Aerosol generating device comprising wick

Abstract

Provided is an aerosol generating device comprising: a first housing including an atomization space provided therein, a first aerosol flow path communicating with the atomization space, a wick disposed in the atomization space, and a heater; and a second housing which is coupled to the first housing in a first direction, and which includes a chamber in which an aerosol generation material can be stored, an air flow channel encompassed by the chamber and allowing communication with the outside, and a second aerosol flow path communicating with the air flow channel, wherein the wick includes a first wick part and a second wick part that protrudes in the first direction from an edge area of one side of the first wick part.

Description

Aerosol generating device containing a wick

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a wick.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, demand is growing for devices that generate aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., heat-not-burn electronic cigarettes). Accordingly, research is actively underway on cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating devices) and electrically heated aerosol-generating devices into which the cigarette stick is inserted.

[0003] The background technology described above is something that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the disclosure of the present application, and cannot necessarily be said to be a publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the present application.

[0004] An aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol generating material generates an aerosol by heating or vibrating a liquid aerosol generating material stored in a cartridge or chamber.

[0005] The aerosol generating device may have a structure in which one housing for storing an aerosol generating material and another housing for generating an aerosol are separable.

[0006] Liquid aerosol generating substances need to be transported smoothly, and the path through which the generated aerosol is inhaled externally needs to be minimized.

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to various embodiments includes a first housing including an atomizing space provided therein, a first aerosol channel communicating with the atomizing space, a wick disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater, and a second housing including a chamber coupled to the first housing in a first direction and capable of storing an aerosol generating material, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, and a second aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, wherein the wick may include a first wick part and a second wick part protruding in the first direction from an edge region of one surface of the first wick part.

[0008] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the second wick part may protrude toward the second housing.

[0009] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the first wick part includes a first region overlapping with the second wick part and a second region not overlapping with the second wick part, and at least a portion of the heater can be attached to the second region.

[0010] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater further includes a heater pattern and a heater terminal electrically connected to the heater pattern, and the heater pattern can be attached to the second region.

[0011] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater terminal may be attached to the first region.

[0012] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the aerosol generated in the atomizing space by the heater can be branched by the second region and flow into the first aerosol path.

[0013] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the aerosol moved to the first aerosol channel can flow to the outside through the second aerosol channel and the airflow channel.

[0014] An aerosol generating device according to various embodiments includes a housing including a chamber capable of storing an aerosol generating material, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, an aerosol path communicating with the airflow channel, an atomizing space provided inside the housing communicating with the aerosol path, a wick disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater attached to the wick, wherein the wick may include a first wick part and a second wick part protruding toward the chamber from an edge region of one surface of the first wick part.

[0015] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the other side of the first wick part opposite to the one side may be flat.

[0016] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the second wick part is composed of two pieces, and the two second wick parts can face each other while being spaced apart from each other with the aerosol path therebetween.

[0017] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the two second wick parts can surround at least a portion of the aerosol path.

[0018] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, a length of the first wick part in the first direction may be smaller than a length of the second wick part in the first direction, and the first direction may be a direction perpendicular to one surface of the first wick part.

[0019] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater further includes a heater pattern and a heater terminal electrically connected to the heater pattern, and the heater pattern can be attached to the other surface opposite to the one surface of the first wick part.

[0020] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater terminal may be attached to the other surface of the first wick part.

[0021] In an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the wick may be a porous ceramic.

[0022] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present document has a first housing and a second housing that can be detachably coupled, and liquid can be smoothly transferred from the second housing to the first housing.

[0023] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present document can have high aerosol flow efficiency by minimizing a shape that impedes the flow of generated aerosol.

[0024] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0025] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3c is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 3d is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 3e is a cross-sectional view of an exploded state of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 3f is a perspective view of an exploded state of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 4a is a front view of a wick according to one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 4b is a plan view of a wick according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4c is a plan view of a wick according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 5a is a side view of a wick according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5b is a perspective view of a wick according to one embodiment.

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0040] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0041] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0043] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0044] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0047] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 each illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a body (10) and a cartridge (19).

