Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure comprises: an elongated body; a cartridge separably coupled to the body and provided with a storage chamber receiving an aerosol-generating material therein, and an absorption member having the aerosol-generating material impregnated therein; and a heater module separably coupled to the body and the cartridge by sliding in a first direction intersecting the length direction of the body, and provided with a wick and a heater for heating the wick, wherein, upon the heater module being coupled to the body by sliding, the absorption member may come into contact with the wick and press the wick.

Description

Aerosol generator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

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

[0003] In a cartridge-replaceable aerosol generator, the replacement cycles of the liquid and the heater within the cartridge may differ. However, in conventional cartridge-replaceable aerosol generators, the liquid and the heater are integrated within the cartridge, so the cartridge must be replaced when the liquid is consumed. Consequently, the heater is wasted regardless of the heater's replacement cycle, and there is a problem of unnecessarily increasing replacement costs.

[0004] In addition, for the heater module to be replaceable independently of the cartridge, a three-stage coupling structure of the body, heater module, and cartridge must be provided; however, in a structure where the heater module and cartridge are sequentially coupled to the body in one direction, there is a problem that the coupling between each component of the device is not robust.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0006] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which a heater module slides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is coupled to the body, thereby being detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge.

[0007] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a structure in which the wick of the heater module is pressurized by the absorbent member of the cartridge as the heater module is coupled to the body and the cartridge.

[0008] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a structure in which both ends of the absorbing member of the cartridge are spaced apart from the body hole in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body.

[0009] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which at least some of the ends of the absorbing member of the cartridge are provided with an inclined surface in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body.

[0010] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a structure in which the connection terminal of the heater module is extended obliquely in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body.

[0011] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a slit and rib structure that prevents the cartridge from moving inward into the body beyond a certain length while being coupled along the longitudinal direction of the body.

[0012] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a fixing groove and a fixing projection structure that extend in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is inserted into the body and join with each other.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, an aerosol generating device is provided comprising: a long, extended body; a cartridge having a storage chamber for receiving an aerosol generating substance and an absorbent member impregnated with said aerosol generating substance, and detachably coupled to said body; and a heater module having a wick and a heater for heating said wick, and sliding in a first direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of said body and detachably coupled to said body and said cartridge; wherein the absorbent member contacts said wick and pressurizes said wick as the heater module slides and is coupled to said body.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure that slides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is coupled to the body and is detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge, so that the heater module can be separated from the body independently of the cartridge, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure that slides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is coupled to the body and is detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge, so that the heater module can be more firmly coupled to the body and the cartridge and the durability of the device can be increased.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the heater module is coupled to the body and the cartridge, the wick of the heater module is pressurized by the absorbing member of the cartridge, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge and the wick of the heater module can be in firm contact and an aerosol generating substance can be stably supplied from the cartridge to the wick.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbing member of the cartridge is provided with a structure in which both ends are spaced apart from the body hole in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge is prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0018] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the ends of the absorbing member of the cartridge is provided with an inclined surface in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge may be prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0019] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure in which the connecting terminal of the heater module extends obliquely in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the heater module can be stably connected to the battery of the body and the connecting terminal can be prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0020] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a slit and rib structure is provided that is coupled in the longitudinal direction of the body but prevents movement into the body beyond a certain amount, so that the cartridge can be stably coupled to the body independently of the heater module.

[0021] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cartridge is provided with a fixing groove and a fixing projection structure that extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the cartridge is inserted into the body and are coupled to each other, so that the cartridge can be stably coupled to the body and the heater module.

[0022] Further scopes of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are clearly understood by those skilled in the art, specific embodiments, such as the detailed description and preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, should be understood as being given merely as examples.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge, a heater module, and a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a heater module and a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the opening of the body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0031] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 are perspective views of a heater module of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a heater module of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged connection terminal of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an absorbent member and a wick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating contact between an absorbent member and a wick when a heater module of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a body and a cartridge.

[0037] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an absorbent member and a wick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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. "Module" or "unit" may be a component formed as a whole, or the smallest unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046]

[0047] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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).

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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).

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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)).

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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).

[0099] 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).

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114]

[0115] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power source (11), a control unit (12), and / or a sensor unit (13). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those shown in FIG. 2, and some of the components may be omitted or new components may be added. In the following drawings, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 2 will be omitted.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may include a structure for inserting or mounting a cartridge (19) on one side. In this case, the cartridge (19) may be detachably coupled to the housing (10).

[0118] Although not illustrated, the housing (10) and / or cartridge (19) may include a mouthpiece. The user may place the mouthpiece in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) containing an aerosol generating material. The chamber (C0) may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the following states: liquid state, solid state, gaseous state, or 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.

[0120] According to one embodiment, a liquid delivery means (25) impregnated (containing) an aerosol generating material may be included in a cartridge (19). For example, the liquid delivery means (25) may impregnate an aerosol generating material supplied from a chamber (C0). Here, the liquid delivery means (25) may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics. Although not illustrated, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a liquid delivery means. In this case, at least a portion of the first liquid delivery means of the cartridge (19) and at least a portion of the second liquid delivery means of the aerosol generating device (1) may be formed to be in contact. In this case, the first liquid delivery means and the second liquid delivery means may be implemented in different forms. For example, the first liquid delivery means may include cotton fibers, and the second liquid delivery means may include porous ceramics. Alternatively, the cartridge (19) may not include a liquid delivery means, and the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) may be transferred to the liquid delivery means of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) and / or cartridge (19) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows.

