JP7706635B2 - Cartridge and aerosol generating device including the same - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a cartridge and an aerosol generating device including the cartridge.

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 reduce the flow resistance that occurs when air passes through the interior of the cartridge.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to uniformly mix the aerosol generated inside the cartridge with air and distribute it into the air.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to prevent vortexes from being generated as air passes through the interior of the cartridge.

Yet another object of the present disclosure is to increase the amount or density of aerosol in the inhaled air.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned object, a cartridge includes a first chamber for storing a liquid, a second chamber having an inlet and an outlet, a wick located in the second chamber so as to be connected to the first chamber, and a heater for heating the wick, and the second chamber includes a curved surface that forms at least a portion of the second chamber between the inlet and the outlet.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce the flow resistance that occurs when air passes through the inside of the cartridge.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent vortexes from occurring when air passes through the interior of the cartridge.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generated inside the cartridge can be uniformly mixed with air and distributed into the air.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can increase the amount or density of aerosol in the inhaled air.

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

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

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

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

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

In the following, the z direction shown in the coordinate system can be defined as the upward direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the downward direction. The x-axis direction can be defined as the backward direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the forward direction. The y-axis direction can be defined as the rightward direction, and the opposite direction can be defined as the leftward direction.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one of a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, and a cartridge 40. At least one of the battery 10, the control unit 20, and the heater 30 may be disposed inside a case 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. The cartridge 40 may be detachably coupled to one side of the case 110.

The case 110 may have an insertion space 50 into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The insertion space 50 may be open to the outside and extend long. The heater 30 may be formed around the insertion space 50. The cartridge 40 and the insertion space 50 may be arranged parallel to face each other. The internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in the figure. The stick 200 may be inserted into the insertion space 50 and protrude outside the case 110. A user may hold the stick 200 in their mouth to perform an inhalation action.

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

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

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

The cartridge 40 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated in the cartridge 40 can be transmitted to the user through the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 may include a first container 41 and a second container 42. The second container 42 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 41. The cartridge inlet 414 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 40. The cartridge inlet 414 may be formed by opening one side of the first container 41. The cartridge inlet 414 may be formed by opening one side of the second container 42. The cartridge inlet 414 may be connected to the outside. Air outside the cartridge 40 may flow into the inside of the cartridge 40 through the cartridge inlet 414.

Referring to FIG. 3, the first container 41 may have a first chamber C1 therein. The first chamber C1 may store liquid. The cartridge inlet 414 may be formed by opening the top end of the first container 41.

The second container 42 may have a second chamber C2 therein. The second chamber C2 may be separated from the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1.

The wick 61 can be provided inside the second chamber C2. The wick 61 can be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 61 can receive the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from the first chamber C1.

The heater 62 can be provided inside the second chamber C2. The heater 62 can be wound around the wick 61. The heater 62 can heat the wick 61. When the heater 62 heats the wick 61 that has received the liquid, an aerosol can be generated around the wick 61 inside the second chamber C2.

The chamber inlet 542 may be formed by opening one side of the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 543 may be formed by opening the other side of the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 542 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 543 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 may be arranged opposite each other with respect to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 may be arranged opposite each other with the wick 61 at the center. The chamber inlet 542 may be referred to as the inlet 542. The chamber outlet 543 may be referred to as the outlet 543.

The inflow channel 541 can be formed between the chamber inlet 542 and the cartridge inlet 414. The inflow channel 541 can connect the chamber inlet 542 and the cartridge inlet 414. The inflow channel 541 can extend downward from the cartridge inlet 414 toward the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 541 can be separated from the first chamber C1. The inflow channel 541 can be separated from the second chamber C2. The inflow channel 541 can be formed parallel to the first chamber C1. The inflow channel 541 can bend toward the chamber inlet 542 near the chamber inlet 542 to communicate with the chamber inlet 542.

The discharge channel 544 can be formed by opening the second container 42. The discharge channel 544 can be connected to the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge channel 544 can be connected to the outside of the cartridge 40. The discharge channel 544 can be opened in the front-rear direction. The discharge channel 544 can extend long in the front-rear direction. The discharge port 512 can be formed by the front side of the second container 42 protruding forward. The discharge channel 544 can be formed inside the discharge port 512 and can be surrounded by the discharge port 512.

