Aerosol generating device comprising heating unit

Abstract

This aerosol generating device comprises: a housing structure including an elongated cavity; and a heater module including a heating unit disposed inside the elongated cavity, wherein the heating unit can include: a first end portion connected to the inner peripheral surface of the elongated cavity; a second end portion which is opposite to the first end portion, and which moves toward the inner center of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit increases; and a pressing region extending to the second end portion from the first end portion. Other various embodiments are possible.

Description

Aerosol generating device including a heating unit

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

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

[0003] For example, an aerosol generating device heats an aerosol generating article, such as a stick or a cigarette, and atomizes an aerosol generating substance contained in the medium of the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

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

[0005] When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the opening of an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device drives a heater to heat the aerosol-generating article. The heater may surround at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article or be inserted into the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is separated from the heater, there was a problem in that the heat transfer efficiency to the aerosol-generating article was reduced, and the time required for the aerosol-generating device to generate aerosols became longer.

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

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a housing structure including an elongated cavity and a heater module including a heating unit disposed inside the elongated cavity. The heating unit may include a first end connected to the inner circumference of the elongated cavity, a second end opposite to the first end that moves toward the inner center of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises, and a pressurized area extending from the first end to the second end.

[0008] A heating unit of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present document can heat an aerosol generating article inserted into a cavity by contacting or pressurizing it, and the heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol generating device can be improved.

[0009] Alternatively, an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can improve aerosol generation efficiency and reduce the time required to generate aerosol.

[0010] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0011] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2a illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2b illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

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

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

[0026] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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).

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] 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 be operated 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.

[0034] 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).

[0035] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor may be placed inside a housing (not shown) of an aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0049] According to one embodiment, an 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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).

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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).

[0075] 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).

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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).

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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)).

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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).

[0091] 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).

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] FIG. 2a illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment. FIG. 2b illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power supply (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and / or a heater (182, 183) (e.g., heater (18) of FIG. 1). 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. 2a or FIG. 2b, and that some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2a may be referred to as an 'internal heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the inside of an aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2b may be referred to as an 'external heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the outside of an aerosol generating article (2). In the following drawings, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may provide a space that is open upward to allow an aerosol generating article (2) to be inserted. In the present disclosure, the space that is open upward may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the housing (10) so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (2) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the area containing the aerosol generating material and / or medium in the aerosol generating article (2). The lower end of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (10), and the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) may protrude outside the housing (10). A user may take the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) exposed to the outside into their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the heater (182, 183) can heat the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 2a, the heater (182) may be an internal heating type heater.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the internal heating element may extend upward in a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the internal heating element may include a rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element as illustrated, but may also include various heating elements such as a tubular heating element or a plate-shaped heating element. The internal heating element may be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the internal heating type heater may include an electric resistance heater and / or an induction heating type heater.

[0109] For example, an electric resistive heater may contain an electric resistive material on the inside (e.g., inner hollow or inner surface) or on the outside (e.g., outer surface) and may be heated as current flows through the electric resistive material. In this case, the electric resistive heater may be electrically connected to a power source (11) and may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11). Additionally, the induction coil (181) may be omitted.

[0110] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) that surrounds at least a portion of an internal heating type heater (e.g., is placed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, a magnetic flux concentrator, etc., may be further included outside the induction coil (181) to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater may include a susceptor and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (181). According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., susceptor) (or a heater module including the same) may be disposed so as to be detachable from the housing (10).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the heater (182) may be a multiple heater. The multiple heater may include a first heater and a second heater and may be inserted into an aerosol generating article (2). The first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a first part and a second part of a single aerosol generating rod. Meanwhile, if the heater (182) is an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of the first part and the second part of a single heater (182). In addition, the heater and / or induction coil may include three or more.

[0112] According to one embodiment, a susceptor may be placed (or included) inside an aerosol generating article (2) (e.g., a medium part), and the susceptor included inside the aerosol generating article (2) may be implemented to generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from an induction coil (181).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 2b, the heater (183) may be an external heating type heater.

