a concave connecting passage (10040f) is formed on the outer edge of the upper surface facing the receiving passage (10040h) of the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10044) that contacts the end of the cigarette (3). The connecting passage (10040f) is connected to the space between the outer surface of the cigarette (3) and the receiving passage (10040h), so that air from the receiving passage (10040h) is supplied to the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3) through the connecting passage (10040f) of the bottom wall (10040b), thereby allowing sufficient air to assist in aerosol generation to be smoothly supplied to the cigarette (3).

[0503] FIG. 51 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0504] The aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 51 is provided with a bottom projection (10040k) that protrudes from the upper surface facing the receiving passage (10040h) of the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040) which contacts the end of the cigarette (3) when the cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving portion (10040). The bottom projection (10040k) performs the function of supporting the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3) by protruding from the bottom wall (10040b) toward the internal space of the receiving passage (10040h). The bottom projection (10040k) has a roughly hemispherical shape.

[0505] A plurality of bottom protrusions (10040k) are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction relative to the center of the heater hole (10040c) formed in the bottom wall (10040b). Thus, since air can pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions (10040k), air introduced from the outside into the receiving passage (10040h) through the insertion hole (10040p) of the receiving passage (10040h) is supplied to the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3) through the space between the bottom protrusions (10040k).

[0506] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 51, a protrusion (10050) protruding from the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) contacts a part of the outer surface of the cigarette (3), thereby forming a passage through which air can pass between the receiving passage (10040h) and the cigarette (3), and the air in the passage is supplied to the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3) through the space between the bottom protrusions (10040k) of the bottom wall (10040b), so that sufficient air to assist in aerosol generation can be smoothly supplied to the cigarette (3).

[0507] FIG. 52 is a side cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0508] An aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 52 comprises a case (20010), a hollow protruding tube (20200) having an opening (20200p) that protrudes from one end (20010a) of the case (20010) and is open toward the outside, a heater (10300) installed in the case (20010) such that the end (10310) is located inside the protruding tube (20200), a receiving portion (20040) that can be coupled to the protruding tube (20200) and can be separated from the protruding tube (20200), a protrusion (20050) that protrudes from inside the protruding tube (20200) and supports a cigarette (3) inserted into the receiving portion (20040) by penetrating the receiving portion (20040), and an insertion hole (20040p) that is integrally connected to the receiving portion (20040). A cover (20020) is provided with a door (20030) that can be exposed to the outside.

[0509] A movable door (20030) is installed on the upper surface of the cover (20020) to expose the insertion hole (20040p) of the receiving portion (20040) to the outside. The door (20030) may be coupled to the cover (20020) to slide using a rail assembly or may be rotatably coupled to the cover (20020) using a hinge assembly.

[0510] When the insertion hole (20040p) is exposed to the outside by the door (20030), the user can insert the end of the cigarette (3) into the insertion hole (10040p) and mount the cigarette (3) in the receiving passage (20040h) formed inside the receiving portion (20040).

[0511] When the cover (20020) is joined to the case (20010), an external air inlet gap (20020g) is formed at the joint between the cover (20020) and the case (20010) to allow air to flow into the interior of the cover (20020).

[0512] After separating the cigarette (3) from the aerosol generating device after smoking, when performing a cleaning operation, the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) can be separated together from the case (20010). That is, when the user separates the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) from the case (20010) by holding the cover (20020) with their hand, the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) are separated together from the case (20010).

[0513] The protruding tube (20200) surrounds and protects the heater (10300), and when the receiving portion (20040) is coupled to the protruding tube (20200), it performs the function of supporting the receiving portion (20040) and the cover (20020). Since the protruding tube (20200) has a hollow shape with an empty interior, the protruding tube (20200) is provided with a coupling passage (20200h) in which at least a portion of the receiving portion (20040) can be inserted. The upper end of the coupling passage (20200h) is connected to an opening (20200p) that opens toward the upper direction outside the aerosol generating device.

[0514] Additionally, the protruding tube (20200) can also perform the function of directly supplying external air to the end of the cigarette (3). To this end, the protruding tube (20200) is provided with an air hole (20200g) connecting the inside and outside of the protruding tube (20200). Multiple air holes (20200g) may be installed spaced apart along the circumferential direction with respect to the center in the longitudinal direction of the protruding tube (20200). The air holes (20200g) form an air flow passage so that external air of the protruding tube (20200) flows into the inside of the protruding tube (20200).

