JP7591132B2 - 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 variety of components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances of various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium may contain nicotine components, herbal components, and/or coffee components. 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 provide an aerosol generating device that improves the efficiency of the space for storing liquid and reduces the flow distance of the aerosol, thereby improving the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol.

It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a sensor that senses at least one of information about the cartridge, information about the liquid stored in the cartridge, and information about the stick.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to prevent the accuracy of the sensor from being affected by the user's body or external objects.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to block electromagnetic waves directed toward the sensor from outside the device.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned object, an aerosol generating device is provided, which includes a body, a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a first container part having an inner wall defining an elongated insertion space and a chamber for storing a liquid between the inner wall and an outer wall, a second container part adjacent to the first container part, a wick provided in the second container part so as to communicate with the chamber, and a heater for heating the wick, a sensor disposed adjacent to the cartridge for sensing electromagnetic characteristics of the surroundings, and a shielding unit for shielding the sensor from external interference.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an aerosol generating device that improves the efficiency of the space for storing liquid, reduces the flow distance of the aerosol, and improves the heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a sensor can be provided that senses at least one of information about the cartridge, information about the liquid stored in the cartridge, and information about the stick.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent the accuracy of the sensor from being affected by the user's body or external objects.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can block electromagnetic waves traveling from outside the device toward the sensor.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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 function.

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.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a body 110 and a cartridge 40 coupled to one side of the body 110. The cartridge 40 may store liquid. The cartridge 40 may include a first container part 41 for storing liquid and a second container part 42 disposed below the first container part 41. The first container part 41 may have an elongated insertion space 414. The insertion space 414 may be open toward the upper side. The stick 80 (see FIG. 2) may be inserted into the insertion space 414.

The body 110 may have a shape that extends vertically. The body 110 may have a space inside in which various components may be disposed. The body 110 may include a lower body 110a and an upper body 110b disposed above the lower body 110a.

The lower body 110a may have a shape that extends vertically. The lower body 110a may face the lower part of the cartridge 40. The upper body 110b may have a shape that extends upward from the lower body 110a. The upper body 110b may be arranged next to the cartridge 40. The upper body 110b may face the side of the cartridge 40. The upper body 110b may face the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40.

The removable space 115 may be located between the lower body 110a and the upper body 110b. The cartridge 40 may be detachably coupled to the body 110 in the removable space 115. The removable space 115 may be divided into a first removable space 115a and a second removable space 115b located below the first removable space 115a. The first container part 41 may be located in the first removable space 115a. The second container part 42 may be located in the second removable space 115b.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include a cap 120. The cap 120 may cover at least a portion of the body 110 and the cartridge 40. The cap 120 may be attached to and detached from the body 110. The cap 120 may be disposed above the lower body 110a and may cover the upper body 110b.

The side wall 121 of the cap 120 can cover the side of the upper body 110b and the side of the cartridge 40. The top wall 122 of the cap 120 can cover the top of the upper body 110b and the top of the cartridge 40.

The opening 124 may be formed by opening the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The opening 124 of the cap 120 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 414 and may communicate with the insertion space 414. The stick 80 (see FIG. 2) may be inserted into the insertion space 414 through the opening 124.

The sensor 62 may be disposed adjacent to the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 may face the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 may face the attachment/detachment space 115. The sensor 62 may be disposed outside the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 may be provided in the upper body 110b.

The sensor 62 can sense at least one of information on whether the cartridge 40 is connected, information on whether the stick 80 is inserted into the insertion space 414, information on the stick 80 inserted into the insertion space 414, or information on the amount of liquid stored in the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 can face the first container part 41. The sensor 62 can face the insertion space 414.

Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 may include a first container portion 41 and a second container portion 42 disposed below the first container portion 41. The first container portion 41 may extend long. The first container portion 41 may have a hollow shape.

The first container section 41 may have an outer wall 411 and an inner wall 412. The outer wall 411 may extend vertically. The outer wall 411 may extend along the outer periphery of the first container section 41.

The inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41 may extend vertically. The inner wall 412 may extend along the inner circumference of the first container portion 41. The inner wall 412 may be spaced inward from the outer wall 411. The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 may be connected to each other at their upper portions. The inner wall 412 may extend in the circumferential direction to form a cylindrical shape. The inner wall 412 may surround the insertion space 414 (see FIG. 3) and define the insertion space 414.

The outer wall 411 of the first container section 41 can be referred to as the outer wall 411 of the first container section 41 or the side wall 411 of the first container section 41. The inner wall 412 of the first container section 41 can be referred to as the inner wall 412.

The outer wall 411 of the first container part 41 may include a first outer wall 411a and a second outer wall 411b. The first outer wall 411a of the first container part 41 may face the first side wall 111a of the upper body 110b. The second outer wall 411b of the first container part 41 may face the first outer wall 411a. The second outer wall 411b may face the outside. The first outer wall 411a and the second outer wall 411b may form the outer periphery of the side of the first container part 41. The second outer wall 411b may be disposed outside the aerosol generating device 100 more than the first outer wall 411a.

