Aerosol generating device comprising charging terminal

Abstract

This aerosol generating device may comprise: a first housing structure including a first power source and a first housing terminal electrically connected to the first power source; a second housing structure including a second power source and detachably coupled to the first housing structure; and a heater for heating an aerosol generating article by receiving power from the second power source. The second housing structure may comprise: a main charging terminal which is connected to the second power source and is in contact with and electrically connected to the first housing terminal when the first housing structure and the second housing structure are coupled; and an auxiliary charging terminal which is connected to the second power source and to which an external power source can be connected. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Aerosol generating device including a charging terminal

[0001] The various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a charging terminal.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the disadvantages of traditional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for devices that generate aerosols by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., heated tobacco products). Accordingly, research on cigarette sticks (or aerosol generating products) and electric heating aerosol generating devices into which the cigarette stick is inserted is actively underway.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices can be charged through various charging methods. For example, the battery of an aerosol generating device can be charged from an external power source or from another built-in battery. Research is being conducted on various charging methods for aerosol generating devices to enhance user convenience.

[0004] The aforementioned background technology is one that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the contents of the disclosure of the present application, and it cannot be considered as prior art disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this application.

[0005] In order to improve user convenience and usability, there is a technical need to diversify charging methods and charging structures when charging the power of aerosol generating devices.

[0006] However, the problems to be solved in the embodiments of this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a first housing structure comprising a first power source and a first housing terminal electrically connected to the first power source, a second housing structure comprising a second power source and detachably coupled to the first housing structure, and a heater that heats an aerosol generating article by receiving power from the second power source. In one embodiment, the second housing structure may include a main charging terminal connected to the second power source and electrically connected to the first housing terminal when the first housing structure and the second housing structure are combined, and an auxiliary charging terminal connected to the second power source and capable of connecting an external power source.

[0008] Additionally, an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a housing structure comprising a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, a power source provided inside the housing structure, an intake port disposed at the first end and emitting an aerosol, a heater that generates an aerosol by receiving power from the power source, a main charging terminal disposed at the second end and connected to the power source, and an auxiliary charging terminal disposed at the second end across at least a portion of the main charging terminal and connected to the power source.

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present document can be charged according to the usage environment and situation by using a main charging terminal and an auxiliary charging terminal.

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can provide uniformity in appearance and convenience for the user through the arrangement and structural design of the main charging terminal and the auxiliary charging terminal.

[0011] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0012] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2a is a drawing of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2b is a drawing of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2c is a drawing of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4a is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4b is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 4c is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6b is a drawing of the first housing terminal of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a drawing of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing symbols may be used for similar or related components.

[0027] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” may be a component formed as a whole, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0028] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0029] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0030] When it is stated that one component is “connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0031] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (17)) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit (12)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0033] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0034] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a power supply (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and / or a heater (18, 24). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state around the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). For example, the sensor unit (13) may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit (13) may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting the water immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0037] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature at which the heater (18, 24) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater (18, 24), or the heater (18, 24) itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor may be used to measure the impedance of the heater (18). The impedance of the heater (18) may be correlated with the temperature of the heater (18). The temperature sensor may measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater (18) (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of the heater (18) may be calculated. The control unit (12) may estimate the temperature of the heater (18) based on the calculated impedance.

[0038] For example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to a temperature change of the heater (18, 24). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (18, 24) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0039] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater (18, 24). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater (18, 24), and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (18, 24) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0040] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of a power source (11). The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power source (11) (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (11) together with the protection circuit module.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0042] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0043] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generating device (1) in correspondence with the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0044] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), the heater (18, 24), etc. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0045] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the control unit (12) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0046] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may be referred to as a cap sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temperature change and / or a flow of aerosol may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol generating article, and accordingly, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0047] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion detection sensor may be installed around the insertion space. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0049] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0050] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and said at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space or removed from the insertion space, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which the current flows. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (SUS), etc., may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium part of the aerosol generating article). In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0051] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0052] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a change in color may occur in a part of the wrapper covering the outside of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor may output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. When the control unit (12) detects a change in color in a part of the wrapper, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitance sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the level range in which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the amount of moisture for the aerosol generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or detect the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0055] For example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light of a specific wavelength band based on the irradiated light. The control unit (12) may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the range of the wavelengths.

[0056] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating item inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol-generating item is genuine and / or of the type based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0057] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium) of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or of the type based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0058] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors for detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or for detecting the type of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0060] According to one embodiment, a cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor may output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on the housing or removed from the housing, and the control unit (12) may detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor may be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyro sensor.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor in addition to the aforementioned sensors. Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description may be omitted.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the output unit (14) may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (14) may include a display, a haptic unit and / or an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device (1) may include the charging / discharging state of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the preheating state of the heater (18, 24), the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal state of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display may visually provide information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light-emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), etc. The display can also be used as an input unit (15) if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the power source (11) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (11) may include one or more batteries. The power source (11) can supply power so that the heater (18, 24) can be heated. Additionally, the power source (11) may supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device (1), such as the control unit (12), sensor unit (13), output unit (14), input unit (15), communication unit (16), memory (17), etc. The power source (11) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (11) may be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter referred to as a removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating device (1) or removed from the battery housing. The removable battery may also be charged via wired and / or wireless connections.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) can heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating material within the cartridge by receiving power from the power source (11). The aerosol generating device (1) may include a heater (18) for heating the aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge heater (24) for heating the cartridge (i.e., solid and / or liquid medium).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an electric resistive heater. For example, the electric resistive heater may include an electric resistive material such as a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The electric resistive heater may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with an electric conductive track, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the induction heating type heater may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field. A magnetic field may be generated from the induction coil by an alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The generated magnetic field penetrates the heater, and eddy currents may be generated in the susceptor. The susceptor may be heated based on the generation of eddy currents. According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be contained within an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a medium). In this case as well, the susceptor contained within the aerosol-generating article may be heated by the induction coil.

