JP7675215B2 - Aerosol generating device including a pressure sensor - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating device that includes a pressure sensor.

In order to improve the atomization performance, technologies have been developed to introduce airflow into the aerosol-generating article. For example, aerosol generating devices have been developed that generate aerosols from aerosol-generating articles using a non-combustion method.

One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that ensures the performance of the pressure sensor.

According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a hollow portion configured to accommodate an aerosol generating article and a body portion defining the hollow portion, the body portion including a housing including a cavity having a first cavity surface facing the hollow portion, a second cavity surface opposite the first cavity surface, and a third cavity surface between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface, a membrane sealing the first cavity surface, and a pressure sensor configured to seal the second cavity surface and detect pressure in the cavity.

In one embodiment, the membrane can be configured to deform convexly toward the first cavity surface.

In one embodiment, the membrane can be disposed between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface.

In one embodiment, the membrane may include an elastic material.

In one embodiment, the membrane can be at least partially embedded in the body portion.

In one embodiment, the pressure sensor can be provided on the second cavity surface.

In one embodiment, the cavity may further include a chamber surface between the first cavity surface and the third cavity surface.

In one embodiment, the body portion may include a side portion and a bottom portion, and the cavity may be located in the bottom portion.

In one embodiment, the bottom portion includes a bottom surface, and the first cavity surface may be substantially coplanar with the bottom surface.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the cavity may be substantially the same as or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the hollow portion.

In one embodiment, an aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating device including a hollow portion configured to accommodate the aerosol generating article and a body portion defining the hollow portion, the body portion including a housing including a cavity having a first cavity surface facing the hollow portion, a second cavity surface opposite the first cavity surface, and a third cavity surface between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface, a membrane sealing the first cavity surface, and a pressure sensor configured to seal the second cavity surface and detect pressure in the cavity.

In one embodiment, the membrane can be configured to deform when a puff is generated.

In one embodiment, the membrane can be configured to deform convexly toward the first cavity surface when the puff is generated.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a processor configured to detect a puff based on a pressure change in at least a portion of the cavity below the membrane.

In one embodiment, the hollow portion may include an airflow channel formed between the aerosol-generating article and the body portion.

According to one embodiment, the performance of the pressure sensor may be maintained or improved. According to one embodiment, puffs may be detected using the pressure sensor. The effects of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description. The effects of the aerosol generating device are not limited to those mentioned in the abnormalities, and other different effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description.

FIG. 2 shows an example of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment with an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) inserted therein. FIG. 2 shows an example of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment with an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) inserted therein. FIG. 2 shows an example of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment with an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) inserted therein. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) according to one embodiment. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) according to one embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system of FIG. 7 taken along line AA, showing the aerosol generation system in a first state according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system of FIG. 7 taken along line AA, showing the aerosol generation system in a second state according to one embodiment.

The terms used in the embodiments have been selected as currently widely used general terms as much as possible while taking into consideration the functions in the embodiments, but this may change depending on the intentions or precedents of engineers working in this field, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, in which case the meanings are described in detail in the relevant invention description. Therefore, the terms used in this invention should be defined based on the meanings that the terms have and the overall content of the invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, this means that it may further include other components, not excluding other components, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, terms such as "section," "module," etc. used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be realized in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

Figures 1 to 3 show examples of cigarettes inserted into an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. A cigarette 2 may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

The aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 shows the components related to this embodiment. Therefore, a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment can understand that in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes other general-purpose components.

Furthermore, although Figures 2 and 3 show the aerosol generating device 1 as including a heater 13, the heater 13 may be omitted if desired.

In FIG. 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are shown arranged in a row. Also, in FIG. 2, the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are shown arranged in a row. Furthermore, in FIG. 3, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are shown arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 may be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1.

When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can activate the heater 13 and/or vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and/or vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is transmitted to the user.

If necessary, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13 even when no cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

The battery 11 supplies power used for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can supply power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. The battery 11 can also supply power necessary for the display, sensor, motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1 to operate.

The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also the other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 may also check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of a large number of logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by this microprocessor is stored. In addition, a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment pertains can understand that the processor may be realized by different forms of hardware.