[0122] For example, the housing (10) may include a structure that allows outside air to flow into the interior of the housing (10) while the cartridge (19) is attached. As an example, an air inlet through which outside air can flow into the interior of the housing (10) may be formed on one side of the aerosol housing (10). The air inlet may also be formed on the bottom surface of the housing (10). Outside air introduced into the interior of the housing (10) through the air inlet may pass through the cartridge (19) and then flow in a direction toward the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN). Outside air introduced through this air inlet hole may pass through the cartridge (19) and flow toward the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0123] For example, an airflow channel (CN) may be included in the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may connect the outside of the housing (10) and / or the cartridge (19) to a chamber (e.g., atomizing chamber) in which the cartridge heater (24) or liquid delivery means (25) is placed. More specifically, one end of the airflow channel (CN) may open to the chamber (e.g., atomizing chamber) in which the cartridge heater (24) or liquid delivery means (25) is placed, and the other end may be in communication with the mouthpiece. The airflow channel (CN) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) from one side of the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may also extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) by penetrating the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may also be in communication with a mouthpiece separately provided in the housing (10).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) can heat the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge (19). For example, the cartridge heater (24) may include an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating heater. In one example, the electric resistive heater may include an electric resistive material and may be heated as current flows through the electric resistive material. In another example, in the case of an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an induction coil (not shown) around the induction heating heater. The induction heating heater may include a susceptor and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater (24) may be formed in a coil shape that surrounds (or wraps around) the liquid delivery means contained in the cartridge (19) and / or the aerosol generating device (1) and / or in a shape that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means (e.g., a pattern shape).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in the cartridge (19). If the cartridge (19) is in a form that is separable from the housing (10), the cartridge heater (24) may be separable from the aerosol generating device (1) together with the cartridge (19). Unlike what is illustrated, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the cartridge heater (24) may be included inside the housing (10). Meanwhile, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in a form that is separable from the housing (10) separately (i.e., independently) from the cartridge (19). In other words, the cartridge heater (24) may or may not be separated from the housing (10) regardless of whether the cartridge (19) is separated.

[0126] According to one embodiment, an aerosol may be generated based on the heat generated by the cartridge heater (24). As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the cartridge heater (24), an aerosol may be generated. For example, as the aerosol generating material impregnated in the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the cartridge heater (24), vapor may be generated from the aerosol generating material, and as the generated vapor is mixed with the outside air introduced into the cartridge (19), an aerosol may be generated. The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) may be inhaled into the user's mouth through the airflow channel (CN).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the cartridge (19) may be formed integrally with the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., housing (10)). The cartridge (19) may be formed so that it cannot be separated from the aerosol generating device (1) by a user. Even in this case, the cartridge (19) and / or the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one liquid delivery means, and an aerosol is generated based on a cartridge heater (24) included in the aerosol generating device (1) or the cartridge (19) heating the liquid delivery means (25), and the generated aerosol may be inhaled into the user's mouth through an airflow channel (CN).

[0128]

[0129] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge, a heater module, and a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a heater module and a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 3, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a body (300), a heater module (400), and a cartridge (500).

[0131] The body (300), heater module (400), and cartridge (500) can be detachably coupled to each other. The body (300), heater module (400), and cartridge (500) can be coupled to form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (1). The body (300), heater module (400), and cartridge (500) can accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (1) internally.

[0132] The body (300) can accommodate at least one of a battery (e.g., power source (11)) and a control unit (e.g., control unit (12)). The heater module (400) can accommodate at least one of a heater (e.g., heater (24)) and a wick (e.g., liquid delivery means (25)). The cartridge (e.g., cartridge (19)) can accommodate at least one of a storage chamber (e.g., chamber (C0)) and an airflow channel (e.g., airflow channel (CN)).

[0133]

[0134] Referring to FIG. 4, the body (300) may include a body housing (310). The body housing (310) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (1). The body housing (310) may be bent along the circumferential direction and may form a receiving space (311) inside. The body housing (310) may be extended in one direction (e.g., the z-direction).

[0135] A first opening (313) may be formed at one end of the body housing (310). The first opening (313) may be opened in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) at the top of the body housing (310). The first opening (313) may be in communication with the receiving space (311). A second opening (314) may be formed on one side of the body housing (310). The second opening (314) may be opened in a direction (e.g., x-direction) that intersects the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) from the side of the body housing (310). The second opening (314) may be in communication with the receiving space (311).

[0136] On one side of the body housing (310), a guide portion (312) may be formed that is long and open along the longitudinal or vertical direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The guide portion (312) may be formed by opening a part of the side of the body housing (310). The guide portion (312) may be connected to a first opening (313) and a second opening (314). The guide portion (312) may extend long from the first opening (313) to the second opening (314).

[0137] The cartridge (500) can be detachably coupled to the body (300) and the heater module (400). The cartridge (500) can be coupled to the body (300) along the longitudinal direction of the body (300). One end or the lower end of the cartridge (500) can be inserted into the receiving space (311) of the body (300) through the first opening (313) and can be coupled to the body (300) by sliding along the guide portion (312). The cartridge (500) can be guided to be coupled to the body (300) by the guide portion (312).

[0138] A mouthpiece (530) may be disposed on one side of the cartridge (500). The mouthpiece (530) may include an intake port (535) communicating with the outside of the cartridge (500).