[0068] The heater (18, 24) is not limited to the examples described above and may include or be replaced with various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating an aerosol generating article and / or cartridge.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the input unit (15) can receive information input from a user. For example, the input unit (15) may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the control unit (12) and data to be processed. For example, the memory (17) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory (17) can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit (16) may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant (Adaptive Network Topology)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The control unit (12) may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (micro controller unit) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed on such MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18, 24). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the temperature of the heater (18, 24) detected using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in the memory (17).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater (18, 24) by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater (18, 24) and the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) that converts power to be supplied to the heater (18, 24), and a DC / AC converter (e.g., inverter) that converts power to be supplied to an induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter may be implemented as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element, such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can adjust the frequency and / or duty ratio of a current pulse input to at least one switching element of a power conversion circuit (not shown) to adjust the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater (18, 24). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply (11).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by using at least one of a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) method and a Proportional-Integral-Differential (PID) method. For example, the control unit (12) can control the supply of a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater (18, 24) by using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse. For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is the target of the control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using the difference value between the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can determine a target power that is the target of control based on a power profile. The control unit (12) may also control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) to correspond to a preset target power over time.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can detect the user's puff by detecting the power supplied to the heater (18, 24). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) using a PID method. When the user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol generating item is inserted (hereinafter, insertion space), the heater (18, 24), etc. Accordingly, a change may occur in the power (or current) supplied to the heater (18, 24) during the power control of the PID method. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on the change in the controlled power.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can prevent the heater (18, 24) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater (18, 24) or stop the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the fact that the temperature of the heater (18, 24) exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the charging of the power source (11) if the temperature of the power source (11) is above a first limit temperature. The control unit (12) can stop the use (e.g., discharge) of the power stored in the power source (11) if the temperature of the power source (11) is above a second limit temperature. 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).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when it is determined that an aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when it is determined that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) may also determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater (18, 24) is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater (18, 24) is above a set slope.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the heater (18, 24) based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, the control unit (12) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) for the heater (18, 24) if it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state using an over-humidity detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol-generating article is reused. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, the control unit (12) can use a cartridge detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)) to determine that the cartridge is separated, and if it is determined that the cartridge is separated, the power supply to the heater (18, 24) is stopped or the power is not supplied to the heater (18, 24).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, the control unit (12) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted if it determines that the temperature of the heater (18, 24) exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the heater (18, 24) (i.e., during the preheating period). If it is determined that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if, based on data stored in the memory (17), the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set in the cartridge. Alternatively, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the heater (18, 24) is heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater (18, 24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the control unit (12) may stop the power supply to the heater (18, 24) or control that power is not supplied to the heater (18, 24).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the user's puff. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or / or when no puff is detected for more than a preset time. The control unit (12) may also control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when a puff is detected.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type. For example, the control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol generating item is genuine and / or of a specific type using a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, it can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24). If the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine, it can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heater (18, 24). For another example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) differently depending on the specific type of the aerosol generating item (or cartridge). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the temperature and / or power of the heater (18, 24) based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be a first aerosol generating article (or a first cartridge), and control the temperature and / or power of the heater (18, 24) based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge) is detected to be a second aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)) reaches a preset number. For example, the control unit (12) can also control the output unit (14) to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the heater (18, 24).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may store and update a history of the event that occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations performed in the aerosol generating device (1), such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating article, puff detection, puff termination, detection of overheating of the heater (18, 24), detection of overvoltage application to the heater (18, 24), termination of heating of the aerosol generating article, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharging of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc. For example, the history of the event may include the time and date when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of insertion of an aerosol-generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the sensing value of an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of a heater (18, 24), the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the temperature of the heater (18, 24), the voltage applied to the heater (18, 24), the current flowing through the heater (18, 24), etc.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the communication unit (16) to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0093] According to one embodiment, when the control unit (12) receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it may release the restriction on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, whether the user's authentication is complete, etc.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply (11), operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0095] According to one embodiment, when a control unit (12) receives a location search request for an aerosol generating device (1) from an external device via a communication link, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit (12) can control the haptic unit to generate vibrations or control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device through a communication link.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) transmits data regarding the sensing value of at least one sensor unit (13) to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The control unit (12) can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0098] Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may cut off the power supply (11) in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply (11). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may transmit and receive information or charge the power supply (11) by connecting to another external device through the connection interface.

[0099] The aerosol generating article mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. A heater (18) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as whole tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic material. Based on the basic material, the nicotine in the tobacco material included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0100] The cartridge mentioned in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as a cotton fiber, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, or a porous ceramic. The cartridge heater (24) may be included in the cartridge in a coil-shaped structure that surrounds (or winds) the liquid delivery means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

[0101] FIGS. 2a, FIGS. 2b and FIGS. 2c are drawings of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 2a is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (100) in which a first housing structure (110) and a second housing structure (150) are assembled, FIG. 2b is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (100) in which the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are separated, and FIG. 2c is a schematic diagram of the second housing structure (150) of the aerosol generating device (100) and an external power source (70).

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1) may include at least one of a first housing structure (110) and a second housing structure (150).

[0103] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0104] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a first housing structure (110) and a second housing structure (150). For example, the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) may be components of the aerosol generating device (100) that are mutually separable. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may include only one of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150). For example, the aerosol generating device (100) may consist only of the second housing structure (150), and the first housing structure (110) may be an external component of the aerosol generating device (100) or a separate component independent of the aerosol generating device (100).

[0105] In the following description, an aerosol generating device (100) is described based on an aerosol generating device (100) comprising a first housing structure (110) and a second housing structure (150), but the actual implementation of the aerosol generating device (100) is not limited thereto. For example, the aerosol generating device (100) may consist of only one housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure (150)), and the other housing structure (e.g., the first housing structure (110)) may be an external individual device (e.g., any one of an accessory device, a power source, a communication device, a case, or a cover) that can be combined with the aerosol generating device (100).