[0114] According to one embodiment, an external heating heater may extend upwardly around a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which an aerosol-generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the external heating heater may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the external heating heater may include a tube shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) containing a hollow inside. The external heating heater may also include a shape containing a hollow inside and surrounding said hollow. In this case, the external heating heater may be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film may be referred to as a film heater. The external heating heater may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating heater may heat the outside of the aerosol-generating article (2) inserted into said hollow.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and a description redundant with FIG. 2a is omitted. Meanwhile, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an external heating type heater implemented as a tubular susceptor and may include an induction coil (181) that surrounds at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., placed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). Additionally, the induction coil (181) may include various forms or combinations such as a solenoid coil, a flat spiral coil, a helical coil, or a toroidal coil. Meanwhile, if the external heating type heater is an electric resistive heater, a separate induction coil (181) may be omitted because heat generation is possible through the flow of current on the tubular electric resistive heater (e.g., a film heater). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be placed on the outside of the external heating type heater. Through this, the heat radiating outward from the heater (183) and applied to the outside of the housing (10) can be reduced.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the heater (183) may be a multiple heater, and the first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction to each surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Meanwhile, if the heater (183) is an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first and second portions of a single heater (183).

[0117] Unlike as depicted in FIG. 2a or FIG. 2b, the heater (182) of FIG. 2a and the heater (183) of FIG. 2b may be included together in the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the heater (182) may heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2), and the heater (183) may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing (10) may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air from the outside can be introduced into the housing (10). The air introduced into the housing (10) may be introduced into the aerosol generating article (2) through the bottom (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generated based on the heating of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inhaled into the user's mouth through the top (i.e., downstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2) together with the introduced air.

[0119] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3b is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, an aerosol generating device (200) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2a and FIGS. 2b) may include a housing (210) and a heater module (220) (e.g., the heater (18, 24) of FIGS. 1, the induction coil (181) or heater (182) of FIGS. 2a, or the induction coil (181) or heater (183) of FIGS. 2b).

[0121] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0122] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (200). Alternatively, the housing (210) may accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (200). The housing (210) may be the body or main body of the aerosol generating device (200).

[0123] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an opening (211). The opening (211) may be an opening or hole for inserting an aerosol-generating article (201) (e.g., the aerosol-generating article (2) of FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b). The opening (211) may be formed by opening on one side of the housing (210) (e.g., the top surface or the surface in the +Z direction).

[0124] In the following description, the object inserted into the aerosol generating device (200) according to various embodiments of this document is described as a stick-shaped aerosol generating article (201), but in the actual implementation of the aerosol generating device (200), it is not limited thereto, and the aerosol generating article (201) can be replaced with various shapes and structures such as a cartridge or a capsule.

[0125] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an elongated cavity (213). An aerosol-generating article (201) may be inserted into the elongated cavity (213). The elongated cavity (213) may be a cavity, a coupling area, an insertion area, or a heating area that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (201).

[0126] In one embodiment, the elongated cavity (213) may have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (201). For example, the elongated cavity (213) may have a cylindrical shape corresponding to the stick-shaped aerosol generating article (201).

[0127] In one embodiment, the elongated cavity (213) may be connected to the opening (211). The elongated cavity (213) may have a shape extending in one direction (e.g., -Z direction) from the opening (211). An aerosol generating article (201) may pass through the opening (211) and be inserted longitudinally (e.g., Z-axis direction) into the elongated cavity (213).

[0128] In one embodiment, the heater module (220) can heat an aerosol generating article (201) inserted into an elongated cavity (213). The heater module (220) can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article (201).

[0129] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the heater module (220) may be formed inside the elongated cavity (213). At least a portion of the heater module (220) may have a shape that surrounds a portion of the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213). For example, the heater module (220) may surround at least a portion of the medium region of the aerosol generating article (201) and heat the medium region.

[0130] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0131] Specifically, FIGS. 4b and FIGS. 4c are cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device (200) viewed in the A-A' direction of FIG. 4a. For example, FIG. 4b may be a cross-sectional view of the heating unit (230) in a state before heating or before reaching a certain temperature, and FIG. 4c may be a cross-sectional view of the heating unit (230) in a state during heating or after reaching a certain temperature.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c, a heater module (220) according to one embodiment may include at least one heating unit (230).

[0133] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within a scope that is easily understood by a person skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0134] In one embodiment, a heating unit (230) may be placed inside an elongated cavity (213). The heating unit (230) may heat an aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213). For example, the heating unit (230) may be composed of a material with high thermal conductivity or a metal material.