The heater 13 can be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the cigarette.

The heater 13 may be an electric resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may include an electric conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated by passing an electric current through the electric conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and may be any heater capable of heating to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be already set in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to the desired temperature by the user.

Meanwhile, as another example, the heater 13 can be an induction heater. Specifically, the heater 13 can include an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette in an induction heating manner, and the cigarette can include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

For example, the heater 13 can include heating elements having various shapes. For example, the heating elements can include tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements, or rod heating elements, and the pattern of the heating elements can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2.

The aerosol generating device 1 may also be provided with a plurality of heaters 13. In this case, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. The shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figures 1 to 3, and may be produced in various shapes.

The vaporizer 14 can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which can be transmitted through the cigarette 2 to the user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can travel along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 1, which can be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to be transmitted through the cigarette to the user.

For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit may be made so as to be detachable from the vaporizer 14, or may be made integral with the vaporizer 14.

For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, botanical extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. The fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavoring ingredients, and the like. The flavorings may include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Additionally, the liquid composition may include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can be a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc.

The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. The heating element may also be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element can be heated by a current supply, and can transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element to heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

For example, the vaporizer 14 may be called a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited to these.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and/or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generating device 1 may also include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, or a cigarette insertion detection sensor). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may be fabricated with a structure in which external air flows in or internal gas flows out even when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

Although not shown in Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generator 1 may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generator 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generator 1 are combined.

The cigarette 2 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 may also include an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. A user can inhale aerosol while biting the second part in the mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth through the second part.

As an example, the outside air may flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and/or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by the user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, smoking sensation, etc. As another example, the outside air may flow in through at least one hole formed in the surface of the cigarette 2.

Below, an example of a cigarette 2 is described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

Figures 4 and 5 show examples of cigarettes.

Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first portion 21 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second portion 22 includes the filter rod 22.

Although FIG. 4 illustrates the filter rod 22 as a single segment, the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment that cools the aerosol and a segment that filters a specific component contained in the aerosol. Also, if necessary, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function.

The diameter of the cigarette 2 may be in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited to this. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

The cigarette 2 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. As an example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by two or more wrappers 24 in a superimposed manner. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Also, the entire cigarette 2 may be rewrapped by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by a wrapper 242, 243, and 244.

The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can also be made of oil-resistant paper and/or aluminum laminated paper wrapping material.

The third wrapper 243 can be made of a hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 can be within the range of 88 g/m2 to 96 g/m2, and preferably is 90 g/m2 or less.
The weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, preferably 125 μm.

The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of a grease-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 can be within the range of 88 g/m2 to 96 g/m2, and preferably within the range of 90 g/m2 to 94 g/m2. Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 can be within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably 125 μm.

The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterile paper (MFW). Here, the term sterile paper (MFW) refers to paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within the range of 57 g/m2 to 63 g/m2, and preferably 60 g/m2. The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

The fifth wrapper 245 may have a specific substance added thereto. Here, an example of the specific substance may be silicon, but is not limited to this. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without restrictions.

The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the cigarette 2 from burning. In general, the cigarette 2 can burn when the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13. For example, if the temperature of any of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310 rises above the ignition point, the cigarette 2 can burn. In one embodiment, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-flammable substance, and therefore, in this case, the cigarette 2 can be prevented from burning.

The fifth wrapper 245 can also prevent the holder 1 from being contaminated by substances produced in the cigarette 2. A liquid substance can be produced in the cigarette 2 by the user's puff. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., moisture) can be produced by cooling the aerosol produced in the cigarette 2 with external air. In this case, wrapping the cigarette 2 with the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the liquid substance produced in the cigarette 2 from leaking outside the cigarette 2.

The tobacco rod 21 includes an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and/or organic acids. A flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may also be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it onto the tobacco rod 21.

The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in a sheet or a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from shredded tobacco obtained by cutting a tobacco sheet into small pieces. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco taste. Also, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawing, the tobacco rod 21 can include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the outside.