The first outer wall 411a of the first container section 41 can be considered as the first outer wall 411a of the first container section 41. The second outer wall 411b of the first container section 41 can be considered as the second outer wall 411b of the first container section 41.

The first container portion 41 may have a first chamber C1 for storing liquid therein. The first chamber C1 may be formed between an outer wall 411 and an inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41. The first chamber C1 may be considered a storage space.

The flow path portion 20 may be formed on the inner lower portion of the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41. The inhaled air may pass through the flow path portion 20. The flow path portion 20 may be connected to the first chamber C1.

The second container portion 42 may have a second chamber C2 therein. The second chamber C2 may be located below the flow path portion 20. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the flow path portion.

The wick 31 may be provided in the second chamber C2 inside the second container portion 42. The wick 31 may be connected to the inside of the first chamber C1. The wick 31 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The wick 31 may be disposed adjacent to the lower end of the first chamber C1. The wick 31 may be disposed below the flow path portion 20.

The heater 32 can heat the wick 31. The heater 32 can be provided in the second chamber C2. The heater 32 can be wound around the wick 31. The heater 32 can heat the wick 31 containing the liquid to generate an aerosol.

The air flowing into the second chamber C2 can sequentially pass through the flow path 20 and the insertion space 414. The air flowing into the second chamber C2 can carry the aerosol generated from the wick 31. The aerosol generated from the wick 31 can be transmitted to the stick 80 inserted into the insertion space 414 through the flow path 20.

Therefore, since the first chamber C1 of the first container part 41 having the storage space is arranged to surround the stick 80, the efficiency of the space for storing the liquid can be improved. In addition, since the distance from the wick 31 and the heater 32 to the insertion space 414 into which the stick 80 is inserted can be reduced, the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol can be improved.

The control unit 51 may be disposed inside the body 110. The control unit 51 may control the on/off of the device. The control unit 51 may be electrically connected to the heater 32 and may control the supply of power to the heater 32 so that the heater 32 heats the wick. The control unit 51 may be disposed in close contact with the heater 32.

The battery 52 may be disposed inside the body 110. The battery 52 may supply power to various components of the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 52 may be electrically connected to the control unit 51. The battery 52 may be disposed inside the lower body 110a.

The cartridge 40 and the upper body 110b may be arranged side by side on the upper side of the lower body 110a. The lower body 110a may face the lower part of the cartridge 40. The upper body 110b may face the side of the cartridge 40. The cartridge 40 may surround the upper end surface of the lower body 110a and a part of one side of the upper body 110b.

The sensor 62 may be disposed on the outside of the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 may be disposed facing the cartridge 40. The sensor 62 may be disposed facing the first container portion 41. The sensor 62 may be provided in the upper body 110b.

The sensor 62 can measure the change in electromagnetic properties due to an adjacent object. The sensor 62 can measure the change in state of an adjacent object. The sensor 62 can be a proximity sensor.

The control unit 51 is electrically connected to the sensor 62 and can control the operation of the sensor 62. The control unit 51 can receive information acquired by the sensor 62. Based on the information acquired by the sensor 62, the control unit 51 can determine information about the cartridge, information about the stick, information about the liquid stored in the cartridge, etc.

The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 of the first container part 41 may be made of a material through which light can pass. At least a portion of the outer wall 411 may include a window through which light can pass. The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 may be made of a material that has low reflectance and refractive index and high transmittance to light. The outer wall 411 may be transparent. The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 may be made of plastic. The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 may be made of polyethylene, polystyrene, Teflon (registered trademark), etc. The materials constituting the outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 are not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41 may extend in a circumferential direction along the vertical direction to form an insertion space 414 on the inside. The insertion space 414 may be formed by opening the inside of the inner wall 412 vertically. The stick 80 (see FIG. 2) may be inserted into the insertion space 414. The inner wall 412 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the insertion space 414. The inner wall 412 may define the insertion space. The insertion space 414 may be connected to the outside.

The insertion space 414 may have a shape corresponding to the portion into which the stick 80 is inserted. The insertion space 414 may be elongated vertically. The insertion space 414 may have a cylindrical shape. When the stick 80 is inserted into the insertion space 414, the stick 80 may be surrounded by the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41 and may be in close contact with the inner wall 412.

The outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412 of the first container part 41 may be connected to each other via the upper wall 413 of the first container part 41. The first chamber C1 may be defined by the outer wall 411, the inner wall 412, and the upper wall 413 of the first container part 41, and the side wall 421 and the lower wall 422 of the second container part 42.

The wick 31 may be disposed below the insertion space 414. The wick 31 may be disposed below the flow path portion 20. The wick 31 is connected to the first chamber C1 and may receive and absorb liquid from the first chamber C1. The wick 31 may be inserted between the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41 and the lower wall 422 of the second container portion 42. The wick 31 may be extended in one direction. The wick 31 may be disposed long in the left-right direction.

