Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device disclosed herein comprises: a body that extends lengthwise and has an opening formed at one end in the longitudinal direction; a cartridge accommodated in an accommodation space inside the body via the opening; a guide groove which is formed by opening a portion of a side surface of the body and extends from the opening in the longitudinal direction of the body; a slit formed by recessing a portion of a side surface of the cartridge accommodated in the accommodation space; and a rib protruding into the body and coupled to the slit. The rib may extend in the direction in which the guide groove extends and may be located adjacent to the guide groove in the circumferential direction of the body.

Description

Aerosol generator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an 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] In an aerosol generator with a replaceable cartridge, one side of the body that connects to the cartridge may have an open structure. With the cartridge connected to the body, the user can inhale the aerosol through a mouthpiece formed on the cartridge. As the user uses the device, play may occur at the connection between the cartridge and the body, or the cartridge may wobble relative to the body. In this case, the cartridge may separate from the body, or the cartridge or body may be damaged. Furthermore, the user may experience inconvenience when using the device.

[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 body having ribs that protrude inwardly and extend in one direction and a cartridge having slits on the side thereof, such that the cartridge is coupled to the body by the engagement of the ribs and the slits.

[0006] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which a guide groove is formed on a side of a body, and a rib extends in an extension direction of the guide groove and is positioned adjacent to the guide groove.

[0007] Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a rib groove provided on the upper side of the rib and a support protrusion provided within a slit of the cartridge, thereby supporting the cartridge and the body by the rib groove and the support protrusion.

[0008] Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a fixing groove provided on the inside of the body and a fixing protrusion provided on the side of the cartridge, thereby supporting the cartridge and the body by the fixing groove and the fixing protrusion.

[0009] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device having ribs extending in a direction in which a mouthpiece provided on one side of the cartridge protrudes.

[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 having an elongated shape and an opening formed at one end in the longitudinal direction; a cartridge accommodated in a receiving space within the body through the opening; a guide groove formed by opening a portion of a side surface of the body and extending in the longitudinal direction of the body from the opening; a slit formed by recessing a portion of a side surface of the cartridge accommodated in the receiving space; and a rib protruding inwardly of the body and engaging the slit, wherein the rib extends in a direction in which the guide groove extends and is positioned adjacent to the guide groove in a circumferential direction of the body.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a body is provided with a rib that protrudes inwardly and extends in one direction, and a slit is provided on the side of the cartridge, so that the cartridge is coupled to the body by the combination of the rib and the slit, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body by the rib and the slit.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide groove is formed on a side of the body, and a rib extends in an extension direction of the guide groove and is positioned adjacent to the guide groove, so that the body and the cartridge can be firmly coupled around the guide groove where play is likely to occur.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a rib groove is provided on the upper side of the rib, and a support protrusion is provided in the slit of the cartridge, so that the cartridge and the body are supported by the rib groove and the support protrusion, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a fixing groove is provided on the inner surface of the body, and a fixing projection is provided on the side of the cartridge, so that the cartridge and the body are supported by the fixing groove and the fixing projection, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a rib is extended in a direction in which a mouthpiece provided on one side of the cartridge protrudes, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body due to an external force applied to the cartridge through the mouthpiece.

[0016] 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.

[0017] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge and a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an opening of a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from below.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the ribs of the body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a slit of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 9 and 10 are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from above.

[0025] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] Throughout this specification, the direction of the aerosol generator (1) may be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator (1). The y-axis direction may be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator (1). The z-axis direction may be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator (1).

[0033]

[0034] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a body (10) and a cartridge (19). The aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor (13). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor (13) may be disposed inside the body (10). A cartridge (19), which is an aerosol generating article, may be mounted on the body (10). A user may inhale the aerosol by putting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge (19) in his / her mouth.

[0036] The cartridge (19) may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state, within an internal chamber (C0). The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco substance.

[0037] The cartridge (19) can be coupled to the body (10). The cartridge (19) can be inserted into the body (10) and mounted on the body (10). The cartridge (19) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). Alternatively, the cartridge (19) can be formed integrally with the body (10).