The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. However, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical type rod, or a tube type rod having a hollow interior. The filter rod 22 may also be a recess type rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted through the first segment, it may prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 210 from being pushed backward, and may also generate a cooling effect on the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow inside the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The length of the first segment may be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited to this. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited to this.

The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of plasticizer during manufacturing of the first segment. In addition, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a film, tube or other structure made of the same or different material inside (e.g., hollow).

The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to a moderate temperature.

The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately selected within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the scented liquid can be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving together separate fibers to which the scented liquid has been applied and fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed by a wound polymer sheet.

For example, the polymer may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA) and aluminum foil.

By forming the second segment from woven polymer fibers or wound polymer sheets, the second segment can include one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channel refers to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) can pass.

For example, the second segment of the wound polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. The total surface area of the second segment can also be between about 300 mm2 and about 1000 mm2. Additionally, the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm2/mg and about 100 mm2/mg.

Meanwhile, the second segment can include a thread containing a volatile flavor component, where the volatile flavor component can be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread can be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

The third segment of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

In the process of producing the third segment, the third segment can be produced so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Alternatively, separate fibers coated with a flavoring liquid can be inserted inside the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user via the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, it is possible to produce the effect of increasing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user.

Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is enveloped in a coating. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a shear plug 33. The shear plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 facing the filter rod 32. The shear plug 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from escaping to the outside, and may prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device (FIGS. 1 to 3).

The filter rod 32 can include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4.

The diameter and length of the cigarette 3 correspond to the diameter and length of the cigarette 2 of FIG. 4. For example, but not limited to, the length of the shear plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm.

The cigarette 3 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. For example, the shear plug 33 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped by a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped by a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped by a fourth wrapper 354. Also, the entire cigarette 3 may be rewrapped by a fifth wrapper 355.

In addition, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is enveloped in a coating. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

The first wrapper 351 may be a typical filter paper with a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, bonded to it. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably 6.3 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 50 g/m2 to 55 g/m2, and preferably 53 g/m2.

The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a typical filter wrapping paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper.

For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35,000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be within a range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be within a range of 20 g/m2 to 25 g/m2, and preferably 23.5 g/m2.

For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24,000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be within a range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be within a range of 20 g/m2 to 25 g/m2, and preferably 21 g/m2.

The fourth wrapper 354 can be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper means a triple layer of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 can be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably 110 μm. Also, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 can be in the range of 80 g/m2 to 100 g/m2, and preferably 88 g/m2.

The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g/m2 to 63 g/m2.
and preferably 60 g/m2. The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

The fifth wrapper 355 may have a specific substance added thereto. Here, an example of the specific substance may be silicon, but is not limited to this. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without restrictions.

The shear plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the shear plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug 33 may be 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the shear plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug 33 may be within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug 33 may be 28,000.

Also, if desired, the shear plug 33 can include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made in a variety of ways.

The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate tow with a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin). For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono-denier and total denier of the shear plug 33.

The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. The cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 400 according to another embodiment.

The aerosol generating device 400 includes a control unit 410, a detection unit 420, an output unit 430, a battery 440, a heater 450, a user input unit 460, a memory 470, and a communication unit 480. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 400 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 6. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment can understand that some of the components shown in Fig. 6 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 400.

The detection unit 420 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the state around the aerosol generating device 400, and transmit the detected information to the control unit 410. Based on the detected information, the control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 450, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

The detection unit 420 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 422, an insertion detection sensor 424, and a puff sensor 426, but is not limited to these.

The temperature sensor 422 can detect the temperature to which the heater 450 (or the aerosol generating material) heats. The aerosol generating device 400 may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater 450, or the heater 450 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 422 may be disposed near the battery 440 to monitor the temperature of the battery 440.

The insertion detection sensor 424 can detect the insertion and/or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 424 can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change due to the insertion and/or removal of an aerosol-generating article.

The puff sensor 426 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or channel. For example, the puff sensor 426 can detect a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

In addition to the above-mentioned sensors 422 to 426, the detection unit 420 further includes at least one of a temperature/humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed description will be omitted.