[0135] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) may include a first end (231), a second end (232), and a pressurized area (233).

[0136] In one embodiment, the first end (231) may be an area connected to the inner circumference of the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the first end (231) may be a fixed end or a fixed area of ​​the heating unit (230).

[0137] In one embodiment, the second end (232) may be the other end opposite to the first end (231). Alternatively, the second end (232) may be the free end or variable region of the heating unit (230).

[0138] In one embodiment, the pressurized area (233) may be an area extending from the first end (231) to the second end (232). For example, the pressurized area (233) may be a side of the heating unit (230) facing the inner center of the elongated cavity (213) or a heating area. Alternatively, the pressurized area (233) may be a part of the area facing the aerosol generating article (201) or a part of the area pressurizing the aerosol generating article (201).

[0139] In one embodiment, the second end (232) may move toward the inner center of the elongated cavity (213) as the temperature of the heating unit (230) rises. When the second end (232) moves, the pressurized area (233) may come into contact with and / or pressurize the aerosol generating article (201).

[0140] In one embodiment, when the second end (232) moves, the pressurizing area (233) may increase the contact area with the aerosol generating article (201) and pressurize the aerosol generating article (201). The aerosol generating article (201) may be pressurized and moved or at least partially deformed.

[0141] For example, referring to FIG. 4b, in the state before the heating unit (230) is heated (or while being heated) (or before reaching a certain temperature), the second end (232) and the pressurized area (233) may be spaced apart from the aerosol generating article (201).

[0142] In one embodiment, the pressurized area (233) moves toward the center of the elongated cavity (213) as the temperature of the heating unit (230) rises and can contact, pressurize, or deform the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213).

[0143] For example, referring to FIG. 4c, in a state where the heating unit (230) is heated (or after reaching a certain temperature), the second end (232) can move toward the aerosol generating article (201), and the pressurized area (233) can come into contact with the aerosol generating article (201). Alternatively, the contact area between the pressurized area (233) and the aerosol generating article (201) can be increased. Alternatively, the pressurized area (233) can pressurize the aerosol generating article (201).

[0144] In one embodiment of the present document, in an aerosol generating device (200), the shape or position of the heating unit (230) may change as the heater module (220) is driven. The contact state or pressurization state of the pressurized area (233) and the aerosol generating article (201) may change due to the heating unit (230).

[0145] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) may improve the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article (201) by contacting the aerosol generating article (201) and heating the aerosol generating article (201). Alternatively, the heating unit (230) may effectively transfer heat to the medium area inside the stick of the aerosol generating article (201), and the aerosol generating device (200) may improve the aerosol generation efficiency or provide an improved user feel and / or user experience.

[0146] In the following, some embodiments of the heating unit (230) are described exemplarily with reference to the drawings, and these are merely examples for understanding, and the structure and shape of the aerosol generating device (200) are not limited by the following description and drawings.

[0147] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) may be constructed by joining different types of metal materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion. For example, the heating unit (230) may be a bimetal. A bimetal is a structure that utilizes the fact that the expansion rates of different types of metal materials differ with temperature changes, and the bimetal may bend toward the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion as the temperature increases. A heating unit (230) using a bimetal is easy to produce and may be advantageous for designing the degree of deformation and the deformation temperature.

[0148] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) may be composed of a shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy can be deformed into a pre-learned shape depending on the temperature. Since the shape memory alloy is a single alloy form without joints, the shape memory alloy may have relatively higher durability or stability compared to a bonded form.

[0149] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) may be configured in a plate shape. The heating unit (230) may be substantially flat in the shape of a plate. The plate-shaped heating unit (230) may have a relatively large contact area with the aerosol-generating article (201) and may have excellent heat transfer efficiency.

[0150] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) may be configured in a curved plate shape that at least partially surrounds the elongated cavity (213). Compared to a flat plate shape, the heating unit (230) with a curved shape may increase the contact area between the heating unit (230) and the aerosol generating article (201) and improve the heat transfer efficiency of the heating unit (230).

[0151] In one embodiment, the direction extending from the first end (231) to the second end (232) in the heating unit (230) may be the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213).

[0152] For example, the first end (231) and the second end (232) may be arranged horizontally in the longitudinal direction (or axial direction) (or Z-axis direction) of the elongated cavity (213), and the pressurized area (233) may extend in the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213).