Air outside the cartridge 40 can flow into the second chamber C2 by sequentially passing through the cartridge inlet 414, the inlet channel 541, and the chamber inlet 542. The air that flows into the second chamber C2 can flow out of the cartridge 40 by sequentially passing through the chamber outlet 543 and the outlet channel 544. The air that flows into the second chamber C2 can carry an aerosol.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the chamber inlet 542 can be open in a front-to-rear direction. The chamber inlet 542 can be open toward the wick 61. The chamber outlet 543 can be open in a front-to-rear direction. The chamber outlet 543 can be open toward the wick 61. The wick 61 can be disposed between the chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543. The chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543 can be disposed parallel to each other with the wick 61 in between and face each other.

The wick 61 may be elongated in the left-right direction. The wick 61 may be elongated in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber inlet 542 opens. The wick 61 may be elongated in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber outlet 543 opens. The wick 61 may have an elongated cylindrical shape. The cross section of the wick 61 may have a circular shape.

The center line L may be defined as an imaginary line connecting the center of the chamber inlet 542 and the center of the chamber outlet 543. The center line L may extend from the chamber inlet 542 to the chamber outlet 543. The core 61 may overlap the center line L. The core 61 may extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the center line L. The center of the core 61 may coincide with the center line L or may be adjacent to the center line L.

The width W2 of the chamber inlet 542 in the left-right direction may be greater than the width W1 in the up-down direction. The diameter of the chamber inlet 542 may be greater in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61. The width W4 of the chamber outlet 543 in the left-right direction may be greater than the width W3 in the up-down direction. The diameter of the chamber outlet 543 may be greater in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61. The chamber inlet 542 and/or the chamber outlet 543 may open long in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61 facing the wick 61.

The vertical width W1 of the chamber inlet 542 and the vertical width W3 of the chamber outlet 543 may be the same or approximately the same. The horizontal width W2 of the chamber inlet 542 and the horizontal width W4 of the chamber outlet 543 may be the same or approximately the same.

The width W0 of the wick 61 may be the same as or approximately the same as the vertical width W1 of the chamber inlet 542. The width W0 of the wick 61 may be the same as or approximately the same as the vertical width W3 of the chamber outlet 543.

The second chamber C2 may have a curved surface formed to have a curvature on at least one side. The curved surface may cover or surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The curved surface may form at least a portion of the outer shape of the second chamber C2.

The second chamber C2 may have an inlet curved surface 52. The inlet curved surface 52 may be formed to have a curvature around the chamber inlet 542. The inlet curved surface 52 may cover one side of the second chamber C2 around the chamber inlet 542. The rear end of the inlet curved surface 52 may be connected to the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The inlet curved surface 52 may extend forward from the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 to the outside of the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The inlet curved surface 52 may have a vessel shape surrounding the rear space of the core 61. The inlet curved surface 52 may surround the rear side of the core 61. The inlet curved surface 52 may be formed as a continuous surface.

The second chamber C2 may have a discharge curved surface 53. The discharge curved surface 53 may be formed to have a curvature around the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge curved surface 53 may cover the other side of the second chamber C2 around the chamber discharge port 543. The front end of the discharge curved surface 53 may be connected to the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge curved surface 53 may extend rearward from the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543 to the outside of the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge curved surface 53 may have a vessel shape surrounding the front space of the wick 61. The discharge curved surface 53 may surround the front side of the wick 61. The discharge curved surface 53 may be formed as a continuous surface.

The second chamber C2 may have a connecting surface 55. The connecting surface 55 may be formed between the front end of the inlet curved surface 52 and the rear end of the outlet curved surface 53. The connecting surface 55 may connect the front end of the inlet curved surface 52 and the rear end of the outlet curved surface 53. The connecting surface 55 may form the outer periphery of the plane in the up-down and left-right directions of the second chamber C2. The connecting surface 55 may extend in the front-back direction. The connecting surface 55 may have no curvature or a very small curvature.