[0515] The receiving portion (20040) can be inserted into the coupling passage (20200h) inside the protruding tube (20200) through the opening (20200p) of the protruding tube (20200) and has a receiving passage (20040h) that can receive a cigarette (3), an insertion hole (20040p) that is open toward the outside at one end of the receiving passage (20040h) so that the cigarette (3) can be inserted, and a bottom wall (20040b) having a heater hole (20040c) that closes the other end of the receiving passage (20040h) and passes through the end (10310) of the heater (10300).

[0516] The receiving portion (20040) is formed integrally with the cover (20020). For example, the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) may be integrally formed by injection molding using a material such as plastic, or integrally formed by 3D printing. Alternatively, the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) may be manufactured separately and then joined together by screw connection, or fixed to each other by means of connection such as bolts or adhesive.

[0517] When the receiving portion (20040) is connected to the protruding tube (20200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) passes through the heater hole (20040c) of the receiving portion (20040) and is located inside the receiving passage (20040h) of the receiving portion (20040). Therefore, when the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving passage (20040h) of the receiving portion (20040) while the receiving portion (20040) is connected to the protruding tube (20200), the end (10310) of the heater (10300) is inserted into the cigarette (3).

[0518] A plurality of protrusions (20050) for supporting a cigarette (3) are installed to protrude from the inner wall surface of the coupling passage (20200h) of the protruding tube (20200). The protrusions (20050) penetrate the receiving portion (20040) coupled to the protruding tube (20200) and come into contact with the outer surface of the cigarette (3) inserted into the receiving portion (20040).

[0519] With the cover (20020) combined with the case (20010), air from outside the cover (20020) is introduced into the interior of the cover (20020) through the gap (20020g) for external air intake between the cover (20020) and the case (20010). The first flow of air generated through the gap (20020g) passes through the air hole (20200g) of the protruding tube (20200) and reaches the outer surface of the end of the cigarette (3) received in the receiving portion (20040).

[0520] Additionally, while the receiving portion (20040) is connected to the protruding tube (20200) and the cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving passage (20040h) of the receiving portion (20040), the receiving passage (20040h) is connected to the outside through the insertion hole (20040p), so that external air flows into the receiving passage (20040h) of the receiving portion (20040) through the insertion hole (20040p), thereby forming a second flow of air.

[0521] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 52, the user can easily install the cigarette (3) in the aerosol generating device by a simple operation in which the user opens the cover (20020), inserts the cigarette (3) into the insertion hole (20040p) of the receiving portion (20040), and then pushes the cigarette (3) along the receiving passage (20040h).

[0522] In addition, when separating the cigarette (3) from the case (20010) after use, the user can separate the cigarette from the aerosol generating device by a simple operation of pulling the cigarette (3) outward from the receiving passage (20040h) while rotating the upper end of the cigarette (3) with their hand.

[0523] Additionally, when performing a cleaning operation, the user can separate the cover (20020) and the receiving portion (20040) from the case (20010) by separating them together from the case (20010).

[0524] FIG. 53 is a perspective view illustrating the operating state of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 54 is a perspective view illustrating the operating state of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 53 with some components removed.

[0525] The aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 53 and 54 includes a case (10010) and a cover (10020).

[0526] A cover (10020) coupled to one end of a case (10010) forms the exterior of an aerosol generating device (10000) together with the case (10010). The case (10010) forms the exterior of an aerosol generating device (10000) and accommodates various components in a space formed inside.

[0527] A locking device may be installed between the cover (10020) and the case (10010) to maintain the combined state of the cover (10020) and the case (10010). The locking device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member that adheres to the magnet. If a magnet is used in the locking device, a magnet may be installed on one of the cover (10020) and the case (10010) and a metal member that adheres to the magnet may be installed on the other, or magnets may be installed on both the cover (10020) and the case (10010).

[0528] An external hole (10020p) into which a cigarette (3) can be inserted is formed on the upper surface of the cover (10020). When the door (10030) slides linearly along the rail (10030r) on the upper surface of the cover (10020), the external hole (10020p) into which a cigarette (3) can be inserted and the insertion hole (10040p) are exposed to the outside. The insertion hole (10040p) of the receiving passage (10040h) into which the cigarette (3) can be received is exposed to the outside through the external hole (10020p) of the cover (10020).

[0529] When the outer hole (10020p) is exposed to the outside by the door (10030), the user can insert the end (3b) of the cigarette (3) into the outer hole (10020p) and the insertion hole (10040p) and mount the cigarette (3) in the receiving passage (10040h) formed inside the cover (10020).

