Aerosol generation device and method for manufacturing aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generation device is disclosed. The aerosol generation device of the present disclosure comprises a body, and a hollow heater assembly which is disposed in the body and which provides an insertion space with one open side, wherein the heater assembly includes: a heating element for heating the insertion space; an insulator that forms a plurality of layers encompassing the outer side of the heating element in the radial direction of the insertion space; and a through-hole penetrating the plurality of layers, the through-hole being formed by overlapping holes respectively formed in the plurality of layers.

Description

Aerosol generator and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and a method for manufacturing the aerosol generating device.

[0002] An aerosol generator is designed to extract a specific component from a medium or substance through an aerosol. The medium may contain various components. The components contained in the medium may include various flavoring substances. For example, the components contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal ingredients, and / or coffee ingredients. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on such aerosol generators.

[0003] For external heaters having a cylindrical shape that accommodate and heat an aerosol product inside, an insulator such as a polyimide film is generally used. In the case of external heaters having an insulator structure in which the insulator is rolled multiple times, there is a problem in that each layer is lifted or peeled off due to voids generated within each layer during the process of manufacturing the heater and / or using the heater.

[0004] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0005] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a heater assembly having a through hole formed through an insulator formed on the outside of the heating element.

[0006] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a heater assembly having a through hole connecting the outer surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the insulator.

[0007] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a heater assembly in which the centers of the individual holes forming the through holes are offset from each other.

[0008] Another object may be to provide a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device, which manufactures a heater assembly by rolling a sheet forming an insulator together with a heating element, and ages the manufactured heater assembly.

[0009] Another object may be to provide a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device that ages a heater assembly by applying a heating time and a heating temperature set within a specific range.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a body; and a hollow heater assembly disposed in the body and providing an insertion space having one side opened, wherein the heater assembly comprises: a heating element that heats the insertion space; an insulator that forms a plurality of layers surrounding the outside of the heating element in a radial direction of the insertion space; and a through hole penetrating the plurality of layers, wherein the through hole is formed by overlapping holes (H1, H2, H3) formed in each of the plurality of layers.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which a through hole is formed penetrating an insulator formed on the outside of a heating element, so that air bubbles generated inside the insulator can be discharged to the outside of the insulator, and each layer forming the insulator can be prevented from being lifted or peeled off.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the through hole has a structure that connects the outer surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the insulator, so that air bubbles generated at the contact area between the heating element and the insulator can be discharged to the outside of the insulator.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the center of each hole forming the through hole is arranged to be misaligned from each other, thereby increasing the area of ​​each layer of the insulator exposed to the inside of the through hole, thereby effectively discharging air bubbles generated within each layer of the insulator to the outside.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a sheet forming an insulator is rolled together with a heating element to manufacture a heater assembly, and by aging the manufactured heater assembly, air bubbles generated inside the insulator during the manufacturing process can be discharged to the outside of the insulator.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by aging the heater assembly by applying a heating time and a heating temperature set within a specific range, it is possible to prevent the insulator from swelling or a portion of the insulator from being lifted or peeled off from the heating element when using the aerosol generating device.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a heating element disposed on a sheet-shaped insulator is rolled together with the insulator and the heating element is thermally bonded to the insulator, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the heater assembly and simplifying the bonding structure of the heater assembly.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater assembly is formed by rolling a heating element disposed on a sheet-shaped insulator together with the insulator, thereby reducing the size of the device.

[0018] Further scope of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only.

[0019] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a heating element of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views illustrating a through hole of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are drawings showing an unfolded state of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing holes in an insulator of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 15 is an image comparing an aged heater assembly according to a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with a conventional heater assembly.

[0031] Figure 16 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0033] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description may be assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification. "Module" and "part" do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0034] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of 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 understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings. It should be understood that the attached drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components. However, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0036] 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, although it should be understood 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.

[0037] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] Throughout this specification, the direction of the insulation sheet of the heater assembly for the aerosol generator may be defined based on the orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the left-right direction or the length direction of the insulation sheet. The y-axis direction may be defined as the front-back direction or the width direction of the insulation sheet. The z-axis direction may be defined as the up-down direction or the thickness direction of the insulation sheet.

[0039]

[0040] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), and a heater (18). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generating device. The body (10) may provide a space opened upwardly so that a stick (S), which is an aerosol generating article, may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space (43). The insertion space (43) may be formed by being recessed toward the inside of the body (10) by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space (43) may correspond to the length of a region of the stick (S) containing an aerosol generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the stick (S) is inserted into the inside of the body (10), and the upper end of the stick (S) can protrude outside the body (10). The user can inhale air by putting the upper end of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth.

[0042] The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow space therein. The heater (18) can be arranged around the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can heat the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0043] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the heater (18) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (18) may include a heating element (track), and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the heating element. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may receive current from the power source (11) and directly generate heat.

[0044] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device may include an induction coil (181) surrounding a heater (18). The induction coil (181) may heat the heater (18). The heater (18) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181). The magnetic field may penetrate the heater (18) and generate an eddy current within the heater (18). The current may generate heat in the heater (18).

[0045] Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181).

[0046] The power source (11) can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator to operate. The power source (11) can be referred to as a battery. The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18). When the aerosol generator (1) includes an induction coil (181), the power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil (181).

[0047] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit (12) can be mounted on a printed circuit board. The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11) and the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can control the operation of a display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator to determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operable state.

[0048] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) so that the operation of the heater (18) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (18) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (18) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0049] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (18), the temperature of the power source (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensor (13) may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space (43).

[0050]

[0051] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, the stick (S) may include an aerosol carrier (510). The stick (S) may include a medium carrier (520). The aerosol carrier (510) and the medium carrier (520) may be referred to as a tobacco rod. The stick (S) may include a cooling carrier (530). The stick (S) may include a filter carrier (540). The stick (S) may include a wrapper (550) surrounding the aerosol carrier (510), the medium carrier (520), the cooling carrier (530), and / or the filter carrier (540). In FIG. 3, the wrapper (550) may include an individual wrapper that surrounds the aerosol carrier (510), the medium portion (520), and the filter portion (540), respectively, and / or an outer shell that encloses the aerosol carrier (510), the medium portion (520), and the filter portion (540) as one, surrounded by individual wrappers.

[0053] The aerosol base (510) may be a portion formed into a predetermined shape by incorporating a moisturizer into pulp-based paper. The moisturizer (base) included in the aerosol base (510) may include propylene glycol, glycerin, or the like. For example, the moisturizer of the aerosol base (510) may include propylene glycol and glycerin at a predetermined weight ratio relative to the weight of the original paper. When the stick (S) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and heated to a temperature above a predetermined temperature by the heater (18), moisturizer vapor may be generated from the aerosol base (510).

[0054] The medium (520) may include one or more of a sheet, a strand, or a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. The medium (520) may be a part that generates nicotine to provide a smoking experience to a user. When the temperature of the medium included in the medium (520) rises to a temperature above a certain level, nicotine vapor may be generated from the medium (520). When the stick (S) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), at least a portion of the aerosol base (510) and at least a portion of the medium (520) may face the heater (18). For example, an upper or downstream portion of the aerosol base (510) and a lower or upstream portion of the medium (520) may face the heater (18).