The output unit 430 may output information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 400 to provide it to a user. The output unit 430 may include at least one of a display unit 432, a haptic unit 434, and an audio output unit 436, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 432 and the touchpad are layered to form a touch screen, the display unit 432 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

The display unit 432 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 400 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 400 means various information such as the charging/discharging state of the battery 440 of the aerosol generating device 400, the preheating state of the heater 450, the insertion/removal state of an aerosol generating article, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 400 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article), and the display unit 432 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 432 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. Also, the display unit 432 may be the state of an LED light emitting element.

The haptic unit 434 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the haptic unit 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The acoustic output unit 436 provides audible information about the aerosol generating device 400 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 436 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

The battery 440 supplies the power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 400. The battery 440 supplies power so that the heater 450 can heat. The battery 440 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of other components (e.g., the detection unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480) provided in the aerosol generating device 400. The battery 440 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 440 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

The heater 450 can receive power from the battery 440 to heat the aerosol generating material. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC/DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to the heater 450. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 400 generates aerosol using an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 400 further includes a DC/AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 440 into an AC power.

The control unit 410, the detection unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480 can function by receiving power from the battery 440. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the device further includes a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to each component.

In one embodiment, the heater 450 may be formed from an electrically resistive material suitable for heating. For example, the electrically resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy, including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. The heater 450 may also be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate having an electrically conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

In one embodiment, the heater 450 may be an induction heater. For example, the heater 450 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

In one embodiment, the heater 450 includes multiple heaters. For example, the heater 450 includes a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid phase.

The user input unit 460 may receive information input by a user or output information to a user, for example, a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (contact type capacitive type, pressure type resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral type tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto.
In addition, although not shown in FIG. 6 , the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 440.

The memory 470 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 400, and can store data processed by the control unit 410 and data to be processed. The memory 470 includes at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 470 may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device 400, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern, etc.

The communication unit 480 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 480 includes a short-range communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484.

The short-range wireless communication unit 482 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee (registered trademark) communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

The wireless communication unit 484 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 484 may identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 400 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

The control unit 410 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 400. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be realized as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. In addition, a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs can understand that the processor may be realized in further forms of hardware.

The control unit 410 can control the temperature of the heater 450 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 440 to the heater 450. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. In a different example, a heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 450 in response to a control command from the control unit 410.

The control unit 410 analyzes the results detected by the detection unit 420 and controls the processing to be executed thereafter. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supplied to the heater 450 so that the operation of the heater 450 is started or ended based on the results detected by the detection unit 420. As another example, the control unit 410 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 450 and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater 450 can heat up to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the detection unit 420.

The control unit 410 controls the output unit 430 based on the results detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number, the control unit 410 notifies the user via at least one of the display unit 432, the haptic unit 434, and the audio output unit 436 that the aerosol generating device 400 will soon be shut down.

In one embodiment, the control unit 410 can control the time and/or amount of power supplied to the heater 450 depending on the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in an overly humid state, the control unit 410 can control the time of power supply to the induction coil to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol-generating article is in a normal state.

An embodiment may also be realized in the form of a recording medium including computer executable instructions such as a program module executed by a computer. A computer readable medium may be any solvable medium accessible by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, and both separate and non-separate media. A computer readable medium may also include both computer storage media and communication media. A computer storage medium includes both volatile and non-volatile, separate and non-separate media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium typically includes computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, or other transmission mechanism, and includes any information delivery medium.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system according to one embodiment, taken along line A-A. Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system according to one embodiment, taken along line A-A.

Referring to Figures 7 to 9, the aerosol generating system 500 includes an aerosol generating article 501 and an aerosol generating device 502 configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating article 501.

The aerosol generating device 502 may include a first housing 510 (e.g., an outer housing). The first housing 510 includes a first surface 510A, a second surface 510B opposite the first surface 510A, and a side surface 510C between the first surface 510A and the second surface 510B. For example, the aerosol generating article 501 may be inserted into the first housing 510 through an opening formed in the first surface 510A.

