JP7522920B2 - Aerosol Generator - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium may contain a substance of various components. The substance contained in the medium may be a flavoring substance of various components. For example, the substance contained in the medium may contain a nicotine component, a herbal component, and/or a coffee component. In recent years, much research has been conducted into such aerosol generating devices.

This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

Another object of the present disclosure is to prevent the problem of aerosols contacting the sensor.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to prevent problems that may occur due to sensor failure.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to enable the sensor to more accurately sense air inflow.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to improve the above problems while facilitating the attachment and detachment of the cartridge and the inhalation of the aerosol.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned object, an aerosol generating device is provided, which includes a body having a long hollow, a cartridge attached to one side of the body, the cartridge including a first chamber for storing liquid, a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber, a wick disposed in the second chamber for receiving the liquid from the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick, a connecting flow path that communicates the hollow with the second chamber of the cartridge, an inflow flow path formed in the cartridge so that outside air flows into the second chamber, and a sensor disposed adjacent to the inflow flow path for detecting the flow of air passing through the inflow flow path.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent the problem of aerosols coming into contact with the sensor.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent problems that may occur due to sensor failure.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure allows the sensor to more accurately detect air inflow.

At least one of the examples of the present disclosure can improve the above problem while facilitating the attachment and detachment of the cartridge and the inhalation of the aerosol.

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

The above and other objects, features and other characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of simplicity of description with reference to the drawings, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description for components are intended only for ease of explanation of the specification and do not have any special meaning or role.

In this disclosure, those aspects well known to those skilled in the art are omitted for the sake of brevity. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate an understanding of various technical features, and that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the present disclosure should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives in addition to those specifically disclosed in the accompanying drawings.

Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

When referring to an element as being "connected" to another element, it will be understood that there may be other elements in between. On the other hand, when referring to an element as being "directly connected" to another element, it will be understood that there are no other elements in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Below, the direction of the aerosol generating device 100 is defined based on the coordinate system shown in the drawings.

In a Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the front-to-back direction of the aerosol generating device 100. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +x can mean the front direction, and the direction toward -x can mean the rear direction.

In the coordinate system, the y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 100. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +y can mean the rightward direction, and the direction toward -y can mean the leftward direction.

In the coordinate system, the z-axis direction can be defined as the vertical direction of the aerosol generating device 100. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +z can mean the upward direction, and the direction toward -y can mean the downward direction.

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one of a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, a cartridge 40, and a sensor 21. At least one of the battery 10, the control unit 20, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, and the sensor 21 may be disposed inside a housing 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. The housing 110 may be referred to as a body 110.

The housing 110 may have a long hollow space. The housing 110 may have an insertion space 114 (see FIG. 4) into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The insertion space 114 into which the stick 200 can be inserted may be formed around the heater 30.

Referring to FIG. 1, the battery 10, the control unit 20, the sensor 21, the cartridge 40, and the heater 30 may be arranged in a row. Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 and the heater 30 may be arranged side-by-side facing each other at adjacent heights. The internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in the figure.

The battery 10 can supply power to operate at least one of the control unit 20, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, and the sensor 21. The battery 10 can supply the power required to operate the display, motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 10 can be said to be a power source 10.

The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 can control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, and the sensor 21. The control unit 20 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state by checking the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 100.

The heater 30 can generate heat using power supplied from the battery 10. The heater 30 can heat the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. The heater 30 can be referred to as the first heater 30.

The cartridge 40 may be coupled to one side of the housing 110. The cartridge 40 may generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated in the cartridge 40 may be delivered to a user through the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. The cartridge 40 may be detachably coupled to the housing 110.

The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 can be a pressure sensor. The sensor 21 can be disposed adjacent to a path through which air flows. The sensor 21 can be electrically connected to the control unit 20. The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air and output information to the control unit 20.

Referring to FIG. 3, the housing 110 may include a lower housing 110a and an upper housing 110b. The upper housing 110b may be disposed on the upper side of the lower housing 110a. The upper housing 110b may be disposed on the upper side of the lower housing 110a, facing the cartridge 40. The lower housing 110a may accommodate at least one of the battery 10 and the control unit 20 (see FIG. 2). The upper housing 110b may accommodate at least one of the sensor 21 and the first heater 30 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The first heater 30 may be disposed around the insertion space 114. The lower housing 110a may be referred to as the lower body 110a. The upper housing 110b may be referred to as the upper body 110b.