[0038] A structure may be formed in the body (10) so that outside air can flow into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is coupled. At this time, the outside air that has flowed into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0039] The cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) containing an aerosol generating material. A liquid delivery means (25) impregnated with (contained by) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the chamber (C0). Here, the liquid delivery means (25) may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0040] The heater (24) can be placed in the cartridge (19) or the body (10). Although the drawing shows the heater (24) being placed inside the cartridge (19), the present invention is not limited thereto, and the heater (24) can be placed inside the body (10).

[0041] The heater (24) may be disposed separably from the body (10) and / or the cartridge (19). For example, the heater (24) may be disposed in the body (10) and separably disposed from the cartridge (19). Alternatively, the heater (24) may be disposed in a separate heater structure, and the heater structure may be separably coupled to at least one of the body (10) and the cartridge (19).

[0042] The electrically conductive track of the heater (24) can be formed as a coil-shaped structure that winds the liquid transfer means (25) or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means (25).

[0043] The heater (24) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the heater (24), an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0044] An airflow channel (CN) may be provided in the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may be connected to a chamber in which a heater (24) or a liquid delivery means (25) is arranged and the outside of the cartridge (19). One end of the airflow channel (CN) may be opened to the chamber in which the heater (24) or the liquid delivery means (25) is arranged, and the other end may be connected to a mouthpiece. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the airflow channel (CN) may extend along the length of the cartridge (19) from one side of the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19). For example, referring to FIG. 2, the airflow channel (CN) may extend along the length of the cartridge (19) by penetrating the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19).

[0045] The power source (11) can supply power to operate the components of the aerosol generator (1). 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 (24).

[0046] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11), the sensor (13), and the cartridge (19). The control unit (12) can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator (1) to determine whether the aerosol generator (1) is in an operable state.

[0047] 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 cartridge heater (24) so ​​that the operation of the heater (24) 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 (24) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (24) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0048] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a movement detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (24), 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 cartridge (19) is mounted. For example, the sensor (13) may sense the movement of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0049]

[0050] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 3, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a first housing (A101), a second housing (A201), and a third housing (A301).

[0052] The first housing (A101), the second housing (A201), and the third housing (A301) can form the exterior of the aerosol generator (1). The first housing (A101), the second housing (A201), and the third housing (A301) can house other components of the aerosol generator (1) inside and protect them from the outside. At least one of the first housing (A101), the second housing (A201), and the third housing (A301) can be detachably coupled to another housing.

[0053] The first housing (A101) may be a main body. The first housing (A101) may accommodate at least one of a battery (e.g., a power source (11)) and a control unit (e.g., a control unit (12)). The second housing (A201) may be a heater assembly. The second housing (A201) may accommodate at least one of a heater (e.g., a heater (24)) and a wick (e.g., a liquid delivery means (25)). The third housing (A301) may be a cartridge (e.g., a cartridge (19)). The third housing (A301) may include at least one of a storage chamber (e.g., a chamber (C0)) and an airflow channel (e.g., an airflow channel (CN)).

[0054] A mouthpiece (A330) may be placed on one side of the third housing (A301). The mouthpiece (A330) may include an intake port (A335) that communicates with the exterior of the third housing (A301).

[0055] The cover (A102) can surround at least a portion of the outer circumference of the first to third housings (A101, A201, A301). The cover (A102) can be bent in the circumferential direction of the aerosol generator (1) and form a space therein. One side of the cover (A102) can be opened in a longitudinal direction or an up-down direction of the aerosol generator (1). The coupling of the first to third housings (A101, A201, A301) can be guided by the opening of the cover (A102). The cover (A102) can be formed integrally with the first housing (A101), but is not limited thereto, and can also be detachably coupled to the first housing (A101).

[0056] The first housing (A101), the second housing (A201), and the third housing (A301) can be replaced independently of each other. The user can separately replace at least one of the first housing (A101), the second housing (A201), and the third housing (A301).

[0057] For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol generating substance stored in the third housing (A301) may be shorter than the replacement cycle of the second housing (A201). While the third housing (A301) may be replaced multiple times, the second housing (A201) may be replaced only once. For example, the first housing (A101) may be used without replacement.

[0058] Accordingly, the cost of replacing some components of the aerosol generating device (1) can be reduced.