The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by an inlet curved surface 52, an outlet curved surface 53, and a connecting surface 55. The rear of the second chamber C2 may be covered by the inlet curved surface 52. The front of the second chamber C2 may be covered by the outlet curved surface 53. The connecting surface 55 may cover the upper and lower peripheries of the wick 61. The connecting surface 55 may cover the left and right peripheries of the wick 61.

The inflow channel 541 can be connected to the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 541 can extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the chamber inlet 542 opens. The inflow channel 541 can extend vertically and bend toward the chamber inlet 542 near the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel surface 511 can surround the inflow channel 541. The inflow channel surface 511 can be bent to connect to the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 and the inflow curved surface 52.

The channel curved surface 513 can be formed where the inlet channel surface 511 curves. The channel curved surface 513 can be connected to the inlet curved surface 52.

The inlet curved surface 52 can be integrally connected to the inlet channel surface 511. The inlet curved surface 52 and the inlet channel surface 511 can form a continuous surface. The outlet curved surface 53 can be integrally connected to the inner surface of the outlet port 512. The inner surface of the outlet curved surface 53 and the inner surface of the outlet port 512 can form a continuous surface. The inner surface of the outlet port 512 can be said to be the outlet channel surface 512.

Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the inlet curved surface 52 may have a first inlet curved surface 521 and a second inlet curved surface 522.

The first inlet curved surface 521 may surround the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The first inlet curved surface 521 may extend along the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542. The chamber inlet 542 may be formed inside the first inlet curved surface 521. The rear end of the first inlet curved surface 521 may be connected to the inlet channel surface 511. The rear end of the first inlet curved surface 521 may be connected to the channel surface 513.

The first inlet curved surface 521 may expand from the rear to the front of the chamber inlet 542 such that the outer periphery of the chamber inlet 542 gradually widens. The first inlet curved surface 521 may have a tapered shape. The first inlet curved surface 521 may be formed to have a curvature. The first inlet curved surface 521 may form a center of curvature on the outside of the chamber inlet 542 and/or the second chamber C2. The first inlet curved surface 521 may be formed to bulge inward from the outside of the first inlet curved surface 521. The first inlet curved surface 521 may have a bell-mouth shape.

The rear end of the second inlet curved surface 522 can be connected to the front end of the first inlet curved surface 521. The second inlet curved surface 522 can form a continuous surface with the first inlet curved surface 521. An inflection point and/or an inflection surface can be formed between the second inlet curved surface 522 and the first inlet curved surface 521. The front end of the second inlet curved surface 522 can be connected to the rear end of the connecting surface 55.

The second inlet curved surface 522 may expand from the front end of the first inlet curved surface 521 toward the front so that the second chamber C2 gradually widens. The second inlet curved surface 522 may have a tapered shape. The second inlet curved surface 522 may be formed to have a curvature. The second inlet curved surface 522 may form a center of curvature inside the second chamber C2. The second inlet curved surface 522 may be formed to bulge outward from the inside of the second inlet curved surface 522. The center of curvature of the second inlet curved surface 522 may be adjacent to the core 61 or overlap with the core 61.

The channel curved surface 513 reduces flow resistance and smoothly guides the air flow in the direction of flow to the chamber inlet 542 and the second chamber C2. Air can flow from the inlet channel 541 to the chamber inlet 542 and into the second chamber C2. Air flowing through the inlet channel 541 can be guided along the inlet channel surface 511 and the channel curved surface 513 to the chamber inlet 542 and the second chamber C2.

Therefore, resistance and flow loss to air flowing from the inlet channel 541 to the chamber inlet 542 can be reduced.

The first inlet curved surface 521 can reduce flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to diffuse around the core 61. Air passing through the chamber inlet 542 can diffuse around the chamber inlet 542 along the first inlet curved surface 521 from the chamber inlet 542 toward the core 61.

The second inlet curved surface 522 can reduce flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to pass around the periphery of the wick 61. The air flowing in from the chamber inlet 542 can flow between the wick 61 and the second inlet curved surface 522 along the second inlet curved surface 522. The second inlet curved surface 522 can collect the air discharged from the chamber inlet 542 and diffusing in the flow direction. The second inlet curved surface 522 can prevent a reduction in flow efficiency or vortexes caused by the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of the wick 61 suddenly changing direction.