The upper housing 110b may have a long hollow. The upper housing 110b may have an insertion space 114 into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The upper housing 110b may include a first outlet 114a formed by opening the upper wall 112. The insertion space 114 may be connected to the first outlet 114a and extend downward from the first outlet 114a. The insertion space 114 may have a shape that is long in the vertical direction. The insertion space 114 may be surrounded by a side wall 111 of the upper body 110b.

The first inlet 116 may be formed in the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may be formed in the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may be connected to the inside of the base 42 formed in the cartridge 40.

The connection passage 115 may be formed in the housing 110. The connection passage 115 may be formed in the upper housing 110b. The connection passage 115 may be configured to communicate between the hollow formed in the housing 110 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 40. The connection passage 115 may be configured to communicate between the insertion space 114 and the second chamber C2. The connection passage 115 may be disposed between the first inlet 116 and the insertion space 114. The connection passage 115 may be configured to communicate between the first inlet 116 and the insertion space 114.

The first inlet 116 may be disposed below the first outlet 114a. The first inlet 116 and the first outlet 114a may be connected to each other. The first outlet 114a may be formed by opening upward. The first inlet 116 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. The first inlet 116 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 114. The first inlet 116 may be formed by opening forward.

The upper housing 110b may include a first extension 112a. The first extension 112a may extend forward from the upper portion of the upper housing 110b. The first extension 112a may cover the upper side of the mounting space 113. The first extension 112a may face the upper portion of the lower housing 110a.

The upper housing 110b may have a support surface 118 extending to one side from the lower portion of the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The support surface 118 may face the lower portion of the mounting space 113. The mounting space 113 may be defined by the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b, the first extension portion 112a, and the support surface 118. The mounting space 113 may be arranged side by side with the insertion space 114.

The cartridge 40 may be inserted into the mounting space 113 by moving from the front to the rear. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the housing 110 within the mounting space 113. The side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may face the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The lower part of the cartridge 40 may be supported by contacting the support surface 118 formed on the upper housing 110b. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 may be covered by the first extension 112a. The cartridge 40 may be electrically connected to other components inside the aerosol generating device 100 by contacting the support surface 118.

The cartridge 40 may include a container 41 for storing a liquid. The cartridge 40 may include a base 42 disposed below the container 41. The liquid stored in the container 41 may be supplied to the base 42. The aerosol may be generated in the base 42. The inside of the base 42 may be in communication with the first inlet 116.

Therefore, the aerosol generated in the cartridge 40 can flow into the first inlet 116 and toward the insertion space 114.

The cap 120 may be removably attached to the outside of the upper housing 110b. The cap 120 may cover the upper housing 110b and the cartridge 40 attached to the upper housing 110b. The side wall 121 of the cap 120 may cover the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The top wall 122 of the cap 120 may cover the top wall 112 of the upper housing 110b.

The opening 124 may be formed by opening the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The opening 124 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 114. When the cap 120 is coupled to the housing 110, the opening 124 may communicate with the insertion space 114 and the first outlet 114a.

The cap 120 may include a cover 123 that opens and closes the opening 124. The cover 123 may be provided on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The slit 125 may be formed on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120 and connected to the opening 124. The slit 125 may extend in one direction from the opening 124. The cover 123 may be provided to be movable along the slit 125. The cover 123 may move along the slit 125 to close the opening 124 in a first position and open the opening 124 in a second position.

Referring to FIG. 4, the cartridge 40 may include a first chamber C1 and a second chamber C2. The first chamber C1 may store a liquid. The second chamber C2 may be disposed on one side of the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may receive the liquid from the first chamber C1. An aerosol may be generated in the second chamber C2. Air may pass through the second chamber C2 and carry the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 into the hollow of the housing 110.

The cartridge 40 may include a container 41 and a base 42. The base 42 may be disposed below the container 41. The container 41 may have a first chamber C1 therein for storing a liquid. The base 42 may have a second chamber C2 therein.

The side wall 411 of the container 41 can be connected to the top wall 412 of the container 41 to form the periphery of the container 41. The side wall 411 and the top wall 412 of the container 41 can form the outer wall of the container 41.