[0139]

[0140] Referring to FIG. 5, the heater module (400) can be detachably coupled to the body (300) and the cartridge (500). The heater module (400) can be coupled to the body (300) in a first direction (W1) that intersects the longitudinal direction of the body (300). One end of the heater module (400) can be inserted into the receiving space (311) of the body (300) through the second opening (314) and slid in the first direction (W1) to be coupled to the body (300).

[0141] The body (300), heater module (400), and cartridge (500) can be replaced independently of each other. The user can replace at least one of the body (300), heater module (400), and cartridge (500) separately.

[0142] For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge (500) may be shorter than the replacement cycle of the heater module (400). While the cartridge (500) is replaced multiple times, the heater module (400) may be replaced only once. For example, the body (300) may be used without replacement.

[0143] Accordingly, unnecessary replacement of the heater module (400) is prevented, thereby reducing the replacement cost of the components of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0144]

[0145] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an opening of a body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a slit (570) may be provided in the cartridge (500). The slit (570) may be referred to as a sliding groove. The slit (570) may be formed by indenting a part of the side of the cartridge (500) inwardly. The slit (570) may be extended long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). The cartridge (500) may be received in the receiving space (311) of the body housing (310) through the first opening (313) of the body housing (310).

[0147] A guide rib (320) may be provided in the body (300). The guide rib (320) may protrude from the body housing (310) into the interior of the body (300). The guide rib (320) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the body housing (310) or in the direction in which the guide portion (312) extends. In the longitudinal direction of the body housing (310), the upper end of the guide rib (320) may be positioned adjacent to the first opening (313) of the body housing (310). In the circumferential direction of the body (300) or the body housing (310), the guide rib (320) may be positioned adjacent to the guide portion (312).

[0148] The slit (570) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the guide rib (320). The cartridge (500) may be received in the receiving space (311) of the body housing (310) through the first opening (313) of the body housing (310). When the cartridge (500) is coupled with the body housing (310), the upper end of the guide rib (320) may be inserted into the slit (570) through the lower end of the slit (570). The guide rib (320) may be coupled with the slit (570) while sliding along the slit (570).

[0149] A plurality of guide ribs (320) may be provided in the body (300). The guide ribs (320) may include a first rib (321) and a second rib (322). The first rib (321) may be positioned adjacent to one side of the guide portion (312) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The first rib (321) may be extended in a long direction in which the guide portion (312) extends. The first rib (321) may be extended along the guide portion (312) at either end of the body housing (310) facing the guide portion (312). The second rib (322) may be positioned adjacent to the other side of the guide portion (312) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The second rib (322) may be extended in the direction in which the guide portion (312) extends. The second rib (322) may be extended along the guide portion (312) at the other end of the body housing (310) facing the guide portion (312).

[0150] A plurality of slits (570) may be provided in the cartridge (500). The slits (570) may include a first slit (571) and a second slit (not shown). The first slit (571) and the second slit may extend long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). The first slit (571) and the second slit may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The first slit (571) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first rib (321). The first slit (571) may be coupled with the first rib (321). The second slit may be formed at a position corresponding to the second rib (322). The second slit may be coupled with the second rib (322).

[0151] Accordingly, a guide rib (320) that protrudes inwardly from the body (300) and extends in one direction is provided, and a slit (570) is provided on the side of the cartridge (500), so that the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (300) by the combination of the guide rib (320) and the slit (570), thereby preventing a gap from occurring between the cartridge (500) and the body (300).

[0152] Additionally, a guide portion (312) is formed on the side of the body (300), and a guide rib (320) is extended in the direction of extension of the guide portion (312) and positioned adjacent to the guide portion (312), so that the body (300) and the cartridge (500) can be firmly joined around the guide portion (312), where play is likely to occur.

[0153] A slit (570) may have one end closed and the other end open along the longitudinal direction of the slit (570). For example, the upper end of the slit (570) may be located adjacent to the upper end of the cartridge (500) and may be covered by the upper cover (511) or the upper surface of the cartridge (500). The lower end of the slit (570) may be located adjacent to the lower end of the cartridge (500) and may be open downward. At the location adjacent to the upper end of the slit (570), the width of the slit (570) may gradually narrow toward the upper end. At the location adjacent to the lower end of the slit (570), the width of the slit (570) may gradually widen toward the lower end.

[0154] The guide rib (320) is inserted into the slit (570) and can slide upward along the slit (570). The upper end of the guide rib (320) can come into contact with the upper end of the slit (570). When the upper end of the guide rib (320) comes into contact with the upper end of the slit (570), the cartridge (500) may be prevented from moving downward. When the cartridge (500) is slid into the body (300) and coupled, the upper end of the guide rib (320) and the upper end of the slit (570) can act as a stopper to prevent the cartridge (500) from moving downward or inward beyond a certain limit of the body (300).

[0155] Accordingly, even when the heater module (400) is not coupled to the body (300), the position of the cartridge (500) can be fixed, and the cartridge (500) can be stably coupled to the body (300).

[0156] A fixing projection (560) may be formed on the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may protrude outward from the side of the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may be positioned adjacent to the upper cover (511) or upper surface of the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may extend long in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may have a shape in which both ends are bent at an angle in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may be provided in multiple numbers. The fixing projection (560) may include multiple fixing projections spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500). The fixing projection (560) may be positioned spaced apart from the slit (570) in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500).

