Aerosol-generating article and aerosol-generating system

Abstract

The aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: an aerosol-generating rod including an aerosol-generating material; and a filter rod disposed downstream of the aerosol-generating rod and including a capsule. The capsule comprises a core region, a first shell, and a second shell, the core region including a phenol abatement material.

Description

Aerosol-generating articles and aerosol-generating systems

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating articles and aerosol generating systems, and more particularly, to aerosol generating articles and aerosol generating systems comprising a phenol-reducing material.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods that overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods that generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material within the cigarette, rather than by burning the cigarette itself. Accordingly, research into heated cigarettes or heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] In the manufacture of filters for aerosol-generating products, phenol-reducing substances capable of specifically reducing phenols generated during smoking are added to reduce the phenol smoke component in mainstream smoke. Conventionally, it has been known that phenol-reducing substances such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), triethyl citrate (TEC), and triacetin (TA) are applied and added onto filters for aerosol-generating products using a spray type, for example, a transfer jet nozzle system (TJNS).

[0004] When a phenol-reducing material is applied and added to a filter for an aerosol-generating article, the phenol-reducing material may be lost in proportion to the storage period of the aerosol-generating article, which may cause storage stability problems.

[0005] The present disclosure provides an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating system capable of maximizing the reduction of phenol smoke components by ensuring the storage stability of a phenol reducing material using a capsule including a double shell.

[0006] The problems to be solved through the examples are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the examples belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0007] An aerosol generating article of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an aerosol generating rod comprising an aerosol generating material, and a filter rod disposed downstream of the aerosol generating rod and comprising a capsule. The capsule comprises a core region, a first shell, and a second shell, wherein the core region comprises a phenol reducing material.

[0008] An aerosol generating system of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol generating rod comprising an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating article comprising a filter rod disposed adjacent to the aerosol generating rod and comprising a capsule, an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article, and a heater disposed around the insertion space in correspondence with the aerosol generating rod. The capsule comprises a core region, a first shell, and a second shell, and the core region comprises a phenol reducing material.

[0009] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating product that can more effectively remove components such as phenols present in cigarette smoke during smoking by ensuring storage stability by containing a phenol reducing material in a capsule having a double shell structure.

[0010] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figures 5 and 6 are drawings illustrating examples of aerosol generating articles.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a capsule included in an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment.

[0018] 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 will be assigned the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing numbers may be used for similar or related components.

[0019] The suffixes "module" and "unit" used for components in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves. Meanwhile, the suffixes "module" or "unit" may include units implemented with hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A "module" or "unit" may be a component configured integrally, or a minimum unit of the component that performs one or more functions, or a part thereof. For example, a "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (17)) readable by a machine (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., a control unit (12)) of the machine (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one command among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called command. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on the orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0026] Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and / or a heater (heater (18), a cartridge heater (24)). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that some of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state around the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). For example, the sensor unit (13) may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, a humidity detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a movement detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit (13) may further include various sensors, such as a liquid remaining amount sensor for detecting the liquid remaining amount of the cartridge, and an immersion sensor for detecting immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0029] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor can detect the temperature at which the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), or the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) itself may function as the temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor may be used to measure the impedance of the heater (18). The impedance of the heater (18) may be correlated with the temperature of the heater (18). The temperature sensor may measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater (18) (or the induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of the heater (18) may be calculated. The control unit (12) may estimate the temperature of the heater (18) based on the calculated impedance.

[0030] For example, the temperature sensor may include a resistance element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to a temperature change of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element, and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0031] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0032] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor can be positioned adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to one surface of the power source (11) (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one surface of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) can include a power protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be positioned adjacent to the power source (11) together with the power protection circuit.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0034] In one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect a user's puff.

[0035] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of an airflow path through which gas flows. The puff sensor may be arranged in correspondence to the airflow path through which gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0036] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user puffs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating product is inserted (hereinafter, referred to as the insertion space), the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), etc. The control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0037] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure a temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the control unit (12) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0038] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user puffs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, and thus, the permittivity within the insertion space may change. The control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the permittivity within the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0039] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented with various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0040] In one embodiment, an insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating item. The insertion detection sensor can be installed around the insertion space. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor can include any combination of the examples described above.

[0041] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted or removed within the insertion space, the permittivity around the conductor may change. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the permittivity within the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitive sensor.

[0042] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol-generating article) includes a conductor, a change in a magnetic field may occur around the current-carrying coil when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article (e.g., the aerosol-generating rod of the aerosol-generating article) may include a susceptor (SUS). Even in this case, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor or the like within the insertion space, and the control unit (12) may also detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0043] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and may be implemented with various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch or the like for detecting pressure by an aerosol-generating article.

[0044] In one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a color change may occur in a portion of a wrapper surrounding the exterior of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., a wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. If a change in the color of a portion of the wrapper is detected, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the humidity detection sensor can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humidity state. For example, the humidity detection sensor can include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor can include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humidity state based on the level of a signal corresponding to a permittivity or the like output from the capacitive sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can check a level range within which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the checked level range.

[0046] In one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol generating article is genuine and / or detect the type of aerosol generating article.

[0047] For example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an optical sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The optical sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light in a specific wavelength range based on the irradiated light. The control unit (12) may detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on the range of the wavelength.

[0048] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant within the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating product inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating product based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant within the insertion space output from the capacitive sensor.