[0530] In the outer hole (10020p) of the cover (10020), a plurality of cigarette support protrusions (10020m) are installed, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction along the inner surface of the outer hole (10020p) and protrude toward the center of the outer hole (10020p). The cigarette support protrusions (10020m) pass through the outer hole (10020p) and contact the outer surface of the cigarette (3) inserted into the insertion hole (10040p) and the receiving passage (10040h) to perform the function of supporting the cigarette (3).

[0531] A button (10090) is installed in the case (10010). The operation of the aerosol generating device (10000) can be controlled as the button (10090) is operated.

[0532] When the cover (10020) is joined to the case (10010), an external air inlet gap (10020g) is formed at the joint between the cover (10020) and the case (10010) to allow air to flow into the interior of the cover (10020).

[0533] When removing the cigarette (3) from the aerosol generating device after use, as shown in FIG. 54, the user can remove the cigarette (3) from the case (10010) by holding the cigarette (3) with their hand and rotating it. Alternatively, if the user rotates the cigarette (3) and pulls the cover (10020), the cover (10020) can be separated from the case (10010) along with the cigarette (3). By separating the cigarette (3) from the case (10010) while rotating it, the adhesion between the cigarette (3) and the heater is resolved, and at the same time, the tobacco material attached to the cigarette (3) can be discharged to the outside of the case (10010) along with the cigarette (3).

[0534] If the cover (1002) is pulled without rotating the cigarette (3), the cigarette (3) is separated from the case (10010), but the tobacco portion of the cigarette (i.e., the first portion (310) of FIG. 23a and FIG. 23b) may not be discharged from the case (10010) and may remain on the heater side. In this case, the user can separate the cover (1002) from the case (1001) and then separate the receiving portion (1004) from the case (1001). At this time, the tobacco portion remaining on the heater side is separated from the case (1001) together with the receiving portion (1004). After that, the user can remove the tobacco portion remaining in the separated receiving portion (1004).

[0535] FIG. 55 is a side cross-sectional view showing some components of the aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 54.

[0536] The aerosol generating device comprises a case (10010), a hollow protruding tube (10200) that protrudes from one end (10010a) of the case (10010) and has an opening that is open to the outside, a heater (10300) installed in the case (10010) so as to be located inside the protruding tube (10200), and a receiving portion (10040) that can be coupled to the protruding tube (10200) and can be separated from the protruding tube (10200).

[0537] FIG. 56 is a perspective view illustrating an operating state in which some components are separated from the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 53.

[0538] After separating the cigarette (3) from the aerosol generating device, the user can perform a cleaning operation to remove any tobacco material that may remain inside the aerosol generating device. As shown in FIG. 56, the cleaning operation of the aerosol generating device can be performed by removing the tobacco material by separating the receiving portion (10040) from the case (10010) of the aerosol generating device (10000) while the user has separated the cover (10020) from the case (10010), thereby exposing the internal space and heater of the aerosol generating device to the outside.

[0539] The protruding tube (10200) surrounds and protects the heater (10300) and performs the function of supporting the receiving portion (10040) when the receiving portion (10040) is coupled. Since the protruding tube (10200) has a hollow shape with an empty interior, the protruding tube (10200) is provided with a coupling passage (10200h) in which at least a portion of the receiving portion (10040) can be inserted. The upper end of the coupling passage (10200h) forms an opening that is open toward the upper direction outside the aerosol generating device.

[0540] The protruding tube (10200) is provided with a guide groove (10020n) that extends linearly along the length direction of the protruding tube (10200) for connection with the receiving portion (10040).

[0541] Additionally, the protruding tube (10200) can also perform the function of directly supplying external air to the end of the cigarette (3). To this end, the protruding tube (10200) is provided with an air hole (10200g) that connects the inside and outside of the protruding tube (10200). The air hole (10200g) is positioned to be connected to the end of the guide groove (10020n). Multiple air holes (10200g) may be installed, spaced apart along the circumferential direction with respect to the center in the longitudinal direction of the protruding tube (10200). The air hole (10200g) forms an air flow passage so that external air of the protruding tube (10200) flows into the inside of the protruding tube (10200).

[0542] A heater (10300) that performs the function of heating a cigarette (3) is installed in the case (10010). The heater (10300) is installed in the case (10010) such that one end is positioned inside the protruding tube (10200). When the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving portion (10040) while the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the end of the heater (10300) is inserted into the bottom surface of the end of the cigarette (3).