[0049] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor (13). At least one of the battery (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor (13) may be disposed inside the body (10). The body (10) may be equipped with a cartridge (19), which is an aerosol generating article. A user may inhale the aerosol by putting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge (19) in his / her mouth.

[0050] In one embodiment, the cartridge (19) can accommodate an aerosol-generating substance in an internal chamber (20). The aerosol-generating substance can be in any of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol-generating substance can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavor components, or can be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco material.

[0051] In one embodiment, the cartridge (19) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10) by being inserted into the body (10). The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can be introduced into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air introduced into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (23).

[0052] In one embodiment, the cartridge (19) may include a chamber (20) for receiving an aerosol generating material. A liquid delivery means (25) for impregnating the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the chamber (20). The liquid delivery means (25) may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0053] In one embodiment, the heater (24) may be disposed in the cartridge (19) or the body (10). Although the drawing illustrates that the heater (24) is disposed inside the cartridge (19), the present invention is not limited thereto, and the heater (24) may be disposed in the body (10) and be detachably disposed from the cartridge (19). The heater (24) may include an electrically conductive track, and the electrically conductive track of the heater (24) may be a coil structure that winds the liquid delivery means (25). Alternatively, the heater (24) may be formed in a structure that contacts a portion of the liquid delivery means (25).

[0054] In one embodiment, the heater (24) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the heater (24), an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (23).

[0055] In one embodiment, an airflow channel (23) may be provided in the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (23) may communicate with the outside of the cartridge and an atomizing space in which a heater (24) or a liquid delivery means (25) is disposed. One end of the airflow channel (23) may be opened to the atomizing space in which the heater (24) or the liquid delivery means (25) is disposed, and the other end of the airflow channel (23) may be communicated with a mouthpiece (35).

[0056] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the airflow channel (23) may extend along the length of the cartridge (19) from one side of the chamber (20) of the cartridge (19). Or, for example, referring to FIG. 2, the airflow channel (23) may extend along the length of the cartridge (19) by penetrating the chamber (20) of the cartridge (19).

[0057] In one embodiment, the battery (11) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generating device. The battery (11) can be a power source or power source. The battery (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (24).

[0058] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the battery (11), the sensor (13), and the cartridge (19).

[0059] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, the at least one processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0060] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include a memory. The memory may be operatively connected to at least one processor, and the memory may store executable instructions. The at least one processor may control the operation of the aerosol generating device (1) by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

[0061] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the operation of a display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device. The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is operable.

[0062] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) so ​​that the operation of the heater (24) is initiated or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0063] For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (24) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (24) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the result detected by the sensor (13).

[0064] In one embodiment, the sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a motion detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (24), the temperature of the battery (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10).

[0065] For example, the sensor (13) can sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor (13) can sense whether the cartridge is mounted. For example, the sensor (13) can sense the movement of the aerosol generating device.

[0066] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment, FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment, FIG. 3c and FIG. 3d are each a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment, FIG. 3e is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment in an exploded state, and FIG. 3f is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment in an exploded state.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e and 3f, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or 2) may include a first housing (111) and a second housing (112).

[0068] In the following, any overlapping content with that described above will be omitted for explanation. It should be understood that, with reference to the drawings and descriptions below, some components and structures of the aerosol generating device may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the aforementioned embodiments may be combined with the aerosol generating device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (100). Alternatively, the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) may house other components of the aerosol generating device (100) inside and protect them from the outside. The first housing (111) and the second housing (112) may be detachably coupled to each other.

[0070] For example, the first housing (111) may be a main body or body (e.g., body (10) of FIG. 1 or 2) of the aerosol generating device (100). The second housing (112) may be a sub-body or cartridge (e.g., cartridge (19) of FIG. 1 or 2).

[0071] In one embodiment, the cover (113) may surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). The cover (113) may be a separate, separate component from the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). Alternatively, the cover (113) may be a continuous component with the first housing (111). The cover (113) may assist in the coupling of the first housing (111) and the second housing (112).