Therefore, the diffusion efficiency of the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 to the second chamber C2 can be improved. Also, the diffusion efficiency of the air around the wick 61 can be improved. Also, the generation of vortexes around the wick 61 and around the corners of the second chamber C2 can be prevented. Also, the aerosol can be more uniformly mixed with the air and distributed in the air. Also, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

Referring to Figures 6 and 8, the discharge curved surface 53 can have a first discharge curved surface 531 and a second discharge curved surface 532.

The first discharge curved surface 531 may surround the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The first discharge curved surface 531 may extend along the outer periphery of the chamber discharge port 543. The chamber discharge port 543 may be formed inside the first discharge curved surface 531. The front end of the first discharge curved surface 531 may be connected to the discharge channel surface 512.

The first discharge curved surface 531 may expand from the front to the rear of the chamber discharge port 543 such that the outer circumference of the chamber discharge port 543 gradually widens. The first discharge curved surface 531 may gradually narrow from the rear to the front of the chamber discharge port 543. The first discharge curved surface 531 may have a tapered shape. The first discharge curved surface 531 may be formed to have a curvature. The first discharge curved surface 531 may form a center of curvature on the outside of the chamber discharge port 543 and/or the second chamber C2. The first discharge curved surface 531 may be formed to bulge inward from the outside of the first discharge curved surface 531. The first discharge curved surface 531 may have a bell-mouth shape.

The front end of the second discharge curved surface 532 may be connected to the rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531. The second discharge curved surface 532 may gradually narrow toward the front of the second chamber C2. The second discharge curved surface 532 may form a continuous surface with the first discharge curved surface 531. An inflection point and/or an inflection surface may be formed between the second discharge curved surface 532 and the first discharge curved surface 531. The rear end of the second discharge curved surface 532 may be connected to the front end of the connecting surface 55.

The second discharge curved surface 532 may expand from the rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531 toward the rear so that the second chamber C2 gradually widens. The second discharge curved surface 532 may have a tapered shape. The second discharge curved surface 532 may be formed to have a curvature. The second discharge curved surface 532 may form a center of curvature inside the second chamber C2. The second discharge curved surface 532 may be formed to bulge outward from the inside of the second discharge curved surface 532. The center of curvature of the second discharge curved surface 532 may be adjacent to the core 61 or overlap with the core 61.

The second discharge curved surface 532 can reduce flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to pass around the wick 61 and flow to the chamber outlet 543. The air passing around the wick 61 can flow between the wick 61 and the second discharge curved surface 532 along the second discharge curved surface 532. The second discharge curved surface 532 can collect the air passing around the wick 61 around the chamber outlet 543, which is the flow direction. The second discharge curved surface 532 can prevent a reduction in flow efficiency or a vortex caused by the air flowing from around the wick 61 to the chamber outlet 543 suddenly changing direction.

The first discharge curved surface 531 can reduce flow resistance and smoothly guide the air to gather from the periphery of the wick 61 to the chamber discharge port 543. The air passing around the periphery of the wick 61 can gather inside the chamber discharge port 543 along the first discharge curved surface 531. The first discharge curved surface 531 can prevent a reduction in flow efficiency or a vortex caused by the air flowing from the periphery of the chamber discharge port 543 to the chamber discharge port 543 suddenly changing direction or by the collision resistance between the air gathering at the chamber discharge port 543.

As a result, the flow efficiency of air flowing from the second chamber C2 or from the periphery of the wick 61 to the chamber outlet 543 can be improved. In addition, the generation of vortexes around the periphery of the wick 61 or near the corners of the second chamber C2 can be prevented. In addition, the aerosol can be more uniformly mixed with the air and distributed in the air. In addition, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

Referring to Figures 4 and 9, the wick 61 can extend elongately in a direction intersecting the center line L. The wick 61 can be positioned perpendicular to the center line L. The wick 61 can be positioned to extend elongately from side to side between the chamber inlet 542 and the chamber outlet 543.