[0059]

[0060] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge (500) and a body (400) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, the aerosol generator (1) may include a body (400) (e.g., a first housing (A101), a second housing (A201), and a cover (A102)) and a cartridge (500) (e.g., a third housing (A301)).

[0062] The body (400) can accommodate other components of the aerosol generator (1) inside and protect them from the outside. The body (400) can accommodate at least one of a battery (e.g., battery (11)) and a control unit (e.g., control unit (12)) inside. The body (400) can accommodate at least one of a heater (e.g., heater (24)) and a wick (e.g., wick (25)).

[0063] The body (400) may include a body housing (410) (e.g., cover (A102)). The body housing (410) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (1). The body housing (410) may be bent in the circumferential direction of the aerosol generating device (1) and may form an accommodation space (411) therein. The body housing (410) may be elongated in one direction (e.g., z-direction). One longitudinal end of the body housing (410) may be opened. The opening (413) may be in communication with the accommodation space (411).

[0064] The body (400) may include a guide groove (412). The guide groove (412) may be formed by opening a portion of a side surface of the body housing (410). The guide groove (412) may be connected to an opening (413) of the body housing (410) and may extend longitudinally from the opening (413) in the direction of the body (400) or the body housing (410).

[0065] The cartridge (500) can be detachably coupled to the body (400). The cartridge (500) can be accommodated in the accommodation space (411) through the opening (413) of the body housing (410). The cartridge (500) can be coupled to the body (400) in the longitudinal direction of the body (400) or the body housing (410). A mouthpiece (530) (e.g., mouthpiece (A330)) can be arranged on one side of the cartridge (500). The mouthpiece (530) can include a suction port (535) (e.g., suction port (A335)) that communicates with the exterior of the cartridge (500). The cartridge (500) can be replaced.

[0066]

[0067] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an opening (413) of a body (400) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from one side, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge (500) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a rib (420) may be provided on the body (400). The rib (420) may protrude from the body housing (410) toward the inside of the body (400). The rib (420) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the body housing (410) or in a direction in which the guide groove (412) extends. In the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410), the upper end of the rib (420) may be arranged adjacent to the opening (413) of the body housing (410). In the circumferential direction of the body (400) or the body housing (410), the rib (420) may be arranged adjacent to the guide groove (412).

[0069] A slit (570) may be provided in the cartridge (500). The slit (570) may be referred to as a sliding groove. The slit (570) may be formed by a portion of a side surface of the cartridge (500) being sunken inward. The slit (570) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). The slit (570) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the rib (420). The cartridge (500) may be accommodated in the accommodation space (411) of the body housing (410) through the opening (413) of the body housing (410). When the cartridge (500) is coupled with the body housing (410), the upper end of the rib (420) may be inserted into the slit (570) through the lower end of the slit (570). The rib (420) can be joined to the slit (570) by sliding along the slit (570).

[0070] A body (400) may be provided with a plurality of ribs (420). The ribs (420) may include a first rib (421) and a second rib (422). The first rib (421) may be arranged adjacent to one side of the guide groove (412) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). The first rib (421) may be extended in a long direction in which the guide groove (412) extends. The first rib (421) may be extended along the guide groove (412) from either end of the body housing (410) facing the guide groove (412). The second rib (422) may be arranged adjacent to the other side of the guide groove (412) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). The second rib (422) may be extended in a long direction in which the guide groove (412) extends. The second rib (422) may be extended along the guide groove (412) from one of the ends of the body housing (410) facing the guide groove (412).

[0071] A cartridge (500) may be provided with a plurality of slits (570). The slits (570) may include a first slit (571) and a second slit (572, see FIG. 8-10). The first slit (571) and the second slit (572) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). The first slit (571) and the second slit (572) may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The first slit (571) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first rib (421). The first slit (571) may be coupled with the first rib (421). The second slit (572) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second rib (422). The second slit (572) can be combined with the second rib (422).

[0072] Accordingly, a rib (420) protruding inwardly and extending in one direction is provided in the body (400), and a slit (570) is provided on the side of the cartridge (500), so that the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (400) by the combination of the rib (420) and the slit (570), thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge (500) and the body (400).