The heater 32 can be disposed around the wick 31. The heater 32 can be wound around the wick 31 in the direction in which the wick 31 extends. The heater 32 can heat the wick. The heater 32 can generate an aerosol from the liquid absorbed by the wick 31 by electrical resistance heating. The heater 32 can be connected to the control unit 51 to control the operation of the heater.

The flow path portion 20 may be formed between the insertion space 414 and the core 31. The aerosol generated from the core 31 may pass through the flow path portion 20 and flow toward the insertion space 414. The flow path portion 20 may have a shape that narrows and then widens in the direction of the aerosol flow. The flow direction of the aerosol may be an upward direction.

The flow path section 20 may be surrounded by an upper flow path wall 220 that protrudes inward from the inner wall 412 of the first container section 41. The upper part of the flow path section 20 may be surrounded by the upper flow path wall 220, and the lower part of the flow path section 20 may be surrounded by the lower flow path wall 210. The lower flow path wall 210 may be joined to the lower part of the upper flow path wall 220. The core 31 may be inserted between the lower flow path wall 210 and the lower wall 422 of the second container section 42.

Referring to FIG. 4, the flow path portion 20 can be divided into a first flow path 21, a second flow path 22, and a third flow path 23.

The first flow path 21 may be located adjacent to the core 31. The first flow path 21 may be disposed above the core 31. The second flow path 22 may be located adjacent to the insertion space 414. The second flow path 22 may be connected to the insertion space 414.

The third flow path 23 may be located between the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22. The third flow path 23 may be located above the first flow path 21. The second flow path 22 may be located above the third flow path 23. The third flow path 23 may connect the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22.

The width W3 of the third flow path 23 may be smaller than the width W1 of the first flow path 21. The width W3 of the third flow path 23 may be smaller than the width W2 of the second flow path 22. The maximum width W1 of the first flow path 21 and the maximum width W2 of the second flow path 22 may be substantially the same or approximately the same. The maximum width W1 of the first flow path 21 may be larger than the maximum width W2 of the second flow path 22. The width W2 of the second flow path 22 may be smaller than the width W0 of the insertion space 414.

The flow path section 20 may have a smaller width from the first flow path 21 to the third flow path 23. The flow path section 20 may have a larger width from the third flow path 23 to the second flow path. The width W2 of the second flow path 22 may gradually increase as it approaches the insertion space 414.

Therefore, the aerosol is collected from the first flow path 21 into the narrower third flow path 23, and then diffuses through the second flow path 22. Therefore, even if the aerosol is not generated uniformly from the core 31, it can flow uniformly into the bottom of the stick 80 (see Figure 2) (see Figure 7).

The width W1 of the first flow path 21 can become smaller as it approaches the third flow path 23. The width W2 of the second flow path 22 can become smaller as it approaches the third flow path 23.

The degree to which the width W1 of the first flow path 21 decreases toward the third flow path 23 may be greater than the degree to which the width W2 of the second flow path 22 decreases toward the third flow path 23. The distance L1 from the maximum width W1 of the first flow path 21 to the width W3 of the third flow path 23 may be shorter than the distance L2 from the maximum width W2 of the second flow path 22 to the width W3 of the third flow path 23. In other words, the amount of change in width relative to length may gradually increase from the first flow path 21 to the third flow path 23.

If the width of the first flow path 21 in the left-right direction is W1, the width of the second flow path 22 in the left-right direction is W2, the width of the third flow path 23 in the left-right direction is W3, the length of the first flow path 21 in the up-down direction is L1, and the length of the second flow path 22 in the up-down direction is L2, then the relationship can be (W1-W3)/(L1)>(W2-W3)/(L2).

The vertical length L1 of the first flow path 21 may be shorter than the vertical length L2 of the second flow path 22 (L1 < L2).

Therefore, while reducing the length of the first flow path 21, a space can be secured to guide the liquid to be atomized and collected in the third flow path 23, and the aerosol collected in the third flow path 23 can flow through the second flow path 22 while being uniformly diffused into the insertion space 414 (see FIG. 7).

The vertical length of the third flow path 23 may be shorter than the vertical length L1 of the first flow path 21. The vertical length of the third flow path 23 may be shorter than the vertical length L2 of the second flow path 22.

The second flow path 22 can gradually expand in width W2 radially outward from the third flow path 23 toward the insertion space 414, and then extend from the section that forms the maximum width W2 to the insertion space 414 with a substantially constant width W2.

The first flow path surface 211 can surround the first flow path 21. The second flow path surface 221 can surround the second flow path 22. The third flow path surface 231 can surround the third flow path 23.

The first flow path surface 211 may form the inner surface of the lower flow path wall 210. The second flow path surface 221 and the third flow path surface 231 may form the inner surface of the upper flow path wall 220.

The first flow path surface 211 and the third flow path surface 231 do not form a continuous surface and can be separated. The first flow path surface 211 can extend vertically. The first flow path surface 211 can extend in a circumferential direction. The first flow path surface 211 can be formed in a ring shape.

The first flow path 21 can extend toward the third flow path 23 with substantially the same width W1 and then suddenly narrow near the third flow path 23 to reach the width W3 of the third flow path 23.