[0072] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) can accommodate at least one of a battery (105) (e.g., battery (11) of FIG. 1 or 2), a control unit (107) (e.g., control unit (12) of FIG. 1 or 2), a heater (120) (e.g., heater (24) of FIG. 1 or 2), and a wick (121) (e.g., liquid delivery means (25) of FIG. 1 or 2).

[0073] In one embodiment, the battery (105) can supply power necessary for the operation of the components of the aerosol generating device (100). The control unit (107) can control the operation of at least one of the components of the aerosol generating device (100).

[0074] In one embodiment, the heater (120) may be placed in the first housing (111). An atomizing space (115) may be provided inside the first housing (111). The heater (120) may be placed in the atomizing space (115). The heater (120) may heat the wick (121). The heater (120) may be attached to the wick (121).

[0075] In one embodiment, the wick (121) may be placed in the atomizing space (115). The upper end of the wick (121) may have a shape that protrudes from the atomizing space (115) toward the upper side of the first housing (111). The wick (121) may inhale a liquid substance or an aerosol generating substance.

[0076] In one embodiment, the terminal (126) may be electrically connected to the heater (120). The terminal (126) may supply power to the heater (120). The terminal (126) may be disposed inside the first housing (111).

[0077] In one embodiment, the heater (120) may be electrically connected to the battery (105) via a terminal (126). The heater (120) may be powered by the battery (105) and may generate heat. The heater (120) may be a resistive heater.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) may have a first aerosol channel (119) that communicates with the atomizing space (115). The first aerosol channel (119) may communicate from the atomizing space (115) to the outside of the first housing (111). The first aerosol channel (119) may transfer aerosol generated in the atomizing space (115) to the outside of the first housing (111). For example, the first aerosol channel (119) may be connected to a second aerosol channel (129) of the second housing (112) to transfer aerosol to the second housing (112).

[0079] In one embodiment, the second housing (112) may include at least one of a chamber (127) (e.g., chamber (20) of FIG. 1 or 2) and an airflow channel (131) (e.g., airflow channel (23) of FIG. 1 or 2). The second housing (112) may store an aerosol generating material in the chamber (127). The chamber (127) may be a storage tank.

[0080] In one embodiment, the mouthpiece (130) may be positioned on the upper side (e.g., in the +Z direction) of the second housing (112). Alternatively, the mouthpiece (130) may cover the upper portion of the second housing (112). The mouthpiece (130) may include an intake port (135) that communicates with the exterior of the second housing (112).

[0081] In one embodiment, the airflow channel (131) may be in communication with the second aerosol path (129) and the intake port (135). The airflow channel (131) may be physically partitioned from the chamber (127). The intake port (135) may receive aerosol generated in the atomization space (115) from the airflow channel (131).

[0082] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) can be detachably coupled to the second housing (112). For example, the second housing (112) can be inserted into the upper side (e.g., in the +Z direction) of the first housing (111). When the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled, the first aerosol flow path (119) and the second aerosol flow path (129) can be mutually connected.

[0083] In one embodiment, when the second housing (112) is coupled to the first housing (111), the second housing (112) can supply the stored aerosol generating material to the wick (121). For example, when the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled, the wick (121) can be directly or indirectly connected to the chamber (127).

[0084] In one embodiment, the wick (121) can receive and absorb an aerosol generating substance from the second housing (112). The heater (120) can heat the wick (121) that has absorbed the aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol in the atomizing space (115).

[0085] In one embodiment, when the second housing (112) is coupled to the first housing (111), the second aerosol passage (129) and the first aerosol passage (119) can be connected. A user can hold the mouthpiece (130) in their mouth and inhale air from the inlet (135). The aerosol formed in the atomizing space (115) can pass through the first aerosol passage (119), the second aerosol passage (129), and the airflow channel (131) to be delivered to the inlet (135).

[0086] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) can be replaced independently of each other. For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol generating substance stored in the second housing (112) and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first housing (111) may be different. The user can replace only the second housing (112) separately or only the first housing (111) separately.

[0087] For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol generating material stored in the second housing (112) may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first housing (111). When the second housing (112) is replaced multiple times, the first housing (111) may be replaced only once. The user can use the first housing (111) for a longer period of time, and the replacement cost of some components may be reduced.