[0055] The length of the portion of the medium portion (520) facing the heater (18) may be longer than the length of the portion of the aerosol carrier portion (510) facing the heater (18). The length of the portion of the aerosol carrier portion (510) facing the heater (18) may be more than half of the total length of the aerosol carrier portion (510). The length of the portion of the medium portion (520) facing the heater (18) may be more than half of the total length of the medium portion (520).

[0056] The portion of the aerosol base portion (510) and the medium portion (520) facing the heater (18) can be heated by the heater (18). At least a portion of the aerosol base portion (510) containing the moisturizer is heated by the heater (18), thereby generating moisturizer vapor. At least a portion of the medium portion (520) containing the medium is heated by the heater (18), thereby generating nicotine vapor. By arranging the stick (S) so that the length ratios of a portion of the aerosol base portion (510) facing the heater (18) and a portion of the medium portion (520) are different, the ratio of the generated moisturizer vapor and nicotine vapor can be appropriately controlled.

[0057] In one embodiment, the medium portion (520) may not be directly heated by the heater (18) even when the stick (S) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1). The medium portion (520) may be indirectly heated by conduction, convection, and radiation from the aerosol carrier portion (510) and the medium portion wrapper (or wrappers) surrounding the medium portion (520). The temperature of the medium portion (520) may also be increased indirectly after the aerosol carrier portion (510) is heated by the heater (18).

[0058] The cooling unit (530) may be manufactured as a tube filter containing a predetermined weight of a plasticizer. The moisturizer vapor and nicotine vapor generated from the aerosol base unit (510) and the medium unit (520) may be mixed with each other to form an aerosol, and may be cooled while passing through the cooling unit (530). In one embodiment, unlike the aerosol base unit (510), the medium unit (520), and the filter unit (540), the cooling unit (530) may not be wrapped with an individual wrapper.

[0059] The filter unit (540) may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter unit (540). The filter unit (540) may be a cylindrical rod or a tube type having a hollow interior. For example, when the filter unit (540) is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured to have a different shape. The filter unit (540) may also be manufactured to generate a flavor. For example, a flavoring agent may be sprayed onto the filter unit (540), or a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent may be inserted into the interior of the filter unit (540).

[0060] Additionally, the filter unit (540) may include at least one capsule. Here, the capsule may also perform a function of generating a flavor. For example, the capsule may be a structure that encases a liquid containing a flavoring agent in a film, and may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0061]

[0062] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a heating element of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 4, the heater (18) may include a heater assembly (30). The heater assembly (30) may be elongated. The heater assembly (30) may have a tubular shape or a cylindrical shape including a hollow portion therein. The heater assembly (30) may be disposed within the body (10) of the aerosol generator (1). The heater assembly (30) may surround an insertion space (43, see FIGS. 1, 2, and 7). The heater assembly (30) may provide the insertion space (43). The insertion space (43) or a stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43) may be heated by the heater assembly (30). The heater assembly (30) may have a pair of leads (63a, 63b, see FIG. 6) that protrude outward and are electrically connected to a power source (11).

[0064] The heater (18) may include a pair of brackets (91, 92). The pair of brackets (91, 92) may be coupled to the top and bottom of the heater assembly (30), respectively. The pair of brackets (91, 92) may be coupled to the heater assembly (30) to support the heater assembly (30).

[0065]

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the heater assembly (30) may include an insulator (40), a susceptor (50), and a heating element (60).

[0067] The susceptor (50) may be a cylindrical shape formed by rolling a thin metal sheet. The susceptor (50) may be referred to as a heat transfer element, a heat conducting member, or a pipe. The susceptor (50) may be made of, but is not limited to, stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy.

[0068] The thin film metal sheet may be elongated in one direction and may be rectangular in shape with a length (L1, see Fig. 10) greater than a width (W1, see Fig. 10). The length and width of the thin film metal sheet may be defined by the length and width of the susceptor (50), respectively.

[0069] In the circumferential direction of the susceptor (50) or the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43), one end (51) of the susceptor (50) may be spaced apart from the other end (52) of the susceptor (50). A gap (G1) may be formed between the one end (51) and the other end (52) of the susceptor. As the width of the gap (G1) increases, the area of ​​the portion of the stick (S) that is not heated by the gap (G1) may increase. Accordingly, the gap (G1) may correspond to a maximum width at which the aerosol generated from the stick (S) is greater than or equal to a set minimum amount.

[0070] Accordingly, when rolling a thin film sheet to form a cylindrical shape of a susceptor (50), it is possible to prevent the shape of the susceptor (50) from being distorted or parts of the susceptor (50) from overlapping each other due to errors in the assembly process.

[0071] The heating element (60) may have a rounded cylindrical shape. The heating element (60) may be an electrically conductive track. The heating element (60) may be formed by etching a metal thin film with a laser. The heating element (60) may receive power from a power source (11) and generate heat.

[0072] The heating element (60) may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] The heating element (60) may be elongated in one direction and may be rectangular in shape with a length (L2) greater than a width (W2). The heating element (60) may include a heating track (61) and a connecting portion (62). The heating track (61) may include at least one track (61a, 61b, 61c). The first track (61a) may be arranged at the outermost end of the heating element (60) and may be rectangular overall. The second track (61b) may be arranged inside the first track (61a), and the third track (61c) may be arranged inside the second track (61b).

[0074] The first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c) may include at least one bent portion and may have a meandering shape. The first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c) may be spaced apart from each other. The first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c) may have one end connected to each other and the other end connected to each other. In other words, the first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c) may be connected in parallel to each other.

[0075] The width (Wa) of the first track (61a) may be smaller than the width (Wb) of the second track (61b) and the width (Wc) of the third track (61c). The width (Wb) of the second track (61b) may be smaller than the width (Wc) of the third track (61c). The gap (G2) between the second track (61b) and the first track (61a) or the third track (61c) may be smaller than the width (Wa) of the first track (61a), the width (Wb) of the second track (61b), and the width (Wc) of the third track (61c). The length of the first track (61a) may be smaller than the length of the second track (61b) and the length of the third track (61c).

[0076] Accordingly, in the heating element (60), the resistance deviation of the first track (61a) arranged on the outside and the second track (61b) and third track (61c) arranged on the inside can be reduced, and the deviation of the amount of heat generated in each track can be reduced.

[0077] In addition, since the spacing between the tracks is relatively narrower than the width of the tracks, the heating area of ​​the heating element (60) can be increased, and the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43) can be evenly heated by the heating element (60).

[0078] The connecting portion (62) may protrude outward from one side of the heating track (61). The connecting portion (62) may be formed integrally with the heating track (61). The connecting portion (62) may include a first connecting portion (62a) and a second connecting portion (62b). The first connecting portion (62a) may be connected to one end of the first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c), and the second connecting portion (62b) may be connected to the other end of the first to third tracks (61a, 61b, 61c).

[0079] A lead (63) may be connected to a connecting portion (62). The lead (63) may be extended in a long direction in which the connecting portion (62) protrudes. The lead (63) may electrically connect the connecting portion (62) to a power source (11) or a heater driving circuit (not shown). The lead (63) may include a first lead (63a) in contact with a first connecting portion (62a) and a second lead (63b) in contact with a second connecting portion (62b). The temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the lead (63) may be manufactured from a material lower than the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heating element (60). The lead (63) may be attached to the connecting portion (62) by welding, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] Accordingly, the temperature change of the heating element (60) derived based on the change in resistance of the heating element (60) can be accurately measured.