[0073] In addition, a guide groove (412) is formed on the side of the body (400), and a rib (420) extends in the extension direction of the guide groove (412) and is positioned adjacent to the guide groove (412), so that the body (400) and the cartridge (500) can be firmly combined around the guide groove (412) where play is likely to occur.

[0074] The cartridge (500) may include a cartridge body (510) and a guide body (520). The cartridge body (510) may include at least one of a storage chamber (527, see FIGS. 9 and 10), an airflow channel (531, see FIGS. 9 and 10), an aerosol path (540), and an absorbent member (550) therein. The storage chamber (527) may store an aerosol product therein. The airflow channel (531) may be communicated with the suction port (535) and the aerosol path (540). The absorbent member (550) may be disposed on the lower side of the storage chamber (527). The absorbent member (550) may absorb the aerosol product in the storage chamber (527). At least a part of the absorbent member (550) can be exposed to the outside through a hole formed in the lower side of the cartridge body (510). When the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (400), the absorbent member (550) can come into contact with a wick (not shown) (e.g., wick (25)) provided in the body (400). One end of the aerosol path (540) can be exposed to the outside through a hole formed in the lower side of the cartridge body (510). The aerosol path (540) is connected to the aerosol path provided in the body (400), and an aerosol formed in an atomizing chamber (not shown) provided in the body (400) can flow.

[0075] The guide body (520) may protrude outward from the side of the cartridge body (510). The guide body (520) may be bent convexly outward. The guide body (520) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). At least a portion of the storage chamber (527) may be positioned within the guide body (502).

[0076] The boundary formed by the guide body (520) and the cartridge body (510) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500) on both sides of the guide body (520). The guide body (520) may be formed integrally with the cartridge body (510). When the cartridge (500) is coupled with the body housing (410), the guide body (520) may be inserted into the guide groove (412). The guide body (520) may penetrate the guide groove (412) and protrude outward from the body housing (410). The guide body (520) may be coupled to the guide groove (412) while sliding along the guide groove (412). At least a portion of the convexly banded outer surface of the guide body (520) may include a transparent material. The user can check the remaining amount of aerosol generating material contained in the storage chamber (527) through the outer surface of the guide body (520) protruding outside the guide home (412).

[0077] The slit (570) may be positioned adjacent to the boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520). The first slit (571) may extend along one boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520). The second slit (572) may extend along the other boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520).

[0078] The mouthpiece (530) may be placed on one side of the cartridge (500). The mouthpiece (530) may cover at least a portion of the upper portion of the cartridge body (510) and / or the guide body (520). The mouthpiece (530) may extend in the direction in which the guide body (520) extends. A portion of the outer surface of the mouthpiece (530) may be convexly bent. A portion of the convexly bent outer surface of the mouthpiece (530) may be connected to the convexly bent outer surface of the guide body (520). The mouthpiece (530) may be formed integrally with the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520).

[0079] The rib (420) may extend in the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes or in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). In other words, the direction in which the rib (420) extends may correspond to the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes.

[0080] A user can inhale the aerosol by placing the mouthpiece (530) in his / her mouth. While the user inhales the aerosol, an external force can be applied to the cartridge (500) and the body (400) through the mouthpiece (530). Since the rib (420) is extended in a direction corresponding to the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes, the cartridge (500) can be prevented from shaking or a gap between the cartridge (500) and the body (400) can be prevented from occurring due to the external force applied through the mouthpiece (530).

[0081] A guide protrusion (521) may be provided on one side of the guide body (520). The guide protrusion (521) may protrude convexly outward from a convexly bent portion of the guide body (520). The guide protrusion (521) may include a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). When the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (400), the guide protrusion (521) may protrude outward from the guide groove (412).

[0082] The user can slide the cartridge (500) into the body housing (410) by pushing the guide protrusion (521) portion while the lower end of the cartridge (500) is inserted into the opening (413) of the body housing (410). Accordingly, the user can easily attach the cartridge (500) to the body (400), and the user's convenience can be improved.