[0543] FIG. 57 is a bottom perspective view of some components of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 54, and FIG. 58 is an explanatory diagram exemplarily illustrating the operating state when some components shown in FIG. 57 are used.

[0544] Referring to FIGS. 57 and 58, the receiving portion (10040) can be inserted into the coupling passage (10200h) inside the protruding tube (10200) and has a side wall (10040w) forming a receiving passage (10040h) that can receive a cigarette (3), an insertion hole (10040p) that is open outward at one end of the receiving passage (10040h) so that the cigarette (3) can be inserted, and a bottom wall (10040b) having a heater hole (10040c) that closes the other end of the receiving passage (10040h) and passes the end of the heater (10300).

[0545] The heater hole (10040c) formed in the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040) includes an outer hole (10040j) that is concavely recessed outward from the heater (10300). Since multiple outer holes (10040j) are spaced apart along the circumferential direction centered on the heater hole (10040c), the overall shape of the heater hole (10040c) forms a shape similar to a star. The outer hole (10040j) functions as an air flow passage that allows air present around the heater (10300) on the outside of the receiving portion (10040) to be concentrated toward the cigarette (3) through the heater hole (10040c), thereby enabling air to easily flow into the inside of the receiving portion (10040).

[0546] The receiving portion (10040) surrounds the side wall (10040w) and is provided with an outer wall (10040t) that is spaced outward in the radial direction of the side wall (10040w). When the receiving portion (10040) is coupled to the protruding tube (10200), the protruding tube (10200) is inserted between the outer wall (10040t) and the side wall (10040w), thereby stably maintaining the coupled state of the receiving portion (10040) and the protruding tube (10200).

[0547] Inside the outer wall (10040t), a guide rib (10040n) is installed that is inserted into the guide groove (10020n) of the protruding tube (10200) when the receiving portion (10040) is inserted into the protruding tube (10200).

[0548] When the receiving portion (10040) is connected to the protruding tube (10200), the end of the heater (10300) passes through the heater hole (10040c) of the receiving portion (10040) and is located inside the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040). Therefore, when the cigarette (3) is received in the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) while the receiving portion (10040) is connected to the protruding tube (10200), the heater (10300) is inserted into the cigarette (3).

[0549] A plurality of lower bottom protrusions (10040e) are installed on the lower surface of the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040), protruding from the bottom wall (10040b) and arranged circumferentially spaced outward from the heater hole (10040c). The lower bottom protrusions (10040e) perform the function of securing an air flow passage by maintaining a gap between the bottom wall (10040b) and the aerosol generating device when the receiving portion (10040) is installed in the aerosol generating device.

[0550] Since the lower bottom protrusion (10040e) extends along a radial direction from the outer surface of the bottom wall (10040b) toward the heater hole (10040c), air on the outer side of the bottom wall (10040b) flows smoothly toward the outer hole (10040j) of the heater hole (10040c) along the space between adjacent lower bottom protrusions (10040e) by means of the lower bottom protrusion (10040e).

[0551] Due to the action of the lower bottom protrusion (10040e) as described above, air on the outer side of the bottom wall (10040b) is uniformly supplied to the heater hole (10040c), and a uniform and constant amount of air is supplied to the cigarette (3), so that the aerosol generation action is carried out smoothly and stably, thereby providing the user with an aerosol having the optimal taste and aroma.

[0552] An air guide groove (10040r) is formed on the lower surface of the bottom wall (10040b) of the receiving portion (10040) and extends from the outer end of the bottom wall (10040b) to the heater hole (10040c). The air guide groove (10040r) provides a passage for the main stream of air supplied to the cigarette (3) received in the receiving portion (10040).

[0553] The end of the air guide groove (10040r) located at the outer end of the bottom wall (10040b) is positioned at a location corresponding to the air hole (10200g) shown in FIG. 31. According to this arrangement structure, air from outside the protruding tube (10200) flows into the interior of the protruding tube (10200) through the air hole (10200g) and simultaneously flows directly into the heater hole (10040c) along the air guide groove (10040r), so that sufficient air necessary for aerosol generation can be smoothly supplied directly to the cigarette (3).

[0554] Multiple air guide grooves (10040r) may be installed to correspond to the number of air holes (10200g) formed in the protruding tube (10200).