[0049] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., an aerosol generating rod) of an aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space may differ depending on the type of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or the type of the inserted aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0050] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and may be implemented with various sensors to detect the authenticity of an aerosol-generating product and / or the type of aerosol-generating product. Furthermore, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0051] In one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor may detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0052] In one embodiment, the cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap detection sensor can include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap can include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of a housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor can output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on or removed from the housing, and the control unit (12) can detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor can be implemented as at least one of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) may further include, in addition to the aforementioned sensors, at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the output unit (14) can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (14) may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (1) may include a charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), a preheating status of a heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), an insertion / removal status of an aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge, a mounting and / or removal status of a cap, or a status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display can visually provide information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), or the like. The display, if it includes a touch pad, can also be used as an input unit (15). The haptic unit can provide tactile information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide audible information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the power source (11) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (11) can include one or more batteries. The power source (11) can supply power so that the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can also supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device (1), such as the control unit (12), the sensor unit (13), the output unit (14), the input unit (15), the communication unit (16), and the memory (17). The power source (11) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (11) can also be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter, referred to as a removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in a battery compartment (not shown) provided within the aerosol generating device (1), or may be removed from the battery compartment. The removable battery may be charged wired and / or wirelessly.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) can receive power from the power source (11) to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or the aerosol generating material within the cartridge. The aerosol generating device (1) can include a heater (18) for heating the aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge heater (24) for heating the cartridge (i.e., solid and / or liquid medium).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the electrically resistive heater may include an electrically resistive material, such as a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The electrically resistive heater may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0059] In one embodiment, the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) may be an induction heating heater. For example, the induction heating heater may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field. A magnetic field may be generated from the induction coil by an alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The generated magnetic field may penetrate the heater, and an eddy current may be generated in the susceptor. The susceptor may be heated based on the generation of the eddy current. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be included within an aerosol generating article (e.g., an aerosol generating rod). In this case, the susceptor included within the aerosol generating article may be heated by the induction coil.

[0060] The heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) is not limited to the examples described above, and may include or be replaced with various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the input unit (15) can receive information input from a user. For example, the input unit (15) can include a touch panel, a button, a key pad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). For example, the memory (17) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory (17) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit (16) may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an ANT (Adaptive Network Topology)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) can include at least one processor. The control unit (12) can be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or can be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (microcontroller unit) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in such an MCU. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the control unit (12) can be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) and / or the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) detected using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) and / or the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on a temperature profile and / or a power profile stored in the memory (17).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) and the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.) that converts power to be supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) that converts power to be supplied to an induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter may be implemented as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements. For example, a power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element, such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of a current pulse input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power source (11).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method. For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse. For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is a target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using the difference value between the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can determine a target power that is a target of control based on the power profile. The control unit (12) can also control the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) to correspond to the preset target power over time.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can detect a user's puff by detecting the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) using a PID method. When a user's puff is generated, a temporary temperature drop may occur in a space where an aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, insertion space), the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), etc. Accordingly, a change may occur in the power (or current) supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) during the power control using the PID method. The control unit (12) can detect a user's puff based on a change in the controlled power.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can prevent the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) or to stop supplying power to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) exceeding a preset limit temperature.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control charging and discharging of the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than a first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than a second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using (e.g., discharging) the power stored in the power source (11). The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source (11) based on voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) when it is determined that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) when it is determined that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) may determine that an aerosol generating article has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) is higher than the limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) is higher than the set slope.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating article is in a hyper-humid state by using a humidity detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)), the control unit (12) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)).

[0076] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on whether the aerosol generating article has been reused. For example, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) if it is determined that the aerosol generating article has been used.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the cartridge is coupled using a cartridge detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)), the control unit (12) can stop the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) or control so that power is not supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) (i.e., in the preheating section), the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on whether the cartridge is available for use. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory (17), the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable. Alternatively, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time that the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the control unit (12) may stop the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) or control that power is not supplied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on the user's puff. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs and / or no puffs are detected for a preset period of time. The control unit (12) can also control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) when a puff is detected.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on whether the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or the type thereof. For example, the control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is genuine and / or the type thereof using a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is counterfeit, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). If the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is genuine, the control unit (12) can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)). As another example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) differently depending on the type of the aerosol generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the temperature and / or power of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or a first cartridge), and can control the temperature and / or power of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)) based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to visually, tactilely and / or audibly provide information that the aerosol generating device (1) is about to be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., the sensor unit (13)) reaches a preset number. For example, the control unit (12) can also control the output unit (14) to visually, tactilely and / or audibly provide information about the temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may store and update a history of events that have occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the events may include operations such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating article, detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), detection of overvoltage application to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), termination of heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the aerosol generating device (1) on / off, etc., initiation of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharging of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc., performed in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the history of events may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a given event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, log data corresponding to the event may include data on a sensing value of an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if a given event is detection of overheating of a heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), log data corresponding to the event may include data on a temperature of the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), a voltage applied to the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), a current flowing through the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24)), and the like.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the communication unit (16) to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may release restrictions on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1) when authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link. For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number identifying the user, whether the user has completed authentication, etc.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to an external device via a communication link (e.g., remaining capacity of the power source (11), operating mode, etc.). The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0087] According to one embodiment, when a request for location search of the aerosol generating device (1) is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit (12) can control the haptic unit to generate vibration or control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may transmit data on the sensed values ​​of at least one sensor unit (13) to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensed values ​​through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The control unit (12) may perform an operation of determining a user's suction pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc., using the learning model received from the server.

[0090] Although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may cut off the power supply (11) in response to overcharging and / or overdischarging of the power supply (11). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may transmit and receive information or charge the power supply (11) by connecting to another external device through the connection interface.

[0091] The aerosol generating article referred to in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod. The heater (18) may be arranged to correspond to the at least one aerosol generating rod, and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may also include various other substances. For example, the additive may include a flavoring agent and / or an organic acid, and may also include various other substances. For example, the aerosol-generating rod may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol-generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol-generating rod in various forms, such as cut tobacco, granules, powder, etc. In one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol-generating rod may include an alkaline material. Based on the alkaline material, the nicotine of the tobacco material included in the aerosol-generating rod may have an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol-generating rod even at low temperatures. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating rod may include two or more aerosol-generating rods, and the two or more aerosol-generating rods may each include a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may be individually and / or integrally wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0092] The cartridge referred to in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating material having any one of the following states: a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol-generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol-generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater (24) may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil-shaped structure surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery means, or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in an aerosol-generating device (1) that is separable from the cartridge.

[0093] Fig. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and / or a heater (182, 183) (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and that some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 2 may be referred to as an 'internal heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the inside of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 3 may be referred to as an 'external heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article (2). In the drawings below, any description overlapping with that of FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may provide a space that is opened upwardly to allow an aerosol-generating article (2) to be inserted. In the present disclosure, the space that is opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the interior of the housing (10) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be longer than the length of a region of the aerosol-generating article (2) containing an aerosol-generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (10), and the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may protrude outside the housing (10). A user may hold the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the heater (182, 183) can heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0097] Referring to FIG. 2, the heater (182) may be an internal heating type heater.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater may extend upwardly in a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the internally heated heater may include a rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element as illustrated, but may also include various heating elements such as a tubular heating element or a plate-shaped heating element. The internally heated heater may be inserted through the lower portion of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the internal heating heater may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0100] For example, an electric resistance heater may include an electric resistance material on the inside (e.g., an inner hollow portion or inner surface) or the outside (e.g., an outer surface), and may be heated as current flows through the electric resistance material. In this case, the electric resistance heater may be electrically connected to a power source (11), and may directly generate heat by receiving current from the power source (11). In addition, the induction coil (181) may be omitted.