[0083]

[0084] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a rib (420) of a body (400) of an aerosol generator (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a slit (570) of a cartridge (500) of an aerosol generator (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figs. 9 and 10 are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generator (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from above. Fig. 9 shows a cross-section of an aerosol generator (1) along line AA of Fig. 4, and Fig. 10 shows a cross-section of an aerosol generator (1) along line BB of Fig. 4.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, rib grooves (423, 424) may be formed in the rib (420). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be formed by a portion of the rib (420) being sunken in the outward direction of the body (400). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be arranged adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be arranged at a predetermined distance from one end of the rib (420) adjacent to the opening (413). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be arranged closer to one end of the rib (420) than to the other end of the rib (420) in the longitudinal direction of the rib (420). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be extended in the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410) or in the longitudinal direction of the rib (420). The rib grooves (423, 424) may have a shape in which both ends are slanted and sunken in the longitudinal direction of the rib (420). The rib grooves (423, 424) may be provided in each of the plurality of ribs (420). The rib grooves (423, 424) may include a first rib groove (423) provided in the first rib (421) and a second rib groove (424) provided in the second rib (422). The first rib groove (423) and the second rib groove (424) may be arranged in overlapping positions in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410) or the width direction of the rib (420). The first rib home (423) and the second rib home (424) can be arranged at approximately the same position in the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410) or the longitudinal direction of the rib (420).

[0086] Supporting protrusions (573, 574) may be formed in the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may protrude outward from the side of the cartridge (500). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may be positioned within the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may protrude outward from the sunken surface of the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may have a shape corresponding to the rib grooves (423, 424). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may be positioned adjacent to the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may be arranged closer to one end of the slit (570) adjacent to the upper surface (511) than to the other end of the slit (570) in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500) or the longitudinal direction of the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may extend long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500) or the longitudinal direction of the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may have a shape in which both ends are inclined and bent in the longitudinal direction of the slit (570). The supporting protrusions (573, 574) may be provided on each of the plurality of slits (570). The support protrusions (573, 574) may include a first support protrusion (573) provided in the first slit (571) and a second support protrusion (574) provided in the second slit (572). The first support protrusion (573) and the second support protrusion (574) may be arranged at overlapping positions in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500) or the width direction of the slit (570). The first support protrusion (573) and the second support protrusion (574) may be arranged at approximately the same positions in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500) or the longitudinal direction of the slit (570).

[0087] The supporting protrusions (573, 574) can be combined with the rib grooves (423, 424). When the cartridge (500) is combined with the body housing (410), the rib (420) can be inserted into the slit (570) and slid. One end of the rib (420) can be inserted to a position adjacent to one end of the slit (570) or can come into contact with one end of the slit (570). In this case, the rib grooves (423, 424) positioned adjacent to one end of the rib (420) can be combined with the supporting protrusions (573, 574) positioned adjacent to one end of the slit (570).

[0088] The support protrusions (573, 574) and the rib grooves (423, 424) have a shape that extends long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500) and the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410), respectively, and can be joined to each other at a position adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400).

[0089] Accordingly, the cartridge (500) and the body (400) can be firmly supported at a position adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400), and a gap between the cartridge (500) and the body (400) can be prevented from occurring.

[0090] In addition, since the support protrusions (573, 574) and the rib grooves (423, 424) are coupled to each other at a position adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400), the phenomenon in which the support protrusions (573, 574) come into contact with the rib (420) and the rib (420) is separated from the slit (570) during the process in which the rib (420) slides in the slit (570) can be minimized.

[0091] The slit (570) may include a first end (5711, 5721) and a second end (5721, 5722). The first end (5711, 5712) of the slit (570) may be positioned adjacent to the top of the cartridge (500). The first end (5711, 5712) may be covered by the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500). The second end (5721, 5722) of the slit (570) may be positioned adjacent to the bottom of the cartridge (500). The second end (5721, 5722) may be open to the bottom of the cartridge (500). At the second end (5721, 5722), the width of the slit (570) may gradually widen as it goes downward.

[0092] Since the first end (5711, 5712) located on the upper side of the slit (570) is covered by the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500), the aesthetic perfection of the aerosol generating device (1) can be improved when the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (400).

[0093] In addition, in the second end (5721, 5722) located on the lower side of the slit (570), the width of the slit (570) gradually widens as it goes downward, so that the insertion of the rib (420) into the slit (570) can be guided, and the convenience of the user can be increased when combining the cartridge (500) with the body (400).