[0106] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (110) may be a cradle or a main body. Alternatively, the first housing structure (110) may be a case or an auxiliary power source for the second housing structure (150). The first housing structure (110) may include a first power source (120) and a first housing terminal (130).

[0107] In one embodiment, the first power source (120) may be a main power source for the aerosol generating device (100) or an auxiliary power source for the second power source (160) (e.g., power source (11) of FIG. 1). The first power source (120) may have a relatively larger storable power capacity than the second power source (160). The first power source (120) may be charged from an external power source (70) through a separate terminal (not shown) or wireless charging module (not shown) provided in the first housing structure (110).

[0108] In one embodiment, the first housing terminal (130) may be electrically connected to the first power source (120). The first housing terminal (130) may be a terminal for supplying power from the first power source (120) to the second housing structure (150). The first housing terminal (130) may be made of a pin or a conductive member.

[0109] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (110) may include an insertion groove (113). A second housing structure (150) may be detachably connected to the insertion groove (113). The insertion groove (113) may be an area that is grooved inward from one side of the first housing structure (110) (e.g., the side in the -X direction). Alternatively, the insertion groove (113) may be a hole or groove that extends inward from one side of the first housing structure (110) (e.g., the side in the +Z direction).

[0110] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may be a body that generates an aerosol, and / or a holder for a user inhaling the aerosol to hold the aerosol generating device (100). An aerosol generating article (50) may be inserted into the second housing structure (150). The aerosol generating article (50) may be any one of a stick, a cigarette, a capsule, or a cartridge.

[0111] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may be detachably coupled to the first housing structure (110). For example, as shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the insertion groove (113) may be provided on a side surface (e.g., a surface in the -X direction) of the first housing structure (110), and the second housing structure (150) may be inserted in one direction (e.g., a +X direction) along the insertion groove (113) of the first housing structure (110). Alternatively, the insertion groove (113) may be provided on an upper surface (e.g., a surface in the +Z direction) of the first housing structure (110), and the second housing structure (150) may be inserted in one direction (e.g., a -Z direction) along the insertion groove (113) of the first housing structure (110).

[0112] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may include a first end (151) and a second end (152). An intake port (153) may be provided in the first end (151). The second housing structure (150) may release an aerosol through the intake port (153).

[0113] For example, an aerosol generating article (50) may be inserted into the first end (151). Alternatively, for example, a mouthpiece for a user to inhale an aerosol may be provided in the first end (151).

[0114] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may include at least some of a second power source (160), a heater (165) (e.g., heater (18, 24) of FIG. 1), a main charging terminal (170), and an auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0115] In one embodiment, the second power source (160) may be a power source for driving the heater (165). In one embodiment, the heater (165) may receive power from the second power source (160). The heater (165) may consume power to heat an aerosol generating material and generate an aerosol. Alternatively, the heater (165) may be replaced with a vibrator.

[0116] In one embodiment, the second power source (160) may have a relatively smaller power capacity than the first power source (120). Since the second housing structure (150) is a structure that is held and used by the user, it may be required to be miniaturized and lightweight for the user's convenience.

[0117] For example, the second power source (160) can store power with a capacity that allows the aerosol generating article (50) to be used a certain number of times (e.g., 3 to 10 times). By configuring the power capacity of the second power source (160) to be relatively smaller than that of the first power source (120), the second housing structure (150) can be made smaller and lighter, and user usability can be improved.

[0118] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may each be connected to a second power source (160). The main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may each charge the second power source (160).

[0119] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may come into contact with the first housing terminal (130) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined. For example, the main charging terminal (170) may be a contact type terminal, and may be, for example, a conductive pad or a conductive pin.

[0120] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may be electrically connected by contacting the first housing terminal (130). When the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) are interconnected, the first power source (120) can charge the second power source (160).

[0121] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be connected to an external power source (70). For example, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be a socket type terminal, a compatible charging terminal, an international standard type charging terminal, or a USB charging terminal. The auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be used to charge the second power source (160) of the second housing structure (150) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are separated.

[0122] In one embodiment of the present document, the second housing structure (150) may include both a main charging terminal (170) that can be charged from a first housing structure (110), which is a cradle or auxiliary charging device, and an auxiliary charging terminal (180) that can be charged from an external power source (70).

[0123] In one embodiment of the present document, the second housing structure (150) can be independently charged through an auxiliary charging terminal (180) as needed by the user even when separated from the first housing structure (110), and the usability of the aerosol generating device (100) can be improved.

[0124] For example, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be electrically connected to a charging cable (73) connected to an external power source (70). At least one of the external power source (70) and the charging cable (73) may support a fast charging function. Alternatively, when charging the second power source (160) from the external power source (70) and the charging cable (73), it may be charged faster than when charging the second power source (160) from the first power source (120).

[0125] In one embodiment of the present document, the user can charge the second power source (160) according to various situations by charging the second power source (160) through the auxiliary charging terminal (180) when the second power source (160) of the second housing structure (150) is discharged or when rapid charging is required.

[0126] For example, when the use of the first housing structure (110) is impossible or restricted, when the first power source (120) is discharged, or when rapid charging of the second housing structure (150) is required, the user can charge the second power source (160) through the auxiliary charging terminal (180), and the aerosol generating device (100) can provide usability and convenience to the user.

[0127] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be disposed at the second end (152). In one embodiment of the present document, the first end (151) is provided with an intake port (153), and the second end (152) is provided with a main charging terminal (170) and an auxiliary charging terminal (180), thereby the aerosol generating device (100) can provide improved usability and convenience.

[0128] For example, the second housing structure (150) may have a uniform appearance. Alternatively, the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be reduced or prevented from coming into direct contact with the user's body while the user is gripping the side of the second housing structure (150) (e.g., the side between the first end (151) and the second end (152). Alternatively, the aerosol generating device (100) may provide design and space utilization advantages for the second housing structure (150). Alternatively, the aerosol generating device (100) may provide charging convenience.