[0101] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) that surrounds at least a portion of the internal heating type heater (e.g., is disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may be further included on the outside of the induction coil (181) to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a susceptor and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (181). According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., susceptor) (or a heater module including the same) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing (10).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the heater (182) may be a multi-heater. The multi-heater may include a first heater and a second heater, and may be inserted into the aerosol generating article (2). The first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods, respectively (respectively). Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of a first portion and a second portion of one aerosol generating rod, respectively. Meanwhile, when the heater (182) is an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may respectively be disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first part and the second part of one heater (182). In addition, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be disposed (or included) within the aerosol generating article (2) (e.g., the medium portion), and the susceptor included within the aerosol generating article (2) may be implemented to generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from an induction coil (181).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 3, the heater (183) may be an external heating type heater.

[0105] In one embodiment, the external heating heater may extend upwardly around the space into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the external heating heater may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. For example, the external heating heater may have a tubular shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) having a hollow space therein. The external heating heater may also have a shape having a hollow space on the inside and surrounding the hollow space. In this case, the external heating heater may be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film may be referred to as a film heater. The external heating heater may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating heater may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the hollow space.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the external heating heater may include an electric resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater, and a description overlapping with FIG. 2 will be omitted. Meanwhile, in the case of an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an external heating heater implemented as a tubular susceptor, and may include an induction coil (181) surrounding at least a portion of the external heating heater (e.g., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In addition, the induction coil (181) may include a fan coil. Meanwhile, when the external heating heater is an electric resistance heater, a separate induction coil (181) may be omitted since heat generation is possible through current flow on a tubular electric resistance heater (e.g., a film heater). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be disposed on the outside of the external heating heater. Through this, heat radiating from the heater (183) in an outward direction and applied to the outside of the housing (10) may be reduced.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the heater (183) may be a multiple heater, and the first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction to surround at least a portion of the insertion space, respectively. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Meanwhile, when the heater (183) is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater, respectively. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first portion and the second portion of one heater (183), respectively.

[0108] Unlike as shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, the heater (182) of FIG. 2 and the heater (183) of FIG. 3 may be included together in the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the heater (182) may heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2), and the heater (183) may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing (10) may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air can be introduced from the outside into the housing (10). The air introduced into the housing (10) may be introduced into the aerosol generating article (2) through the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generated based on the heating of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the upper end (i.e., the downstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2) together with the introduced air.

[0110] Figure 4 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and / or a heater (183, 24) (e.g., the heater (heater (18), cartridge heater (24) of FIG. 1)). However, those skilled in the art will understand that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 4, and that some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. In the drawings below, any description overlapping with that of FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may provide an upper-open space (hereinafter, referred to as an insertion space) into which an aerosol-generating article (2) is inserted. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the interior of the housing (10) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (10), and the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may protrude outside the housing (10).

[0113] Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge (19) may provide an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article (2). In this case, the insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the interior of the cartridge (19) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (2) can be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the cartridge (19), and the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) may protrude outside the cartridge (19). Furthermore, in this case, the aerosol generating device (1) may not include a heater (183).

[0114] In one embodiment, the depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the region containing the aerosol-generating material and / or medium in the aerosol-generating article (2). The user may hold the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth and inhale air.

[0115] In one embodiment, the heater (183) can heat the aerosol-generating article (2). The heater (183) can extend upwardly around the space (i.e., the insertion space) into which the aerosol-generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the heater (183) can be in the form of a tube (e.g., a cylindrical shape) having a hollow space therein. The heater (183) can have a shape including a hollow space on the inside and surrounding the hollow space. In this case, the heater (183) can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. The heater (183) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater (183) can heat the outside of the aerosol-generating article (2) inserted into the hollow space. In the present disclosure, the heater (183) may be referred to as an external heating type heater that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article (2). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be placed on the outside of the heater (183). Through this, the heat radiating from the heater (183) in an outward direction and applied to the outside of the housing (10) can be reduced.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the heater (183) may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating type heater.

[0117] For example, an electrical resistance heater includes an electrically resistive material and can be heated as current flows through the electrically resistive material. In this case, the electrical resistance heater can be electrically connected to a power source (11) and can directly generate heat by receiving current from the power source (11).

[0118] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an induction coil (not shown) that surrounds at least a portion of the heater (183) (e.g., is disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater (183). In this case, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may further be included on the outside of the induction coil (not shown) to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a susceptor and can generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the heater (183) may be a multi-heater. The multi-heater may include a first heater and a second heater, and may be inserted into the aerosol generating article (2). The first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods, respectively (respectively). Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of a first portion and a second portion of one aerosol generating rod, respectively. Meanwhile, when the heater (183) is an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may respectively be disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first part and the second part of one heater (183). In addition, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0120] Unlike the drawing, the aerosol generating device (1) may not include a heater (183). The aerosol generating article (2) may be heated directly or indirectly by the cartridge heater (24), or may not be substantially heated. Indirect heating may mean that the aerosol generating article (2) is heated by receiving heat contained in the aerosol during the process in which the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) passes through the aerosol generating article (2). In this case, the aerosol generating device (1) may be referred to as a non-heating (or indirect heating) aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article (2) may include an additive such as a basic substance. Based on this basic substance, the nicotine contained in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). This basic nicotine can flow into the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol flowing into the aerosol generating article (2) from the cartridge (19) described below.

[0121] Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the heater (183) may include an internal heating heater. For example, the internal heating heater may include various heating elements, such as a rod-shaped or tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, or a needle-shaped heating element. The internal heating heater may be inserted through the lower portion of the aerosol generating article (2) and may be configured to heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the cartridge (19) may be detachably coupled to the housing (10). For example, a space may be formed on one side of the housing (10), and at least a portion of the cartridge (19) may be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing (10) so that the cartridge (19) may be mounted on the housing (10). Alternatively, the cartridge (19) may be formed integrally with the housing (10).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) and / or the cartridge (19) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing (10) may include a structure through which air can be introduced from the outside into the interior of the housing (10) when the cartridge (19) is inserted. The air introduced into the housing may pass through the cartridge (19) and enter the insertion space through the airflow channel (CN) and flow into the user's oral cavity. The airflow channel (CN) may include various structures to reduce residual droplets or facilitate airflow.