[0094]

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 7, 8, and 10, a fixing groove (430) may be formed in the body housing (410). The fixing groove (430) may be formed by a portion of the inner surface of the body housing (410) being sunken in the outward direction of the body housing (410). The fixing groove (430) may be arranged adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400). The fixing groove (430) may be arranged closer to one end of the body housing (410) where the opening (413) is formed than to the other end of the body housing (410) in the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410). The fixing groove (430) may extend in a long direction in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). The fixed groove (430) may have a shape in which both ends are inclined and sunken in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). The fixed groove (430) may be provided in multiple numbers. The fixed groove (430) may include a plurality of fixed grooves (431, 432, 433, 434) that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). The fixed groove (430) may be arranged spaced apart from the rib grooves (423, 424) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410). For example, the fixed groove (430) may include a first fixed groove (431) that is arranged adjacent to a first rib groove (423) and a second fixed groove (432) that is arranged adjacent to a second rib groove (424). For example, the fixed grooves (431, 432, 433, 434) may further include a third fixed groove (433) and a fourth fixed groove (434) arranged between the first fixed groove (431) and the second fixed groove (432) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (410).

[0096] A fixing protrusion (560) may be formed on the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may protrude outward from the side of the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may have a shape corresponding to the fixing groove (430). The fixing protrusion (560) may be arranged adjacent to the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may extend long in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may have a shape in which both ends are inclined and bent in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may be provided in multiple numbers. The fixing protrusion (560) may include a plurality of fixing protrusions (561, 562, 563, 564) spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing protrusion (560) may be arranged spaced apart from the slit (570) and / or the supporting protrusions (573, 574) in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). For example, the fixing protrusion (560) may include a first fixing protrusion (561) arranged adjacent to the first slit (571) and / or the first supporting protrusion (573) and a second fixing protrusion (562) arranged adjacent to the second slit (572) and / or the second supporting protrusion (574). For example, the fixing protrusion (560) may further include a third fixing protrusion (563) and a fourth fixing protrusion (564) arranged between the first fixing protrusion (561) and the second fixing protrusion (562) in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). A plurality of fixing projections (561, 562, 563, 564) can be combined with each of a plurality of fixing grooves (431, 432, 433, 434).

[0097] The fixing projection (560) and the fixing groove (430) have a shape that extends long in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500) and the circumferential direction of the body housing (410), respectively, and can be combined with each other at a position adjacent to the opening (413) of the body (400).

[0098] Accordingly, the combined state of the cartridge (500) and the body (400) can be fixed, and the occurrence of a gap between the cartridge (500) and the body (400) can be prevented.

[0099] The rib grooves (423, 424) and the fixed groove (430) may extend in directions intersecting each other. The support protrusions (573, 574) and the fixed protrusions (560) may extend in directions intersecting each other. The rib grooves (423, 424) may be positioned closer to the opening (413) of the body housing (410) than the fixed grooves (430) in the longitudinal direction of the body housing (410). The support protrusions (573, 574) may be positioned closer to the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500) than the fixed protrusions (560) in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge.

[0100] The rib grooves (423, 424) and the fixed groove (430) extend in directions intersecting each other and are respectively combined with the support protrusions (573, 574) and the fixed protrusions (560) of the cartridge (500), so that even when external forces are applied in various directions, the body (400) and the cartridge (500) can be firmly combined, and the occurrence of play between the body (400) and the cartridge (500) can be prevented.

[0101] In addition, since the rib grooves (423, 424) are positioned closer to the opening (413) of the body housing (410) than the fixed groove (430) and the rib grooves (423, 424) have a shape that extends in the direction in which the guide groove (412) extends, a play that may occur around the opening (413) of the body housing (410) and the guide groove (412) can be more effectively prevented.

[0102]

[0103] Fig. 11 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] 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. 11. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that, depending on the design of the aerosol generator (1), some of the components illustrated in Fig. 11 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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 cartridge detection sensor (135), a cap detection sensor (136), and a movement detection sensor (137).

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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).

[0109] 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.

[0110] A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the body (10) and can detect the internal temperature of the body (10).