[0129] In the following, embodiments of an aerosol generating device (100) including the main charging terminal (170) and auxiliary charging terminal (180) described above are described. The following drawings and descriptions are merely examples of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment of the present document, and the actual implementation of the aerosol generating device (100) is not limited thereto, and at least one component may be omitted, replaced, modified, or added.

[0130] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a first terminal (171), a second terminal (172), a third terminal (173), and a terminal groove (155).

[0132] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0133] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned surrounded by the main charging terminal (170) based on the view of the second end (152) of the second housing structure (150). Alternatively, at least one pair of sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180) (e.g., sides in the +Y and -Y directions) may face the main charging terminal (170).

[0134] In one embodiment of the present document, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) is positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170), thereby providing efficiency in the spatial design of the second housing structure (150). If the auxiliary charging terminal (180) and the main charging terminal (170) are spaced apart from each other or positioned adjacently, a separate space may be required to accommodate the auxiliary charging terminal (180), which may be disadvantageous for the lightweighting and miniaturization of the second housing structure (150).

[0135] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (100) has an auxiliary charging terminal (180) positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170), so that it may require less additional space compared to an embodiment that includes only the main charging terminal (170), and may be advantageous for making the aerosol generating device (100) lighter and smaller.

[0136] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may include at least one of a first terminal (171), a second terminal (172), and a third terminal (173). Hereinafter, an aerosol generating device (100) including a first terminal (171), a second terminal (172), and a third terminal (173) is described, but in actual implementation, the main charging terminal (170) may include one or two of the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173), or may include at least three or more terminals.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be made of conductive pads that are spaced apart from or insulated from each other. Each of the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be connected to a second power source (160) to charge the second power source (160).

[0138] For example, at least one of the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be a ground terminal. At least one of the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be a power terminal. At least one of the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be a communication terminal.

[0139] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171), the second terminal (172), and the third terminal (173) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0140] For example, the first terminal (171) may be positioned at the center of the second end (152). Alternatively, for example, the first terminal (171) may be provided on the inner side of an opening formed at the center of the second end (152).

[0141] For example, the second terminal (172) may be spaced apart from the first terminal (171) and surround the outer surface of the first terminal (171). The third terminal (173) may be spaced apart from the second terminal (172) and surround the outer surface of the second terminal (172).

[0142] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may further include a terminal groove (155). The terminal groove (155) may be positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170). An auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned inside the terminal groove (155). The terminal groove (155) may be a groove or hole for receiving the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0143] For example, the terminal groove (155) can physically separate the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) and prevent them from coming into contact with each other. Alternatively, the terminal groove (155) may be a standard groove capable of accommodating a charging cable (73) inserted into the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0144] FIG. 4a is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 4a, a main charging terminal (170) according to one embodiment may include a first conductive area (171a), a second conductive area (171b), a third conductive area (172a) and a fourth conductive area (172b).

[0146] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0147] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned across at least one of the first terminal (171) or the second terminal (172). At least one of the first terminal (171) or the second terminal (172) may be divided into multiple regions by the auxiliary charging terminal (180). For example, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned across the first terminal (171) and the second terminal (172). The first terminal (171) and the second terminal (172) may each be divided into multiple regions by the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0148] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171) may include a first conductive region (171a) and a second conductive region (171b). The first conductive region (171a) and the second conductive region (171b) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180). At least one of the first conductive region (171a) and the second conductive region (171b) may be connected to a pin of the first housing terminal (130) (e.g., the first pin (131) in FIG. 6b), thereby the first terminal (171) may be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0149] In one embodiment, the second terminal (172) may include a third conductive region (172a) and a fourth conductive region (172b). The third conductive region (172a) and the fourth conductive region (172b) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180). At least one of the third conductive region (172a) and the fourth conductive region (172b) may be connected to a pin of the second housing terminal (e.g., the second pin (132) in FIG. 6b), thereby allowing the second terminal (172) to be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0150] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (100) may implement an auxiliary charging terminal (180) having an arrangement and structure that crosses the main charging terminal (170) by including a plurality of conductive regions (e.g., a first conductive region (171a), a second conductive region (171b), a third conductive region (172a) and a fourth conductive region (172b)), and the aerosol generating device (100) may have an advantage in the structural design of a second housing structure (150) including the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0151] FIG. 4b is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device (100-1) according to one embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 4b, a main charging terminal (170-1) according to one embodiment (e.g., the main charging terminal (170) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c and FIG. 3) may include a first conductive area (171a-1), a second conductive area (171b-1), a third conductive area (172a-1), a fourth conductive area (172b-1), a fifth conductive area (173a-1), and a sixth conductive area (173b-1).

[0153] In the following description, details that overlap with those described above are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100-1) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c and FIG. 3), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Additionally, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100-1) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0154] In one embodiment, an auxiliary charging terminal (180-1) (e.g., the auxiliary charging terminal (180) of FIG. 2a, 2b, 2c and FIG. 3) may be positioned across a first terminal (171-1) (e.g., the first terminal (171) of FIG. 3), a second terminal (172-1) (e.g., the second terminal (172) of FIG. 3), and a third terminal (173-1) (e.g., the third terminal (173) of FIG. 3). The first terminal (171-1), the second terminal (172-1), and the third terminal (173-1) may each be divided into a plurality of regions by the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1).