The chamber inlet 542 can be open in the front-to-rear direction toward the wick 61. The chamber inlet 542 can be open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the wick 61. The chamber inlet 542 can be formed with a width W2 that is longer in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61. The chamber inlet 542 can be formed with a width W2 in the left-to-right direction that is longer than its width W1 in the up-to-down direction.

The chamber exhaust port 543 can be open in the front-to-rear direction toward the core 61. The chamber exhaust port 543 can be open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber exhaust port 543 can be formed with a width W4 that is longer in the longitudinal direction of the core 61. The chamber exhaust port 543 can be formed with a width W4 in the left-to-right direction that is longer than the width W3 in the up-to-down direction.

The inlet curved surface 52 can gradually expand from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of both ends of the wick 61 disposed in the second chamber C2. The first inlet curved surface 521 can gradually increase in width W2 in the left-right direction from the rear end to the front end of the chamber inlet 542. The second inlet curved surface 522 can gradually expand in width from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of both ends of the wick 61.

Therefore, the air flowing into the second chamber C2 from the chamber inlet 542 can be uniformly diffused toward the long wick 61. In addition, the flow resistance of the air flowing from the chamber inlet 542 toward the periphery of both edges of the wick 61 is reduced, preventing the generation of vortexes and improving flow efficiency. In addition, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

The discharge curved surface 53 may gradually narrow from the periphery of both ends of the core 61 disposed in the second chamber C2 toward the chamber discharge port 543. The first discharge curved surface 531 may gradually decrease in width W4 in the left-right direction from the rear end toward the front end of the chamber discharge port 543. The second discharge curved surface 532 may gradually decrease in width from the periphery of both ends of the core 61 toward the chamber discharge port 543.

Therefore, the air flowing from the second chamber C2 to the chamber outlet 543 can be collected evenly from the long wick 61. In addition, the flow resistance of the air flowing from the periphery of both edges of the wick 61 toward the chamber outlet 543 is reduced, preventing the generation of vortexes and improving the flow efficiency. In addition, the amount of aerosol in the air can be increased.

Referring to Figures 10 to 13, the curved surface may cover only a portion of the second chamber C2. The curved surface may be formed around the chamber outlet 543, and the periphery of the chamber inlet 542 may be covered with a flat surface 56. The curved surface may be formed around the lower periphery of the chamber outlet 543, and the remainder may be covered with a flat surface 56. The curved surface may be formed around the upper periphery of the chamber outlet 543, and the remainder may be covered with a flat surface 56.

The curved surface may be formed around the chamber inlet 542 and the periphery of the chamber outlet 543 may be covered with a flat surface 56. The curved surface may be formed around the lower periphery of the chamber inlet 542 and the remainder may be covered with a flat surface 56. The curved surface may be formed around the upper side of the chamber inlet 542 and the remainder may be covered with a flat surface 56.

The curved surface may cover one side of the second chamber C2, and the remaining side may be covered by a flat surface 56. The location of the curved surface is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. The flat surface 56 may be completely flat or may have a large surface that is flat.

Referring to FIG. 14, the second chamber C2 may have a spherical shape. The second inlet curved surface 522 and the second outlet curved surface 532 may be connected to each other. The curvature of the second inlet curved surface 522 and the curvature of the second outlet curved surface 532 may be the same or approximately the same. The center of curvature of the second inlet curved surface 522 and the center of curvature of the second outlet curved surface 532 may be the same or adjacent to each other. The center of curvature of the second inlet curved surface 522 and the center of curvature of the second outlet curved surface 532 may be the same or adjacent to the center of the core 61.

This makes it possible to prevent vortexes caused by air flow from occurring inside the second chamber C2. It also reduces the flow resistance of the air flowing around the wick 61, improving the flow efficiency. It also makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol in the air.

Referring to FIG. 15, the second chamber C2 may have an elliptical shape. The second inlet curved surface 522 and the second outlet curved surface 532 may be connected to each other. The second inlet curved surface 522 and the second outlet curved surface 532 may bulge outward from the second chamber C2. The length D1 in the front-rear direction of the second chamber C2 may be longer than the length D2 in the up-down direction of the second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be formed longer from the chamber inlet 542 toward the chamber outlet 543. The second chamber C2 may be formed longer in the air flow direction. The upper and lower ends of the second chamber C2 may be arranged closer to the wick 61.