[0111] 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).

[0112] The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). 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) can 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 the permittivity inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor (133) can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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).

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] The cartridge detection sensor (135) can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cartridge (19). The cartridge detection sensor (135) can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

[0119] The cap detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the body (10), the cartridge (19) and a portion of the body (10) covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor (136) can be implemented by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0120] 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.

[0121] In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a 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.

[0122] 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 unit (141) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0123] The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generator (1) can mean 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 cap, 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) can be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display (141) can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] Although not shown in FIG. 11, 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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. 11, 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.

[0130] 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. 11, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to each component. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 11, 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).

[0131] 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 heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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).

[0135] Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139]

[0140] *131 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., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0141] Although not shown in FIG. 11, 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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).

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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).

[0153] 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).

[0154] 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).

[0155] 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).

[0156] 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).

[0157] 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).

[0158] 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).

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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).

[0162] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed through the cartridge detection sensor (135). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0163] 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).

[0164] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is usable. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge (19) based on data stored in the memory (17). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the total time that the heater (24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power.

[0165] 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).

[0166] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed through the cap detection sensor (136). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cap detection sensor.

[0167] 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 cap 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).

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174]

[0175] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a rib protruding inwardly and extending in one direction is provided on the body, and a slit is provided on the side of the cartridge, so that the cartridge is coupled to the body by the combination of the rib and the slit, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body by the rib and the slit.

[0176] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide groove is formed on a side of the body, and a rib extends in an extension direction of the guide groove and is positioned adjacent to the guide groove, so that the body and the cartridge can be firmly coupled around the guide groove where play is likely to occur.

[0177] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a rib groove is provided on the upper side of the rib, and a support protrusion is provided in the slit of the cartridge, so that the cartridge and the body are supported by the rib groove and the support protrusion, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body.

[0178] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a fixing groove is provided on the inner surface of the body, and a fixing projection is provided on the side of the cartridge, so that the cartridge and the body are supported by the fixing groove and the fixing projection, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body.

[0179] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a rib is extended in a direction in which a mouthpiece provided on one side of the cartridge protrudes, thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge and the body due to an external force applied to the cartridge through the mouthpiece.

[0180]

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 11, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a body (400) having an elongated shape and an opening (413) formed at one end in the longitudinal direction; a cartridge (500) accommodated in a receiving space (411) within the body (400) through the opening (413); a guide groove (412) formed by opening a portion of a side surface of the body (400) and extending in the longitudinal direction of the body (400) from the opening (413); a slit (570) formed by sinking a portion of a side surface of the cartridge (500) accommodated in the receiving space (411); And it includes a rib (420) that protrudes inwardly of the body (400) and is coupled with the slit (570), and the rib (420) extends in the direction in which the guide groove (412) extends and can be positioned adjacent to the guide groove (412) in the circumferential direction of the body (400).

[0182] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rib (420) may include a first rib (421) arranged adjacent to one side of the guide groove (412) in the circumferential direction of the body (400); and a second rib (422) arranged adjacent to the other side of the guide groove (412) in the circumferential direction of the body (400) and facing the first rib (422), and the slit (570) may include a first slit (571) coupled with the first rib (421); and a second slit (572) coupled with the second rib (422).

[0183] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge (500) may include a cartridge body (510) having a storage chamber (527) therein; and a guide body (520) protruding outward from a side surface of the cartridge body (510), extending in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500), and coupled to the guide groove (412).

[0184] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the slit (570) may extend along the boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520) and be positioned adjacent to the boundary.

[0185] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a part of the rib (420) may be formed by being sunken in the outer direction of the body (400) and may include a rib groove (423, 424) arranged adjacent to the opening (413).

[0186] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, it may include a support protrusion (573, 574) formed within the slit (570), protruding outward from the side of the cartridge (500), and coupled with the rib groove (423, 424).

[0187] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rib home (423, 424) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the body (400), and the support protrusion (573, 574) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500).

[0188] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a part of the inner surface of the body (400) is sunken and formed, and a fixing groove (430) extending in the circumferential direction of the body (400) may be included; and a fixing projection (560) protruding outward from the side of the cartridge (500), extending in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500), and engaging with the fixing groove (430).