[0153] In one embodiment, the pressurizing area (233) can pressurize the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213) in a direction horizontal to the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213) (e.g., XY plane direction) when the temperature of the heating unit (230) rises.

[0154] In one embodiment, the elongated cavity (213) has a shape corresponding to the aerosol generating article (201), and the elongated cavity (213) may have a diameter larger than that of the aerosol generating article (201). The heating unit (230) may have a shape that surrounds the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (201) by extending in the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213).

[0155] In one embodiment of the present document, the heating unit (230) has a shape that is bent to surround the elongated cavity (213), thereby increasing the contact area between the heating unit (230) and the aerosol generating article (201) and improving the heat transfer efficiency of the heating unit (230).

[0156] In one embodiment, the heater module (220) may include a plurality of heating units (230). The plurality of heating units (230) may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213). The plurality of heating units (230) may have substantially the same shape, size, or curvature. Alternatively, at least one of the shape, size, and curvature of the plurality of heating units (230) may be different.

[0157] In one embodiment of the present document, a plurality of heating units (230) can each surround a plurality of regions of an aerosol generating article (201), rapidly heat the aerosol generating article (201), and evenly heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0158] FIG. 5a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0159] Specifically, FIGS. 5b and FIGS. 5c are cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device (200) viewed in the B-B' direction of FIG. 5a. For example, FIG. 5b may be a cross-sectional view of the heating unit (230) in a state before heating or before reaching a certain temperature, and FIG. 5c may be a cross-sectional view of the heating unit (230) in a state during heating or after reaching a certain temperature.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c, a heater module (220) according to one embodiment may further include a stationary heater (240).

[0161] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that regarding the heater module (220) and the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined with the heater module (220) and the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0162] In one embodiment, the fixed heater (240) may be positioned to at least partially surround the elongated cavity (213).

[0163] For example, as shown in the drawing, a fixed heater (240) may be positioned to surround the elongated cavity (213) from the outside of the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the fixed heater (240) may be positioned inside the elongated cavity (213).

[0164] In one embodiment, the fixed heater (240) may be configured in a cylindrical or tubular shape surrounding the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the fixed heater (240) may be configured in a heating wire, coil, or spiral structure.

[0165] In one embodiment, the fixed heater (240) may be positioned so that it remains fixed relative to the heating unit (230) even when the temperature rises. Here, "position is fixed" means that it does not deform or move relative to the heating unit (230), and it goes without saying that the fixed heater (240) may also expand or contract or move slightly depending on the temperature change.

[0166] In one embodiment of the present document, the heater module (220) includes both a heating unit (230) and a fixed heater (240), so that the heating unit (230) can heat the aerosol-generating article (201) in contact with it, and the fixed heater (240) can heat the aerosol-generating article (201) evenly while surrounding it.

[0167] In one embodiment, the number, arrangement, shape and / or size of the heating units (230) are not limited to those in the drawings. For example, the heater module (220) may include at least one heating unit (230). As shown in the drawings, the heater module (220) may include a single heating unit (230), or, without being limited thereto, the heater module (220) may include a plurality of heating units (230).

[0168] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230) can pressurize the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213) when the temperature rises, thereby moving the aerosol generating article (201) to the fixed heater (240).

[0169] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5c, when the temperature of the heating unit (230) rises, the second end (232) of the heating unit (230) can move into the inner side of the elongated cavity (213). When the second end (232) moves, the pressurizing area (233) can pressurize the aerosol generating article (201) to move the aerosol generating article (201).

[0170] In one embodiment, the pressurized area (233) may include a protrusion, projection, or protruding area for pushing out an aerosol-generating article (201), and can effectively push the aerosol-generating article (201) toward a fixed heater (240).

[0171] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article (201) may be pushed into the pressurized area (233) of the heating unit (230) and may be placed in contact with or adjacent to the fixed heater (240).

[0172] In one embodiment of the present document, the heating unit (230) can improve the heating efficiency of the aerosol-generating article (201) by heating it in direct contact with the aerosol-generating article (201), and further improve the heating efficiency of the aerosol-generating article (201) by moving the aerosol-generating article (201) toward the fixed heater (240).

[0173] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 6, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment may include a heating unit (230a) (e.g., the heating unit (230) of FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, FIG. 4c, FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c).