As a result, the straightness of the air passing through the second chamber C2 is improved, and the reduction in air flow efficiency caused by changing the path can be improved. In addition, inside the second chamber C2, the air flows closer to the wick 61, and the amount or density of aerosol in the air can be increased.

Referring to FIG. 16, the channel curved surface 513 and the lower part of the second inlet curved surface 522 may be connected together. The channel curved surface 513 and the lower part of the second inlet curved surface 522 may form a continuous surface. The channel curved surface 513 and the second inlet curved surface 522 may bulge outward from the second chamber C2. The curvature of the channel curved surface 513 and the curvature of the lower part of the second inlet curved surface 522 connected to the channel curved surface 513 may be the same as each other. The curvature of the lower part of the second chamber C2 may be smaller than the curvature of the upper part of the second chamber C2. An inflection point and/or an inflection surface may not be formed between the second channel curved surface 513 and the second inlet curved surface 522.

As a result, no vortex is generated in the air flowing from the inlet channel 541 through the chamber inlet 542 into the second chamber C2, and the straightness of the flow can be improved. In addition, since the air does not collide with the wall formed around the chamber inlet 542, resistance to the flow can be reduced, and the efficiency of the air flow can be improved.

Referring to FIG. 17, the first inlet curved surface 521 can be eliminated. The first outlet curved surface 531 can be eliminated. Around the chamber inlet 542, the rear side of the second chamber C2 can be covered with the second inlet curved surface 522. Around the chamber outlet 543, the front side of the second chamber C2 can be covered with the second outlet curved surface 532.

Referring to FIG. 18, the width of the first inlet curved surface 521 may gradually increase from the rear end to the front end of the chamber inlet 542. The width W1 of the rear end of the first inlet curved surface 521 may be the same as or approximately the same as the width W0 of the core 61. The width W10 of the front end of the first inlet curved surface 521 may be greater than the width W0 of the core 61. The front end of the first inlet curved surface 521 may be connected to the rear end of the connection surface 55. The first inlet curved surface 521 may have a bell-mouth shape expanding toward the core 61.

The width of the first discharge curved surface 531 may gradually decrease from the rear end to the front end of the chamber discharge port 543. The width W3 of the front end of the first discharge curved surface 531 may be the same as or approximately the same as the width of the core 61. The width W30 of the rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531 may be greater than the width W0 of the core 61. The rear end of the first discharge curved surface 531 may be connected to the front end of the connection surface 55. The first discharge curved surface 531 may have a bell-mouth shape expanding toward the core 61.

Referring to FIG. 19, the inlet inclined surface 523 may be formed around the chamber inlet 542. The inlet inclined surface 523 may gradually expand toward the front. The inlet inclined surface 523 may gradually expand toward the core 61. The inlet inclined surface 523 may be formed obliquely outward toward the core 61. The inlet inclined surface 523 may have a truncated cone shape, such as a truncated cone shape or an elliptical truncated cone shape. The inlet inclined surface 523 may not have a curvature. The inlet inclined surface 523 may be formed between the first inlet curved surface 521 and the second inlet curved surface 522. The inlet inclined surface 523 may connect the first inlet curved surface 521 and the second inlet curved surface 522.

The discharge inclined surface 533 may be formed around the chamber discharge port 543. The discharge inclined surface 533 may gradually narrow toward the front. The discharge inclined surface 533 may gradually expand toward the core 61. The discharge inclined surface 533 may be formed obliquely outward toward the core 61. The discharge inclined surface 533 may have a truncated cone shape, such as a truncated cone shape or an elliptical truncated cone shape. The discharge inclined surface 533 may not have a curvature. The discharge inclined surface 533 may be formed between the first discharge curved surface 531 and the second discharge curved surface 532. The discharge inclined surface 533 may connect the first discharge curved surface 531 and the second discharge curved surface 532.