[0124] In FIG. 4, the cartridge (19) is positioned laterally relative to the aerosol-generating article (2), and the airflow channel (CN) is formed from the side of the aerosol-generating article (2) to the lower end (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol-generating article (2), but the positions of the cartridge (19) and the airflow channel (CN) are not limited thereto. For example, the cartridge (19) may be positioned adjacent to the lower end (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol-generating article (2), and in this case, the airflow channel (CN) may be formed in a substantially straight shape so as to connect the cartridge (19) and the lower end (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) containing an aerosol generating material, a cartridge heater (24), and / or a liquid delivery means impregnating (containing) the aerosol generating material. The liquid delivery means (25) may impregnate the aerosol generating material supplied from the chamber (C0). For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) can heat the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge (19). For example, the cartridge heater (24) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0127] For example, an electrical resistance heater includes an electrically resistive material and can be heated as a current flows through the electrically resistive material. As another example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an induction coil (not shown) around the induction heating type heater. The induction heating type heater includes a susceptor and can generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater (24) may be formed in a coil shape that surrounds (or winds) a liquid delivery means and / or in a shape (e.g., a pattern shape) that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means.

[0128] Unlike the illustration, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the cartridge heater (24) may be included inside the housing (10). In this case, the cartridge (19) and the cartridge heater (24) may be separated by removing the cartridge (19).

[0129] In one embodiment, an aerosol may be generated based on heat generation from a cartridge heater (24). For example, vapor may be generated from an aerosol generating material impregnated in a liquid delivery means as the aerosol generating material is heated by the cartridge heater (24), and an aerosol may be generated as the generated vapor is mixed with outside air introduced into the cartridge (19). The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) may be introduced into an aerosol generating article (2) through an airflow channel (CN). Tobacco or a flavoring material may be added to the aerosol as it passes through the aerosol generating article (2), and the aerosol added with tobacco or a flavoring material may be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through one end of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0130] Figures 5 and 6 are drawings showing examples of aerosol generating articles (2).

[0131] Referring to FIG. 5, an aerosol generating article (2) according to one embodiment may include an aerosol generating rod (21) and a filter rod (22).

[0132] Although the filter rod (22) is illustrated as a single segment in FIG. 5, it is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod (22) may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod (22) may include a first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters a predetermined component contained within the aerosol. In addition, the filter rod (22) may further include at least one segment that performs a different function, if necessary.

[0133] The diameter of the aerosol generating article (2) is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the aerosol generating rod (21) may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0134] The aerosol-generating article (2) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (24W). The wrapper (24W) may have at least one hole formed therein through which outside air is introduced or internal gas is discharged. As an example, the aerosol-generating article (2) may be wrapped by one wrapper (24W). As another example, the aerosol-generating article (2) may be wrapped by two or more wrappers (24W) in an overlapping manner. For example, the aerosol-generating rod (21) may be wrapped by the first wrapper (241). For example, the filter rod (22) may be wrapped by the wrappers (242, 243, 244). The aerosol-generating rod (21) and the filter rod (22) wrapped by individual wrappers may be combined. The entire aerosol-generating article (2) may be repackaged by the fifth wrapper (245). If each filter load (22) is composed of multiple segments, each segment can be wrapped by an individual wrapper (242, 243, 244). The entire aerosol generating article (2) formed by combining segments wrapped by individual wrappers can be repackaged by another wrapper.

[0135] The first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be made of general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be porous paper or non-porous paper. Additionally, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum composite packaging material.

[0136] The third wrapper (243) may be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of about 88 g / m2 to about 96 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of about 90 g / m2 to about 94 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of about 120 μm to about 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper (243) may be about 125 μm.

[0137] The fourth wrapper (244) may be made of a hard, oil-resistant paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (244) may be within a range of about 88 g / m2 to about 96 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (244) may be within a range of about 90 g / m2 to about 94 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) may be within a range of about 120 μm to about 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) may be about 125 μm.

[0138] The fifth wrapper (245) may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may refer to paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (245) may be within a range of about 57 g / m2 to about 63 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (245) may be about 60 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (245) may be within a range of about 64 um to about 70 um. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (245) may be about 67 um.

[0139] The fifth wrapper (245) may be coated with a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone may have properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicone, any material having the aforementioned properties may be applied or coated onto the fifth wrapper (245) without limitation.

[0140] The fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the aerosol generating article (2) from burning. For example, if the aerosol generating rod (21) is heated by the heater (110), there is a possibility that the aerosol generating article (2) may burn. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the ignition point of any of the materials included in the aerosol generating rod (21), the aerosol generating article (2) may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper (245) includes a non-flammable material, the phenomenon of the aerosol generating article (2) burning can be prevented.

[0141] In addition, the fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the aerosol generating device (1) from being contaminated by substances generated from the aerosol generating article (2). Liquid substances may be generated within the aerosol generating article (2) by a user's puff. For example, liquid substances (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be generated when the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2) is cooled by external air. As the fifth wrapper (245) wraps the aerosol generating article (2), liquid substances generated within the aerosol generating article (2) can be prevented from leaking out of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0142] The aerosol generating rod (21) may include 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, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the aerosol generating rod (21) may contain other additives such as a flavoring agent, a humectant, and / or an organic acid. In addition, a flavoring agent such as menthol or a moisturizer may be added to the aerosol generating rod (21) by spraying it onto the aerosol generating rod (21).

[0143] The aerosol generating rod (21) can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the aerosol generating rod (21) can be manufactured as a sheet. For example, the aerosol generating rod (21) can be manufactured as a strand. For example, the aerosol generating rod (21) can be manufactured as a cut tobacco sheet that has been finely chopped. For example, the aerosol generating rod (21) can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the aerosol generating rod (21) can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the aerosol generating rod (21), thereby improving the heat conductivity applied to the aerosol generating rod. This can improve the taste of the tobacco. The heat-conducting material surrounding the aerosol generating rod (21) can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawing, the aerosol generating rod (21) may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat conducting material surrounding the outside.