[0081]

[0082] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 7, the susceptor (50) may be located at the innermost side of the heater assembly (30). An insertion space (43) may be arranged inside the susceptor (50). The susceptor (50) may form at least a portion of the insertion space (43). The susceptor (50) may surround at least a portion of the insertion space (43). An inner circumferential surface of the susceptor (50) may be exposed to the insertion space (43). The susceptor (50) may face a stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the susceptor (50) may contact an outer circumferential surface of the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43).

[0084] Accordingly, the thin film susceptor forms at least a portion of the insertion space and comes into direct contact with the stick inserted into the insertion space, thereby increasing the heat transfer efficiency to the stick.

[0085] A portion of the insulator (40) may surround the outside of the heating element (60). A portion of the insulator (40) may be placed between the heating element (60) and the susceptor (50).

[0086] The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be spaced apart from the upper and lower parts of the insulator (40). Some of the plurality of layers forming the insulator (40) in the heater assembly (30) may have upper and lower parts in contact with each other in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43).

[0087] The first part (40a) of the insulator (40) arranged on the inside of the heating element (60) and the second part (40b) of the insulator (40) arranged on the outside of the heating element (60) can contact each other at the upper and lower parts. By the structure in which the upper and lower parts of the first part (40a) and the second part (40b) contact each other, the heating element (60) can be sealed from the outside.

[0088] The hollow heater assembly (30) can be coupled with the brackets (91, 92). The brackets (91, 92) can be bonded or press-fitted to the heater assembly (30). When the hollow heater assembly (30) is coupled with the brackets (91, 92), the heater assembly (30) and the brackets (91, 92) can be heated to a temperature higher than a certain temperature.

[0089] Accordingly, the heater assembly can be sealed from the outside, and heat generated from the electrically conductive pattern can be minimized from being released outside the heater assembly.

[0090] The insertion hole (913) of the first bracket (91) can communicate with the upper side of the insertion space (43). The hole (924) of the second bracket (92) can communicate with the lower side of the insertion space (43). The stick (S) can be inserted into the insertion space (43) through the insertion hole (913). Outside air can be introduced from the outside of the heater assembly (30) through the end of the stick (S) and into the interior of the stick (S) through the hole (924).

[0091] The first bracket body (911) of the first bracket (91) may extend in the circumferential direction. The first bracket body (911) may be attached to or press-fitted to the upper portion of the heater assembly (30). The inner circumferential surface of the first bracket body (911) may support at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The first flange (912) may protrude radially outward from the upper end of the first bracket body (911).

[0092] The second bracket body (921) of the second bracket (92) may extend in the circumferential direction. The second bracket body (921) may be attached to or press-fitted to the lower portion of the heater assembly (30). The upper surface (923) of the second bracket body (921) may support at least a portion of the lower portion of the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The second flange (922) may protrude radially outward from the lower end of the second bracket body (921).

[0093] In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43), the first bracket (91) and the second bracket (92) can be spaced apart from the susceptor (50). In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43), the lower end of the first bracket body (911) can be spaced apart from the upper end (53) of the susceptor (50), and the upper end of the second bracket body (921) can be spaced apart from the lower end (54) of the susceptor (50).

[0094] A stick detection sensor (133) may be disposed in the heater assembly (30). The stick detection sensor (133) may detect insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). For example, the stick detection sensor (133) may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor. The stick detection sensor (133) may be disposed adjacent to the lower end of the insertion space (43). The stick detection sensor (133) may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the lower side of the heater assembly (30). The stick detection sensor (133) may be disposed to contact the outermost layer of the insulator (40) and surround the outermost layer. In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43), the stick detection sensor (133) may be disposed on the lower side of the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60). In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43), the stick detection sensor (133) can be spaced apart from the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60).

[0095] Accordingly, the heat transferred to the sensor (133) by the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) can be minimized. In addition, the accuracy of stick (S) detection by the sensor (133) can be increased.

[0096] The insulator (40) can surround the inside and / or outside of the heating element (60). The insulator (40) can form a plurality of layers (40a, 40b, 40d) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43) or in the thickness direction of the insulator (40). The plurality of layers (40a, 40b, 40d) of the insulator (40) can be formed by rolling a single elongated insulating sheet. The plurality of layers can be formed by at least one part of the insulator (40). A plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) can be formed in each of the plurality of layers (40b, 40d) of the insulator (40) surrounding the outside of the heating element (60).

[0097] A plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) can be connected to each other. A through hole (70) can be formed by overlapping a plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4). A through hole (70) can be formed by overlapping holes formed in each of a plurality of layers (40b, 40d) of an insulator (40). A through hole (70) can penetrate a plurality of layers (40b, 40d).

[0098] By forming a through hole (70) penetrating the insulator (40) placed on the outside of the heating element (60), air bubbles generated inside the insulator (40) can be discharged to the outside of the insulator (40), and each layer forming the insulator (40) can be prevented from being lifted or peeled off.

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a through hole of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 8, the plurality of layers (40b, 40d) of the insulator (40) may include a first layer (40d1) disposed outside the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43), a second layer (40d2) in contact with the first layer (40d1) and disposed outside the first layer (40d1), a third layer (40d3) in contact with the second layer (40d2) and disposed outside the second layer (40d2), and a fourth layer (40b) in contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) and the first layer (40d1) and disposed inside the first layer (40d1). However, the number of layers of the insulator (40) disposed outside the heating element (60) is not limited thereto, and two or more layers may be formed.

[0102] A plurality of first holes (H1) may be formed in the first layer (40d1). A plurality of second holes (H2) may be formed in the second layer (40d2). A plurality of third holes (H3) may be formed in the third layer (40d3). A plurality of fourth holes (H4) may be formed in the fourth layer (40b). In the radial direction of the insertion space (43), the plurality of first holes (H1) may be located inside the plurality of second holes (H2). The plurality of second holes (H2) may be located inside the plurality of third holes (H3). The plurality of fourth holes (H4) may be located inside the plurality of first holes (H1).

[0103] At least some of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) forming the through hole (70) may be arranged so that their centers are misaligned with each other in the radial direction of the insertion space (43) from adjacent holes. For example, the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4) formed in the fourth layer (40b) may be arranged so as to be misaligned with the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) formed in the first layer (40d1). For example, the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) formed in the first layer (40d1) may be arranged so as to be misaligned with the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) formed in the second layer (40d2). For example, the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) formed in the second layer (40d2) may be arranged so as to be misaligned with the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) formed in the third layer (40d3).

[0104] Since the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) forming the through hole (70) are connected to each other and their centers are arranged to be misaligned with each other, the layers in which each hole (H1, H2, H3, H4) is formed can be arranged to be misaligned with each other to a certain extent. In proportion to the degree to which the layers in which each hole (H1, H2, H3, H4) is formed are misaligned with each other, the area of ​​the inner and / or outer surface of each layer exposed into the through hole (70) can increase.

[0105] Accordingly, bubbles generated within each layer of the insulator can be effectively discharged to the outside through the portion exposed within the through hole (70).