[0088] In one embodiment, the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) may integrally form a housing. The housing may be a sub-body or a cartridge (e.g., a cartridge (19) of FIG. 1 or 2). The housing may be separated from the main body or body (e.g., the body (10) of FIG. 1 or 2) of the aerosol generating device (100) and may be replaced separately. The first aerosol channel (119) and the second aerosol channel (129) may integrally form an aerosol channel.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first sealing member (151) may be disposed on an upper surface (e.g., a surface in the +Z direction) of the first housing (111). The first sealing member (151) may extend upward. At least a portion of the upper surface of the first sealing member (151) may be open to form a first aerosol passage (119). The first aerosol passage (119) may be connected to an inner side of the first housing (111) (e.g., an atomizing space (115)).

[0090] In one embodiment, the first sealing member (151) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the wick (121). For example, the wick (121) may be arranged on the lower side of the first sealing member (151). The first sealing member (151) may form the upper surface of the atomizing space (115).

[0091] In one embodiment, the case (155) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the wick (121). The case (155) may be coupled with the first sealing member (151) to form an atomizing space (115) between the first sealing member (151) and the case (155).

[0092] In one embodiment, the terminal (126) may be fixedly arranged on the bottom of the case (155). The terminal (126) may protrude upward from the case (155) toward the atomizing space (115) and be connected to the heater (120). The terminals (126) may be provided as a pair spaced horizontally from each other.

[0093] In one embodiment, the air inlet (155a) may be connected to the exterior of the first housing (111). The air inlet (155a) may supply air to the atomizing space (115). The air inlet (155a) may be formed at the bottom of the case (155).

[0094] In one embodiment, the air inlet (155a) may be formed in multiple numbers to form a multi-hole shape. The air inlet (155a) may be spaced apart horizontally from the terminal (126). Alternatively, the air inlet (155a) may be formed by opening a lateral wall of the case (155) and / or a lateral wall of the first sealing member (151). The first aerosol path (119) may be formed at a position facing the air inlet (155a).

[0095] In one embodiment, the wick (121) may include a first wick part (121a) and a second wick part (121b). The first wick part (121a) may be placed in the atomization space (115) between the case (155) and the first sealing member (151). The second wick part (121b) may protrude upward from the first wick part (121a). However, this is merely an example, and the wick (121) may be implemented in various shapes.

[0096] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may be positioned to penetrate the first sealing member (151). The second wick part (121b) may be exposed to the outside of the first housing (111). The second wick part (121b) may be an area that receives an aerosol generating material from the second housing (112).

[0097] In one embodiment, the heater (120) may be coupled to the first wick part (121a). For example, the heater (120) may be insert-coupled to the lower surface (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction) of the first wick part (121a). The heater (120) may heat the first wick part (121a).

[0098] In one embodiment, the first sealing member (151) may cover the upper surface of the case (155). The first sealing member (151) may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member (151) may be formed of a rubber or silicone material.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first sealing member (151) may include a sealing surface (151a). The sealing surface (151a) may have a shape that surrounds the outer circumference of the second wick part (121b) of the wick (121).

[0100] In one embodiment, the wick (121) may be formed of a porous rigid body that absorbs aerosol-generating substances. For example, the wick (121) may be formed of porous ceramic. The wick (121) may have greater rigidity and heat resistance than a wick made of cotton. The wick (121) may be formed of a material that does not deform or has minimal deformation. In addition, the durability of the wick (121) may be improved, and the replacement cycle of the first housing (111) to which the wick (121) is coupled may be increased.

[0101] In one embodiment, the first wick part (121a) may be elongated in one horizontal direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The first wick part (121a) may have a hexahedral shape. The upper and lower surfaces of the first wick part (121a) may be formed substantially horizontally. The side surface of the first wick part (121a) may be formed between the upper and lower surfaces.

[0102] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may protrude upward from the center of the upper surface of the first wick part (121a). The second wick part (121b) may extend vertically (e.g., in the +Z direction). One wick (121) may include two second wick parts (121b). The two second wick parts (121b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0103] In one embodiment, the lower surface of the second wick part (121b) may overlap the upper surface of the first wick part (121a). The first wick part (121a) and the second wick part (121b) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with each other. Alternatively, the first wick part (121a) and the second wick part (121b) may be formed by being mutually coupled.