[0144] The filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod (22). For example, the filter rod (22) may be a cylindrical rod. For example, the filter rod (22) may be a tube-shaped rod including a hollow portion therein. For example, the filter rod (22) may be a recessed rod. When the filter rod (22) is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0145] The first segment (221) of the filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment (221) may be a tube-shaped structure including a hollow space therein. When the heater (182) is inserted through the first segment (221), the internal material of the aerosol generating rod (21) may be prevented from being pushed back, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may also be generated. The diameter of the hollow space included in the first segment (221) may be an appropriate diameter within a range of about 2 mm to about 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0146] The length of the first segment (221) may be any length appropriately selected within the range of about 4 mm to about 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first segment (221) may be about 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0147] The second segment (222) of the filter rod (22) cools the aerosol generated by the heater (182) by heating the aerosol generating rod (21). Accordingly, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0148] The length or diameter of the second segment (222) may vary depending on the shape of the aerosol generating article (2). For example, the length of the second segment (222) may be appropriately selected within a range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment (222) may be approximately 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0149] The second segment (222) may be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring agent may be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment (222) may be manufactured by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment (222) may be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0150] For example, the polymer may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0151] As the second segment (222) is formed by a woven polymer fiber or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment (222) may include a single or multiple channels extending longitudinally. Here, a channel may mean a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or an aerosol) passes.

[0152] For example, the second segment (222) made of a compressed polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness of between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Furthermore, the total surface area of ​​the second segment (222) can be between about 300 mm2 / mm and about 1000 mm2 / mm. Furthermore, the aerosol-cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area of ​​between about 10 mm2 / mg and about 100 mm2 / mg.

[0153] Meanwhile, the second segment (222) may include a thread containing a volatile flavoring component. Here, the volatile flavoring component may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide at least 1.5 mg of menthol to the second segment (222).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the third segment (223) of the filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment (223) may be suitably adopted within the range of about 4 mm to about 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment (223) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the third segment (223) of the filter rod (22) may be a lyocell filter. Lyocell fibers are environmentally friendly fibers made from cellulose extracted from wood pulp. Lyocell tow refers to a bundle formed by cross-linking adjacent lyocell fibers.

[0156] In some embodiments, lyocell fibers may have a non-circular cross-section. A non-circular cross-section is defined as a cross-section that is not circular but includes multiple protrusions. For example, a cross-section having multiple protrusions extending from a center may be considered non-circular.

[0157] In some embodiments, the lyocell fibers may have a Y-shaped cross-section with three protrusions branching from the center, a cross-shaped cross-section with four protrusions, a star-shaped cross-section with five or more protrusions, or an O-shaped cross-section, but are not limited thereto.

[0158] The capsule (23) described below may include a phenol-reducing substance. The term "phenol" may refer to a group of chemical compounds composed of a hydroxyl group (-OH) directly bonded to an aromatic hydrocarbon functional group, and the phenol group includes phenol, catechol, m+P cresol, and o-cresol. The term "phenol-reducing substance" may correspond to a substance capable of specifically reducing at least one of phenol-based substances in smoke generated during smoking, such as phenol, catechol, m+P cresol, and o-cresol.

[0159] When a phenol-reducing substance such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), triethyl citrate (TEC), or triacetin (TA) is added to hydrophobic cellulose acetate, the phenol-reducing substance can also function as a plasticizer for the cellulose acetate fibers, thereby binding the hydrophobic cellulose acetate fibers together and reducing biodegradability. In this case, the term plasticizer generally refers to an additive that is mixed into a polymer to impart elasticity and flexibility while lowering melt viscosity to improve the processability of the resin, but the meaning that the phenol-reducing substance functions as a plasticizer for the fibers (e.g., cellulose acetate) can also mean that it functions as a binder.

[0160] Meanwhile, when phenol-reducing substances such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), triethyl citrate (TEC), and triacetin (TA) are added to lyocell fibers, the hydrophilic lyocell fibers do not undergo plasticization. Accordingly, when phenol-reducing substances such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), triethyl citrate (TEC), and triacetin (TA) are added to lyocell fibers, the biodegradability may not be reduced.

[0161] Here, an embodiment has been described in which the third segment (223) of the filter rod (22), which comes into direct contact with the capsule (23) to be described later, is a lyocell filter, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first segment (221) and the second segment (222) may also be manufactured as lyocell filters.

[0162] The filter rod (22) may be manufactured to generate a flavor. For example, a flavoring agent may be sprayed onto the filter rod (22). For example, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent may be inserted into the interior of the filter rod (22).

[0163] Additionally, the filter rod (22) may include at least one capsule (23). Here, the capsule (23) may have a double-shell capsule structure and may include a phenol-reducing material. The capsule (23) may be destroyed by an external force to release the phenol-reducing material from within. The external force may be, for example, a force generated by a smoker's hand or mouth, but is not particularly limited thereto. The capsule (23) will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 6, an aerosol generating article (3) according to one embodiment may further include a shear plug (33). The shear plug (33) is located on one side of the aerosol generating rod (31) facing the filter rod (32). The shear plug (33) can prevent the aerosol generating rod (31) from being separated to the outside. The shear plug (33) can prevent liquefied aerosol from the aerosol generating rod (31) from flowing into the aerosol generating device (1) during smoking.

[0165] The filter load (32) may include a first segment (321) and a second segment (322). The first segment (321) may correspond to the first segment (221) of the filter load (22) of FIG. 5. The second segment (322) may correspond to the third segment (223) of the filter load (22) of FIG. 5.

[0166] The diameter and overall length of the aerosol generating article (3) may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the aerosol generating article (2) of FIG. 5. For example, the length of the shear plug (33) may be about 7 mm, the length of the aerosol generating rod (31) may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment (321) may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment (322) may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0167] The aerosol-generating article (3) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (35). The wrapper (35) may have at least one hole formed therein through which outside air may be introduced or internal gas may be discharged. For example, the shear plug (33) may be wrapped by a first wrapper (351), the aerosol-generating rod (31) may be wrapped by a second wrapper (352), the first segment (321) may be wrapped by a third wrapper (353), and the second segment (322) may be wrapped by a fourth wrapper (354). In addition, the entire aerosol-generating article (3) may be repackaged by a fifth wrapper (355).