[0106] The centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) forming the through hole (70) may be spaced apart from each other within a certain range. The centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in adjacent layers but arranged to form the through hole (70) may be spaced apart by a distance smaller than the sum of the radii of each hole. For example, the distance by which the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4) is spaced apart from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be smaller than the sum of the radius (Rh4) of the fourth hole (H4) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1). For example, the distance (SD1) by which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced apart from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be smaller than the sum of the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1). For example, the distance by which the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) is separated from the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be smaller than the sum of the radius (Rh3) of the third hole (H3) and the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2).

[0107] Accordingly, holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged on adjacent layers may be arranged with some misalignment, but may be connected to each other to form a through hole (70).

[0108] The centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers to form a through hole (70) may be spaced apart by a distance greater than the average of the radii of each hole. For example, the distance by which the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4) is spaced apart from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be greater than the average of the radius (Rh4) of the fourth hole (H4) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1). For example, the distance (SD1) by which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced apart from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be greater than the average of the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1). For example, the distance at which the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) is separated from the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be greater than the average of the radius (Rh3) of the third hole (H3) and the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2).

[0109] If the centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers are not spaced apart by a certain distance, the area of ​​the inner and / or outer surface of each layer exposed into the through hole (70) becomes smaller, and the amount of external air flowing into the through hole (70) may increase. In this case, among the heat generated from the heating element (60), the heat dissipated to the outside through the through hole (70) increases, so that the heat transferred to the insertion space (43) and / or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43) may be reduced.

[0110] In a heater assembly (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the centers of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers are spaced apart by a certain distance or more, so that the amount of heat generated from the heating element (60) that is dissipated to the outside through the through hole (70) can be reduced.

[0111] The distances at which the centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers form a through hole (70) may be the same. For example, the distance at which the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) is spaced from the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4), the distance (SD1) at which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1), and the distance at which the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) is spaced from the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be the same.

[0112] Accordingly, the area of ​​the inner and / or outer surface of each layer exposed into the through hole (70) is equal to or similar to each other, so that air bubbles generated within each layer of the insulator can be effectively discharged to the outside.

[0113] The through hole (70) can extend in the radial direction of the insertion space (43). The through hole (70) can communicate between the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) and the outside of the insulator (40).

[0114] The layer (40b) in contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) can be heated to a higher temperature by the heating element (60) compared to the remaining layers (40d1, 40d2, 40d3) arranged on the outer side of the heating element (60). Therefore, relatively more bubbles can be generated on the inner surface of the layer (40b) in contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60).

[0115] In a heater assembly (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a through hole (70) connects the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) and the outer surface of the insulator (40), so that bubbles generated on the inner surface of the layer (40b) in contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) can be effectively discharged to the outside.

[0116] The diameter or radius (Rh4) of the hole (H4) formed in the layer (40b) in contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60) may be smaller than the diameter or radius (Rh1, Rh2, Rh3) of the hole (H1, H2, H3) formed in the remaining layers (40d1, 40d2, 40d3) arranged on the outer side of the heating element (60).

[0117] A hole (H4) is formed in the layer (40b) that comes into contact with the outer surface (69) of the heating element (60), but has a smaller diameter or radius than the holes (H1, H2, H3) formed in the remaining layers (40d1, 40d2, 40d3), thereby reducing the amount of heat generated in the heating element (60) that is dissipated to the outside through the through hole (70).

[0118] A plurality of through holes (70) may be provided. The through holes (70) may include a plurality of through holes (70) spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43). For example, five to seven through holes (70) may be aligned along the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43).

[0119] The through hole (70) may include a plurality of through holes (70) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43). For example, 8 to 12 through holes (70) may be aligned along the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43).

[0120] However, the number of through holes (70) aligned along the longitudinal direction and / or circumferential direction of the insertion space (43) is not limited thereto.

[0121] Since a plurality of through holes (70) are aligned along the longitudinal direction and / or circumferential direction of the insertion space (43), even if bubbles are generated in different locations among the plurality of layers forming the insulator (40), the bubbles generated through the plurality of through holes (70) can be effectively discharged to the outside.

[0122] At least some of the plurality of through holes (70) may be arranged to overlap the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43).

[0123] In the radial direction of the insertion space (43), the portion of the insulator (40) that overlaps the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) can be heated to a higher temperature than the portion that does not overlap. Therefore, relatively more bubbles can be generated in the overlapping portion.

[0124] In a heater assembly (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the through hole (70) is arranged to overlap the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60), so that bubbles generated within the insulator (40) can be effectively discharged to the outside.

[0125]

[0126] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a through hole of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Features of the through hole of Fig. 9 that overlap with those of the preceding Fig. 8 will not be described in detail.

[0127]

[0128] Referring to Fig. 9, at least some of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) forming the through hole (70) may be arranged so that their centers are misaligned with respect to adjacent holes in the radial direction of the insertion space (43). The distances at which the centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in adjacent layers are spaced apart from each other may be different. For example, the distance at which the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) is spaced apart from the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4), the distance (SD1) at which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced apart from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1), and the distance at which the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) is spaced apart from the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be different.

[0129] The distance at which the centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers form a through hole (70) may be smaller as the holes are positioned further outward in the radial direction of the insertion space (43). For example, the distance (SD1) at which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be smaller than or equal to the distance at which the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) is spaced from the center (C4) of the fourth hole (H4). For example, the distance at which the center (C3) of the third hole (H3) is spaced from the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be smaller than or equal to the distance (SD1) at which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1).

[0130] A layer that is relatively close to the heating element (60) can be heated to a higher temperature by the heating element (60) than a layer that is relatively far from the heating element (60). Therefore, a layer that is relatively close to the heating element (60) can generate more bubbles inside the layer than a layer that is relatively far from the heating element (60).

[0131] In a heater assembly (30) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a distance at which the centers of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers form a through hole (70) may be smaller as the distance becomes further outward in the radial direction. In this case, a layer arranged relatively close to a heating element (60) may have a larger area of ​​an inner surface and / or outer surface exposed into the through hole (70) than a layer arranged relatively far from the heating element (60). In addition, the amount of external air introduced into a layer arranged relatively close to a heating element (60) may be smaller than the amount of external air introduced into a layer arranged relatively far from the heating element (60).

[0132] Accordingly, bubbles generated in a layer positioned adjacent to the heating element (60) can be effectively discharged to the outside. In addition, the amount of heat generated in the heating element (60) that is dissipated to the outside through the through hole (70) can be reduced.

[0133]

[0134] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIGS. 11 and 12 are drawings showing an unfolded state of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 13 is a drawing showing holes in an insulator of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 10, a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step of preparing an insulator (40) (S1010), a step of arranging a heating element (60) on the insulator (40) (S1020), a step of rolling the insulator (40) on which the heating element (60) is arranged to manufacture a heater assembly (30) (S1030), and a step of aging the heater assembly (30) (S1040).

[0136] In step S1010, an elongated insulator (40) may be prepared. The insulator (40) may be in the shape of a single sheet elongated in one direction or the x direction. The insulator (40) may be referred to as a sheet or an insulating sheet. The sheet (40) is a flexible sheet and may be formed of a material having heat resistance. The sheet (40) may include, but is not limited to, polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and may include other materials having elasticity, heat resistance, and electrical insulation.

[0137] The length (L0) of the sheet (40) may be 120 mm to 160 mm, and the width (W0) of the sheet (40) may be 15 mm to 25 mm. Preferably, the length (L0) of the sheet (40) may be 130 mm to 150 mm, and the width (W0) of the sheet (40) may be 17.5 mm to 22.5 mm.