[0104] In one embodiment, the heater (120) may be attached to the first wick part (121a). The heater (120) may form a pattern on the lower surface of the first wick part (121a). For example, the heater (120) may form various patterns along the longitudinal direction of the first wick part (121a).

[0105] In one embodiment, the airflow inlet (155a) and the first aerosol flow path (119) may be arranged in parallel in the vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction). For example, the airflow inlet (155a) may be formed at the lower side of the atomization space (115). The first aerosol flow path (119) may be formed at the upper side of the atomization space (115). Air may be introduced into the atomization space (115) through the airflow inlet (155a) and discharged to the outside of the atomization space (115) through the first aerosol flow path (119). The aerosol generated when the wick (121) is heated and the air surrounding it may flow toward the first aerosol flow path (119).

[0106] In one embodiment, the second sealing member (152) may be disposed on a lower surface (e.g., a surface in the -Z direction) of the second housing (112). The second sealing member (152) may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the first housing (111) and the first sealing member (151) when the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled. The second sealing member (152) may form a second aerosol passage (129) that is open inward.

[0107] In one embodiment, the second sealing member (152) may be a portion or a structure of the second housing (112). For example, the second sealing member (152) may be formed integrally with the lower surface of the second housing (112), and may be a portion surrounding the absorbent member (158) exposed to the lower surface of the second housing (112).

[0108] In one embodiment, the chamber hole (127a) may be connected to the chamber (127). The chamber hole (127a) may be formed at the bottom of the chamber (127). The aerosol generating material stored in the chamber (127) may pass through the chamber hole (127a) and be delivered to the wick (121).

[0109] In one embodiment, the absorbent member (158) may be positioned at the bottom of the chamber hole (127a). The absorbent member (158) may absorb an aerosol generating substance passing through the chamber hole (127a). For example, the absorbent member (158) may be formed of a felt material. When the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are combined, the absorbent member (158) and the second wick part (121b) may face each other.

[0110] In one embodiment, a protective film may be detachably attached to the lower surface of the absorbent member (158). The protective film may be made of a waterproof material. The protective film may prevent aerosol generating substances from leaking from the absorbent member (158). Before attaching the second housing (112) to the first housing (111), the user may remove the protective film from the absorbent member (158).

[0111] In one embodiment, when the second housing (112) is coupled with the first housing (111), the second housing (112) can supply an aerosol generating substance to the wick (121). For example, the aerosol generating substance stored in the chamber (127) passes through the chamber hole (127a) and is absorbed by the absorbent member (158), and the absorbent member (158) that has absorbed the aerosol generating substance can contact the second wick part (121b) to transfer the aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generating substance absorbed by the second wick part (121b) can diffuse to the first wick part (121a). The heater (120) can heat the first wick part (121a) that has absorbed the aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol.

[0112] In one embodiment, the first sealing member (151) can seal a portion of the wick (121) that protrudes outward from the atomizing space (115). When the second housing (112) is coupled to the upper side of the first housing (111), the first sealing member (151) can seal between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112).

[0113] FIG. 4a is a front view of a wick (121) according to one embodiment, FIG. 4b is a plan view of a wick (121) according to one embodiment, FIG. 4c is a plan view of a wick (121) according to one embodiment, FIG. 5a is a side view of a wick (121) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5b is a perspective view of a wick (121) according to one embodiment.

[0114] Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted for explanation, and it is to be understood that some components and structures of the aerosol generating device (100) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0115] For example, the wick (121) of FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c and the aerosol generating device (100) including the wick may be substantially the same as the wick (121) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f and the aerosol generating device (100) including the wick (121) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f, or at least some of the components may be omitted, added, or replaced.

[0116] "Substantially" in this document may mean the same level, reflecting tolerances or errors in typical manufacturing processes. Alternatively, "substantially" may refer to a range including any of + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%, relative to the literal equivalent of 0%.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c, a wick (121) according to one embodiment (e.g., wick (121) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) may include a first wick part (121a) (e.g., first wick part (121a) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and a second wick part (121b) (e.g., second wick part (121b) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f).