[0155] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171-1) may include a first conductive region (171a-1) and a second conductive region (171b-1). The first conductive region (171a-1) and the second conductive region (171b-1) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1). At least one of the first conductive region (171a-1) and the second conductive region (171b-1) may be connected to a pin (e.g., the first pin (131) in FIG. 6b) of the first housing terminal (e.g., the first housing terminal (130) in FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b), thereby the first terminal (171-1) may be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0156] In one embodiment, the second terminal (172-1) may include a third conductive region (172a-1) and a fourth conductive region (172b-1). The third conductive region (172a-1) and the fourth conductive region (172b-1) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1). At least one of the third conductive region (172a-1) and the fourth conductive region (172b-1) may be connected to a pin of the first housing terminal (130) (e.g., the second pin (132) in FIG. 6b), thereby allowing the second terminal (172-1) to be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0157] In one embodiment, the third terminal (173-1) may include a fifth conductive region (173a-1) and a sixth conductive region (173b-1). The fifth conductive region (173a-1) and the sixth conductive region (173b-1) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1). At least one of the fifth conductive region (173a-1) and the sixth conductive region (173b-1) may be connected to a pin of the first housing terminal (130) (e.g., the third pin (133) in FIG. 6b), thereby the third terminal (173-1) may be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0158] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (100-1) may implement an auxiliary charging terminal (180-1) having a layout and structure that crosses the main charging terminal (170-1) by including a plurality of conductive regions (171a-1, 171b-1, 172a-1, 172b-1, 173a-1, 173b-1), and the aerosol generating device (100-1) may have structural design advantages of a second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure (150) of FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c) including the main charging terminal (170-1) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1).

[0159] FIG. 4c is a drawing of the charging terminals of an aerosol generating device (100-2) according to one embodiment.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 4c, a main charging terminal (170-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the main charging terminal (170) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c and FIG. 3) may include a first conductive region (171a-2) and a second conductive region (171b-2).

[0161] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content will be omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100-2) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c and FIG. 3), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Additionally, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100-2) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0162] In one embodiment, an auxiliary charging terminal (180-2) (e.g., the auxiliary charging terminal (180) of FIG. 2a, 2b, 2c and FIG. 3) may be positioned across a first terminal (171-2) (e.g., the first terminal (171) of FIG. 3), a second terminal (172-2) (e.g., the second terminal (172) of FIG. 3), and a third terminal (173-2) (e.g., the third terminal (173) of FIG. 3). The first terminal (171-2) may be divided into a plurality of regions by the auxiliary charging terminal (180-2).

[0163] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171-2) may include a first conductive region (171a-2) and a second conductive region (171b-2). The first conductive region (171a-2) and the second conductive region (171b-2) may be placed on each side (e.g., +Y direction and -Y direction) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-2). At least one of the first conductive region (171a-2) and the second conductive region (171b-2) may be connected to a pin (e.g., the first pin (131) in FIG. 6b) of the first housing terminal (e.g., the first housing terminal (130) in FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b), thereby the first terminal (171-2) may be connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0164] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (100-2) may implement an auxiliary charging terminal (180-2) having a layout and structure that crosses the main charging terminal (170-2) by including a plurality of conductive regions (171a-2, 171b-2), and the aerosol generating device (100-2) may have structural design advantages of a second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure (150) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b and FIG. 2c) including the main charging terminal (170-2) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180-2).

[0165] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 5, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 2a, 2b, 2c and FIG. 3) may further include a charging IC (190), an LDO (low dropout) regulator (195), and at least one processor (105) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIG. 1).

[0167] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0168] In one embodiment, the charging IC (190) may be connected between the main charging terminal (170) and the second power source (160), and between the auxiliary charging terminal (180) and the second power source (160). The charging IC (190) may be a circuit for controlling power supply to the second power source (160).

[0169] In one embodiment, at least one processor (105) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (100). Alternatively, at least one processor (105) can control the operation of an electrical element of the second housing structure (150), and the first housing structure (110) may separately include at least one processor.

[0170] In one embodiment, the charging IC (190) can control the flow of current flowing in from the plurality of charging terminals (170, 180) based on the connection state of at least one of the plurality of charging terminals (170, 180). Alternatively, at least one processor (105) can control the flow of current flowing in from the plurality of charging terminals (170, 180) by controlling the charging IC (190) and other components (e.g., LDO regulator (195)). Hereinafter, it is described that the charging IC (190) controls the flow of incoming current or voltage change, and such control may be performed by at least one processor (105).

[0171] In one embodiment, the connection state of at least one of the plurality of charging terminals (170, 180) can be detected by a charging IC (190) or by a separate sensor module (e.g., sensor unit (13) of FIG. 1).

[0172] For example, at least one processor (105) or charging IC (190) can control the current delivery path based on the connection status of either the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0173] For example, at least one processor (105) or charging IC (190) can block the flow of current to the other terminal based on the connection status of either the main charging terminal (170) or the auxiliary charging terminal (180). When current flows through either the main charging terminal (170) or the auxiliary charging terminal (180), the flow of current to the other of the main charging terminal (170) and the auxiliary charging terminal (180) can be prevented, thereby reducing unnecessary current loss and preventing short circuit problems.

[0174] In one embodiment, the charging IC (190) may include a switching element that selectively turns on or off the flow of current delivered from the charging IC (190) to the LDO regulator (195). The charging IC (190) may detect the connection status of a plurality of charging terminals (170, 180) and control the switching element, or the charging IC (190) may control the switching element by at least one processor (105). Alternatively, in one embodiment, a separate switch (not shown) may be provided between the charging IC (190) and the LDO regulator (195). The switch (not shown) may selectively turn on or off the flow of current delivered from the charging IC (190) to the LDO regulator (195). The switch (not shown) may be controlled by at least one processor (105) or by the charging IC (190).

[0175] In one embodiment, when an external power source (70) is connected to an auxiliary charging terminal (180), the charging IC (190) can transform the voltage via an LDO regulator (195) and supply power to a second power source (160). In one embodiment, the LDO regulator (195) can adjust the input voltage from the main charging terminal (170) or the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0176] For example, when the second power source (160) is charged by an external power source (70) through the auxiliary charging terminal (180), it is necessary to adjust the voltage flowing from the standardized auxiliary charging terminal (180) to the second power source (160). The LDO regulator (195) can adjust the input voltage from the auxiliary charging terminal (180) to match the second power source (160).