[0157] A fixing groove (330, 340) may be formed in the body housing (310). The fixing groove (330, 340) may be formed by a portion of the inner surface of the body housing (310) being recessed outwardly toward the body housing (310). The fixing groove (330, 340) may be positioned adjacent to the first opening (313) of the body (300). In the longitudinal direction of the body housing (310), the fixing groove (330, 340) may be positioned closer to one end of the body housing (310) where the first opening (313) is formed than to the other end of the body housing (310). The fixing groove (330, 340) may be extended in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The fixing groove (330, 340) may have a shape in which both ends are recessed at an angle in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The fixed grooves (330, 340) can be spaced apart from the guide ribs (320) in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310).

[0158] The fixing grooves (330, 340) may include a first fixing groove (330) and a second fixing groove (340). The first fixing groove (330) may include a plurality of fixing grooves spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The first fixing groove (330) may be positioned spaced apart from the first opening (313) more than the second fixing groove (340). The second fixing groove (340) may include a plurality of fixing grooves spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the body housing (310). The second fixing groove (340) may be positioned closer to the first opening (313) than the first fixing groove (330). In the longitudinal direction of the body housing (310), the second fixing groove (340) may be positioned between the first opening (313) and the first fixing groove (330).

[0159] The fixing projection (560) may have a shape corresponding to the fixing grooves (330, 340). A plurality of fixing projections may be coupled to each of the plurality of fixing grooves. For example, the fixing projection (560) may be coupled to the second fixing groove (340). As the cartridge (500) is inserted into the body housing (310) through the first opening (313) and moves, the fixing projection (560) may be coupled to the second fixing groove (340). With the fixing projection (560) coupled to the second fixing groove (340), the cartridge (500) may be fixed in a second position. As the cartridge (500) is further inserted into the body housing (310) in the second position, the fixing projection (560) may be separated from the second fixing groove (340) and coupled to the first fixing groove (330). With the fixing projection (560) coupled with the first fixing groove (330), the cartridge (500) can be fixed in a first position (see FIG. 8). The first position may be on the inner or lower side of the body housing (310) than the second position. In the first position, the upper end of the guide rib (320) may come into contact with the upper end of the slit (570).

[0160] The cartridge (500) may be prevented from moving downward in the first position. With the cartridge (500) positioned in the first position, a space in which a heater module (400) can be inserted may be secured in the lower part of the receiving space (311). With the cartridge (500) positioned in the first position, the lower end of the cartridge (500) may be aligned with the upper end of the second opening (314). With the cartridge (500) positioned in the first position, the lower end of the cartridge (500) may form the upper part of the space into which the heater module (400) is inserted.

[0161] Accordingly, even when the heater module (400) is not coupled to the body (300), the position of the cartridge (500) can be fixed, and the cartridge (500) can be stably coupled to the body (300).

[0162] The cartridge (500) may include a cartridge body (510) and a guide body (520). The cartridge body (510) may include at least one of a storage chamber (527), an airflow channel (531), a first aerosol path (540), and an absorbing member (550) inside. The storage chamber (527) may store an aerosol generating substance inside. The airflow channel (531) may be in communication with an intake port (535) and an aerosol path (540). The absorbing member (550) may be disposed below the storage chamber (527). The absorbing member (550) may absorb the aerosol generating substance of the storage chamber (527). At least a portion of the absorbing member (550) may be exposed to the outside through a body hole (513) formed below the cartridge body (510). One end of the first aerosol channel (540) can be exposed to the outside through a hole formed on the lower side of the cartridge body (510).

[0163] The guide body (520) may protrude outward from the side of the cartridge body (510). The guide body (520) may be bent outwardly convexly. The guide body (520) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). At least a portion of the storage chamber (527) may be disposed within the guide body (520).

[0164] The boundary formed by the guide body (520) and the cartridge body (510) may extend longitudinally along both sides of the guide body (520) in the direction of the cartridge (500). The guide body (520) may be formed integrally with the cartridge body (510). When the cartridge (500) is coupled with the body housing (310), the guide body (520) may be inserted into the guide portion (312). The guide body (520) may penetrate the guide portion (312) and protrude to the outside of the body housing (310). The guide body (520) may slide along the guide portion (312). At least a portion of the convexly bent outer surface of the guide body (520) may include a transparent material. The user can check the remaining amount of aerosol generating material contained in the storage chamber (527) through the outer surface of the guide body (520) protruding to the outside of the guide portion (312).

[0165] The slit (570) may be located adjacent to the boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520). The first slit (571) may extend along one boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520). The second slit may extend along the other boundary between the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520).

[0166] A mouthpiece (530) may be positioned on one side of a cartridge (500). The mouthpiece (530) may cover at least a portion of the upper part of the cartridge body (510) and / or guide body (520). The mouthpiece (530) may extend in the direction in which the guide body (520) extends. A portion of the outer surface of the mouthpiece (530) may be convexly bent. A portion of the convexly bent outer surface of the mouthpiece (530) may be connected to the convexly bent outer surface of the guide body (520). The mouthpiece (530) may be formed integrally with the cartridge body (510) and the guide body (520).

[0167] The rib (320) may extend in the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes or in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). The direction in which the rib (320) extends may correspond to the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes.

[0168] The user may put the mouthpiece (530) in their mouth and inhale the aerosol. While the user is inhaling the aerosol, an external force may be applied to the cartridge (500) and the body (300) by the user through the mouthpiece (530). By extending the rib (320) in a direction corresponding to the direction in which the mouthpiece (530) protrudes, the cartridge (500) may not shake or a gap may not form between the cartridge (500) and the body (300) due to the external force applied through the mouthpiece (530).