Therefore, by ensuring a space for the first flow path 21 between the first flow path surface 211 and the wick 31, it is possible to facilitate the generation and flow of aerosol up to the area between the first flow path surface 211 and the wick 31.

The third flow path surface 231 may form a continuous surface with the second flow path surface 221. The third flow path surface 231 may extend vertically. The third flow path surface 231 may extend in a circumferential direction. The third flow path surface 231 may be formed in a ring shape.

The second flow path surface 221 may include a portion that extends so as to gradually widen in an outward direction toward the insertion space 414. The second flow path surface 221 may include a portion that is inclined outward toward the insertion space 414. The second flow path surface 221 may include a portion that extends so as to gradually widen in a radially outward direction toward the insertion space 414. The second flow path surface 221 may form an approximately funnel shape or a Venturi shape.

The second flow path surface 221 can extend from the third flow path surface 231 toward the insertion space 414 so as to gradually widen outward, and then extend toward the insertion space 414 while forming a substantially constant width W2 from the section that forms the maximum width W2.

The second flow path surface 221 may include a portion that extends in a curved outward direction toward the insertion space 414. The second flow path surface 221 may extend in a curved radially outward direction toward the upper side from the third flow path surface 231.

Therefore, when the aerosol diffuses from the third flow path 23 to the second flow path 22, the flow resistance can be reduced.

The width W2 of the second flow passage 22 may be maximum at the upper end of the second flow passage 22 that contacts the lower end of the insertion space 414. The width W2 of the upper end of the second flow passage 22 may be smaller than the width W0 of the insertion space 414.

The protruding surface 417 may be located between the lower end of the insertion space 414 and the upper end of the second flow path 22. The protruding surface 417 may protrude inward from the inner wall 412 of the second container 41. The protruding surface 417 may support the edge of the lower end of the stick 80 (see FIG. 2). The protruding surface 417 may protrude inward to determine the maximum width W2 of the second flow path 22.

The protruding surface 417 may constitute the upper surface of the upper flow path wall 220 that protrudes inward from the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41. The protruding surface 417 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the inner surface of the inner wall 412. The protruding surface 417 and the inner surface of the inner wall 412 may face the insertion space 414. The second flow path surface 221 may extend downward from the protruding surface 417.

For example, the length L3 of the protruding surface 417 can be formed to support the edge of the lower end of the stick 80 while minimizing the loss of aerosol flow.

The core 31 is arranged to extend in the width direction of the first flow path 21, and the heater 32 can be wound around the core 31 in the direction in which the core 31 extends.

The width W1 of the first flow path 21 may be greater than the width W4 of the heater 32. The width W3 of the third flow path 23 may be smaller than the width W4 of the heater 32. The width direction of the flow path section 20 may be the left-right direction.

Therefore, when the heater 32 heats the liquid absorbed in the wick 31 to generate an aerosol, even if there is a deviation in the aerosol generation portion of the wick 31, the aerosol can be collected in the third flow path 23 and then uniformly diffused from the second flow path 22 into the insertion space 414.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the first bent section 222 and the second bent section 223 formed on the second flow path surface 221 can be bent to bulge in opposite directions.

The first bent section 222 may be formed at the bottom of the second flow path surface 221. The first bent section 222 may be formed adjacent to the third flow path 23. The first bent section 222 may be bent so as to bulge from the third flow path surface 231 toward the inside of the first container section 41.

The second bent section 223 may be formed on the upper part of the second flow path surface 221. The second bent section 223 may be formed adjacent to the insertion space 414. The second bent section 223 may be bent so as to bulge from the first bent section 222 toward the outside of the first container part 41. The second bent section 223 may include a portion that is bent so as to bulge toward the outside of the first container part 41 and then extends with a substantially constant width toward the insertion space 414 in a vicinity adjacent to the insertion space 414.

As a result, the aerosol can diffuse outward along the first bent section 222 of the second flow path surface 221 and flow straight into the insertion space 414 along the second bent section 223 of the second flow path surface 221 (see FIG. 7). In addition, the flow energy loss of the aerosol diffusing from the third flow path 23 to the second flow path 22 can be reduced.

The upper flow path wall 220 may extend downward from the inner wall 412 of the first container portion 41. The upper flow path wall 220 may have a shape that protrudes inward from the inner wall 412. The second flow path surface 221 and the third flow path surface 231 may form the inner surface of the upper flow path wall 220.

The lower flow passage wall 210 may be joined to the lower portion of the upper flow passage wall 220. The first flow passage surface 211 may constitute the inner surface of the lower flow passage wall 210.

The groove 226 may be formed in the lower portion of the upper flow passage wall 220. The groove 226 may be formed by being recessed upward from the lower portion of the upper flow passage wall 220.

The insertion portion 216 may be formed on the upper portion of the lower flow path wall 210. The insertion portion 216 may be formed on the upper side of the first flow path surface 211.