[0555] The receiving section (10040) includes an outlet (10040a) formed by cutting a part of the side wall (10040w) to expose and open the receiving passage (10040h) to the outside of the side wall (10040w). Because the outlet (10040a) is formed in the side wall (10040w), the overall shape of the side wall (10040w) has a roughly semi-cylindrical shape. That is, if the side wall (10040w) is cut in a direction across the longitudinal direction of the side wall (10040w), the cross-sectional shape of the side wall (10040w) can be roughly a semicircle.

[0556] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57, the size of the discharge opening (10040a) formed extends approximately 180 degrees along the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the side wall (10040w), but the embodiment is not limited by such a size of the discharge opening (10040a). That is, the size of the discharge opening (10040a) may be a range of more than 180 degrees along the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the side wall (10040w), or a range of less than 180 degrees.

[0557] By installing an outlet (10040a) that exposes a receiving passage (10040h) on the side wall (10040w) of the receiving section (10040), cleaning work can be performed more easily.

[0558] A plurality of slits (10040s) formed by penetrating the side wall (10040w) are installed in the side wall (10040w) of the receiving section (10040) to connect the receiving passage (10040h) to the outside of the receiving section (10040). The slits (10040s) function to allow air remaining in the empty space formed between the outer wall (10040t) and the side wall (10040w) to come into contact with a part of the outer surface of the cigarette (3) received in the receiving section (10040).

[0559] The air remaining in the empty space formed between the outer wall (10040t) and the side wall (10040w) can be heated by the cigarette (3) heated by the heater (10300) and then flow back into the interior of the receiving passage (10040h) along the heater hole (10040c) of the receiving portion (10040) or flow into the cigarette (3) side through the slit (10040s), thereby performing the function of helping to generate an aerosol.

[0560] In addition, the air remaining in the empty space formed between the outer wall (10040t) and the side wall (10040w) can perform an insulating function by absorbing a portion of the heat of the cigarette (3), thereby blocking the heat of the cigarette (3) from being directly transferred to the user through the receiving portion (10040).

[0561] Referring to FIG. 58, the side wall (10040w) forming the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) that receives the cigarette (3) may form a slope along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette (3). The side wall (10040w) may form a slope that slopes away from the cigarette (3) as it moves from the lower end of the cigarette (3) received inside the receiving passage (10040h) toward the upper end of the cigarette (3).

[0562] In this way, by forming a slope on the side wall (10040w), the size of the receiving passage (10040h) of the receiving portion (10040) can change along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette (3). That is, the diameter (D1) of the receiving passage (10040h) in which the middle part of the cigarette (3) is received is formed to be larger than the diameter (D2) of the receiving passage (10040h) in which the lower end of the cigarette (3) is received. According to this structure of changing the diameter of the receiving passage (10040h), the center position of the cigarette (3) can be accurately aligned with the center position of the heater (10300) during the operation of receiving the cigarette (3) in the receiving portion (10040). In addition, when the cigarette (3) is fully inserted into the receiving passage (10040h), the lower end of the cigarette (3) is strongly pressed by the side wall (10040w), so the state in which the cigarette (3) is inserted into the receiving passage (10040h) can be stably supported.

[0563] After the user smokes the cigarette (3) held in the receiving portion (10040), the user can directly remove the cigarette from the receiving portion (10040). That is, the user can remove the cigarette (3) from the receiving portion (10040) by holding the cigarette held in the receiving portion (10040) with their hand and rotating it.

[0564] After separating the cigarette (3) from the receiving portion (10040), the user can separate the receiving portion (10040) from the aerosol generating device for cleaning.

[0565] When the receiving portion (10040) is separated from the aerosol generating device, the receiving passage (10040h) is exposed to the outside through the discharge port (10040a) as shown in FIG. 53, so that tobacco material can be discharged to the outside of the receiving portion (10040) through the discharge port (10040a). In addition, the user can conveniently clean various parts of the receiving passage (10040h) and the side wall (10040w) directly while visually inspecting them.

[0566] Meanwhile, the above-described method can be written as a program executable on a computer and can be implemented on a general-purpose digital computer that operates the program using a computer-readable recording medium. Additionally, the structure of the data used in the above-described method can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium through various means. The computer-readable recording medium includes storage media such as magnetic storage media (e.g., ROM, RAM, USB, floppy disk, hard disk, etc.) and optical reading media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, etc.).

[0567] Those skilled in the art related to the embodiments will understand that the above-described embodiments may be implemented in modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the description. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, not by the foregoing description, and all variations within the scope of equivalence should be interpreted as being included in the invention.