[0169] A handling projection (521) may be provided on one side of the guide body (520). The handling projection (521) may protrude convexly outward from a convexly bent portion of the guide body (520). The handling projection (521) may include a plurality of projections spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500). When the cartridge (500) is coupled to the body (300), the handling projection (521) may protrude outward from the guide portion (312).

[0170] With the lower end of the cartridge (500) inserted into the first opening (313) of the body housing (310), the user can slide the cartridge (500) into the body housing (310) by pushing the handling projection (521). Accordingly, the user can easily attach the cartridge (500) to the body (300), and the user's convenience can be improved.

[0171]

[0172] FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective views of a heater module of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a heater module of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from one side.

[0173] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, the heater module (400) may include a wick (430) and a heater (490). The heater module (400) may include a module housing (410). An atomization chamber (480) may be formed inside the module housing (410). The wick (430) and the heater (490) may be accommodated within the atomization chamber (480).

[0174] The wick (430) may be positioned on the upper side of the atomizing chamber (480). The heater (490) may be in contact with the wick (430). The heater (490) may be positioned to be in contact with the lower side of the wick (430) and may be exposed within the atomizing chamber (480).

[0175] A wick hole (450) may be formed in the module housing (410). The wick hole (450) may be formed in the upper cover (411) of the module housing (410). The wick hole (450) may be formed by penetrating the upper cover (411) in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the wick (430) may be exposed to the outside or top of the heater module (400) through the wick hole (450).

[0176] The heater module (400) may include a second connection terminal (460). The second connection terminal (460) is disposed inside the module housing (410) and at least a portion may be exposed to the outside or bottom of the heater module (400). The bottom of the second connection terminal (460) may be exposed to the bottom through a hole formed in the bottom cover (412) of the module housing (410). The second connection terminal (460) may include two terminals. The second connection terminal (460) may come into contact with the heater (490). For example, one terminal of the second connection terminal (460) may come into contact with one end of the heater (490), and the other terminal may come into contact with the other end of the heater (490). The second connection terminal (460) may be disposed across the atomization chamber (480). With the heater module (400) coupled to the body (300), the second connection terminal (460) can be electrically connected to the first connection terminal (350, see FIG. 12) provided in the body (300).

[0177] The heater module (400) may be provided with a handling portion (420). The handling portion (420) may be coupled to one side of the module housing (410). The handling portion (420) may protrude outward from the side of the module housing (410). The handling portion (420) may be bent outwardly in a convex manner. The handling portion (420) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the heater module (400). When the heater module (400) is coupled with the cartridge (500) and the body (300), the handling portion (420) may form a curved surface continuous with the guide body (520) of the cartridge (500).

[0178] The user can grasp the handling portion (420) to attach the heater module (400) to the body (300) or detach it from the body (300). Although not shown in the drawing, at least one protrusion may be formed on the handling portion (420).

[0179] Accordingly, the user can easily attach or detach the heater module (400) to the body (300), and the user's convenience can be improved.

[0180]

[0181] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged connection terminal of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 12 together with FIG. 4 and FIG. 8, the body (300) may be provided with a first connection terminal (350). The first connection terminal (350) may be fixed to an inner housing (315) of the body (300). The inner housing (315) may be disposed inside the body housing (310) and fixed to the body housing (310). The inner housing (315) may be formed integrally with the body housing (310).

[0183] The first connection terminal (350) may protrude toward the receiving space (311). The first connection terminal (350) may be positioned on the lower side of the receiving space (311) in which the heater module (400) is received. The first connection terminal (350) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first connection terminal (350) may include two terminals corresponding to the second connection terminal (350) of the heater module (400). When the heater module (400) is coupled to the body (300), each of the multiple first connection terminals (350) may come into contact with and be electrically connected to each of the second connection terminals (460) of the heater module (400).

[0184] The first connecting terminal (350) may include a first part (351) and a second part (352). A portion of the first part (351) may be fixed to the inner housing (315). The first part (351) may be fixed to the inner housing (315) by penetrating the inner housing (315) in an up-and-down direction. The second part (352) may be connected to the first part (351). The second part (352) may be formed integrally with the first part (351). The second part (352) may be inclined with respect to the first direction (W1). The second part (352) may be extended to form an inclination in which the height gradually increases in a direction away from the second opening (314).

[0185] The first connection terminal (350) may further include a third part (353) and a fourth part (354). The third part (353) may be formed integrally with the second part (352). The third part (353) may be inclined toward the first direction (W1). The third part (353) may be extended downwardly at an angle from one end of the second part (352). The third part (353) may be extended so as to have a slope in which the height gradually decreases in the direction away from the second opening (314). A first contact (355) may be formed at the boundary between the second part (352) and the third part (353). The first contact (355) may contact and be electrically connected to the second connection terminal (460) of the heater module (400).

[0186] The fourth part (354) can connect the first part (351) and the second part (352). The fourth part (354) can be formed integrally with the first part (351). The fourth part (354) may be referred to as a part of the first part (351). The fourth part (354) can be bent from the other end of the second part and extended downward at an angle.

[0187] The first part (351) may be bent convexly downward. The convexly bent portion may be referred to as the second contact (356). The second contact (356) may be electrically connected to a terminal provided in a battery (not shown) or a control circuit that controls the operation of the battery, which is placed within the body (300).