The insertion portion 216 may protrude upward from the upper portion of the lower flow passage wall 210. The insertion portion 216 may be inserted into the groove portion 226 and may be in close contact with each other. When the insertion portion 216 is inserted into the groove portion 226, the upper flow passage wall 220 and the lower flow passage wall 210 may be coupled to each other. The lower flow passage wall 210 may be alternately coupled to the lower portion of the upper flow passage wall 220.

The lower flow passage wall 210 can determine the size of the width W1 (see FIG. 3) of the first flow passage 21. The width W1 of the first flow passage 21 can be changed depending on the degree to which the first flow passage surface 211, which constitutes the inner surface of the lower flow passage wall 210, is recessed in the left-right direction.

The closer the first flow path surface 211 of the lower flow path wall 210 is formed to the inside, the smaller the width W1 of the first flow path 21 can be.The closer the first flow path surface 211 of the lower flow path wall 210 is formed to the outside, the larger the width W1 of the first flow path 21 can be.

Therefore, the width W1 of the first flow passage 21 can be determined or changed according to the specifications of the lower flow passage wall 210 that is connected to the upper flow passage wall 220.

Therefore, by changing the length W1 of the wick 31 exposed to the first flow path 21 and the width W4 of the heater 32 wound around the wick 31, the area in the wick 31 where the liquid is atomized can be determined.

The first flow path surface 211 can extend in the vertical direction. The first flow path surface 211 can be formed substantially perpendicular to the core 31. The first flow path surface 211 can define the length L1 of the first flow path 21.

The extension surface 212 may form a part of the inner surface of the upper flow path wall 220 and the inner surface of the lower flow path wall 210. The extension surface 212 may be formed between the first flow path surface 211 and the third flow path surface 231.

The extension surface 212 may be connected to the upper end of the first flow path surface 211. The extension surface 212 may be connected to the lower end of the third flow path surface 231. The extension surface 212 may be referred to as a connection surface 212. The extension surface 212 may be extended in the left-right direction from the upper end of the first flow path surface 211. The extension surface 212 may be extended in the left-right direction from the lower end of the third flow path surface 231.

The extension surface 212 may be spaced upward from the core 31. The extension surface 212 may be disposed in the width direction of the first flow path 21. The extension surface 212 may extend from the upper end of the first flow path surface 211 toward the third flow path 23. The extension surface 212 may connect the first flow path surface 211 and the third flow path surface 231. The extension surface 212 may be spaced away from the core 31 and face the core 31.

The distance between the extension surface 212 and the core 31 may be substantially the same as the height L1 of the first flow path 21. The extension surface 212 may be disposed to face the core 31 with respect to the first flow path 21. The extension surface 212 may be disposed substantially parallel to the core 31. The extension surface 212 may be formed substantially perpendicular to the first flow path surface 211. The extension surface 212 may be formed substantially perpendicular to the third flow path surface 231.

The end of the first flow path 21 can be surrounded by the first flow path surface 211, the wick 31, and the extension surface 212. The aerosol atomized at the end of the wick 31 can remain at the end of the first flow path 21.

This allows a space to be created in which the atomized aerosol flows and gathers at the end of the wick 31, and the suction force can easily act all the way to the end of the wick 31.

In addition, the aerosol atomized at the end of the wick 31 creates a turbulent flow at the end of the first flow path 21, so that the aerosol can be mixed uniformly even if there is a deviation in the location where the aerosol is generated in the wick 31 (see Figure 6).

The first edge portion 213 may be formed between the first flow path surface 211 and the extension surface 212. The first edge portion 213 may contact the edge portion of the upper end of the first flow path 21. The first edge portion 213 may be bent and extended from the first flow path surface 211 toward the extension surface 212.

The second edge portion 214 may be formed between the extension surface 212 and the third flow path surface 231. The second edge portion 214 may be formed adjacent to the first flow path 21 and the third flow path 23. The second edge portion 214 may be bent and extend from the extension surface 212 toward the third flow path surface.

This reduces the flow energy loss of the aerosol diffusing from the first flow path 21 to the third flow path 23.

The core insertion surface 215 may form the lower end of the lower flow path wall 210. The core insertion surface 215 may extend in the width direction of the first flow path 21. The core insertion surface 215 may form an opening corresponding to the end shape of the core 31 so that the core 31 can be inserted. The core insertion surface 215 may be connected to the first flow path surface 211.

The wick 31 can be inserted between the wick insertion surface 215 and the bottom wall 422 of the second container section 42. When the wick 31 is inserted, the wick insertion surface 215 can be in direct contact with the upper end of the wick 31. The wick insertion surface 215 is in close contact with the wick 31, thereby preventing liquid from leaking out.

Referring to FIG. 6, the upper flow passage wall 220 (see FIG. 5) and the lower flow passage wall 210 (see FIG. 5) may not be combined but may be integrally formed to form the flow passage wall 220a. The flow passage wall 220a may be substantially the same shape as the combined upper flow passage wall 220 and lower flow passage wall 210.

This allows the bonding process between components to be omitted, and prevents liquid from leaking through the bonding sites between components.