The aerosol generating device 502 may include a second housing 520 (e.g., an inner housing or a heated housing) configured to at least partially contain the aerosol generating article 501. The second housing 520 may be disposed within the first housing 510.

The second housing 520 includes a hollow portion 521 and a body portion 522 that defines the hollow portion 521.

The hollow portion 521 may be configured to at least partially accommodate the aerosol-generating article 501. The hollow portion 521 includes an airflow channel P defined between the hollow portion 521 and the aerosol-generating article 501. Air external to the first housing 510 may flow through the airflow channel P to one end of the aerosol-generating article 501 (e.g., the bottom end or the device end), through at least one segment of the aerosol-generating article 501, and to the other end of the aerosol-generating article 501 (e.g., the top end or the mouth end).

The body portion 522 includes a side portion 522A and a bottom portion 522B. The side portion 522A and the bottom portion 522B are connected to each other. The side portion 522A and the bottom portion 522B may form a hollow portion 521. An airflow channel P may be formed between an inner side surface of the side portion 522A and an outer side surface of the aerosol-generating article 501, and between a bottom surface of the bottom portion 522B and an outer end surface of the aerosol-generating article 501.

The body portion 522 includes a cavity 524 disposed in the bottom portion 522B. The cavity 524 may include a first cavity surface 524A (e.g., an upper surface) facing the hollow portion 521, a second cavity surface 524B (e.g., a lower surface) opposite the first cavity surface 524A, and a third cavity surface 524C (e.g., a side surface) between the first cavity surface 524A and the second cavity surface 524B.

The first cavity surface 524A may be at least partially open to the hollow portion 521. The first cavity surface 524A may be substantially coplanar with the bottom surface of the bottom portion 522B. The first cavity surface 524A may be coincident with the bottom surface of the bottom portion 522B.

The second cavity surface 524B may be at least partially open to the exterior of the second housing 520. The second cavity surface 524B may be substantially coplanar with the exterior surface of the bottom 522B. The second cavity surface 524B may be coincident with the exterior surface of the bottom 522B.

The third cavity surface 524C may be closed. Thus, material (e.g., air) may flow through the first cavity surface 524A and the second cavity surface 524B, but cannot flow through the third cavity surface 524C.

The cavity 524 includes a chamber surface 524D between the first cavity surface 524A and the third cavity surface 524C. The chamber surface 524D may have a substantially linear profile. The chamber surface 524D may have a curved profile.

The cavity 524 may have a cross-sectional area that is substantially the same as or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the hollow portion 521.

The aerosol generating device 502 includes a membrane 530. The membrane 530 may be configured to seal the first cavity surface 524A. The membrane 530 may be deformed depending on the conditions of the external environment. For example, the membrane 530 may have a shape that changes depending on pressure changes.

The membrane 530 may be disposed on the bottom 522B. The membrane 530 includes a first fixed portion 530A fixed to a first portion (e.g., a left portion) of the bottom 522B, a second fixed portion 530B fixed to a second portion (e.g., a right portion) opposite the first portion of the bottom 522B, and a deformation portion 530C disposed between the first fixed portion 530A and the second fixed portion 530B.

The first fixing portion 530A and the second fixing portion 530B may be configured to be substantially undeformable. The first fixing portion 530A may be embedded in a first portion of the bottom portion 522B. The second fixing portion 530B may be embedded in a second portion of the bottom portion 522B.

The first fixing portion 530A, the second fixing portion 530B, and the deformation portion 530C may be seamlessly connected together.

The first fixed portion 530A, the second fixed portion 530B, and the deformable portion 530C may comprise an elastic material. Alternatively, the first fixed portion 530A and the second fixed portion 530B may comprise a non-elastic material, and the deformable portion 530C may comprise an elastic material.

The aerosol generating device 502 includes a pressure sensor 540. The pressure sensor 540 may be configured to detect a pressure in the cavity 524 (e.g., the second pressure P2).