Referring to FIG. 20 to FIG. 23, the inflow channel 5410 may be connected to the outside of the cartridge 40 by opening one side of the second container 42. The inflow channel 5410 may be connected to the rear end of the chamber inlet 542. The inflow channel 5410 may not be curved. The inflow channel 5410 may be open in the front-rear direction. The inflow channel 5410 may extend long in the front-rear direction. The inflow channel 5410 may be formed parallel to the discharge channel 544. The inflow channel 5410 and the discharge channel 544 may face each other.

As a result, the length of the flow path from the outside of the cartridge 40 to the second chamber C2 is shortened, and the suction force required for the user to inhale air can be reduced. In addition, when the air flows from the inlet channel 5410 to the chamber inlet port 542, the air does not swirl, and the straightness of the air flow inside the cartridge 40 is improved, thereby improving the flow efficiency.

Referring to FIG. 24, the baffle 58 may be provided at the chamber inlet 542. The baffle 58 may be provided between the second chamber C2 and the inlet channel 541. The baffle 58 may have a plurality of holes. The baffle 58 may block the chamber inlet 542, but since the plurality of holes are formed, the second chamber C2 may be in communication with the inlet channel 541. The baffle 58 may have a perforated plate or mesh shape. Air may flow from the inlet channel 541 through the baffle 58 into the second chamber C2. The baffle 58 may make the flow rate of the air flowing into the second chamber C2 uniform.

Therefore, air can be uniformly diffused from the chamber inlet 542 to the second chamber C2 and the periphery of the wick 61. Also, the amount or density of aerosol in the air can be increased.

Referring to Figures 1 to 24, a cartridge 40 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first chamber C1 for storing liquid, a second chamber C2 having an inlet 542 and an outlet 543, a wick 61 located in the second chamber C2 and connected to the first chamber C1, and a heater 62 for heating the wick 61, and the second chamber C2 may include a curved surface forming at least a portion of the second chamber C2 between the inlet 542 and the outlet 543.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include a discharge curved surface 53 formed to have a curvature and form the second chamber C2 around the discharge port 543.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge curved surface 53 may include a first discharge curved surface 531 that surrounds the discharge port 543, forms a center of curvature on the outside of the second chamber C2, and has an outer periphery that gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the second chamber C2.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first discharge curved surface 531 may have a bell-mouth shape.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge curved surface 53 may include a second discharge curved surface 532 formed to bulge outward, and the outer periphery of the second discharge curved surface 532 may gradually become smaller in a direction toward the discharge opening 543.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge curved surface 53 includes a first discharge curved surface 531 that surrounds the discharge outlet 543, forms a center of curvature outside the second chamber C2, and has an outer periphery that gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the discharge outlet 543, and a second discharge curved surface 532 that is formed to bulge outward and has an outer periphery that gradually decreases in the direction toward the discharge outlet 543, and the second discharge curved surface and the first discharge curved surface 531 can be adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include an inlet curved surface 52 formed to have a curvature and form the second chamber C2 around the inlet 542.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet curved surface 52 may include a first inlet curved surface 521 that surrounds the inlet 542, forms a center of curvature on the outside of the second chamber C2, and has an outer periphery that gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber C2.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first inlet curved surface 521 may have a bellmouth shape.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet curved surface 52 may include a second inlet curved surface 522 that is formed to bulge outward and has an outer periphery that gradually increases in the direction from the inlet 542 toward the second chamber C2.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet curved surface 52 includes a first inlet curved surface 521 that surrounds the inlet 542, forms a center of curvature on the outside of the second chamber C2, and has an outer periphery that gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber C2, and a second inlet curved surface 522 that is formed to bulge outward and has an outer periphery that gradually increases in the direction from the inlet 542 toward the second chamber C2, and the second inlet curved surface 522 and the first inlet curved surface 521 can be adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the wick 61 may be disposed between the inlet 542 and the outlet 543 so as to extend long on one side. The inlet 542 faces the wick 61 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the wick 61, and the diameter of the inlet 542 in a first axial direction in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61 is greater than the diameter of the inlet in a second axial direction intersecting the first axis.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the outlet 543 faces the wick 61 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the wick 61, and the diameter of the inlet in a first axial direction in the longitudinal direction of the wick 61 is greater than the diameter of the inlet in a second axial direction intersecting the first axis.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include an inlet curved surface 52 that gradually expands from the inlet 542 toward the core 61 and forms a part of the second chamber C2.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include a curved discharge surface 53 having a gradually decreasing periphery from the wick 61 towards the discharge port 543 and forming a part of the second chamber C2.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may have a spherical shape.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may have an elliptical shape with a vertical axis extending from the inlet 542 to the outlet 543.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may further include an inlet channel 541 extending toward a channel curved surface connected to the inlet 542.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may include a second inlet curved surface 522 that is formed continuously with the channel curved surface and forms a part of the second chamber C2 adjacent to the inlet 542, and the second inlet curved surface 522 has a center of curvature located inside the second chamber C2.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet 542 and the outlet 543 are disposed facing each other with respect to the wick 61. The cartridge 40 may further include an inlet channel 541 formed to communicate with an external gas.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may further include a baffle 58 provided at the inlet 542 and having a plurality of holes.