Referring to FIG. 8, the first extension surface 212a may constitute a part of the inner surface of the lower flow passage wall 210b. The first extension surface 212a may be in contact with the first flow passage 21. The first extension surface 212a may be connected to the upper end of the first flow passage surface 211. The first extension surface 212a may extend in the left-right direction from the upper end of the first flow passage surface 211. The first edge portion 213 may be formed between the first flow passage surface 211 and the first extension surface 212a.

The second extension surface 212b may constitute a part of the inner surface of the upper flow path wall 220b. The second extension surface 212b may contact the first flow path 21. The second extension surface 212b may be connected to the lower end of the third flow path surface 231. The second extension surface 212b may extend in the left-right direction from the lower end of the third flow path surface 231. The second edge portion 214 may be formed between the second extension surface 212b and the third flow path surface 231.

The recess 212c may be formed by recessing upward to a predetermined depth between the first extension surface 212a and the second extension surface 212b. The recess 212c may be formed at a portion where the lower flow passage wall 210b and the upper flow passage wall 220b are joined. The recess 212c may face the upper portion of the first flow passage 21.

As a result, the aerosol atomized at the end of the wick 31 creates more turbulence at the location adjacent to the depression 212c, so that the aerosol can be mixed uniformly even if there is a deviation in the location where the aerosol is generated in the wick 31.

Referring to FIG. 9, the control unit 51 can be electrically connected to various components. The control unit 51 can control the connected components.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include an output unit 55. The control unit 51 may be electrically connected to the output unit 55. The output unit 55 may transmit various information to a user, such as power on/off, whether the heater 32 is operating, information about the stick, information about the liquid, information about the cartridge, and information about the battery. The control unit 51 may control the output unit 55 to transmit information to a user based on various information received from the components.

The output unit 55 may include a display 551. The display 551 may display information externally and transmit the information to a user.

The output unit 55 may include a haptic output unit 552. The haptic output unit 552 may transmit information to a user through vibration. The haptic output unit 552 may include a vibration motor.

The output unit 55 may include an audio output unit 553. The audio output unit 553 may output a sound corresponding to information to convey the information to a user. The audio output unit 553 may include a speaker.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include an input unit 54. The control unit 51 may be electrically connected to the input unit 54. A user may input various commands to the input unit 54, such as turning on/off the power supply and operating the heater 32. The control unit 51 may receive commands from the input unit 54 and control the operation of the components.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include a memory 56. The control unit 51 may be electrically connected to the memory 56. The memory 56 may store data regarding information. The memory 56 may receive data regarding various information from the control unit 51 and store the data, or may transmit the stored data to the control unit 51. The control unit 51 may control the operation of the components based on the data received from the memory 56.

The control unit 51 may be electrically connected to the sensor 62. The sensor 62 may measure a change in electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object. The sensor 62 may measure a change in the state of an adjacent object. The sensor 62 may be a proximity sensor. The sensor 62 may detect a change in capacitance. For example, the sensor 62 may be a capacitance sensor. For example, the sensor 62 may be a magnetic proximity sensor. The type of the sensor 62 is not limited thereto.

The control unit 51 can receive information about changes in electromagnetic characteristics from the sensor 62. The control unit 51 can analyze the values output by the sensor 62 based on the information acquired, and determine information about the cartridge, information about the liquid stored in the cartridge, information about the stick, etc.

Referring to FIG. 10, the lower body 110a can face the lower part of the cartridge 40. The upper body 110b is disposed above the lower body 110a and can face the side of the cartridge 40.

The sensor 62 may be provided in the upper body 110b. The sensor 62 may face one side of the first container portion 41. The sensor 62 may extend vertically along the first container portion 41.

The shielding unit 63 can block electromagnetic waves from passing through. The shielding unit 63 can limit the influence of the sensor 62 by electromagnetic fields outside the aerosol generating device 100. The shielding unit 63 can be made of a material that does not allow electromagnetic fields to pass through. For example, the shielding unit 63 can be made of a conductor or a ferromagnetic material, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to Figures 10 to 12, the upper body 110b may include a first side wall 111a facing a side of the cartridge 40. The first side wall 111a may contact one side of the cartridge 40. The first side wall 111a may face a first outer wall 411a of the first container portion 41. The sensor 62 may be disposed adjacent to the first side wall 111a. The sensor 62 may face the first side wall 111a.

The upper body 110b may include a second side wall 111b facing the first side wall 111a. The second side wall 111b may face the outside. The first side wall 111a and the second side wall 111b may form the lateral periphery of the upper body 110b. The second side wall 111b may be disposed outside the aerosol generating device 100 more than the first side wall 111a. The second side wall 111b may cover the sensor 62.

The attachment/detachment space 115 may be formed between the first side wall 111a and the lower body 110a. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the body 110 in the attachment/detachment space 115. The sensor 62 may be provided in the upper body 110b and may face the attachment/detachment space 115. The sensor 62 may face the cartridge 40 coupled to the body 110.