[0188]

[0189] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an absorbent member and a wick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the contact between the absorbent member and the wick when the heater module of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a body and a cartridge.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 13, the cartridge (500) and the heater module (400) can be coupled to the body (300). As previously described, the cartridge (500) can be detachably coupled to the body (300) along the longitudinal direction of the body (300). The heater module (400) can be detachably coupled to the body (300) along a first direction (W1) that intersects the longitudinal direction of the body (300).

[0191] With the cartridge (500) and the heater module (400) combined in the body (300), the cartridge (500) may be positioned above the heater module (400). The absorbing member (550) of the cartridge (500) may be positioned above the wick (430) of the heater module (400) and may come into contact with the wick (430).

[0192] With the cartridge (500) coupled to the body (300) and the heater module (400), the absorbing member (550) can come into contact with the wick (430) provided in the heater module (400). The first aerosol channel (540) is connected to the second aerosol channel (440) provided in the heater module (400), and the aerosol formed in the atomizing chamber (480) provided in the heater module (400) can flow into the airflow channel (531) through the first and second aerosol channels (540, 550).

[0193] The absorbing member (550) may include an absorbing body (551) and a leg (552). The absorbing body (551) may be extended in one direction (e.g., z-direction). At least a portion of the absorbing body (551) may be exposed to the outside of the cartridge body (510). For example, in the direction in which the absorbing body (551) extends, one end or the bottom of the absorbing body (551) may be exposed to the outside of the cartridge body (510). The leg (552) may protrude from the absorbing body (551) to one side. For example, the leg (552) may protrude from the absorbing body (551) in a direction (e.g., x-direction) that intersects the direction in which the absorbing body (551) extends.

[0194]

[0195] Referring to FIG. 14, when the heater module (400) is combined with the cartridge (500), the portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) that protrudes outside the cartridge (500) can be inserted into the wick hole (450). The length (D1) of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) protruding downward from the cartridge (500) may be equal to or longer than the height (H1) of the wick hole (450). The protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can press the wick (430) exposed through the wick hole (450) downward.

[0196] Accordingly, the absorbent member (550) of the cartridge (500) and the wick (430) of the heater module (400) can be in firm contact, and an aerosol generating substance can be stably supplied from the cartridge (500) to the wick (430).

[0197] The protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may be exposed to the outside through the body hole (513). In the first direction (W1), both ends of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may be spaced apart from the body hole (513). A spaced-apart space (5131) may be formed between both ends of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) and the body hole (513).

[0198]

[0199] Referring to FIG. 15, the heater module (400) can be detachably coupled to the body (300) along a first direction (W1) that intersects the longitudinal direction of the body (300).

[0200] As the heater module (400) is inserted into the receiving space (311) through the second opening (314), the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may come into contact with the upper part of the heater module (400). The protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may be pressed upward and in the first direction (W1) by the upper part of the heater module (400). While the heater module (400) slides along the first direction (W1), the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may bend in the first direction (W1). At this time, due to the gap space (5131) formed between both ends of the protruding portion (551a) and the body hole (513), the protruding portion (551a) may bend naturally without interfering with the side of the body hole (513).

[0201] Accordingly, during the process of combining and disassembling the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500), the absorption member (550) of the cartridge (500) can be prevented from being damaged.

[0202] As the heater module (400) is inserted into the receiving space (311) through the second opening (314), the first connecting terminal (350) of the body (300) can come into contact with the lower part of the heater module (400). The first connecting terminal (350) can come into contact with the second connecting terminal (460) of the heater module (400) by passing through a terminal groove (470, see FIG. 10) formed at the lower end of one side of the heater module (400). The first connecting terminal (350) can be pressed downward and in the first direction (W1) by the lower part of the heater module (400). While the heater module (400) slides along the first direction (W1), the first connecting terminal (350) can be bent in the first direction (W1). At this time, the first connection terminal (350) can be naturally bent by the bent structure of the first connection terminal (350). In addition, the heater module (400) can be guided to move in the first direction (W1) by the inclined surface of the second part (352) of the first connection terminal (350).

[0203] As the heater module (400) is separated from the receiving space (311) through the second opening (314), the first connection terminal (350) can be pressed downward and in the opposite direction of the first direction (W1) by the lower part of the heater module (400). While the heater module (400) slides along the opposite direction of the first direction (W1), the first connection terminal (350) can be bent in the opposite direction of the first direction (W1). At this time, the first connection terminal (350) can be naturally bent by the bent structure of the first connection terminal (350). In addition, the heater module (400) can be guided to move in the opposite direction of the first direction (W1) by the inclined surface of the third part (353) of the first connection terminal (350).

[0204] Accordingly, the connection terminal (350) can be prevented from being damaged during the process of combining and disassembling the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500).

[0205]

[0206] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an absorbent member and a wick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 16 together with FIG. 15, in the first direction (W1), an inclined surface (553) may be formed on at least one of the two ends of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550). The inclined surface (553) may include a first inclined surface (5531) formed at one end of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) and a second inclined surface (5532) formed at the other end.

[0208] As the heater module (400) is inserted into the receiving space (311) through the second opening (314), the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can come into contact with the upper part of the heater module (400). At this time, the first inclined surface (5531) can come into contact with the upper part of the heater module (400) first, and through the first inclined surface (5531), the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can be pressed upward and in the first direction (W1) by the upper part of the heater module (400) without being damaged.