The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by outer walls 411, 412 of the container 41. The side walls 411 of the container 41 may surround the sides of the first chamber C1. The top wall 412 of the container 41 may cover the top of the first chamber C1. The bottom of the container 41 may be open towards the second chamber C2.

The inlet flow passage 400 may be formed in the cartridge 40. The inlet flow passage 400 may allow outside air to flow into the second chamber C2. The inlet flow passage 400 may include at least one of the second inlet 401, the third inlet 402, the first flow passage 403, and the chamber inlet 404. The outside air may pass through the inlet flow passage 400 and flow into the second chamber C2.

The inlet flow passage 400 may include a second inlet 401 that is open to the outside. The second inlet 401 may be connected to the second chamber C2 via the first flow passage 403. The second inlet 401 may be open toward the upper side at the upper end of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the outer walls 411, 412, 421, and 422 of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the upper wall 412 of the container 41 toward the upper side. The second inlet 401 may be formed at the upper part of the container 41.

The inlet flow passage 400 may include a first flow passage 403. The first flow passage 403 may extend in a vertical direction from the second chamber C2 to the second inlet 401. The first flow passage 403 may be formed between the second inlet 401 and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow passage 403 may extend in a vertical direction from the second inlet 401 to the chamber inlet 404. The first flow passage 403 may connect the second inlet 401 and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow passage 403 may be formed at a position facing the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b based on the first chamber C1.

The first flow path 403 may be formed by opening the side walls 411, 421 of the cartridge 40. The first flow path 403 may be formed inside the side walls 411, 421 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the side walls 411, 421.

The inlet flow passage 400 may include a chamber inlet 404. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be located on the opposite side of the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the first flow passage 403. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The sidewall 411 of the container 41 may include a first flow path sidewall 4111 and a second flow path sidewall 4112. The first flow path sidewall 4111 and the second flow path sidewall 4112 may form part of the sidewall 411 of the container 41.

The first flow path sidewall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first flow path sidewall 4111 may contact the first chamber C1. The second flow path sidewall 4112 may form a part of the outer wall of the container 41. The second flow path sidewall 4112 may face the first flow path sidewall 4111 and be spaced outwardly from the first flow path sidewall 4111. The first flow path sidewall 4111 and the second flow path sidewall 4112 may be disposed adjacent to each other. The second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403 may be formed between the first flow path sidewall 4111 and the second flow path sidewall 4112.

The side wall 421 of the base 42 may be connected to the bottom wall 422 of the base 42 to form the periphery of the base 42. The side wall 421 and the bottom wall 422 of the base 42 may form the outer wall of the base 42.

The second chamber C2 may be connected to the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403. The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by outer walls 421, 422 of the base 42. The side wall 421 of the base 42 may surround the side of the second chamber C2. The bottom wall 422 of the base 42 may cover the bottom of the second chamber C2. The top of the base 42 may be open toward the first chamber C1.

The base 42 may include a chamber inlet 404 through which air flows in by communicating with the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The chamber inlet 404 may be in communication with the first flow path 403.

The base 42 may have a second exhaust port 405 through which air is exhausted by communicating with the second chamber C2. The second exhaust port 405 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The second exhaust port 405 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. The second exhaust port 405 may be disposed on the opposite side of the chamber inlet 404 with respect to the second chamber C2. The second exhaust port 405 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2. The second exhaust port 405 may communicate the second chamber C2 with the connecting flow passage 115.

The plate 43 may be disposed between the container 41 and the base 42. The plate 43 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2, and may separate the first chamber C1 from the second chamber C2. The plate 43 may include a liquid supply hole (not shown) that connects the first chamber C1 to the second chamber C2.

The wick 44 can be disposed inside the base 42. The wick 44 can be disposed in the second chamber C2. The wick 44 can receive liquid from the first chamber C1 through a liquid supply hole (not shown) formed in the plate 43.

The heater 45 may be disposed inside the base 42. The heater 45 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 45 may receive power from the battery 10 to generate heat. The heater 45 may heat the wick 44. The heater 45 may be wound multiple times around the wick 44. The heater 45 may heat the wick 44 that has received the liquid to generate an aerosol. The heater 45 disposed inside the cartridge 40 may be referred to as the second heater 45.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the cartridge 40 can be inserted into the mounting space 113. The cartridge 40 can be detachably coupled to the upper housing 110b within the mounting space 113.