In addition, a cartridge 40 according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a first chamber C1 for storing liquid, a second chamber C2 having an inlet 542 and an outlet 543, a wick 61 located in the second chamber C2 so as to be connected to the first chamber C1, and a heater 62 for heating the wick 61, the second chamber C2 having a surface that gradually becomes smaller from the periphery of the wick 61 toward at least one of the inlet 542 and the outlet 543, the surface forming a part of the second chamber C2.

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

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

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

Claims (12)

a first chamber for storing a liquid;
a second chamber having an inlet for external air to flow in and an outlet for internal air to be discharged ;
a wick positioned in the second chamber so as to be in communication with the first chamber;
a heater for heating the wick;
the second chamber includes a curved surface that defines at least a portion of the second chamber between the inlet and the outlet;
The second chamber includes an inlet curved surface that defines the second chamber around the inlet and has a curvature;
The inlet curved surface includes a first inlet curved surface surrounding the inlet and forming a center of curvature outside the second chamber, and the outer periphery of the first inlet curved surface gradually increases from the outside to the inside of the second chamber . The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber includes a discharge curved surface that forms the second chamber around the discharge port and is formed to have a curvature. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the discharge curved surface includes a first discharge curved surface that surrounds the discharge port and forms a center of curvature on the outside of the second chamber, and the outer periphery of the first discharge curved surface gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the second chamber. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein the first discharge curved surface has a bell-mouth shape. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the discharge curved surface includes a second discharge curved surface formed to bulge outward, and the outer periphery of the second discharge curved surface becomes smaller in a direction toward the discharge port. The discharge curved surface is
a first discharge curved surface surrounding the discharge port, forming a center of curvature on the outside of the second chamber, and having an outer periphery that gradually decreases from the inside to the outside of the discharge port;
A second discharge curved surface is formed to bulge outward and has an outer periphery that gradually decreases in a direction toward the discharge port,
The cartridge of claim 2 , wherein the second curved ejection surface and the first curved ejection surface are adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the first curved inlet surface has a bellmouth shape. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the inlet curved surface includes a second inlet curved surface formed to bulge outward, the outer periphery of the second inlet curved surface gradually increasing in a direction from the inlet toward the second chamber. The inlet curved surface further includes a second inlet curved surface that is formed to bulge outward and has an outer periphery that gradually increases in a direction from the inlet toward the second chamber,
The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the second curved inlet surface and the first curved inlet surface are adjacent to each other to form a continuous surface. The wick is disposed between the inlet and the outlet so as to extend long on one side,
At least one of the inlet and the outlet faces the wick in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of the wick;
2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein a diameter of at least one of said inlet and said outlet in a first axis direction longitudinal to said core is greater than a diameter in a second axis direction transverse to said first axis. 11. The cartridge of claim 10 , wherein the second chamber includes a curved ejection surface having a circumference that gradually decreases from the wick towards the ejection port, the curved ejection surface forming part of the second chamber. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a baffle provided at the inlet and having a plurality of holes.