[0209] As the heater module (400) is separated from the receiving space (311) through the second opening (314), the protruding part (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can come into contact with the upper part of the heater module (400). At this time, the second inclined surface (5532) can come into contact with the upper part of the heater module (400) first, and through the second inclined surface (5532), the protruding part (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can be pressed upward and in the opposite direction of the first direction (W1) by the upper part of the heater module (400) without being damaged.

[0210] Accordingly, during the process of combining and disassembling the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500), the absorption member (550) of the cartridge (500) can be prevented from being damaged.

[0211]

[0212] Meanwhile, when the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500) are coupled to the body (300), the heater module (400) may be coupled to the body (300) while the cartridge (500) is not fully inserted or coupled to the body (300). For example, the cartridge (500) may be slid downward along the longitudinal direction of the body (300) and fixed in a second position. In the second position, the fixing projection (560) of the cartridge (500) may be coupled with the second fixing groove (340). The heater module (400) may be slid in the first direction (W1) and coupled to the body (300). In the second position, since the cartridge (500) is spaced upward from the heater module (400), the wick (430) of the heater module (400) and the absorbing member (550) of the cartridge (500) may not come into contact. With the heater module (400) coupled to the body (300), the cartridge (500) can be slid from a second position to a first position. The cartridge (500) can be coupled to the heater module (400) while sliding downward along the longitudinal direction of the body (300). At this time, the protruding part (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can move downward, come into contact with the wick (430) of the heater module (400), and press the wick (430) downward.

[0213] Accordingly, during the process of combining the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500) with the body (300), friction between the cartridge (500) and the heater module (400) is minimized, thereby preventing damage to the absorption member (550) of the cartridge.

[0214]

[0215] Meanwhile, when the heater module (400) and the cartridge (500) are coupled to the body (300), the cartridge (500) can be coupled to the body (300) while the heater module (400) is coupled to the body (300). The cartridge (500) can be coupled to the body (300) and the heater module (400) while sliding downward along the longitudinal direction of the body (300). At this time, the protruding part (551a) of the absorbing member (550) can move downward, come into contact with the wick (430) of the heater module (400), and press the wick (430) downward.

[0216]

[0217] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure that slides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is coupled to the body and is detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge, so that the heater module can be separated from the body independently of the cartridge, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0218] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure that slides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the cartridge is coupled to the body and is detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge, so that the heater module can be more firmly coupled to the body and the cartridge and the durability of the device can be increased.

[0219] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the heater module is coupled to the body and the cartridge, the wick of the heater module is pressurized by the absorbing member of the cartridge, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge and the wick of the heater module can be in firm contact and an aerosol generating substance can be stably supplied from the cartridge to the wick.

[0220] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbing member of the cartridge is provided with a structure in which both ends are spaced apart from the body hole in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge is prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0221] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the ends of the absorbing member of the cartridge is provided with an inclined surface in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the absorbing member of the cartridge may be prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0222] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heater module is provided with a structure in which the connecting terminal of the heater module extends obliquely in the direction in which the heater module is coupled to the body, so that the heater module can be stably connected to the battery of the body and the connecting terminal can be prevented from being damaged during the process of coupling and disassembling the heater module and the cartridge.

[0223] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a slit and rib structure is provided that is coupled in the longitudinal direction of the body but prevents movement into the body beyond a certain amount, so that the cartridge can be stably coupled to the body independently of the heater module.

[0224] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cartridge is provided with a fixing groove and a fixing projection structure that extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the cartridge is inserted into the body and are coupled to each other, so that the cartridge can be stably coupled to the body and the heater module.

[0225]

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 16, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a long body (300); a cartridge (500) detachably coupled to the body (300), having a storage chamber (527) for receiving an aerosol generating substance and an absorbent member (550) impregnated with said aerosol generating substance; and a heater module (400) detachably coupled to the body (300) and the cartridge (500), having a wick (430) and a heater (490) for heating said wick (430), and sliding in a first direction (W1) intersecting the longitudinal direction of the body (300). The absorbent member (550) can press the wick (430) by contacting it as the heater module (400) slides and is coupled to the body (300).

[0227] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heater module (400) comprises a wick hole (450) that is open upward and exposes at least a portion of the wick (430) to the outside of the heater module (400); the absorbing member (550) comprises a portion protruding downward from the cartridge (500), and the protruding portion of the absorbing member (550) is inserted into the wick hole (450) while the heater module (400) is coupled to the body (300) and can press the exposed portion of the wick (430) downward.

[0228] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the length (D1) of the absorbing member (550) protruding downward from the cartridge (500) may be equal to or longer than the height (H1) of the wick hole (450).

[0229] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge (500) includes a body hole (513) formed on the lower side of the cartridge (500) to expose a protruding portion of the absorbing member (550) to the outside, and in the first direction (W1), both ends of the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may be spaced apart from the body hole (513).

[0230] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the absorbing member (550) includes a portion protruding downward from the cartridge (500), and the protruding portion (551a) of the absorbing member (550) may have an inclined surface (553) at least one of the two ends in the first direction (W1).

[0231] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heater module (400) includes a second connection terminal (460) that contacts the heater (490) and has one end exposed to the lower side of the heater module (400); and the body (300) may include a first connection terminal (350) that protrudes toward a receiving space (311) in which the heater module (400) is received and contacts the second connection terminal (460).

[0232] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first connecting terminal (350) may include: a first part (351) fixed to the body (300); and a second part (352) connected to the first part (351), extending at least a portion inclined away from the opening (314) into which the heater module (400) is inserted into the body (300), and contacting the second connecting terminal (460).