The body 110 may include an insert wall 113 disposed on the upper side of the lower body 110a. The insert wall 113 may define at least a portion of the attachment/detachment space 115 between the upper body 110b and the lower body 110a. The insert wall 113 may surround at least a portion of the second container portion 42 (see FIG. 1).

The detachable space 115 may be divided into a first detachable space 115a and a second detachable space 115b located below the first detachable space 115a. The first container portion 41 may be located in the first detachable space 115a. The second container portion 42 may be located in the second detachable space 115b. The insertion wall 113 may surround the second detachable space 115b (see FIG. 1).

The body 110 may define a sensing area and a non-sensing area that is the area other than the sensing area. The sensing area may be formed between the cartridge 40 and the sensor 62.

The sensor 62 may be coupled to the body 110 adjacent to the sensing area. The sensor 62 may be disposed inside the body 110. The sensor 62 may detect a change in the electromagnetic characteristics of the sensing area. For example, when the cartridge 40 is coupled to or detached from the body 110, a change in the electromagnetic characteristics may occur in the sensing area. For example, when the stick 80 is inserted into or removed from the insertion space 414, a change in the electromagnetic characteristics may occur in the sensing area. For example, when the stick 80 is used, a change in the electromagnetic characteristics may occur in the sensing area depending on the extent to which it is used. For example, a change in the electromagnetic characteristics may occur in the sensing area depending on the change in the amount of liquid stored in the first container portion 41.

The shielding unit 63 can cover at least a portion of the non-sensing area, which is the area excluding the sensing area. The shielding unit 63 can surround a portion of the sensor 62 at a position excluding the area between the cartridge 40 and the sensor 62. The shielding unit 63 can block the passage of an external electromagnetic field toward the sensor 62. The shielding unit 63 can prevent an electromagnetic field from outside the aerosol generating device 100 from affecting the sensor 62.

The shielding unit 63 may include a first part 631 that surrounds a portion of the side of the sensor 62. The first part 631 of the shielding unit 63 may be disposed along the periphery of the second side wall 111b. The first part 631 may be coupled to the second side wall 111b. The first part 631 surrounds a portion of the sensor 62, but does not necessarily surround the area between the cartridge 40 and the sensor 62. The first part 631 may not be disposed on the first side wall 111b.

The shielding unit 63 may include a second part 632 disposed above the sensor 62. The second part 632 of the shielding unit 63 may cover the upper part of the sensor 62. The second part 632 may be disposed on the upper wall 112 of the upper body 110b. The second part 632 may be coupled to the upper wall 112 of the upper body 110b.

The shielding unit 63 may include a third part 633 arranged along the periphery of the insertion wall 113. The third part 633 of the shielding unit 63 may surround a side of the second detachable space 115b. The third part 633 may surround a portion of a side of the second container section 42.

The shielding unit 63 may include a fourth part 634 disposed between the lower body 110a and the upper body 110b. The fourth part 634 of the shielding unit 63 may cover the lower part of the sensor 62. The fourth part 634 may be disposed at the lower part of the upper body 110b.

The fourth part 634 of the shielding unit 63 can be disposed on the upper part of the lower body 110a. The fourth part 634 can cover the lower part of the second attachment/detachment space 115b. The fourth part 634 can cover the lower part of the cartridge 40 or the lower part of the second container part 42.

Referring to FIG. 13, the third region A3 may be defined as a region surrounding the second outer wall 411b of the first container portion 41 on the outside of the aerosol generating device 100. The third region A3 may surround a portion of the side wall 121 of the cap 120. The first region A1 and the second region A2 may be defined as portions surrounding the sides of the aerosol generating device 100 other than the third region A3. The second region A2 may be disposed below the third region A3. The first region A1 and the second region A2 may surround the periphery of the shielding unit 63.

When using the aerosol generating device 100, a user can contact the aerosol generating device 100 in the first area A1 and the second area A2. The shielding unit 63 can block electromagnetic waves from entering the sensor 62 in the first area A1 and the second area A2.

Therefore, the accuracy of the sensor 62 can be maintained even if the body or an external object comes into contact with the aerosol generating device 100.

When using the aerosol generating device 100, the user does not need to contact the aerosol generating device 100 in the third area A3. The side wall 121 of the cap 120 is formed in at least a portion of the portion covering the first container portion 41 and may include a window that transmits light.

Therefore, the user can visually check the liquid stored in the first container section 41 through the window of the cap 120 in the third area A3.

Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the cap 120 may cover at least a portion of the body 110 and the cartridge 40. The side wall 121 of the cap 120 may cover the side walls 411, 421 of the cartridge 40 and the side wall 111 of the upper body 110b. The upper wall 122 of the cap 120 may cover the upper wall 413 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper body 110b. The cap 120 may be detachably coupled to the body 110. The fourth part 634 of the shielding unit 63 may be disposed at the lower part of the cap 120.