[0138]

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13 together with FIG. 10, in step S1020, a heating element (60) may be placed on a sheet (40). A susceptor (50) may be placed on the sheet (40) together with the heating element (60). The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be sequentially placed in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be placed to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40).

[0140] The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be arranged on the same surface of the sheet (40). The sheet (40) may include a flat first surface and a second surface (42) that forms an opposite surface to the first surface (41) in the thickness direction. The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be arranged on the first surface (41) of the sheet (40). The sheet (40) may be arranged on a feeder (not shown). The sheet (40) may be arranged on the feeder such that the second surface (42) is in contact with the upper surface of the feeder.

[0141] By placing the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) on the same side of the sheet (40), the spring back that occurs when an elastic object is rolled up can be reduced, thereby reducing defects in the heater assembly (30).

[0142] The susceptor (50) may be arranged adjacent to one end of the sheet (40) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). One end (51) of the susceptor (50) may be aligned parallel to one end of the sheet (40). One end (64) of the heating element (60) may be spaced apart from the other end (52) of the sheet (40) by a predetermined distance (A1). The upper end (53) of the susceptor (50) may be aligned with the upper end (66) of the heating element (60). The lower end (54) of the susceptor (50) may be aligned with the lower end (67) of the heating element (60).

[0143] The width (W0) of the sheet (40) may be greater than the width (W1) of the susceptor (50) and the width (W2) of the heating element (60). The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be arranged spaced apart from the bottom and top of the sheet (40) in the width direction or the y direction of the sheet (40).

[0144] The distance (A1) at which the susceptor (50) is spaced from the heating element (60) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) may be smaller than the length (L2) of the heating element (60) defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). The number of layers of the sheet (40) arranged between the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) may be two or less.

[0145] Accordingly, the heat generated from the heating element (60) can be more efficiently transferred to the susceptor (50).

[0146] In the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40), the length (L2) of the heating element (60) may be greater than the length (L1) of the susceptor (50). In the hollow heater assembly (30), the heating element (60) may surround the susceptor (50) on the outside of the susceptor (50). Since the length (L2) of the heating element (60) is greater than the length (L1) of the susceptor (50), the area of ​​the portion where the heating element (60) surrounds the susceptor (50) may increase.

[0147] Accordingly, the area through which heat is transferred from the heating element (60) to the susceptor (50) increases, and the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) within the insertion space (43) can be heated more evenly by the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60). In addition, the area of ​​the heating element (60) increases, so that the degree of freedom in designing the shape of the heating track of the heating element (60) can be increased.

[0148] The sheet (40) may include first to fourth parts (40a, 40b, 40c, 40d). A susceptor (50) may be arranged in the first part (40a). A heating element (60) may be arranged in the second part (40b). The third part (40c) may be arranged between the first part (40a) and the second part (40b) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) and may be connected to the first part (40a) and the second part (40b). The fourth part (40d) may extend from the second part (40b) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) and may face the third part (40c) with respect to the second part (40b).

[0149] In step S1030, a heater assembly (30) can be manufactured by rolling an insulator (40) having a heating element (60) disposed thereon. The sheet (40) can be rolled on a roller (not shown). The sheet (40) can be rolled on the roller from one end while being disposed on a feeder. The sheet (40) can be moved toward the roller by the feeder and rolled on the outer surface of the roller that rotates in one direction. The sheet (40) can be heated by the roller. The sheet (40) can be pressed by a sub-roller disposed adjacent to the roller.

[0150] The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) can be rolled on the roller together with the sheet (40). The sheet (40) can be rolled on the roller so that the susceptor (50) faces the outer surface of the roller. The susceptor (50) can be rolled on the outer surface of the roller while moving together with the sheet (40) in a state where it is placed on the sheet (40). The sheet (40) can be rolled on the roller so that the heating element (60) faces the outer surface of the roller. The heating element (60) can be rolled on the roller while moving together with the sheet (40) in a state where it is placed on the sheet (40). The heating element (60) can be rolled on the outer side of the susceptor (50). The susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) can be heated and pressurized by the roller and the sub-roller, and can be thermally fused to the sheet (40).

[0151] Accordingly, the manufacturing process of the heater assembly (30) can be simplified, and the bonding structure of the heater assembly (30) can be simplified.

[0152] In step S1030, as the sheet (40) is rolled, the plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in the sheet (40) can overlap each other on the outside of the heating element (60). The plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in the sheet (40) can penetrate the sheet (40) in the thickness direction of the sheet (40). The holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in each of the plurality of layers formed on the outside of the heating element (60) can overlap and communicate with each other to form a through hole (70). In the radial direction of the insertion space (43), the fourth hole (H4) can be arranged on the outside of the heating element (60). The first hole (H1) can be arranged on the outside of the fourth hole (H4) and can be in communication with the fourth hole (H4). The second hole (H2) is arranged outside the first hole (H1) and can be communicated with the first hole (H1). The third hole (H3) is arranged outside the second hole (H2) and can be communicated with the second hole (H2).

[0153] When the sheet (40) is spread out flat, a plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in the sheet (40) can be spaced apart from each other in the length direction and width direction of the sheet (40). The plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) can form rows and columns.

[0154] For example, a plurality of fourth holes (H4) formed in the second part (40b) of the sheet (40) may be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). A plurality of first holes (H1) formed in the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40) may be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). A plurality of second holes (H2) formed in the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40) may be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40). A plurality of third holes (H3) formed in the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40) may be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40).

[0155] In a state where the sheet (40) is dried, the plurality of fourth holes (H4) can be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43). The plurality of first holes (H1) can be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43). The plurality of second holes (H2) can be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43). The plurality of third holes (H3) can be aligned with each other to form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43).

[0156] A plurality of first holes (H1) may be arranged in rows and columns in the second part (40b) of the sheet (40). A plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged in rows and columns in an area (40d1) of the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40). A plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged in rows and columns in an area (40d2) of the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40). A plurality of third holes (H3) may be arranged in rows and columns in an area (40d3) of the fourth part (40d) of the sheet (40).

[0157] The plurality of first holes (H1) may be arranged closer to the susceptor (50) and / or the heating element (60) than the plurality of second holes (H2). The plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged closer to the susceptor (50) and / or the heating element (60) than the plurality of third holes (H3). The plurality of fourth holes (H4) may be arranged to overlap the plurality of heating elements (60) in the thickness direction of the sheet (40).

[0158] A plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) can be formed by punching the sheet (40) with the sheet (40) spread out flat, using a punching device or the like. The plurality of holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) can be formed to be spaced apart from each other at a set interval. For example, the interval (P21) at which the plurality of first holes (H1) are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) can be constant. The interval (P22) at which the plurality of second holes (H2) are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) can be constant. The interval (P23) at which the plurality of third holes (H3) are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) can be constant. The interval (P23) at which the plurality of fourth holes (H4) are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) can be constant. The spacing (P21) of the first hole (H1) may be less than or equal to the spacing (P22) of the second hole (H2). The spacing (P22) of the second hole (H2) may be less than or equal to the spacing (P23) of the third hole (H3). The spacing of the fourth hole (H4) may be less than or equal to the spacing of the first hole (H1).