[0168] Additionally, at least one perforation (36) may be formed in the fifth wrapper (355). For example, the perforation (36) may be formed in an area surrounding the aerosol generating rod (31), but is not limited thereto. For example, the perforation (36) may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater (210) illustrated in FIG. 3 to the interior of the aerosol generating rod (31).

[0169] Additionally, the second segment (322) may include at least one capsule (34). Here, the capsule (34) may have a double-shell capsule structure and may include a phenol-reducing material. The capsule (34) may be destroyed by an external force to release the phenol-reducing material from within. The external force may be, for example, a force generated by a smoker's hand or mouth, but is not particularly limited thereto. The capsule (34) will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0170] The first wrapper (351) may be a general filter paper combined with a metal foil, such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper (351) may be within a range of about 45 um to about 55 um. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper (351) may be about 50.3 um. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper (351) may be within a range of about 6 um to about 7 um. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper (351) may be about 6.3 um. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapper (351) may be within a range of about 50 g / m2 to about 55 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper (351) may be about 53 g / m2.

[0171] The second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be made of general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be porous paper or non-porous paper.

[0172] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper (352) may be about 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the second wrapper (352) may be included in a range of about 70 um to about 80 um. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper (352) may be about 78 um. In addition, the basis weight of the second wrapper (352) may be included in a range of about 20 g / m2 to about 25 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper (352) may be about 23.5 g / m2.

[0173] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper (353) may be about 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (353) may be included in a range of about 60 um to about 70 um. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper (353) may be about 68 um. In addition, the basis weight of the third wrapper (353) may be included in a range of about 20 g / m2 to about 25 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (353) may be about 21 g / m2.

[0174] The fourth wrapper (354) may be made of PLA laminate. Here, the PLA laminate may refer to three layers of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (354) may be within a range of about 100 μm to about 120 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (354) may be about 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (354) may be within a range of about 80 g / m2 to about 100 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (354) may be about 88 g / m2.

[0175] The fifth wrapper (355) may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may refer to paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (355) may be within a range of about 57 g / m2 to about 63 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (355) may be about 60 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (355) may be within a range of about 64 um to about 70 um. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (355) may be about 67 um.

[0176] The fifth wrapper (355) may be coated with a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicone, any material having the aforementioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper (355) without limitation.

[0177] The shear plug (33) may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the shear plug (33) may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within a range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within a range of about 4.0 to about 6.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug (33) may be within a range of about 5.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the shear plug (33) may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug (33) may be within a range of about 20,000 to about 30,000. For example, the total denier of the shear plug (33) may be within a range of about 25,000 to about 30,000. For example, the total denier of the shear plug (33) may be about 28,000.

[0178] Additionally, if necessary, the shear plug (33) may include at least one channel. The cross-sectional shape of the channel of the shear plug (330) may be manufactured in various ways.

[0179] The aerosol generating rod (31) may correspond to the aerosol generating rod (21) described above with reference to FIG. 5. Therefore, a detailed description of the aerosol generating rod (31) will be omitted below.

[0180] The first segment (321) may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment (321) may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment (321) may be the same as the mono denier and total denier of the shear plug (33).

[0181] The second segment (322) may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment (322) may be within a range of about 1.0 to about 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be within a range of about 8.0 to about 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be about 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment (322) may be within a range of about 20,000 to about 30,000. For example, the total denier of the second segment (322) may be about 25,000.

[0182] As described in FIG. 5, the first segment (321) and the second segment (322) of the filter load (32) may be lyocell filters.

[0183] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a capsule included in an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment. In this case, the capsule (23) illustrated in FIG. 5 and the capsule (34) illustrated in FIG. 6 have substantially the same configuration. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 7 will be described below based on the capsule (23) illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0184] In the embodiment, the capsule (23) includes a core region (C), a first shell (S1), and a second shell (S2), and the core region (C) of the capsule (23) may include a phenol-reducing material.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 7, the capsule (23) is illustrated as being spherical, but is not limited thereto, and the cross-section of the capsule (23) may be locally elliptical or circular with a portion deformed.

[0186] The capsule (23) can be formed as a double shell structure of a core region (C), a first shell (S1), and a second shell (S2) in that order from the inside, and the materials contained in each region can be different from each other. For example, the first shell (S1) can contain a fat-soluble vegetable wax, and the second shell (S2) can contain a water-soluble polymer.

[0187] The core region (C) may have a diameter of about 2.5 mm to about 6.0 mm, the first shell (S1) may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 1.0 mm, and the second shell (S2) may have a thickness of about 0.001 mm to about 1.5 mm. For example, the second shell (S2) may have a thickness of about 0.3 mm to about 1.5 mm before moisture drying, and the second shell (S2) may have a thickness of about 0.001 mm to about 0.05 mm after moisture drying. However, the present invention is not particularly limited thereto, and the numerical range may be appropriately adjusted at a level that can be easily changed by a person skilled in the art.

[0188] The core region (C) may contain a water-soluble phenol-reducing substance. For example, the phenol-reducing substance may be polyethylene glycol (PEG). Polyethylene glycol contains repetitive ether bonds (-O-), which can form hydrogen bonds with phenol molecules. The hydroxyl group (-OH) of the phenol molecule and the ether oxygen (O) of PEG can bind to stably capture phenol. Furthermore, polyethylene glycol, as a polymer, tends to physically adsorb phenol. When polyethylene glycol adsorbs phenol, the concentration of phenol in the mainstream smoke may decrease.

[0189] In order to reduce the phenol component contained in the mainstream smoke, a phenol-reducing material (e.g., polyethylene glycol) may be applied to the filter rod (22) (or the third segment (223)). However, during the storage process of the aerosol generating article (2), the applied phenol-reducing material may be lost, thereby lowering the storage stability. To prevent the loss of the phenol-reducing material, a capsule (23) needs to be utilized. However, in the case of a water-soluble material such as polyethylene glycol, if a capsule consisting of only a conventional core region and a water-soluble single shell surrounding it is used, there is a concern that the water-soluble material itself may dissolve the capsule (or shell). Therefore, like the capsule (23) according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is necessary to have a double-shell structure of a core region (C), a first shell (S1) including a fat-soluble material, and a second shell (S2) including a water-soluble material, in that order from the inside.