[0118] In one embodiment, the first wick part (121a) and the second wick part (121b) may have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to an axis (e.g., axis Z1 in FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c) parallel to a first direction (e.g., + / -Z direction in FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c) in which the first housing (111) (e.g., first housing (111) in FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and the second housing (112) (e.g., second housing (112) in FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) are joined.

[0119] In one embodiment, the first wick part (121a) may include an upper surface (122a), a lower surface (123a) opposite to the upper surface, and a side surface positioned between the upper surface (122a) and the lower surface (123a). As an example, the first wick part (121a) may have a substantially hexahedral shape.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first wick part (121a) may include a central region adjacent to the first aerosol path (119) (e.g., the second region (125a) in FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c) and an edge region surrounding the central region (e.g., the first region (124a) in FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c). The central region and the edge region may be formed integrally.

[0121] In one embodiment, one surface of the first wick part (121a) (e.g., the upper surface (122a) of the first wick part) may be divided by a central region and an edge region surrounding the central region. One surface of the first wick part (121a) may be flat.

[0122] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may be configured to protrude from an edge region of one side of the first wick part (121a). The second wick part (121b) may protrude in a first direction (e.g., + / -Z direction of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) in which the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled. For example, the second wick part (121b) may protrude in a substantially hexahedral shape.

[0123] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may protrude toward the second housing (112) from an edge region of one side of the first wick part (121a). For example, when the second housing (112) is coupled to the upper side of the first housing (111) (e.g., the side of the first housing (111) facing +Z in FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f), the second wick part (121b) may protrude toward the upper side of the first housing (111).

[0124] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may protrude toward a chamber (127) included in the housing (e.g., chamber (127) of FIG. 3a). The chamber (127) may be positioned on the upper side of the wick (121) (e.g., the side where the wick faces +Z in FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f), and in this case, the second wick part (121b) may protrude toward the chamber (127).

[0125] In one embodiment, the other side (e.g., the lower surface (123a) of the first wick part) opposite to one side of the first wick part (121a) may be flat.

[0126] In one embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may be composed of two pieces. The two second wick parts (121b-1, 121b-2) may face each other while being spaced apart from each other with the aerosol path interposed therebetween. For example, the two second wick parts (121b-1, 121b-2) may face each other while being spaced apart from each other with the first aerosol path (119) interposed therebetween. In another embodiment, the second wick part (121b) may be composed of three or more pieces.

[0127] In one embodiment, the two second wick parts (121b-1, 121b-2) can surround at least a portion of the aerosol flow path. Here, the aerosol flow path can be the first aerosol flow path (119). For example, the two second wick parts (121b-1, 121b-2) can surround two opposite sides of the first aerosol flow path (119) (e.g., the side of the first aerosol flow path (119) facing + / -X in FIG. 4A).

[0128] In one embodiment, the first direction length (H1) of the first wick part (121a) may be smaller than the first direction length (H2) of the second wick part (121b). Here, the first direction may be a direction in which the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled, or a direction perpendicular to one surface of the first wick part (121a) (e.g., the upper surface (122a) of the first wick part (121a)) (e.g., the + / -Z direction of FIG. 4a).

[0129] If the first direction length (H1) of the first wick part (121a) is smaller than the first direction length (H2) of the second wick part (121b), the first direction length of the second wick part (121b) exposed to the outside of the first housing (111) may increase when the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) are coupled. For example, in the case where the first direction length of the wick (121) is fixed, by making the second wick part (121b) longer than the first wick part (121a), the first direction ratio of the second wick part (121b) may become larger, so that the length of the second wick part (121b) exposed to the outside of the first housing (111) may become longer. If the length of the second wick part (121b) exposed to the outside of the first housing (111) is long, it may be easy to bring the second wick part (121b) into contact with the absorbent member (158) (e.g., the absorbent member (158) of FIG. 3a) when combining the first housing (111) and the second housing (112).