The mounting space 113 may be formed by opening the upper housing 110b to one side. The mounting space 113 may be formed by opening the upper housing 110b to the front. The mounting space 113 may be surrounded and defined by the side wall 111, the first extension 112a, and the support surface 118 of the upper housing 110b.

When the cartridge 40 is inserted into the mounting space 113 and coupled to the housing 110, the second outlet 405 can be connected to the first inlet 116. The outside air flowing into the second inlet 401 can flow along the first flow path 403 and flow into the second chamber C2 through the chamber inlet 404. The aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 can flow into the first inlet 116 through the second outlet 405. The aerosol flowing into the first inlet 116 can sequentially pass through the connecting flow path 115 and the insertion space 114 and be discharged through the first outlet 114a. The aerosol flowing into the first inlet 116 can be supplied to the stick 200 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) inserted into the insertion space 114.

The bottom wall 422 of the cartridge 40 can be supported by the support surface 118. The side walls 411, 421 of the cartridge 40 can contact the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b.

The first extension 112a may extend from the top of the upper housing 110b to the periphery of the second inlet 401. The first extension 112a may face the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The first extension 112a may cover at least a portion of the top of the cartridge 40.

The first extension 112a may be disposed above the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extension 112a and the second inlet 401. The first extension 112a may be disposed above the second flow path side wall 4112. The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extension 112a and the second flow path side wall 4112. The third inlet 402 may be opened in a direction intersecting the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed by opening forward. Outside air may flow into the third inlet 402 and move to the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 may be provided inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the inlet flow passage 400. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air passing through the inlet flow passage 400.

The sensor 21 may be provided inside the first extension 112a. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the cartridge 40. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the second chamber C2. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed toward the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed toward the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be in contact with the third inlet 402.

The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be a pressure sensor. The sensor 21 can sense changes in the pressure of the surrounding air. The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 2).

This solves the problem of the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21. It also solves the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21. It also prevents the sensor 21 from being directly exposed to the outside. It also solves the problem of the sensor 21 breaking down.

Referring to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the first extension portion 112a may have a first recessed portion 112b. The first recessed portion 112b may be formed by one side of the first extension portion 112a being recessed inward. The first recessed portion 112b may be formed by one side of the first extension portion 112a being recessed in a "U" shape. The first recessed portion 112b may be formed above the second inlet 401. The first recessed portion 112b may open the upper side of the second inlet 401 by the first extension portion 112a being recessed.

The third inlet 402 may be formed above the second inlet 401. The first recess 112b may open the upper side of the second inlet 401 to define the third inlet 402. The third inlet 402 may be connected to the second inlet 401. The first recess 112b may surround at least a portion of the third inlet 402. Outside air may flow into the second inlet 401 through the third inlet 402 defined by the first recess 112b. The third inlet 402 may be open upward and forward.

The sensor 21 may be provided in the first extension portion 112a. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed in the first recess 112b toward the third inlet 402.

The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When outside air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 2).

Therefore, the efficiency of air flow can be improved. In addition, by inducing air flow around the first recess 112b and the third inlet 402, the sensor 21 can react more sensitively, and the accuracy of the sensor 21 can be improved. In addition, the problem of aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of sensor 21 malfunction can be solved.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the inlet flow passage 400 may include a second inlet 401 and a fourth inlet 402a. The second inlet 401 may be located on the opposite side of the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the sidewall 421 of the base 42. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening forward. The second inlet 401 may be arranged in line with the second outlet 405. The second inlet 401 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The housing 110 may include a second extension 111a. The second extension 111a may extend upward from the lower housing 110a. The second extension 111a may be disposed in front of the upper housing 110b. The second extension 111a may face the upper housing 110b. The second extension 111a may be spaced apart from the upper housing 110b to form a mounting space 113 in which the cartridge 40 is disposed. The second extension 111a may be disposed side by side with the upper housing 110b, sandwiching the cartridge 40 therebetween. The second extension 111a may extend to the same height as the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b. The second extension 111a may cover the periphery of the second inlet 401. The second extension 111a may cover at least a portion of the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40.