The shielding unit 63 may be provided on at least a portion of the outer walls 121, 122 of the cap 120. The shielding unit 63 may move together with the cap 120. When the cap 120 is coupled to the body 110, the shielding unit 63 may surround the exterior of the sensor 62. When the cap 120 is detached from the body 110, the shielding unit 63 may also be detached from the body 110 together with the cap 120.

The shielding unit 63 may include a fifth part 635 disposed along the periphery of the side wall 121 of the cap 120. The fifth part 635 of the shielding unit 63 may surround the side of the sensor 62. The fifth part 635 may cover the side walls 411, 421 of the cartridge 40 and the side wall 111 of the upper body 110b.

The side wall 121 of the cap 120 is formed in at least a portion of the portion covering the first container portion 41 and may include a window 121a through which light passes. The fifth part 635 of the shielding unit 63 does not have to cover the portion in which the window 121a is formed.

The shielding unit 63 may include a sixth part 636 disposed on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The sixth part 636 may cover the upper part of the sensor 62. The sixth part 636 may cover the upper wall 413 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper body 110b.

Therefore, the accuracy of the sensor 62 can be maintained even if the body or an external object comes into contact with the aerosol generating device 100. In addition, the user can visually check the liquid stored in the first container section 41 through the window 121a of the cap 120.

Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 15, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 110, a cartridge 40 coupled to the body 110, the cartridge 40 including a first container part 41 having an inner wall 412 defining an elongated insertion space 414 and a chamber C1 for storing liquid between an outer wall 411 and the inner wall 412, a second container part 42 coupled to the first container part 41, a wick 31 provided in the second container part 42 to communicate with the chamber C1, and a heater 32 for heating the wick 31, a sensor 62 disposed adjacent to the cartridge 40 for sensing electromagnetic characteristics of the surroundings, and a shielding unit 63 for shielding the sensor 62 from external interference.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 may include a lower body 110a and an upper body 110b disposed on the lower body 110a and adjacent to the cartridge 40, and the sensor 62 may be disposed in the upper body 110b.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper body 110b may include a first side wall 111a facing the outer wall of the side of the cartridge 40 and a second side wall 111b facing the first side wall 111a, and the shielding unit 63 may include a first part 631 disposed on the second side wall 111b and covering the side of the sensor 62.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding unit 63 may include a second part 632 disposed on the upper wall of the upper body 110a and covering the upper part of the sensor 62.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 may include an insertion wall 113 disposed on the lower body 110a and surrounding at least a portion of the second container portion 42, the sensor 62 may face the first container portion 41, and the shielding unit 63 may include a third part 633 disposed on the insertion wall 113.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding unit 63 may include a fourth part 634 disposed between the lower body 110a and the upper body 110b.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fourth part 634 can cover the lower portion of the cartridge 40 and the lower portion of the sensor 62.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device may further include a cap 120 that covers at least a portion of the body 110 and the cartridge 40 and has an opening 124 that corresponds to the insertion space 414. The shielding unit 63 may be disposed in at least a portion of the cap 120.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding unit 63 may include a fifth part 635 disposed on the side wall 121 of the cap 120 and covering the side of the sensor 62.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding unit 63 may include a sixth part 636 disposed on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120 and covering the upper portion of the sensor 62.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding unit 63 can be made of a material that does not allow electromagnetic waves to pass through.

The specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above and other embodiments are not mutually exclusive or distinct. The configurations or functions of specific elements or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined with other elements or combined 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 (11)

Body and
a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a first container portion having an inner wall defining an elongated insertion space into which a stick is inserted and a chamber for storing liquid between an outer wall and the inner wall, a second container portion adjacent to the first container portion, a wick provided in the second container portion to communicate with the chamber, and a heater for heating the wick;
a sensor disposed adjacent to the cartridge and corresponding to a sensing area formed between the cartridge and the sensor, the sensor sensing an electromagnetic characteristic at the sensing area ;
and a shielding unit for shielding the sensor from external interference in areas other than the sensing area . The body includes:
The lower body and
an upper body disposed on the lower body and adjacent to the cartridge;
The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is disposed in the upper body. The upper body includes:
a first side wall facing an outer wall of a side surface of the cartridge;
a second side wall opposite the first side wall,
The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the shielding unit includes a first part disposed on the second side wall and covering a side of the sensor. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the shielding unit includes a second part disposed on the upper wall of the upper body and covering the upper part of the sensor. the body includes an insertion wall disposed on an upper side of the lower body and surrounding at least a portion of the second container portion;
the sensor faces the first container portion;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the shielding unit includes a third part disposed in the insertion wall. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the shielding unit includes a fourth part disposed between the lower body and the upper body. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein the fourth part covers the lower part of the cartridge and the lower part of the sensor. a cap covering at least a portion of the body and the cartridge and having an opening corresponding to the insertion space;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the shielding unit is disposed in at least a portion of the cap. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the shielding unit includes a fifth part disposed on a side wall of the cap and covering a side of the sensor. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the shielding unit includes a sixth part that is disposed on the upper wall of the cap and covers the upper part of the sensor. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the shielding unit is made of a material that does not allow electromagnetic waves to pass through.

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