[0175] In the following description, details that overlap with those previously described are omitted. It is understood that regarding the heating unit (230a) and the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined with the heating unit (230a) and the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0176] In one embodiment, the direction extending from the first end (231a) of the heating unit (230a) to the second end (232a) (or the direction in which the pressurized area (233a) extends) (hereinafter referred to as the 'extending direction of the heating unit (230a)') may be bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213) in at least some area.

[0177] In one embodiment, the second end (232a) of the heating unit (230a) and the adjacent region may be bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the second end (232a) of the heating unit (230a) may be bent toward the aerosol generating article (201). Alternatively, in the heating unit (230a), as it extends from the first end (231a) to the second end (232a), some region of the heating unit (230a) may be extended in a circumferential direction or toward the inside of the elongated cavity (213), and the remaining region of the heating unit (230a) may be extended toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, as the heating unit (230a) extends from the first end (231a) to the second end (232a), the direction of extension or curvature may change at least once.

[0178] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second end (232a) of the heating unit (230a) is bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213), so that the aerosol generating device (200) may be advantageous for inserting and separating the aerosol generating article (201).

[0179] For example, when the heating unit (230a) is heated, it comes into contact with or pressurizes the aerosol generating article (201), so the heating unit (230a) may affect the separation of the aerosol generating article (201). Alternatively, when the heating unit (230a) is heated, it inserts the aerosol generating article (201), so the heating unit (230a) may affect the insertion of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0180] In one embodiment of the present document, the second end (232a) of the heating unit (230a) has a structure that bends away from the aerosol generating article (201), thereby reducing or preventing contact between the heating unit (230a) and the aerosol generating article (201) during the process of the aerosol generating article (201) being inserted into or separated from the elongated cavity (213), and allowing the aerosol generating article (201) to be easily inserted or separated.

[0181] In one embodiment, the second end (232a) may have a shape that bends in the axial direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the elongated cavity (213). For example, the upper end (e.g., +Z direction) of the second end (232a) may bend toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213). By bending the upper end of the second end (232a), the aerosol generating article (201) can be smoothly and gently inserted into or separated from the elongated cavity (213) while the heating unit (230a) is heated.

[0182] In one embodiment, the extending direction of the heating unit (230a) may be partially bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213) and also partially bent toward the circumference of the elongated cavity (213).

[0183] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the extending direction of the heating unit (230a) at the upper side (e.g., +Z direction) of the heating unit (230a) may be bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213), and the extending direction of the heating unit (230a) at the lower side (e.g., -Z direction) of the heating unit (230a) may be bent toward the inside of the elongated cavity (213).

[0184] In one embodiment of the present document, the extending direction of the heating unit (230b) is configured to bend outward from the upper side of the heating unit (230b) toward the aerosol generating article (201), thereby allowing the aerosol generating article (201) to be easily inserted into the elongated cavity (213). Additionally, the extending direction of the heating unit (230b) is configured to bend in the circumferential direction of the aerosol generating article (201) from the lower side of the heating unit (230b), thereby increasing the contact area between the aerosol generating article (201) and the heating unit (230b).

[0185] In one embodiment, the extending direction of the heating unit (230a) may be bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity (213) in substantially all areas.

[0186] However, 'substantially' in this document may mean the same level reflecting tolerances or errors in a normal manufacturing process. Alternatively, 'substantially' may refer to a range including any one of + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20% based on 0%, which is literally the same.

[0187] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 7, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment may include a heating unit (230b) (e.g., the heating unit (230) of FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, FIG. 4c, FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c).

[0189] In the following description, details that overlap with those described above are omitted. It is understood that regarding the heating unit (230b) and the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined with the heating unit (230b) and the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0190] In one embodiment, the direction extending from the first end (231b) of the heating unit (230b) to the second end (232b) (or the direction in which the pressurized area (233b) extends) (hereinafter referred to as the 'extending direction of the heating unit (230b)') may be horizontal to the longitudinal direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the elongated cavity (213).

[0191] For example, the first end (231b) may be the upper end of the heating unit (230b), and the second end (232b) may be the lower end of the heating unit (230b). Alternatively, the extending direction of the heating unit (230b) may be the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0192] In one embodiment, the pressurized area (233b) and / or the second end (232b) can move the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213) upward or downward along the length direction of the elongated cavity (213) when the temperature of the heating unit (230b) rises.