[0159] The holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers to form a through hole (70) may be arranged so that their centers are offset from each other. In the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43), the rows formed by the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) arranged in adjacent layers may be arranged so that their centers are offset from each other. For example, at least one row (CL1) formed by the plurality of first holes (H1) may be arranged so that their centers are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) or the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43) with respect to at least one row (CL2) formed by the plurality of second holes (H2). At least one row (CL2) formed by the plurality of second holes (H2) may be arranged so that their centers are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) or the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43) with respect to at least one row formed by the plurality of third holes (H3). At least one row formed by a plurality of fourth holes (H4) may be arranged with their centers misaligned with at least one row formed by a plurality of first holes (H1) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) or the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43).

[0160] Accordingly, by adjusting the spacing between the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in the sheet (40), it is possible to easily form a through hole (70) in which the centers of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) are arranged to be misaligned from each other.

[0161]

[0162] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 15 is an image comparing an aged heater assembly according to a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with a conventional heater assembly.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 15 together with FIG. 14, in step S1040, the heater assembly (30) can be aged. The step of aging the heater assembly (30) (S1040) may include a step (S1041) of heating a chamber (not shown) in which the heater assembly (30) is placed to a first temperature for a second time shorter than a first time, a step (S1042) of maintaining the chamber at the first temperature for a third time longer than the second time, a step (S1043) of inserting a stick (S) into the heater assembly (30) and maintaining the chamber at a second temperature lower than the first temperature for a fourth time longer than the third time, a step (S1044) of removing the stick (S) from the heater assembly (30) and heating the chamber to a third temperature for a fifth time shorter than the fourth time, and a step (S1045) of maintaining the chamber at the first temperature for the first time.

[0164] In step S1041, the second time may be 6 to 10 seconds. Preferably, the second time may be about 8 seconds. The first temperature may be 280 to 300 degrees. Preferably, the first temperature may be about 290 degrees.

[0165] In step S1042, the third time period may be 20 to 24 seconds. Preferably, the third time period may be about 22 seconds.

[0166] In step S1043, the fourth time period may be 300 to 320 seconds. Preferably, the fourth time period may be about 310 seconds. The second temperature may be 240 to 260 degrees. Preferably, the second temperature may be about 250 degrees.

[0167] In step S1044, the fifth time period may be 5 to 7 seconds. Preferably, the fifth time period may be about 6 seconds. The third temperature may be 285 to 305 degrees. Preferably, the third temperature may be about 295 degrees. Alternatively, in step S1044, the chamber may be heated for a fifth time period at a first power. The first power may be 10 to 20 W. Preferably, the first power may be about 15 W.

[0168] In step S1045, the first period may be 3 to 5 hours. Preferably, the first period may be about 4 hours.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 15, the image on the left is an image of a conventional heater assembly cut in the radial direction of the insertion space after being left under set conditions, and the image on the right is an image of a heater assembly aged according to a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure after being left under the same conditions and then cut in the radial direction of the insertion space. The set conditions are conditions in which the heater assembly is left in an environment of 60 degrees Celsius and 90% humidity for 16 hours. However, the set conditions are for comparing the degree of component noise or lifting of the insulator of the conventional heater assembly and the heater assembly aged according to the method for manufacturing an embodiment of the present disclosure, and may be variously changed as needed.

[0170] Referring to the left image of Fig. 15, noise (401, 402) was generated from the insulator (40) at several locations along the circumference of the heater assembly, and a phenomenon occurred in which a portion of the insulator (40) was lifted from the susceptor (50) and / or the heating element (60). Accordingly, it can be confirmed that the shape of the insertion space (43) was deformed as the susceptor (50) and / or the heating element (60) was distorted.

[0171] In contrast, in the heater assembly (30) aged according to the manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, no component noise was generated in the insulator (40), and no phenomenon occurred in which a portion of the insulator (40) was lifted from the susceptor (50) and / or the heating element (60). Accordingly, it can be confirmed that the shape of the insertion space (43) was maintained without distortion.

[0172] In this way, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by aging the heater assembly by applying a heating time and a heating temperature set to a specific range, it is possible to prevent the insulator from swelling or a portion of the insulator from being lifted or peeled off from the susceptor and / or the heating element due to use of the aerosol generating device.

[0173] In general, problems such as lifting or peeling of the insulator may not occur immediately after the heater assembly is manufactured and aged. However, when reliability testing is conducted later or the aerosol generator is sold and used by a user, the heater assembly may be damaged by air bubbles generated within the insulator of the heater assembly. According to a method for manufacturing a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, by applying a heating time and a heating temperature set within a specific range over a plurality of steps (S1041 to S1045) to age the heater assembly for a long period of time, the generation of air bubbles within the insulator of the heater assembly can be prevented even after the heater assembly is manufactured. Accordingly, the reliability of the heater assembly can be secured.

[0174]

[0175] Fig. 16 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and at least one heater (18, 24). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 16. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that some of the components illustrated in Fig. 16 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator (1).

[0177] The sensor (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generator (1) or the status around the aerosol generator (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generator (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), restricting smoking, determining whether a stick (S) and / or cartridge (19) is inserted, and displaying a notification are performed.

[0178] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (131), a puff sensor (132), an insertion detection sensor (133), a reuse detection sensor (134), a motion detection sensor (137), and a humidity sensor (138).

[0179] The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generator (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18), or the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) itself may serve as a temperature sensor.

[0180] The temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). It can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0181] A temperature sensor (131) may be placed around the power source (11) to monitor the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor (131) may be placed adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be attached to one side of a battery, which is the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0182] A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the body (10) and can detect the internal temperature of the body (10).

[0183] The puff sensor (132) can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor (132) can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor (132) can be arranged in correspondence to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0184] The stick detection sensor (133) can detect insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The stick detection sensor may be referred to as an insertion detection sensor. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) may be installed around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S) according to a change in permittivity within the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor (133) may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0185] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to an insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a current-flowing coil, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0186] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0187] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surroundings, for example, the electrostatic capacitance around the conductor. For example, when a stick (S) including a wrapper made of a metallic material is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may be changed by the wrapper of the stick (S).

[0188] A reuse detection sensor (134) can detect whether the stick (S) has been reused. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of a wrapper that wraps the outside of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect a value for an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic may be a wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as a single component with the proximity sensor, or may be implemented as a separate component distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0189] At least some of the wrappers constituting the stick (S) may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be positioned corresponding to a position where at least some of the wrappers whose color changes due to the aerosol are disposed when the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick (S) is used by a user, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be a first color. At this time, as at least some of the wrappers are wetted by the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device (1) while passing through the stick (S), the color of at least some of the wrappers may change to a second color. Meanwhile, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be maintained at the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0190] A motion detection sensor (137) can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor (137) can be implemented with at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0191] The humidity sensor (138) can detect the humidity of the aerosol generator and / or the cartridge. The humidity sensor (138) can detect the humidity of the outside air and / or the humidity inside the cartridge. The humidity sensor (138) can be implemented by a capacitive sensor, etc. The humidity sensor (138) can be positioned on the outside of the body (10) or on a path through which outside air is introduced, and can measure the humidity around the aerosol generator (1). The humidity sensor (138) can be positioned in the storage portion of the cartridge (19) and can measure the humidity inside the cartridge (19).

[0192] In addition to the sensors (131 to 138) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and 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.