[0130] In addition, when the first direction length of the wick (121) is fixed, if the first direction length (H1) of the first wick part (121a) is smaller than the first direction length (H2) of the second wick part (121b), the total volume of the wick (121) can be reduced. Since the volume to which the aerosol generating substance is transferred is reduced, the liquid transport efficiency can be increased.

[0131] Accordingly, the aerosol generating substance passing through the second wick part (121b) can reach one side of the first wick part (121a) or the other side of the first wick part (121a) more quickly, thereby increasing the liquid transport efficiency. When the liquid transport efficiency increases, even if the puff is repeated, the aerosol generating substance can be quickly transferred to the first wick part (121a) around the heater (120), and carbonization may not occur.

[0132] In one embodiment, the first wick part (121a) may include a first region (124a) and a second region (125a). The first region (124a) may be an region that overlaps with the second wick part (121b), and the second region may be an region that does not overlap with the second wick part (121b). The first region (124a) and the second region (125a) may integrally form the first wick part (121a).

[0133] In one embodiment, the first region (124a) where the first wick part (121a) and the second wick part (121b) overlap may be an area from a portion of one side of the first wick part (121a) from which the second wick part (121b) protrudes (the upper surface (122a) of the first wick part (121a)) that is in contact with the second wick part (121b) to the other side opposite to the one side of the first wick part (121a) (e.g., the lower surface (123a) of the first wick part).

[0134] In one embodiment, the first region (124a) may substantially coincide with the edge region of the first wick part (121a), and the second region (125a) may substantially coincide with the center region of the first wick part (121a).

[0135] In one embodiment, the first direction length (H11) of the first region (124a) and the first direction length (H12) of the second region (125a) may be the same. The first region (124a) and the second region may be integrally formed into the first core part (121a) substantially flat without any steps.

[0136] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the heater (120) may be attached to the second region (125a). The heater (120) may be attached to the lower side of the second region (125a) (e.g., the side of the second region (125a) facing -Z in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C).

[0137] In one embodiment, the heater (120) may include a heater pattern (138) and a heater terminal (128) electrically connected to the heater pattern (138). The heater pattern (138) may be attached to a surface opposite to one surface of the first wick part (121a) (e.g., a lower surface (123a) of the first wick part). The heater terminal (128) may be attached to a surface opposite to one surface of the first wick part (121a) (e.g., a lower surface (123a) of the first wick part). The heater terminal (128) may be attached to the same surface as the surface on which the heater pattern (138) is attached to the first wick part (121a).

[0138] In one embodiment, the heater pattern (138) may be attached to the second region (125a). The heater pattern (138) may be attached to the lower side of the second region (125a) (e.g., the side where the second region (125a) faces -Z in FIG. 4a). The heater terminal (128) may be attached to the first region (124a). The heater terminal (128) may be attached to the lower side of the first region (124a) (e.g., the side where the first region (124a) faces -Z in FIG. 4a). The heater pattern (138) and the heater terminal (128) may be connected at the boundary between the first region (124a) and the second region (125a).

[0139] When the heater pattern (138) is attached to the second region (125a), the second wick part (121b) may not be present on the upper side of the heater pattern (138) (e.g., the side where the heater pattern (138) faces +Z in FIG. 4c). If the second wick part (121b) is not present on the upper side of the heater pattern (138), the aerosol generated by heating the heater pattern (138) can flow into the first aerosol path (119) without being obstructed by the second wick part (121b).

[0140] Specifically, the aerosol generated by the heater pattern (138) can be branched by the second region (125a) and flow directly into the first aerosol path (119) beyond the first wick part (121a), thereby increasing the transport efficiency of the aerosol. The generated aerosol can flow into the first aerosol path (119) without being obstructed by the first region (124a) and the second wick part (121b). The branching of the aerosol by the second region (125a) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4d and 4e.

[0141] In one embodiment, if the second wick part (121b) is composed of two, the corresponding first regions (124a) may be two. The two second wick parts (121b-1, 121b-2) may be spaced apart from each other with the first aerosol path (119) interposed therebetween and face each other, and the second region (125a) may be positioned between the two first regions (124a). The heater terminals (128) may be attached one by one to each of the lower sides of the two first regions (124a) (e.g., the side facing -Z of the first region (124a) of FIG. 4c). The heater pattern (138) may be attached to the second region (125a) and connected to each of the heater terminals (128) attached to the two first regions (124a). The two connection points of the heater pattern (138) and the heater terminal (128) may be two boundaries between the second region (125a) and the two first regions (124a).