[0193] In one embodiment, the pressurized area (233b) of the heating unit (230b) is extended in the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity (213), so that the aerosol generating device (200) may be advantageous for inserting an aerosol generating article (201).

[0194] For example, since the heating unit (230b) comes into contact with or pressurizes the aerosol generating article (201) while in a heated state, when the heating unit (230b) inserts the aerosol generating article (201) while in a heated state, the heating unit (230b) may affect the insertion of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0195] In one embodiment of the present document, the extending direction of the heating unit (230b) is configured to bend outward toward the aerosol generating article (201), thereby reducing or preventing contact between the heating unit (230b) and the aerosol generating article (201) during the process of inserting the aerosol generating article (201) into the elongated cavity (213), and the aerosol generating article (201) can be easily inserted into the elongated cavity (213).

[0196] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 8, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment may include a heating unit (230c) (e.g., the heating unit (230) of FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, FIG. 4c, FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c).

[0198] In the following description, details that overlap with those previously described are omitted. It is understood that regarding the heating unit (230c) and the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined with the heating unit (230c) and the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0199] In one embodiment, the direction extending from the first end (231c) of the heating unit (230c) to the second end (232c) (or the direction in which the pressurized area (233c) extends) (hereinafter referred to as the "extending direction of the heating unit (230c)") may be a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity (213). The heating unit (230c) may extend to wrap around the elongated cavity (213) in a direction inclined to the elongated cavity (213).

[0200] For example, the heating unit (230c) may be configured in a coil shape extending along the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the heating unit (230c) may be configured in a spiral or helical shape extending along the elongated cavity (213).

[0201] In one embodiment, the first end (231c) may be the upper end of the heating unit (230c), and the second end (232c) may be the lower end of the heating unit (230c). The pressurized area (233c) may have a shape that extends in the vertical direction while encircling the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213) in a circumferential direction.

[0202] In one embodiment, the pressurizing area (233c) can pressurize the aerosol generating article (201) inserted into the elongated cavity (213) from multiple directions when the temperature of the heating unit (230c) rises.

[0203] In one embodiment of the present document, the heating unit (230c) can improve the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article (201) through a shape that is inclined and extended in the longitudinal direction. For example, compared to a plate-shaped heating unit (230c) of the same area, the heating unit (230c) that is inclined and extended in the longitudinal direction can cover a wider area in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0204] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 9, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment may include a heating unit (230d) (e.g., the heating unit (230) of FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, FIG. 4c, FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c).

[0206] In the following description, details that overlap with those previously described are omitted. It is understood that regarding the heating unit (230d) and the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined with the heating unit (230d) and the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0207] In one embodiment, the heating unit (230d) may be configured in a ring shape that surrounds the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213). The direction extending from the first end (231d) of the heating unit (230d) to the second end (232d) (or the direction in which the pressurized area (233d) extends) (hereinafter referred to as the "extending direction of the heating unit (230d)") may coincide with the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity (213). Alternatively, the extending direction of the heating unit (230d) may be a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity (213).

[0208] In one embodiment, the heater module (220) may include a plurality of heating units (230d), and the plurality of heating units (230d) may be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the elongated cavity (213).

[0209] In one embodiment, the ring-shaped heating unit (230d) may have a substantially cylindrical shape. For example, the heating unit (230d) may have a shape that extends along the length of the elongated cavity (213).

[0210] In one embodiment of the present document, a ring-shaped heating unit (230d) may be arranged to surround an aerosol-generating article (201) in a circumferential direction, and a pressurizing area (233d) may heat the aerosol-generating article (201) by evenly pressurizing it in a circumferential direction.

[0211] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a housing structure including an elongated cavity and a heater module including a heating unit disposed inside the elongated cavity. The heating unit may include a first end connected to the inner circumference of the elongated cavity, a second end opposite to the first end that moves toward the inner center of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises, and a pressurized area extending from the first end to the second end.

[0212] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be configured in a plate shape.

[0213] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be configured in a curved plate shape that surrounds an elongated cavity.

[0214] In one embodiment, the pressurizing area moves toward the center of the elongated cavity as the temperature of the heating unit rises and can contact, pressurize, or deform an article inserted into the elongated cavity.