The fourth inlet 402a may be formed by opening the second extension 111a. The fourth inlet 402a may be connected to the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed by opening forward. The fourth inlet 402a may be arranged next to the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be arranged next to the second outlet 405. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The cartridge 40 can be detachably disposed between the upper housing 110b and the second extension 111a. The cartridge 40 can be detached in the vertical direction between the upper housing 110b and the second extension 111a. The cartridge 40 can move from the top to the bottom and be inserted into the mounting space 113 formed between the upper housing 110b and the second extension 111a. The cartridge 40 can be coupled to the housing 110 through the mounting space 113.

The cap 120 may cover the upper housing 110b and the cartridge 40. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed by opening the side wall 121 of the cap 120. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed by opening in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed by opening forward. When the cap 120 is coupled to the housing 110, the fifth inlet 126 may be connected to the fourth inlet 402a. The fifth inlet 126 may be located alongside the third inlet 402 and the fourth inlet 402a.

The sensor 21 may be provided inside the second extension 111a. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a. The sensor 21 may be disposed facing the fourth inlet 402a.

The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air around the second inlet 401 and the fourth inlet 402a. When outside air flows around the fourth inlet 402a and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 2).

Therefore, the efficiency of air flow can be improved. In addition, the problem of the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of the sensor 21 malfunctioning can be solved.

Referring to Figures 11 to 13, the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may not include the extension 112b. The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may not cover the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may be disposed on approximately the same plane. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have approximately the same height. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may be in contact with each other.

The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have a second recess 112c on one side. The second recess 112c may be formed by the upper wall 112 being recessed in a direction opposite to the cartridge 40. The second recess 112c may have a shape that is open to the front.

The inlet flow path 400 may include at least one of a second inlet 401, a third inlet 402, a first flow path 403a, a second flow path 403b, and a chamber inlet 404.

The first flow path 403a may be formed by opening the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40. The first flow path 403a may be formed inside the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the side walls 411 and 421.

The first flow passage 403a may extend upward from the second chamber C2. The first flow passage 403a may be formed between the second flow passage 403b and the chamber inlet 404, and may connect the second flow passage 403b and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow passage 403a may be formed at a position opposite the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b with respect to the first chamber C1.

The second flow path 403b may be formed by opening the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The second flow path 403b may be formed inside the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The second flow path 403b may be formed above the first chamber C1.

The second flow path 403b can extend in the front-rear direction. The second flow path 403b can extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first flow path 403a. The second flow path 403b can extend from the first flow path 403a toward the second inlet 401. The second flow path 403b can be formed between the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403a, and can connect the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403a.

The sidewall 411 of the container 41 may include a first flow path sidewall 4111 and a second flow path sidewall 4112. The first flow path sidewall 4111 and the second flow path sidewall 4112 may form a part of the sidewall 411 of the container 41.

The first flow path side wall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first flow path side wall 4111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second flow path side wall 4112 may form a part of the outer wall of the container 41. The second flow path side wall 4112 may face the first flow path side wall 4111 and be spaced outwardly from the first flow path side wall 4111. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may be disposed side by side with each other. The first flow path 403a may be formed between the first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may extend in the vertical direction.

The upper wall 412 of the container 41 may include a first flow path upper wall 4121 and a second flow path upper wall 4122. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may contact the first chamber C1. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may be connected to the first flow path side wall 4111. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may extend from the first flow path side wall 4111 toward the second recess 112c.

The second flow passage upper wall 4122 faces the first flow passage upper wall 4121 and may be spaced outward from the first flow passage upper wall 4121. The second flow passage upper wall 4122 may be connected to the second flow passage side wall 4112 of the container 41. The second flow passage upper wall 4122 may extend from the second flow passage side wall 4112 toward the second recess 112c.

The second inlet 401 may be formed at the top of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the upper wall 411 of the container 41. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening toward the second recess 112c. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening toward the rear. The second inlet 401 may be connected to the second cartridge flow path 403b. The second inlet 401 may be formed between the end of the first flow path upper wall 4121 and the end of the second flow path upper wall 4122.

When the cartridge 40 is coupled to the upper housing 110b, the second inlet 401 may face the second recess 112c. When the cartridge 40 is coupled to the upper housing 110b, a third inlet 402 may be formed between the second recess 112c and the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be surrounded by the second recess 112c and the upper wall 412 of the container 41. The third inlet 402 may be open toward the upper side.

The outside air can flow into the second inlet 401 through the third inlet 402 surrounded by the second recess 112c. The air flowing into the first inlet 401 can be supplied to the second chamber C2 through the second flow path 403b and the first flow path 403a in sequence.