Claims

1. A holder for generating an aerosol by heating a cigarette; and A cradle including an internal space into which the holder is inserted; An aerosol generating system, wherein the holder is tilted after being inserted into the internal space of the cradle to generate the aerosol.

2. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating system in which the holder is tilted by 5° to 90° based on a state in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.

3. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating system, wherein when the holder is tilted, the holder heats a heater included in the holder using power supplied from a battery included in the cradle.

4. A heating unit including a tube-shaped base and a needle attachment formed at one end of the base; A first sheet having electrically conductive tracks formed on each of both sides and wrapping at least a portion of an outer surface of the base; A second sheet having rigidity and surrounding at least a portion of the first sheet; and A heater comprising a coating layer for flattening a stepped surface formed by a laminated structure including the heating section, the first sheet, and the second sheet.

5. In paragraph 4, A heater, wherein the coating layer comprises a heat-resistant composition.

6. In paragraph 4, The above plurality of electrically conductive tracks are, A first electrically conductive track formed on a first surface among both cross-sections of the first sheet and having a resistance temperature coefficient characteristic used to detect the temperature of the heating portion, and A heater comprising a second electrically conductive track formed on a second surface among both cross-sections of the first sheet and configured to heat the heating member according to a current flowing therein.

7. A holder that generates an aerosol by heating the inserted cigarette when the cigarette is inserted; and A cradle is provided with an internal space for accommodating the holder, and the holder is tilted together with the internal space so that the cigarette can be inserted into the holder while the holder is accommodated in the internal space; The above holder An aerosol generating system, wherein the holder cumulatively monitors a smoking pattern in a first state in which the holder is tilted from the cradle and in a second state in which the holder is separated from the cradle, and determines whether the cumulatively monitored smoking pattern satisfies a smoking restriction condition.

8. In paragraph 7, The above holder If smoking is performed in the first state and then continues in the second state, the smoking pattern monitored in the second state is accumulated in the smoking pattern monitored in the first state, An aerosol generating system that controls a heater provided in the holder to stop heating the inserted cigarette when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition.

9. In paragraph 7, The above holder If smoking is performed in the second state and then continues in the first state, the smoking pattern monitored in the first state is accumulated in the smoking pattern monitored in the second state, An aerosol generating system that controls a heater provided in the holder to stop heating the inserted cigarette when the accumulated smoking pattern satisfies the smoking restriction condition.

10. Case; A hollow protrusion tube having an opening that protrudes from one end of the case and is open to the outside; A heater installed in the case so that the end is positioned inside the protrusion tube and generates heat when an electric signal is applied; and An aerosol generating device comprising: a side wall forming a receiving passage for receiving a cigarette; an insertion hole open toward the outside at one end of the receiving passage for inserting the cigarette; and a bottom wall having a heater hole that closes the other end of the receiving passage and passes the end of the heater; and a receiving portion that can be inserted into the interior of the protruding tube through the opening of the protruding tube or separated from the protruding tube.

11. In Article 10, An aerosol generating device having an external hole capable of exposing the insertion hole of the above-mentioned receiving portion to the outside, and further comprising a cover capable of being coupled to one end of the case to cover the above-mentioned receiving portion and being detachable from the case.

12. In paragraph 11, At the joint of the cover and the case, an external air intake gap is formed to allow air from the outside of the cover to flow into the inside of the cover. The above-mentioned receiving portion further comprises an outer wall surrounding the side wall and spaced radially outwardly from the side wall, The protrusion tube is inserted between the outer wall and the side wall, thereby connecting the receiving portion and the protrusion tube. An air circulation gap is formed at the joint portion of the outer wall of the receiving portion and the protrusion tube to allow air from the outside of the receiving portion to flow into the inside of the receiving portion. An aerosol generating device, wherein the protrusion tube further has an air hole for passing air toward the end of the cigarette accommodated in the accommodation portion.

13. In an aerosol generating article that generates an aerosol by combining with an aerosol generating device, The above aerosol generating article is, Tobacco load; and An aerosol generating article comprising a cooling structure manufactured by weaving at least one bundle of fibers.

14. In paragraph 13, The above fiber bundle is manufactured using a biodegradable polymer material, An aerosol-generating article wherein the biodegradable polymer material comprises at least one of polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), cellulose acetate, poly-epsilon-caprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based thermoplastic resins.

15. In paragraph 13, An aerosol generating article wherein the fiber bundle is manufactured by weaving at least one fiber strand.

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