[0215] In one embodiment, in the heating unit, the direction extending from the first end to the second end may be the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity. In one embodiment, the pressurizing area may pressurize an article inserted into the elongated cavity in a direction parallel to the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises.

[0216] In one embodiment, in the heating unit, the direction extending from the first end to the second end may be bent toward the outside of the elongated cavity in at least some area.

[0217] In one embodiment, in the heating unit, the direction extending from the first end to the second end may be horizontal to the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity. In one embodiment, the pressurized area may move upward or downward along the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity as the temperature of the heating unit rises.

[0218] In one embodiment, the heater module includes a plurality of heating units, and the plurality of heating units may be arranged in the circumferential direction of an elongated cavity.

[0219] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be configured in a coil shape extending along an elongated cavity. In one embodiment, the pressurizing area may pressurize from multiple directions while surrounding an article inserted into the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises.

[0220] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be configured in a ring shape that surrounds the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity. In one embodiment, the heater module includes a plurality of heating units, and the plurality of heating units may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity.

[0221] In one embodiment, the heater module may further include a stationary heater that is positioned to at least partially surround an elongated cavity and whose position is fixed even when the temperature rises.

[0222] In one embodiment, the heating unit can pressurize an article inserted into an elongated cavity when the temperature rises and move it to a fixed heater.

[0223] In one embodiment, the fixed heater may be configured in a cylindrical shape surrounding an elongated cavity.

[0224] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be composed of two different types of metal materials having different coefficients of thermal expansion joined together.

[0225] In one embodiment, the heating unit may be composed of a shape memory alloy whose shape changes as the temperature rises.

[0226] 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.

[0227] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0228] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, Housing structure including an elongated cavity and A heater module comprising a heating unit disposed inside the above-mentioned elongated cavity, and The above heating unit is A first end connected to the inner surface of the above-mentioned elongated cavity A second end, which is an end opposite to the first end, and moves toward the inner center of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises, and An aerosol generating device comprising a pressurized region extending from the first end to the second end.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above heating unit is, Aerosol generating device configured in a plate-like shape.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above heating unit is, An aerosol generating device configured with a curved plate shape surrounding the above-mentioned elongated cavity.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned pressurized area is, An aerosol generating device that moves toward the center of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises, and contacts, pressurizes, or deforms an article inserted into the elongated cavity.

5. In Paragraph 1, In the heating unit above, the direction extending from the first end to the second end is the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity, and The above-mentioned pressurized area is an aerosol generating device that pressurizes an article inserted into the elongated cavity in a direction horizontal to the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises.

6. In Paragraph 4, In the above heating unit, An aerosol generating device in which the direction extending from the first end to the second end bends toward the outside of the elongated cavity in at least some area.

7. In Paragraph 1, In the heating unit above, the direction extending from the first end to the second end is horizontal to the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity, and The above-mentioned pressurized region is an aerosol generating device that moves upward or downward along the longitudinal direction of the elongated cavity when the temperature of the heating unit rises.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above heater module includes a plurality of the above heating units, and Multiple heating units, A plurality of aerosol generating devices arranged in the circumferential direction of the above-mentioned elongated cavity.

9. In Paragraph 1, The heating unit is configured in a coil shape extending along the elongated cavity, and The above-mentioned pressurized area is an aerosol generating device that, when the temperature of the heating unit rises, surrounds an article inserted into the elongated cavity and pressurizes from multiple directions.

10. In Paragraph 1, The heating unit is configured in a ring shape that surrounds the circumferential direction of the elongated cavity, and The above heater module includes a plurality of the above heating units, and A plurality of heating units are arranged along the length of the elongated cavity, in an aerosol generating device.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above heater module is, An aerosol generating device further comprising a stationary heater positioned to at least partially surround the above-mentioned elongated cavity, wherein the position of the heater remains fixed even when the temperature rises.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above heating unit is, When the temperature rises, the article inserted into the above-mentioned elongated cavity is pressurized to the above-mentioned fixed heater Moving, aerosol generating device.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above fixed heater is, An aerosol generating device configured with a cylindrical shape surrounding the above-mentioned elongated cavity.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above heating unit is, An aerosol generating device composed of heterogeneous metal materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion joined together.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above heating unit is, An aerosol generating device composed of a shape memory alloy whose shape changes with increasing temperature.

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