The sensor 21 may be provided inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the upper end of the housing 110. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed from the second recess 112c toward the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be provided between the first outlet 114a and the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be provided between the hollow of the upper housing 110b and the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 can sense the flow of air around the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402. When outside air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 2).

Therefore, the problem of the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of the liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. In addition, the problem of the sensor 21 malfunctioning can be solved. In addition, the efficiency of the space in which the sensor 21 is disposed can be improved. In addition, the cartridge 40 can be more easily attached and detached. In addition, the capacity of the liquid that can be stored in the container 41 can be increased.

Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 13, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 110 having a long hollow, a cartridge 40 coupled to one side of the body 110, the cartridge 40 including a first chamber C1 for storing liquid, a second chamber C2 disposed adjacent to the first chamber C1, a wick 44 disposed in the second chamber C2 for receiving the liquid from the first chamber C1, and a heater 45 for heating the wick 44, a connecting passage 115 for connecting the hollow 114 to the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 40, an inflow passage 400 formed in the cartridge 40 for allowing outside air to flow into the second chamber C2, and a sensor 21 disposed adjacent to the inflow passage 400 for detecting the flow of air passing through the inflow passage 400.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 is disposed below the first chamber C1, and the inlet passage 400 may include a first passage 403 extending in the vertical direction and a second inlet 401 disposed at the upper end of the first passage 403.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 includes a lower body 110a, an upper body 110b disposed laterally adjacent to the cartridge 40 on the upper side of the lower body 110a and having the hollow 114, and a first extension 112a extending from an upper portion of the upper body 110b to cover at least a portion of an upper portion of the cartridge 40, and the sensor 21 can be provided on the first extension 112a adjacent to the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extension portion 112a is disposed above the second inlet 401 and is spaced apart from a portion of the cartridge 40 adjacent to the second inlet 401 to define a third inlet 402 that communicates with the second inlet 401, and the direction of air flowing through the third inlet 402 can intersect with the direction of air flowing through the second inlet 401.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed in the first extension portion 112a adjacent to the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extension portion 112a may include a first recess 112b formed at one end of the first extension portion 112a, and the first recess 112b may be located above the upper side of the second inlet 401 so as to define a third inlet 402 communicating with the second inlet 401.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 can be positioned in the first recess 112b so as to face the third inlet 402.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 is configured such that air flows sequentially through the third inlet 402, the second inlet 401, the first flow path 403, the second chamber C2, the connecting flow path 115, and the hollow 114, and the sensor 21 is disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401 and can sense the flow of air passing through the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 is disposed below the first chamber C1 and includes a second outlet 405 communicating with the connecting passage 115, and the inlet passage 400 may include a second inlet 401 located on the opposite side of the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2 and configured to allow outside air to pass through in a horizontal direction.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 includes a lower body 110a, an upper body 110b disposed laterally adjacent to the cartridge 40 on the upper side of the lower body 110a, and a second extension 111a extending upward from the lower body 110a and between which the cartridge 40 is fixed, and the inlet passage 400 may include a fourth inlet 402a communicating with the second inlet 401 and defined by an opening of the second extension 111a.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the directions of air flowing through the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, and the second outlet 405 may be parallel to each other.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 can be attached and detached in the vertical direction at a position between the upper body 110b and the second extension portion 111a.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed in the second extension portion 111a adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 is configured so that air flows sequentially through the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, the second chamber C2, the connecting passage 115, and the hollow 114, and the sensor 21 is disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a and can sense the flow of air passing through the fourth inlet 402a.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 is disposed below the first chamber C1, and the inlet flow passage 400 may include a first flow passage 403a extending vertically from an inlet of the second chamber C2, a second flow passage 403b extending from one end of the first flow passage 403a in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first flow passage 403a extends, and a second inlet 401 disposed at one end of the second flow passage 403b.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be provided at the upper end of the body 110 facing the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed at a position between the hollow of the body 110 and the second inlet 401.

The specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above and other embodiments are not mutually exclusive or distinct. The configuration or function of any or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be combined with other elements or with each other.

For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings can be combined with each other. In other words, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible, except in cases where it is described that the combination is not possible.