[0177] In one embodiment, when an external power source (70) is connected to an auxiliary charging terminal (180), the charging IC (190) can be controlled to transform the input voltage via an LDO regulator (195) and supply power to a second power source (160).

[0178] For example, when current flow from the auxiliary charging terminal (180) to the charging IC (190) is detected, or when a connection between the auxiliary charging terminal (180) and an external power source (70) is detected, the charging IC (190) can transmit the current flowing in from the auxiliary charging terminal (180) to the second power source (160) via the LDO regulator (195). The LDO regulator (195) can adjust the input voltage from the auxiliary charging terminal (180) to match the second power source (160).

[0179] In one embodiment, the charging IC (190) can be controlled to supply power to the second power source (160) by bypassing the LDO regulator (195) when the main charging terminal (170) is connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0180] For example, when current flow from the main charging terminal (170) to the charging IC (190) is detected, or when a connection between the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) is detected, the charging IC (190) can transfer the current flowing from the main charging terminal (170) to the second power source (160) by bypassing the LDO regulator (195), or directly from the charging IC (190) to the second power source (160).

[0181] In one embodiment of the present document, since the main charging terminal (170) receives power from the first power source (120) of the first housing structure (110), the input voltage from the main charging terminal (170) may be a voltage adjusted to match the second power source (160). The input voltage may be provided directly from the main charging terminal (170) to the second power source (160) without passing through the LDO regulator (195). Since the auxiliary charging terminal (180) receives power from an external power source (70), the input voltage from the auxiliary charging terminal (180) must be adjusted to match the second power source (160), and the input voltage may be adjusted by passing through the LDO regulator (195) and provided to the second power source (160).

[0182] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 6b is a drawing of a first housing terminal (130) of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0183] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a first pin (131), a second pin (132), and a third pin (133).

[0184] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0185] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may include a first conductive area (171a), a second conductive area (171b), a third conductive area (172a), and a fourth conductive area (172b). The first conductive area (171a) and the second conductive area (171b) may form a first terminal (171). The third conductive area (172a) and the fourth conductive area (172b) may form a second terminal (172). The main charging terminal (170) may further include a third terminal (173).

[0186] In one embodiment, the first housing terminal (130) may include a first pin (131) and a second pin (132). The first pin (131) and the second pin (132) may respectively contact the first terminal (171) and the second terminal (172) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined.

[0187] In one embodiment, the first housing terminal (130) may further include a third pin (133). The third pin (133) may contact the third terminal (173) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined.

[0188] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (110) may further include a support column (137). The support column (137) may be inserted into an auxiliary charging terminal (180) or a terminal groove (155) of the second housing structure (150) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined. The support column (137) may guide the combination of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150).

[0189] In one embodiment of the present document, the main charging terminal (170) can be electrically connected to the first housing terminal (130) by electrically connecting the first terminal (171) and the first pin (131) and / or electrically connecting the second terminal (172) and the second pin (132).

[0190] In one embodiment, the first housing terminal (130) may include a plurality of first pins (131) and second pins (132), respectively. A plurality of first pins (131) may include a first sub-pin (131a) and a second sub-pin (131b). A plurality of second pins (132) may include a third sub-pin (132a) and a fourth sub-pin (132b).

[0191] In one embodiment, the first sub-pin (131a) and the second sub-pin (131b) may be spaced apart by a distance greater than the width (w) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180). By spaced apart by a distance greater than a certain distance, the first sub-pin (131a) and the second sub-pin (131b) may be in contact with the auxiliary charging terminal (180) while the other may be in contact with the first terminal (171). By connecting at least one of the first sub-pin (131a) and the second sub-pin (131b) to either the first conductive area (171a) and the second conductive area (171b), the first pin (131) may be electrically connected to the first terminal (171).

[0192] In one embodiment, the third sub-pin (132a) and the fourth sub-pin (132b) may be spaced apart by a distance greater than the width (w) of the auxiliary charging terminal (180). By spaced apart by a certain distance or more, the third sub-pin (132a) and the fourth sub-pin (132b) can be in contact with the second terminal (172) even when either one of the third sub-pin (132a) and the fourth sub-pin (132b) is in contact with the auxiliary charging terminal (180). By connecting at least one of the third sub-pin (132a) and the fourth sub-pin (132b) to either the third conductive region (172a) or the fourth conductive region (172b), the second pin (132) can be electrically connected to the second terminal (172).

[0193] In one embodiment of the present document, since the auxiliary charging terminal (180) is positioned across the main charging terminal (170), the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may affect the connection between the first housing terminal (130) and the main charging terminal (170). The first housing terminal (130) includes a plurality of first pins (131) and a plurality of second pins (132), thereby structurally allowing one of the plurality of pins to contact the main charging terminal (170) even if one of the plurality of pins cannot contact the main charging terminal (170) by the auxiliary charging terminal (180). The first housing terminal (130) includes a plurality of first pins (131) and a plurality of second pins (132), thereby allowing the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) to be electrically connected even when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) face each other in any direction.

[0194] FIG. 7 is a drawing of an aerosol generating device (100-3) according to one embodiment.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 7, an aerosol generating device (100-3) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b and FIG. 2c) may include a first uneven area (118-3) and a second uneven area (158-3).

[0196] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100-3), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100-3) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0197] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100-3) may include a first housing structure (110-3) (e.g., the first housing structure (110) of FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b) and a second housing structure (150-3) (e.g., the second housing structure (150) of FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 2c).

[0198] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (110-3) may include at least one of a first uneven area (118-3) and a first magnetic body (119-3). In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150-3) may include at least one of a second uneven area (158-3) and a second magnetic body (159-3).