[0189] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fixing groove (430) may include a plurality of fixing grooves (431, 432, 433, 434) spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the body (400), and the fixing projection (560) may include a plurality of fixing projections (561, 562, 563, 564) that are coupled with each of the plurality of fixing grooves.

[0190] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rib home (423, 424) may be positioned closer to the opening (413) than the fixed home (430) in the longitudinal direction of the body (400).

[0191] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rib home (423, 424) may be spaced apart from the fixed home (430) in the circumferential direction of the body (400).

[0192] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the direction in which the rib home (423, 424) extends may intersect the direction in which the fixed home (430) extends.

[0193] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the slit (570) may include a first end (5711, 5721) positioned adjacent to the top of the cartridge (500) and covered by the upper surface (511) of the cartridge (500), and a second end (5712, 5722) that opens toward the bottom of the cartridge (500) and gradually widens in width as it goes downward.

[0194] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a mouthpiece (530) protruding from one side of the cartridge (500) and having a suction port (535) provided therein is included, and the direction in which the rib (420) extends may correspond to the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes.

[0195]

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A body having an elongated shape and an opening formed at one end in the longitudinal direction; A cartridge accommodated in a receiving space inside the body through the above opening; A guide groove formed by opening a portion of the side of the body and extending in the longitudinal direction of the body from the opening; A slit formed by a portion of the side of the cartridge accommodated in the accommodation space being sunken; and It includes a rib that protrudes inwardly from the body and is coupled with the slit, The above ribs, An aerosol generating device that extends in the direction in which the above guide groove extends and is positioned adjacent to the above guide groove in the circumferential direction of the body.

2. In paragraph 1, The above ribs, A first rib arranged adjacent to one side of the guide groove in the circumferential direction of the body; and A second rib is disposed adjacent to the other side of the guide groove in the circumferential direction of the body and faces the first rib, The above slit is, a first slit coupled with the first rib; and An aerosol generating device comprising a second slit coupled to the second rib.

3. In paragraph 1, The above cartridge, A cartridge body having a storage chamber inside; and An aerosol generating device including a guide body that protrudes outward from the side of the cartridge body, extends in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge, and is coupled to the guide groove.

4. In paragraph 3, The above slit is, An aerosol generating device extending along the boundary between the cartridge body and the guide body and positioned adjacent to the boundary.

5. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device including a rib groove formed by recessing a portion of the rib toward the outside of the body and positioned adjacent to the opening.

6. In paragraph 5, An aerosol generating device comprising a support protrusion formed within the slit, protruding outward from the side of the cartridge, and engaging with the rib groove.

7. In paragraph 6, The above rib home extends in the longitudinal direction of the body, The above-mentioned support protrusion is an aerosol generating device extending in the longitudinal direction of the above-mentioned cartridge.

8. In paragraph 6, A fixed groove formed by a portion of the inner surface of the body being sunken and extending in the circumferential direction of the body; and An aerosol generating device comprising a fixing projection protruding outward from the side of the cartridge, extending in the circumferential direction of the cartridge, and engaging the fixing groove.

9. In paragraph 8, The above fixed home, It includes a plurality of fixed grooves spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the above body, The above fixed protrusion is, An aerosol generating device comprising a plurality of fixing projections each of which is coupled to each of the plurality of fixing grooves.

10. In paragraph 8, The above rib home, An aerosol generating device positioned closer to the opening than the fixed groove in the longitudinal direction of the body.

11. In paragraph 8, The above rib home, An aerosol generating device spaced apart from the fixed groove in the circumferential direction of the above body.

12. In paragraph 8, The direction in which the above rib home extends is: An aerosol generating device intersecting the direction in which the above fixed home extends.

13. In paragraph 1, The above slit is, a first end positioned adjacent to the top of the cartridge and covered by the upper surface of the cartridge; and An aerosol generating device comprising a second end that opens to the bottom of the cartridge and gradually widens toward the bottom.

14. In paragraph 1, A mouthpiece protruding from one side of the cartridge and having a suction port inside, An aerosol generating device in which the direction in which the rib extends corresponds to the direction in which the mouthpiece protrudes.

Images