The pressure sensor 540 is configured to substantially seal the second cavity surface 524B. The second cavity surface 524B may be an open area on the underside of the bottom 522B to allow access to the cavity 524. The second cavity surface 524B may have a shape (e.g., a stepped shape) that is complementary to the shape of the underside of the bottom 522B. The membrane 530, the third cavity surface 524C, and the pressure sensor 540 may form at least a portion of the cavity 524 as a sealed space. The membrane 530 blocks the inflow of a substance (e.g., an aerosol) in the hollow portion 521 into the sealed space. Since the substance does not flow into the pressure sensor 540, the performance of the pressure sensor 540 can be guaranteed.

The pressure sensor 540 is provided on or adjacent to the second cavity surface 524B. The pressure sensor 540 may be in contact with the third cavity surface 524C.

Figure 8 shows the aerosol generating system 500 with the aerosol generating article 501 contained in the hollow portion 521 and no puffing by the user. The space in the hollow portion 521 has a first pressure P1. The space in the cavity 524 sealed by the membrane 530 and the pressure sensor 540 has a second pressure P2. The spaces form a pressure equilibrium. The membrane 530 can retain its original shape (e.g., substantially planar) and does not substantially deform (e.g., substantially planar).

9 shows the aerosol generating system 500 in a state in which the aerosol generating article 501 is contained in the hollow portion 521 and a puff is performed by the user. When the user puffs, air flows into the aerosol generating article 501 through the airflow channel P. The space of the hollow portion 521 has a reduced first pressure P1'. To maintain pressure balance, the deformation portion 530C is deformed convexly toward the first cavity surface 524A. The space of the cavity 524 sealed by the membrane 530 and the pressure sensor 540 has a changed second pressure P2'. The pressure sensor 540 can detect the second pressure P2 before the puff and the second pressure P2' after the puff, respectively. The processor (e.g., the control unit 12 or 410) can detect the user's puff based on the pressure difference between the second pressures P2 and P2' before and after the puff, and perform various control commands based on the detected pressure difference.

The features and aspects of any embodiment described above may be combined with the features and aspects of any other embodiment unless this results in an obvious technical conflict.

Claims (14)

a housing including a hollow portion configured to accommodate an aerosol-generating article and a body portion defining the hollow portion, the body portion including side portions and a bottom, a cavity disposed in the bottom, the cavity having a first cavity surface facing the hollow portion in a direction in which the aerosol-generating article is accommodated, a second cavity surface opposite the first cavity surface , and a third cavity surface between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface in the direction in which the aerosol-generating article is accommodated ;
a membrane sealing the cavity adjacent the first cavity surface;
a pressure sensor configured to seal the cavity and sense pressure in the cavity adjacent the second cavity surface;
An aerosol generating device comprising: The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the membrane is configured to deform convexly toward the first cavity surface. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the membrane is disposed between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the membrane comprises an elastic material. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the membrane is at least partially embedded in the body portion. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the pressure sensor is provided on the second cavity surface. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the cavity further includes a chamber surface between the first cavity surface and the third cavity surface. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the base includes a bottom surface, and the first cavity surface is substantially coplanar with the bottom surface. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional area of the cavity is substantially the same as or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the hollow portion. an aerosol-generating article;
an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article;
Including,
a housing including a hollow portion configured to accommodate an aerosol-generating article and a body portion defining the hollow portion, the body portion including side portions and a bottom, a cavity disposed in the bottom, the cavity having a first cavity surface facing the hollow portion in a direction in which the aerosol-generating article is accommodated, a second cavity surface opposite the first cavity surface , and a third cavity surface between the first cavity surface and the second cavity surface in the direction in which the aerosol-generating article is accommodated ;
a membrane sealing the cavity adjacent the first cavity surface;
a pressure sensor configured to seal the cavity and sense pressure in the cavity adjacent the second cavity surface;
1. An aerosol generating system comprising: The aerosol generation system of claim 10 , wherein the membrane is configured to be deformed when a puff is generated. 12. The aerosol generation system of claim 11 , wherein the membrane is configured to deform convexly toward the first cavity surface when the puff is generated. The aerosol generating system of claim 10 , wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a processor configured to detect a puff based on a pressure change in at least a portion of the cavity below the membrane. 11. The aerosol generating system of claim 10 , wherein the hollow portion includes an airflow channel formed between the aerosol generating article and the body portion.