[0233] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first connecting terminal (350) may further include a third part (353) that is connected to the second part (352) and extends downwardly inclined from the second part (352).

[0234] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body (300) comprises a first opening (313) into which the cartridge (500) is inserted; and a second opening (314) into which the heater module (400) is inserted, wherein the second opening (314) may be opened in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first opening (313) is opened.

[0235] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body (300) comprises a guide portion (312) formed along the longitudinal direction of the body (300) and connected to the first opening (313) and the second opening (314); and the cartridge (500) can be coupled to the body (300) by sliding along the guide portion (312) with one end inserted into the body (300) through the first opening (313).

[0236] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge (500) includes a slit (570) that is formed by a portion of the side being recessed and extends long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge (500); and the body (300) may include a guide rib (320) that protrudes inwardly from the body (300), extends in the direction in which the guide portion (312) extends, and engages with the slit (570).

[0237] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper end of the slit (570) is closed and the lower end of the slit (570) is open downward, and the guide rib (320) is inserted into the slit (570) and slides upward along the slit (570), and the upper end of the guide rib (320) contacts the upper end of the slit (570) so that the cartridge (500) may be prevented from moving downward.

[0238] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body (300) may include a fixing groove (330, 340) formed by a recess in a part of the inner surface of the body (300) and extending in the circumferential direction of the body (300), and the cartridge (500) may include a fixing projection (560) that protrudes outward from the side of the cartridge (500), extends in the circumferential direction of the cartridge (500), and engages with the fixing groove (330, 340).

[0239] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fixing grooves (330, 340) include a first fixing groove (330) and a second fixing groove (340) positioned adjacent to the first opening (313) in the longitudinal direction of the body (300), and the first fixing groove (330) may be spaced further from the first opening (313) than the second fixing groove (340) in the longitudinal direction of the body (300).

[0240]

[0241] 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.

[0242] 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, even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible, except where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0243] 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. Long, extended body; A cartridge having a storage chamber for receiving an aerosol generating substance and an absorbent member impregnated with said aerosol generating substance, and detachably coupled to said body; and A heater module comprising a wick and a heater for heating the wick, and sliding in a first direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the body and detachably coupled to the body and the cartridge; The above-mentioned absorbing member is, An aerosol generating device that pressurizes a wick by contacting it as the heater module slides and is coupled to the body.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above heater module is, It includes a wick hole that is open upward and exposes at least a portion of the wick to the outside of the heater module. The above-mentioned absorbing member is, It includes a portion protruding downward from the cartridge above, The protruding portion of the absorbing member is inserted into the wick hole while the heater module is coupled to the body, thereby pressurizing the exposed portion of the wick downwards in an aerosol generating device.

3. In Paragraph 2, The length of the absorbing member protruding downward from the cartridge is, An aerosol generating device that is equal to or longer than the height of the wick hole mentioned above.

4. In Paragraph 2, The above cartridge is, It includes a body hole formed on the lower side of the cartridge, which exposes a protruding portion of the absorbing member to the outside, and In the first direction above, the two ends of the protruding portion of the absorbing member are spaced apart from the body hole in an aerosol generating device.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned absorbing member is, It includes a portion protruding downward from the cartridge above, The protruding part of the above-mentioned absorbing member is, An aerosol generating device having an inclined surface on at least one of both ends in the first direction above.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above heater module is, It includes a second connection terminal that contacts the heater and has one end exposed to the lower side of the heater module. The above body is, An aerosol generating device comprising a first connection terminal that protrudes toward a receiving space in which the heater module is received and contacts the second connection terminal.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above-mentioned first connection terminal is, A first part fixed to the above body; and An aerosol generating device comprising: a second part connected to the first part, at least a portion of which extends obliquely in a direction away from the opening into which the heater module is inserted into the body, and contacts the second connection terminal.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above-mentioned first connection terminal is, An aerosol generating device further comprising a third part connected to the second part and extending downwardly inclined from the second part.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above body is, A first opening into which the above cartridge is inserted; It includes a second opening into which the above heater module is inserted, and The above second opening is, An aerosol generating device that opens in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first opening is opened.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above body is, A guide portion formed along the longitudinal direction of the body and connected to the first opening and the second opening; The above cartridge is, One end is inserted into the body through the first opening, and An aerosol generating device that slides along the guide section and is coupled to the body.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above cartridge is, A slit formed by a portion of the side being sunken and extending long in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge; including The above body is, An aerosol generating device comprising a guide rib that protrudes inwardly from the body, extends in the direction in which the guide portion extends, and engages with the slit.

12. In Paragraph 11, The upper end of the slit is closed, and the lower end of the slit is open downwards. An aerosol generating device in which the guide rib is inserted into the slit and slides upward along the slit, and the upper end of the guide rib contacts the upper end of the slit to prevent the cartridge from moving downward.

13. In Paragraph 10, The above body is, A portion of the inner surface of the body is formed by being recessed, and includes a fixing groove extending in the circumferential direction of the body. The above cartridge is, An aerosol generating device comprising a fixing projection that protrudes outwardly from the side of the cartridge, extends in the circumferential direction of the cartridge, and engages with the fixing groove.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above fixed groove is, In the longitudinal direction of the body, it includes a first fixing groove and a second fixing groove positioned adjacent to the first opening, and The above-mentioned first fixed groove is, An aerosol generating device spaced apart from the first opening in the longitudinal direction of the body above than the second fixed groove.

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