[0199] In one embodiment, the first uneven area (118-3) may be positioned at a second end (152-3) (e.g., the second end (152) in FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c) opposite to the first end (151-3) (e.g., the first end (151) in FIG. 2a and 2b) in the second housing structure (150-3). The first uneven area (118-3) may protrude outward from the second end (152-3) or be retracted inward from the second end (152-3).

[0200] In one embodiment, the second uneven area (158-3) may be placed in the insertion groove (113-3) of the first housing structure (110-3) (e.g., the insertion groove (113) of FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b). The second uneven area (158-3) may be recessed inward from the insertion groove (113-3) or protrude outward from the insertion groove (113-3).

[0201] In one embodiment, the first uneven area (118-3) and the second uneven area (158-3) may have mutually corresponding shapes. The first uneven area (118-3) and the second uneven area (158-3) may guide the position where the second housing structure (150-3) is coupled to the first housing structure (110-3).

[0202] In one embodiment of the present document, the first uneven area (118-3) and the second uneven area (158-3) can guide the main charging terminal (170) (e.g., the main charging terminal (170) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c) and the first housing terminal (130) (e.g., the first housing terminal (130) of FIG. 2a and 2b) to come into contact with each other during the process in which the second housing structure (150-3) is inserted into the insertion groove (113-3) of the first housing structure (110-3). The first uneven area (118-3) and the second uneven area (158-3) can prevent contact failure between the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) by means of the auxiliary charging terminal (180) (e.g., the auxiliary charging terminal (180) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c).

[0203] In one embodiment, the first magnetic body (119-3) may be provided at a position where an attractive force acts with the second magnetic body (159-3) when the first housing structure (110-3) and the second housing structure (150-3) are combined. The first magnetic body (119-3) and the second magnetic body (159-3) may guide the position where the second housing structure (150-3) is combined with the first housing structure (110-3). The second magnetic body (159-3) may be provided at the second end (152-3) of the second housing structure (150-3).

[0204] In one embodiment of the present document, the first magnetic body (119-3) and the second magnetic body (159-3) can guide the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) to come into contact with each other during the process in which the second housing structure (150-3) is inserted into the insertion groove (113-3) of the first housing structure (110-3). The first magnetic body (119-3) and the second magnetic body (159-3) can prevent contact failure between the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) by means of the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0205] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (100-4) according to one embodiment.

[0206] In one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (100-4) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c) may include a first housing structure (110-4) (e.g., the first housing structure (110) of FIG. 2a and 2b) and a second housing structure (150-4) (e.g., the second housing structure (150) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c).

[0207] In the following description, details that overlap with those described above are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (100-4), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (100-4) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0208] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150-4) may have a column shape having a polygonal cross-section. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the second housing structure (150-4) may have an octagonal column shape.

[0209] In one embodiment, the insertion groove (113-4) of the first housing structure (110-4) (e.g., the insertion groove (113) of FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b) may have a shape corresponding to the second housing structure (150-4). For example, the insertion groove (113-4) may have an intaglio shape that surrounds the outer surface of the second housing structure (150-4).

[0210] In one embodiment of the present document, the three-dimensional structure of the second housing structure (150-4) and the insertion groove (113-4) can guide the main charging terminal (170) (e.g., the main charging terminal (170) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c) and the first housing terminal (130) (e.g., the first housing terminal (130) of FIG. 2a and 2b) to come into contact with each other during the process of inserting the second housing structure (150-4) into the insertion groove (113-4) of the first housing structure (110-4). The three-dimensional structure of the second housing structure (150-4) and the insertion groove (113-4) can prevent contact failure between the main charging terminal (170) and the first housing terminal (130) by means of the auxiliary charging terminal (180) (e.g., the auxiliary charging terminal (180) of FIG. 2a, 2b, and 2c).

[0211] An aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include a first housing structure (110) comprising a first power source (120) and a first housing terminal (130) electrically connected to the first power source (120), a second housing structure (150) that includes a second power source (160) and is detachably coupled to the first housing structure (110), and a heater (165) that heats an aerosol generating article (50) by receiving power from the second power source (160). In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may include a main charging terminal (170) that is connected to the second power source (160) and electrically connected to the first housing terminal (130) when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined, and an auxiliary charging terminal (180) that is connected to the second power source (160) and to which an external power source (70) can be connected.

[0212] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170).

[0213] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may include a first end (151) provided with an intake port (153) for emitting an aerosol, and a second end (152) opposite to the first end (151). In one embodiment, a main charging terminal (170) and an auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be disposed at the second end (152).

[0214] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may include a terminal groove (155) positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170). In one embodiment, an auxiliary charging terminal (180) may be positioned inside the terminal groove (155).

[0215] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may include a first terminal (171), a second terminal (172) spaced apart from the first terminal (171) and surrounding the outer surface of the first terminal (171), and a third terminal (173) spaced apart from the second terminal (172) and surrounding the outer surface of the second terminal (172).

[0216] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180; 180-1; 180-2) may be positioned across at least one of the first terminal (171; 171-1; 171-2) or the second terminal (172; 172-1; 172-2).

[0217] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171) may include a first conductive area (171a) and a second conductive area (171b) respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180). In one embodiment, the second terminal (172) may include a third conductive area (172a) and a fourth conductive area (172b) respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180).

[0218] In one embodiment, the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1) may be positioned across the first terminal (171-1), the second terminal (172-1), and the third terminal (173-1).

[0219] In one embodiment, the first terminal (171-1) may include a first conductive area (171a-1) and a second conductive area (171b-1) respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1). In one embodiment, the second terminal (172-1) may include a third conductive area (172a-1) and a fourth conductive area (172b-1) respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1). In one embodiment, the third terminal (173-1) may include a fifth conductive area (173a-1) and a sixth conductive area (173b-1) respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal (180-1).

[0220] In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150) may further include a charging IC (190) connected between the main charging terminal (170) and the second power source (160), and between the auxiliary charging terminal (180) and the second power source (160), and an LDO (low dropout) regulator (195) connected to the charging IC (190).