[0190] In one embodiment, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may be low molecular weight (i.e., liquid). For example, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may range from about 200 to about 600. Preferably, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may be about 400 so that the polyethylene glycol has a viscosity such that it is uniformly loaded onto the third segment (223) of the filter rod (22) (or the second segment (322) of the filter rod (32)) after the capsule (23) is crushed.

[0191]

[0192] Experimental Example: Measurement of capsule quality according to the molecular weight of phenol-reducing substances.

[0193] A plurality of capsules having the same structure as the capsule (23) illustrated in Fig. 7 were manufactured by varying the molecular weight of polyethylene glycol contained in the core region (C), and the capsule manufacturing suitability, solution absorption suitability, and phenol reduction performance of the manufactured capsules were evaluated. The results of the evaluation are shown in Table 1 below.

[0194] Capsule manufacturing suitability was evaluated based on the following criteria.

[0195] - O: Easy to manufacture capsules

[0196] - △: Capsule manufacturing is not easy.

[0197] - X: Capsule cannot be manufactured

[0198] The solution absorption capacity was evaluated based on the criteria below.

[0199] - O: The phenol-reducing material that flows out when the capsule is crushed is uniformly contained in the filter.

[0200] - △: The phenol-reducing material that flows out when the capsule is crushed is unevenly deposited on some parts of the filter.

[0201] - X: The phenol-reducing material that flows out when the capsule is crushed is not contained in the filter.

[0202] Phenol reduction performance was evaluated based on the criteria below.

[0203] - O: Excellent phenol reduction effect

[0204] - △: Poor phenol reduction effect

[0205] - X: No actual phenol reduction effect

[0206]

[0207] Molecular weight of phenol-reducing material 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 Capsule manufacturing suitability OOOOOO △Solution absorption suitability OOOOOO △Phenol reduction performance XOOOOOO

[0208] As shown in Table 1, when the molecular weight of the phenol-reducing substance is 700 or higher, it was confirmed that the high viscosity makes it unsuitable for capsule manufacturing. When the molecular weight of the phenol-reducing substance is 700 or higher, it was confirmed that the phenol-reducing substance is not uniformly supported on the filter when the capsule is crushed due to the high viscosity. In addition, when the molecular weight of the phenol-reducing substance is 100 or lower, it was confirmed that there is no practical phenol adsorption effect due to the too low viscosity.

[0209] Additionally, the core region (C) may further contain a water-soluble flavoring agent. The flavoring agent may add flavor to the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating article (2 of FIG. 5 and 3 of FIG. 6). For example, the water-soluble flavoring agent may include one or more selected from the group consisting of esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, nitrogen-containing compounds, and acids.

[0210] In an embodiment, the first shell (S1) may include a fat-soluble wax having a melting point of about 30°C to about 60°C, and the second shell (S2) may include a water-soluble polymer having a gelling temperature of about 40°C to about 55°C. Specifically, the first shell (S1) may have a melting point of about 30°C to about 60°C, about 30°C to about 50°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 40°C to about 60°C, about 40°C to about 50°C, or about 50°C to about 60°C. The second shell (S2) may have a melting point of about 45°C to about 55°C, about 45°C to about 50°C, or about 50°C to about 55°C.

[0211] If the melting point of the fat-soluble wax used as a material of the first shell (S1) is less than 30°C, the capsule (23) may be easily broken during storage, and if the melting point of the fat-soluble wax exceeds 60°C, the mechanical strength of the capsule (23) may be too strong to be destroyed by external force or heat, so that nicotine and aerosol-generating substances may not flow out properly.

[0212] In addition, since the melting point of the oil-soluble wax used as the material of the first shell (S1) is relatively low, at about 60°C or less, as described below, the triple molded body coextruded from the nozzle can be uniformly cooled in a relatively close temperature range, and accordingly, the first shell (S1) and the second shell (S2) can be formed together to have appropriate mechanical strength, and the manufacturing yield of the capsule (23) can be increased.

[0213] The first shell (S1) may include a vegetable wax. The vegetable wax may be, for example, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, castor wax, or ouricury wax. In a preferred embodiment, the first shell (S1) may include cocoa butter or shea butter. The first shell (S1) may be manufactured by mixing one or at least two of the above-described vegetable waxes. When the first shell (S1) is manufactured by mixing two or more of the above-described vegetable waxes, the melting point of the first shell (S1) may be appropriately changed depending on the properties of the mixed vegetable waxes. Since the first shell (S1) includes the above-described vegetable wax, the off-flavor generated when the capsule (23) is heated by an aerosol generating device (not shown) may be reduced.

[0214] Additionally, the first shell (S1) may further include an additive to improve melting point and mechanical properties. In a preferred embodiment, the additive may be a fatty acid, and the fatty acid may be at least one of palmitic acid, stearic acid, and myristic acid, but is not limited thereto.

[0215] The second shell (S2) may include a water-soluble polymer material. The second shell (S2) is a configuration formed on the outermost part of the capsule (23) and may have properties related to the destruction of the capsule (23). In order to prevent the capsule (23) from being destroyed unintentionally, the second shell (S2) may be formed of a material having elasticity or flexibility. The second shell (S2) may include, for example, at least one of a water-soluble hydrocolloid such as gelatin, agar, carrageenan, alginic acid, pectin, gums such as gellan gum, starches such as potato starch, corn starch, and starch derivatives such as dextrin, maltodextrin, and cyclodextrin. Additionally, the second shell (S2) may include cellulose derivatives such as hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), methyl cellulose (MC), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol, and polyol.

[0216] In an embodiment, the overall diameter of the capsule (23) may be from about 2.6 mm to about 8.5 mm. Specifically, the overall diameter of the capsule (23) is about 2.6 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 6.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 5.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 4.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 3.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 3.0 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 6.5 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 5.5 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 4.5 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm, about 3.5 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 3.5 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 3.5 mm to about 6.5 mm, about 3.5 mm to It may be within a range of about 5.5 mm, about 3.5 mm to about 4.5 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 6.5 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, about 5.5 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 5.5 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 5.5 mm to about 6.5 mm, about 6.5 mm to about 8.5 mm, about 6.5 mm to about 7.5 mm, or about 7.5 mm to about 8.5 mm. However, the diameter of the capsule (23) may be appropriately changed within a range that can be included within the diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0217] In an embodiment, the crushing strength of the capsule (23) may be from about 0.5 kgf to about 3.0 kgf. Specifically, the crushing strength of the capsule (23) is about 0.5 kgf to about 3.0 kgf, about 0.5 kgf to about 2.5 kgf, about 0.5 kgf to about 2.0 kgf, about 0.5 kgf to about 1.5 kgf, about 0.5 kgf to about 1.0 kgf, about 1.0 kgf to about 3.0 kgf, about 1.0 kgf to about 2.5 kgf, about 1.0 kgf to about 2.0 kgf, about 1.0 kgf to about 1.5 kgf, about 1.5 kgf to about 3.0 kgf, about 1.5 kgf to about 2.5 kgf, about 1.5 kgf to about 2.0 kgf, about 2.0 kgf to about 3.0 kgf, about 2.0 kgf to about 2.5 kgf, or about 2.5 It can be within the range of about 3.0 kgf to about 3.0 kgf. However, the crushing strength of the capsule (23) can be appropriately changed by a person skilled in the art within the range in which the capsule (23) can be destroyed by an external force.