Although the embodiments have been described above in accordance with a number of illustrative examples, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that many other variations and embodiments are possible within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and/or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and/or arrangements, other applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (18)

a body having an elongated hollow;
a cartridge coupled to one side of the body, the cartridge including a first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber, a wick disposed in the second chamber for receiving the liquid from the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick;
a connecting flow channel that connects the hollow with a second chamber of the cartridge;
an inlet passage formed in the cartridge for allowing outside air to flow into the second chamber;
a sensor disposed in the body adjacent to the inlet passage and configured to sense a flow of air passing through the inlet passage ;
the inlet passage includes a second inlet disposed at an upper end of the second chamber and communicating with the outside of the cartridge;
The aerosol generating device , wherein the sensor is positioned adjacent to the second inlet . The second chamber is disposed below the first chamber,
The inlet flow path is
A first flow path extending in a vertical direction ,
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the second inlet is disposed at an upper end of the first flow path . The body includes:
The lower body and
an upper body disposed laterally adjacent to the cartridge above the lower body and having the hollow;
a first extension extending from an upper portion of the upper body to cover at least a portion of an upper portion of the cartridge;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the sensor is provided on the first extension portion. the first extension portion is disposed above the second inlet and spaced apart from a portion of the cartridge adjacent the second inlet to define a third inlet in communication with the second inlet;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein a direction of air flowing through the third inlet intersects a direction of air flowing through the second inlet. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the sensor is disposed in the first extension adjacent to the second inlet and the third inlet. the first extension portion includes a first recess formed at one end of the first extension portion,
The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the first recess is located above an upper side of the second inlet so as to define a third inlet communicating with the second inlet. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein the sensor is disposed in the first recess so as to face the third inlet. The cartridge is configured such that air sequentially flows through the third inlet, the second inlet, the first flow path, the second chamber, the connecting flow path, and the hollow;
The aerosol generating device of claim 4 , wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the third inlet and the second inlet and senses the flow of air passing through the third inlet and the second inlet. The cartridge is configured such that air sequentially flows through the third inlet, the second inlet, the first flow path, the second chamber, the connecting flow path, and the hollow;
The aerosol generating device of claim 6 , wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the third inlet and the second inlet and senses the flow of air passing through the third inlet and the second inlet. a body having an elongated hollow;
a cartridge coupled to one side of the body, the cartridge including a first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber, a wick disposed in the second chamber for receiving the liquid from the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick;
a connecting flow channel that connects the hollow with a second chamber of the cartridge;
an inlet passage formed in the cartridge for allowing outside air to flow into the second chamber;
a sensor disposed adjacent to the inlet passage for sensing a flow of air through the inlet passage;
The body includes:
The lower body and
an upper body disposed laterally adjacent to the cartridge above the lower body and having the hollow;
a second extension extending upward from the lower body and between the upper body and the cartridge,
The inlet passage includes a fourth inlet that communicates with the second chamber and is defined by an opening of the second extension portion. The second chamber is disposed below the first chamber,
the cartridge includes a second outlet communicating the connecting channel with the second chamber,
The inlet passage includes a second inlet located on an opposite side of the second outlet with respect to the second chamber and configured to allow outside air to pass through in a horizontal direction,
The aerosol generating device according to claim 10 , wherein the second inlet is in communication with the fourth inlet . The aerosol generating device of claim 11 , wherein the directions of air flowing through the fourth inlet, the second inlet, and the second outlet are parallel to each other. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11 , wherein the cartridge is attached to and detached from a position between the upper body and the second extension portion in a vertical direction. The aerosol generating device of claim 11 , wherein the sensor is disposed in the second extension adjacent to the fourth inlet. The cartridge is configured such that air sequentially flows through the fourth inlet, the second inlet, the second chamber, the connecting channel, and the hollow;
The aerosol generating device of claim 11 , wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet and senses the flow of air passing through the fourth inlet. The second chamber is disposed below the first chamber,
The inlet flow path is
a first flow path extending in a vertical direction from an inlet of the second chamber;
a second flow path extending from one end of the first flow path in a direction intersecting a direction in which the first flow path extends;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a second inlet disposed at one end of the second flow path. The aerosol generating device according to claim 16, wherein the sensor is provided at the upper end of the body so as to face the second inlet. The aerosol generating device according to claim 17 , wherein the sensor is provided at a position between the hollow of the body and the second inlet.