[0193] The output unit (14) can output information on the status of the aerosol generator (1) and provide it to the user. The output unit (14) may include at least one of a display (141), a haptic unit (142), and an audio output unit (143), but is not limited thereto. When the display (141) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display (141) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0194] The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generator (1) may refer to various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1), the preheating status of the heater (18), the insertion / removal status of the stick (S) and / or cartridge (19), the mounting / removal status of the upper case, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generator (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display (141) can output the above information to the outside. For example, the display (141) may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display (141) may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0195] The haptic unit (142) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus. For example, the haptic unit (142) can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating when the initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) for a set period of time. The haptic unit (142) can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0196] The acoustic output unit (143) can provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (143) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0197] The power source (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator (1). The power source (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator (1), such as a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a 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.

[0198] Although not shown in FIG. 16, the aerosol generator (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power source (11) and include a switching element.

[0199] The power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) according to certain conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0200] The heater (18) can receive power from the power source (11) and heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick (S). Although not illustrated in FIG. 16, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (1) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current power of the power source (11) into alternating current power.

[0201] The control unit (12), sensor (13), output unit (14), input unit (15), communication unit (16), and memory (17) can receive power from the power source (11) and perform their functions. Although not illustrated in FIG. 16, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to each component. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 16, a noise filter may be provided between the power source (11) and the heater (18). The noise filter may be a low pass filter. The low pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high frequency switching current applied from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The low pass filter can prevent high frequency noise components from being applied to a sensor (13), such as an insertion detection sensor (133).

[0202] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. Additionally, the heater (18) may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal wire, a metal plate having a track disposed thereon, a ceramic heater, and the like.

[0203] In another embodiment, the heater (18) may be an induction heating heater. For example, the heater (18) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0204] The input unit (15) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (15) can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor can include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0205] The display (141) and the touch panel may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display (141) (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added-on to the display panel (141).

[0206] Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0207] The memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generator (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). 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. The memory (17) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generator (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0208] The communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (16) may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0209] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0210] The wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0211] Although not shown in FIG. 16, the aerosol generator (1) further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a power source (11) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface such as a USB interface.

[0212] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0213] The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) sensed by the temperature sensor (131). The control unit (12) can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0214] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply (11) between the power supply (11) and the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater (24), the heater (18), or the induction coil (181). The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit (12) may control the power supply circuit.

[0215] The control unit (12) can control power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts direct current power output from the power source (11) into alternating current power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0216] The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source (11) to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the current supplied from the power source (11) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0217] The control unit (12) can control the voltage output from the power source (11) by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a zener diode, etc.

[0218] The control unit (12) can control the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the on state of the switching element continues, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the level of the voltage output from the power source (11). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source (11). As the duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may decrease. The heater (18) can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0219] The control unit (12) can control power to be supplied to the heater (18) using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0220] For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (18) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0221] For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is the target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater (18) and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0222] The control unit (12) can prevent the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is cut off based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substance contained in the cartridge (19) is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeding the limit temperature, and can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24).

[0223] The control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the power source (11). The control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) based on the output signal of the temperature sensor (131).

[0224] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking charging of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11).

[0225] When the power of the aerosol generator (1) is turned on, the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking discharge of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control to use the power stored in the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using the power stored in the power source (11).

[0226] 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 the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[0227] The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). The control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor (133). If it is determined that the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0228] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18) is higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater (18) is higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0229] The control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (18) according to the state of the stick (S) detected by the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can check the level range that includes the level of the signal of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit (12) can determine the moisture content of the stick (S) according to the checked level range.

[0230] When the stick (S) is in an over-humidified state, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time to the heater (18) to increase the preheating time of the stick (S) compared to the normal state.

[0231] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space has been reused through the reuse detection sensor (134). For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and if the sensing value is included in the first reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has not been used. For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and if the sensing value is included in the second reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has been used. If it is determined that the stick (S) has been used, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0232] The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. For example, the control unit (12) can preheat the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds a limited temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds the limited temperature, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0233] The control unit (12) can make a judgment regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor (132). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has been generated based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor (132). If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18).

[0234] The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor (13). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (132) reaches a preset number, the control unit (12) can notify the user that the aerosol generator (1) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display (141), the haptic unit (142), and the sound output unit (143). For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the stick (S) does not exist in the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the cartridge (19) and / or the upper case is not mounted. For example, the control unit (12) can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) to the user through the output unit (14).

[0235] The control unit (12) can store and update the history of the event that occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event may include operations such as detection of insertion of the stick (S), initiation of heating of the stick (S), detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), termination of heating of the stick (S), power on / off of the aerosol generator (1), initiation of charging of the power supply (11), detection of overcharge of the power supply (11), termination of charging of the power supply (11), etc. performed in the aerosol generator (1). The history of the event may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick (S), the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (133), etc. For example, if a given event is overheating detection of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the voltage applied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the current flowing through the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), etc.

[0236] The control unit (12) can control to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. When data regarding authentication is received from the external device through the communication link, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). Here, the data regarding authentication can include data indicating completion of user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the use authority of the aerosol generator (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator (1) based on the data regarding the use authority. When the user authentication is completed, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). For example, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater (18) when user authentication is completed.

[0237] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generator (1) to an external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity, operation mode, etc. of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1) via a display of the external device.

[0238] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generator (1). When receiving a location search request from the external device, the control unit (12) may control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, in response to the location search request, the haptic unit (142) may generate vibration. For example, in response to the location search request, the display (141) may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0239] The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update when receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generator (1) and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive a new version of the firmware data and transmit the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generator (1) upon receiving a new version of the firmware data.

[0240] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the sensing value of at least one sensor (13) to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit (16), and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit (12) can perform an operation of determining a user's inhalation pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc. using the learning model received from the server. The control unit (12) can store, in the memory (17), the sensing value data of at least one sensor (13) and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN). For example, the memory (17) can store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning the artificial neural network (ANN), and weights and biases forming the artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The control unit (12) can learn data on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor (13), the user's suction pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory (17), and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's suction pattern, generating the temperature profile, etc.

[0241]

[0242] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which a through hole is formed penetrating an insulator formed on the outside of a heating element, so that air bubbles generated inside the insulator can be discharged to the outside of the insulator, and each layer forming the insulator can be prevented from being lifted or peeled off.

[0243] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the through hole has a structure that connects the outer surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the insulator, so that air bubbles generated at the contact area between the heating element and the insulator can be discharged to the outside of the insulator.

[0244] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the center of each hole forming the through hole is arranged to be misaligned from each other, thereby increasing the area of ​​each layer of the insulator exposed to the inside of the through hole, thereby effectively discharging air bubbles generated within each layer of the insulator to the outside.

[0245] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a sheet forming an insulator is rolled together with a heating element to manufacture a heater assembly, and by aging the manufactured heater assembly, air bubbles generated inside the insulator during the manufacturing process can be discharged to the outside of the insulator.

[0246] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by aging the heater assembly by applying a heating time and a heating temperature set within a specific range, it is possible to prevent the insulator from swelling or a portion of the insulator from being lifted or peeled off from the heating element when using the aerosol generating device.

[0247] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a heating element disposed on a sheet-shaped insulator is rolled together with the insulator and the heating element is thermally bonded to the insulator, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the heater assembly and simplifying the bonding structure of the heater assembly.