[0218] Fig. 8 is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generating system (100) according to one embodiment. At this time, the capsule (23) is placed downstream of the aerosol generating article (2) (or, filter rod (22)) in a crushed state, and the phenol reducing material contained in the core region of the crushed capsule (23) can flow out and be contained in the filter rod (22).

[0219] In the embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a heater (18), as described in FIG. 1. The heater (18) may be arranged to surround a receiving space (not shown) in which an aerosol generating article (2) is received within the aerosol generating device (1). The heater (18) may, for example, have a cylindrical shape surrounding the receiving space, but is not particularly limited to this shape.

[0220] In an embodiment, the heater (18) may be arranged to cover at least a portion of the aerosol generating rod (21) of the aerosol generating article (2). A second aspect according to the embodiment may provide a system for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article (2) using an aerosol generating device (1).

[0221] Here, the aerosol generating article (2) includes an aerosol generating rod (21) including an aerosol generating material and a filter rod (22) disposed downstream of the aerosol generating rod (21) and including a capsule (23), wherein the capsule (23) includes a core region (C), a first shell (S1), and a second shell (S2), and the core region may include a phenol reducing material. The aerosol generating device (1) may generate an aerosol by heating at least a portion of the aerosol generating rod (21).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the filter rod (22) may be a lyocell filter. Lyocell fibers are environmentally friendly fibers made from cellulose extracted from wood pulp. Lyocell tow refers to a bundle formed by cross-linking adjacent lyocell fibers.

[0223] In some embodiments, lyocell fibers may have a non-circular cross-section. A non-circular cross-section is defined as a cross-section that is not circular but includes multiple protrusions. For example, a cross-section having multiple protrusions extending from a center may be considered non-circular.

[0224] In some embodiments, the lyocell fibers may have a Y-shaped cross-section with three protrusions branching from the center, a cross-shaped cross-section with four protrusions, a star-shaped cross-section with five or more protrusions, or an O-shaped cross-section, but are not limited thereto.

[0225] The capsule (23) may include a phenol-reducing material. For example, the phenol-reducing material may be polyethylene glycol.

[0226] In one embodiment, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may be low molecular weight (i.e., liquid). For example, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may range from 200 to 600. Preferably, the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol may be 400 so that the polyethylene glycol has a viscosity such that it is uniformly loaded onto the third segment (223) of the filter rod (22) (or the second segment (322) of the filter rod (32)) after the capsule (23) is crushed.

[0227] Additionally, the core region (C) may further contain a water-soluble flavoring agent. The flavoring agent may add flavor to the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating article (2 of FIG. 5 and 3 of FIG. 6). For example, the water-soluble flavoring agent may include one or more selected from the group consisting of esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, nitrogen-containing compounds, and acids.

[0228] In this way, according to the aerosol generating system (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, by providing a liquid water-soluble phenol reducing material (e.g., polyethylene glycol) through a capsule (23), the storage stability of the aerosol generating article (2) is ensured, and by using a filter rod (22) including lyocell tow, a decrease in the biodegradability of the aerosol generating article (2) can be prevented.

[0229] 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.

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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. For aerosol generating products, an aerosol generating rod comprising an aerosol generating material; and a filter rod disposed downstream of the aerosol generating rod and including a capsule; The capsule comprises a core region, a first shell, and a second shell, An aerosol generating article, wherein the core region comprises a phenol reducing material.

2. In paragraph 1, The above phenol-reducing material is an aerosol-generating article which is a water-soluble material, polyethylene glycol.

3. In paragraph 2, An aerosol generating article wherein the polyethylene glycol is liquid and the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol is in the range of about 200 to about 600.

4. In paragraph 1, The core region is an aerosol generating article further comprising a water-soluble flavoring substance.

5. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating article wherein the first shell comprises a lipid-soluble substance, and the second shell surrounds the first shell and comprises a water-soluble substance.

6. In paragraph 5, An aerosol generating article wherein the first shell comprises at least one of carnauba wax, candelilla wax, castor wax, ouricury wax, cocoa butter, and shea butter.

7. In paragraph 5, An aerosol-generating article wherein the second shell comprises at least one water-soluble polymer selected from the group consisting of gelatin, agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, pectin, starch, or alginate.

8. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating article wherein the capsule has a diameter of about 2.6 to about 8.5 mm and a crushing strength of the capsule is about 0.5 to about 3.0 kgf.

9. In paragraph 1, The above filter load is an aerosol generating article comprising a lyocell tow comprising a plurality of lyocell fibers.

10. In paragraph 9, The above lyocell fiber is an aerosol generating article having a non-uniform cross-section.

11. In paragraph 9, An aerosol generating article wherein the above phenol-reducing material does not contain a material for bonding the plurality of lyocell fibers to each other.

12. In paragraph 1, The aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol generating rod and a wrapper surrounding the filter rod.

13. In the aerosol generating system, An aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating rod comprising an aerosol generating material, and a filter rod disposed adjacent to the aerosol generating rod and comprising a capsule; and An aerosol generating device comprising an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article, and a heater arranged corresponding to the aerosol generating rod around the insertion space; An aerosol generating system, wherein the capsule comprises a core region, a first shell, and a second shell, wherein the core region comprises a phenol-reducing material.

14. In paragraph 13, The above phenol-reducing material is an aerosol generating system which is a water-soluble material, polyethylene glycol.

15. In paragraph 14, An aerosol generating system wherein the polyethylene glycol is in a liquid state and the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol is in a range of about 200 to about 600.

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