[0142] The flow path of the aerosol is described with reference to FIGS. 5a and 5b.

[0143] In one embodiment, air supplied to the atomization space (115) (e.g., the atomization space (115) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) through the air inlet (155a) (e.g., the air inlet (155a) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) flows along the path (PA) to the heater (120). The aerosol generated in the atomization space (115) by the heater (120) can be branched together with the air by the second region (125a) and flow to the first aerosol path (119) through two paths (PA1, PA2).

[0144] When the aerosol generated by the heater (120) in the atomized space (115) is branched by the second region (125a), the aerosol can flow while minimizing direct and indirect influences by the first region (124a) and the second wick part (121b), and can flow directly to the first aerosol path (119) beyond the first wick part (121a), so that the transport efficiency of the aerosol can be increased.

[0145] In one embodiment, the aerosol moved to the first aerosol path (119) can move to the second aerosol path (129) (e.g., the second aerosol path (129) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and the airflow channel (131) (e.g., the airflow channel (131) of FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) through the path (PA31, PA32) and flow out of the aerosol generating device (100).

[0146] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0147] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0148] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A first housing including an atomizing space provided therein, a first aerosol path communicating with the atomizing space, a wick placed in the atomizing space, and a heater; A second housing coupled to the first housing in the first direction and including a chamber capable of storing an aerosol generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, and a second aerosol path communicating with the airflow channel; Including, The above wick is, Including a first wick part and a second wick part protruding in the first direction from an edge area of ​​one side of the first wick part, Aerosol generating device.

2. In paragraph 1, The second wick part protrudes toward the second housing, Aerosol generating device.

3. In paragraph 1, The above first wick part, A first region overlapping with the second wick part, and A second area that does not overlap with the second wick part, Including, At least a portion of said heater, Attached to the second area above, Aerosol generating device.

4. In paragraph 3, The above heater, Further comprising a heater pattern and a heater terminal electrically connected to the heater pattern, The above heater pattern is attached to the second region, Aerosol generating device.

5. In paragraph 4, The above heater terminal is attached to the first region, Aerosol generating device.

6. In paragraph 3, The aerosol generated in the atomized space by the above heater is Branched by the second region and flowing into the first aerosol path, Aerosol generating device.

7. In paragraph 6, The aerosol flowing into the first aerosol path is Flowing outward through the second aerosol path and airflow channel, Aerosol generating device.

8. A housing including a chamber capable of storing an aerosol generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, an aerosol path communicating with the airflow channel, an atomizing space provided inside the housing communicating with the aerosol path, a wick disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater attached to the wick; Including, The above wick is, A first wick part and a second wick part protruding toward the chamber from an edge area of ​​one side of the first wick part, Aerosol generating device.

9. In paragraph 8, The other side opposite to the above-mentioned one side of the above-mentioned first wick part is flat, Aerosol generating device.

10. In paragraph 8, The above second wick part is composed of two parts, The two above-mentioned second wick parts are spaced apart from each other with the aerosol flow path therebetween, and face each other. Aerosol generating device.

11. In paragraph 10, The two second wick parts surround at least a portion of the aerosol path, Aerosol generating device.

12. In paragraph 8, The length of the first direction of the above first wick part is, The length of the second wick part is smaller than the length of the first direction, The above first direction is a direction perpendicular to the above one side of the above first wick part, Aerosol generating device.

13. In paragraph 8, The above heater, Further comprising a heater pattern and a heater terminal electrically connected to the heater pattern, The above heater pattern is, Attached to the other side opposite to the above-mentioned one side of the above-mentioned first wick part, Aerosol generating device.

14. In paragraph 13, The above heater terminal is attached to the other surface of the first wick part, Aerosol generating device.

15. In paragraph 8, The above wick is a porous ceramic, Aerosol generating device.

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