[0248] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater assembly is formed by rolling a heating element disposed on a sheet-shaped insulator together with the insulator, thereby reducing the size of the device.

[0249]

[0250] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 16, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a body (10); and a hollow heater assembly (30) disposed in the body (10) and providing an insertion space (43) with one side open, wherein the heater assembly (30) comprises: a heating element (60) that heats the insertion space (43); an insulator (40) that forms a plurality of layers surrounding the outside of the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43); and a through hole (70) penetrating the plurality of layers, wherein the through hole (70) may be formed by overlapping holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in each of the plurality of layers.

[0251] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least some of the holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) forming the through hole (70) may be arranged with their centers misaligned with each other in the radial direction of the insertion space (43).

[0252] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of layers include a first layer (40d1) disposed outside the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43) and having a first hole (H1) formed therein; and a second layer (40d2) in contact with the first layer (40d1) and disposed outside the first layer (40d1) and having a second hole (H2) formed therein, wherein the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) may be arranged to be misaligned with the center (C1) of the first hole (H1).

[0253] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first hole (H1) may include a plurality of holes (H1) that are aligned with each other and form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43), and the second hole (H2) may include a plurality of holes (H2) that are aligned with each other and form at least one row in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43).

[0254] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one row formed by the plurality of first holes (H1) may be arranged with their centers misaligned with each other in the circumferential direction of the insertion space (43) from at least one row formed by the plurality of second holes (H2).

[0255] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the distance by which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be smaller than the sum of the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1).

[0256] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the distance by which the center (C2) of the second hole (H2) is spaced from the center (C1) of the first hole (H1) may be greater than the average of the radius (Rh2) of the second hole (H2) and the radius (Rh1) of the first hole (H1).

[0257] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the through hole (70) may extend in the radial direction of the insertion space (43) and may communicate the outer surface of the heating element (60) and the outside of the insulator (40).

[0258] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the through hole (70) may include a plurality of through holes (70) spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (43).

[0259] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a hollow susceptor (50) is disposed inside the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43) and forms at least a part of the insertion space (43); and the through hole (70) can be disposed to overlap the susceptor (50) and the heating element (60) in the radial direction of the insertion space (43).

[0260] A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a step of preparing an elongated insulator (40) (S1010); a step of arranging a heating element (60) on the insulator (40) (S1020); a step of rolling the insulator (40) on which the heating element (60) is arranged to form a heater assembly (30) having a plurality of layers surrounding the outside of the heating element (60) (S1030); and a step of aging the heater assembly (30) (S1040).

[0261] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, in the step (S1030) of manufacturing the heater assembly (30), holes (H1, H2, H3, H4) formed in each of the plurality of layers may be formed to overlap each other, and a through hole (70) penetrating the plurality of layers may be formed.

[0262] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the step of aging the heater assembly (30) (S1040) may include a step of maintaining the chamber in which the heater assembly (30) is placed at a first temperature for a first time period (S1045).

[0263] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first temperature may be 280 to 300 degrees, and the first time may be 3 to 5 hours.

[0264] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the step of aging the heater assembly (30) (S1040) further includes a step of heating the chamber to the first temperature for a second time shorter than the first time (S1041); a step of maintaining the chamber at the first temperature for a third time longer than the second time (S1042); a step of inserting a stick (S) into the heater assembly (30) and maintaining the chamber at a second temperature lower than the first temperature for a fourth time longer than the third time (S1043); and a step of removing the stick (S) from the heater assembly (30) and heating the chamber to a third temperature for a fifth time shorter than the fourth time (S1044), wherein the step of maintaining the chamber at the first temperature for the first time (S1045) may be performed after the step of heating the chamber to the third temperature for the fifth time (S1044).

[0265]

[0266] 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.

[0267] 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.

[0268] 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. Body; and A hollow heater assembly is disposed on the above body and provides an insertion space with one side open, The above heater assembly, A heating element that heats the above insertion space; An insulator forming a plurality of layers surrounding the outer side of the heating element in the radial direction of the insertion space; and including a through hole penetrating the plurality of layers, The above through hole is, An aerosol generating device in which holes formed in each of the above multiple layers overlap each other.

2. In paragraph 1, At least some of the holes forming the above through holes, An aerosol generating device in which adjacent holes and centers are arranged so as to be misaligned with each other in the radial direction of the above insertion space.

3. In paragraph 2, The above multiple layers are, A first layer disposed on the outside of the heating element in the radial direction of the insertion space and having a first hole formed therein; and A second layer is in contact with the first layer, is disposed on the outside of the first layer, and includes a second hole formed therein. The center of the second hole is An aerosol generating device arranged so as to be offset from the center of the first hole.

4. In paragraph 3, The above first hole is, It comprises a plurality of holes aligned with each other in at least one row in the circumferential direction of the above insertion space, The above second hole is, An aerosol generating device comprising a plurality of holes aligned with each other in at least one row in the circumferential direction of the above insertion space.

5. In paragraph 4, An aerosol generating device in which at least one row formed by the plurality of first holes is arranged with centers misaligned with at least one row formed by the plurality of second holes in the circumferential direction of the insertion space.

6. In paragraph 3, The distance between the center of the second hole and the center of the first hole is An aerosol generating device having a radius smaller than the sum of the radius of the second hole and the radius of the first hole.

7. In paragraph 3, The distance between the center of the second hole and the center of the first hole is An aerosol generating device having a radius greater than the average of the radius of the second hole and the radius of the first hole.

8. In paragraph 1, The above through hole is, An aerosol generating device extending in the radial direction of the above insertion space and connecting the outer surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the insulator.

9. In paragraph 1, The above through hole is, An aerosol generating device comprising a plurality of through holes spaced apart from each other along the length of the above insertion space.

10. In paragraph 1, A hollow susceptor is disposed inside the heating element in the radial direction of the insertion space and forms at least a portion of the insertion space; The above through hole is, An aerosol generating device arranged to overlap the susceptor and the heating element in the radial direction of the above insertion space.

11. A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device of paragraph 1, Step of preparing a long-extended insulator; A step of placing a heating element on the above insulator; A step of manufacturing a heater assembly in which a plurality of layers are formed by rolling the insulator in which the heating element is arranged and surrounding the outside of the heating element; and A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device, comprising a step of aging the above heater assembly.

12. In paragraph 11, In the step of manufacturing the above heater assembly, A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device in which holes formed in each of the plurality of layers overlap each other and a through hole penetrating the plurality of layers is formed.

13. In paragraph 11, The step of aging the above heater assembly is: A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device, comprising the step of maintaining a chamber in which the heater assembly is arranged at a first temperature for a first period of time.

14. In paragraph 13, The above first temperature is, 280 to 300 degrees, The first hour above is, A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device having a duration of 3 to 5 hours.

15. In paragraph 13, The step of aging the above heater assembly is: A step of heating the chamber to the first temperature for a second time shorter than the first time; A step of maintaining the chamber at the first temperature for a third time longer than the second time; A step of inserting a stick into the heater assembly and maintaining the chamber at a second temperature lower than the first temperature for a fourth time period longer than the third time period; and further comprising the step of removing the stick from the heater assembly and heating the chamber to a third temperature for a fifth time shorter than the fourth time; The step of maintaining the chamber at a first temperature for a first hour is as follows: A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device, which is performed after the step of heating the chamber to a third temperature for a fifth hour.

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