[0221] In one embodiment, when an external power source (70) is connected to an auxiliary charging terminal (180), the charging IC (190) can transform the input voltage via an LDO regulator (195) and supply power to a second power source (160).

[0222] In one embodiment, the charging IC (190) can supply power to the second power source (160) by bypassing the LDO regulator (195) when the main charging terminal (170) is connected to the first housing terminal (130).

[0223] In one embodiment, the main charging terminal (170) may include a first terminal (171) and a second terminal (172) spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, the first housing terminal (130) may include a plurality of first pins (131) and a plurality of second pins (132), respectively. In one embodiment, when the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (150) are combined, at least one of the plurality of first pins (131) and at least one of the plurality of second pins (132) may respectively contact the first terminal (171) and the second terminal (172).

[0224] In one embodiment, the first housing structure (110-3) may include a first uneven area (118-3) provided in a position facing the second housing structure (150-3) when the first housing structure (110-3) and the second housing structure (150-3) are combined. In one embodiment, the second housing structure (150-3) may include a second uneven area (158-3) into which the first uneven area (118-3) is inserted or into which the first uneven area (118-3) is inserted when the first housing structure (110-3) and the second housing structure (150-3) are combined.

[0225] An aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include: a housing structure (150) comprising a first end (151) and a second end (152) opposite to the first end (151); a power source (160) provided inside the housing structure (150); an intake port (153) disposed at the first end (151) and emitting an aerosol; a heater (165) that generates an aerosol by receiving power from the power source (160); a main charging terminal (170) disposed at the second end (152) and connected to the power source (160); and an auxiliary charging terminal (180) disposed across at least a portion of the main charging terminal (170) at the second end (152) and connected to the power source (160).

[0226] However, the above description is merely an example of an aerosol generating device (100; 100-1; 100-2; 100-3; 100-4) according to one embodiment of this document, and does not imply that the configuration of the aerosol generating device (100; 100-1; 100-2; 100-3; 100-4) necessarily includes any one of the configurations described above. Furthermore, the configurations described above may be implemented with substantially identical or similar modifications within an equivalent range that can be easily changed by a person skilled in the art, and it is obvious that these are also included in the aerosol generating device (100; 100-1; 100-2; 100-3; 100-4) according to one embodiment of this document.

[0227] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0228] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0229] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, A first housing structure comprising a first power source and a first housing terminal electrically connected to the first power source; A second housing structure including a second power source and detachably coupled to the first housing structure; and It includes a heater that heats an aerosol-generating article by receiving power from the second power source, and The above second housing structure is, A main charging terminal connected to the second power source, and electrically connected by contacting the first housing terminal when the first housing structure and the second housing structure are combined, and An aerosol generating device comprising an auxiliary charging terminal connected to the second power source and capable of connecting an external power source.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above auxiliary charging terminal is, An aerosol generating device positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above second housing structure is, It includes a first end portion provided with an intake port for releasing an aerosol and a second end portion opposite to the first end portion, The above main charging terminal and the above auxiliary charging terminal are an aerosol generating device disposed at the second end.

4. In Paragraph 1, The second housing structure includes a terminal groove disposed across at least a portion of the main charging terminal, and The above auxiliary charging terminal is an aerosol generating device disposed inside the terminal groove.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above main charging terminal is, First terminal; A second terminal spaced apart from the first terminal and surrounding the outer surface of the first terminal; and An aerosol generating device comprising a third terminal spaced apart from the second terminal and surrounding the outer surface of the second terminal.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above auxiliary charging terminal is, An aerosol generating device disposed across at least one of the first terminal or the second terminal.

7. In Paragraph 6, The first terminal includes a first conductive area and a second conductive area respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal, and An aerosol generating device wherein the second terminal comprises a third conductive region and a fourth conductive region disposed on each side of the auxiliary charging terminal.

8. In Paragraph 5, The above auxiliary charging terminal is, An aerosol generating device arranged across the first terminal, the second terminal, and the third terminal.

9. In Paragraph 8, The first terminal includes a first conductive area and a second conductive area respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal, and The second terminal includes a third conductive region and a fourth conductive region respectively disposed on both sides of the auxiliary charging terminal, and An aerosol generating device wherein the third terminal comprises a fifth conductive region and a sixth conductive region disposed on each side of the auxiliary charging terminal.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above second housing structure is, A charging IC connected between the main charging terminal and the second power source, and between the auxiliary charging terminal and the second power source; and An aerosol generating device further comprising an LDO (low dropout) regulator connected to the above-mentioned charging IC.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above charging IC is, An aerosol generating device that, when an external power source is connected to the auxiliary charging terminal, transforms the input voltage via the LDO regulator and supplies power to the second power source.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above charging IC is, An aerosol generating device that supplies power to the second power source by bypassing the LDO regulator when the main charging terminal is connected to the first housing terminal.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above main charging terminal includes a first terminal and a second terminal spaced apart from each other, and The first housing terminal includes a plurality of first pins and a plurality of second pins, and An aerosol generating device in which, when the first housing structure and the second housing structure are combined, at least one of the plurality of first pins and at least one of the plurality of second pins respectively contact the first terminal and the second terminal.

14. In Paragraph 1, The first housing structure includes a first uneven area provided at a position facing the second housing structure when the first housing structure and the second housing structure are combined. The aerosol generating device, wherein the second housing structure comprises, in a state where the first housing structure and the second housing structure are combined, a second uneven area into which the first uneven area is inserted or into which the first uneven area is inserted.

15. In an aerosol generating device, A housing structure comprising a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; Power supply provided inside the above housing structure; An intake port disposed at the first end and emitting an aerosol; A heater that generates aerosol by receiving power from the above-mentioned power source; A main charging terminal disposed at the second end and connected to the power source; and An aerosol generating device comprising an auxiliary charging terminal that is positioned across at least a portion of the main charging terminal at the second end and connected to the power source.

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