JP7738183B2 - Aerosol Generator - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

Aerosol generating devices are used to extract specific components from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium can contain a variety of substances. The substances contained in the medium can be flavoring substances with a variety of components. For example, the substances contained in the medium can include nicotine, herbal, and/or coffee components. In recent years, much research has been conducted into such aerosol generating devices.

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

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can quickly determine whether a stick has been inserted.

A further object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can determine at least one of whether a stick has been inserted and whether the inserted stick is a used stick.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can improve the accuracy of stick judgment.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that minimizes the amount of power consumed in determining the insertion space into which the stick is inserted.

To achieve the above-mentioned objective, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a housing having a long insertion space formed therein, a door for opening and closing the insertion space, a magnetic sensor for detecting a magnetic field corresponding to the door, a capacitance sensor disposed adjacent to the insertion space, and a control unit. The control unit may use the magnetic sensor to determine whether an object is being inserted into the insertion space, and may use the capacitance sensor to determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure allows for quick determination of whether a stick has been inserted.

At least one embodiment of the present disclosure makes it possible to determine at least one of whether a stick has been inserted and whether the inserted stick is a used stick.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the accuracy of stick judgment.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can minimize the amount of power consumed in determining the insertion space into which the stick is inserted.

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 characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

The embodiments disclosed in this specification will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes "module" and "section" used in the following description for components are used solely for ease of explanation. "Module" and "section" do not have distinct meanings or roles.

Furthermore, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed herein, detailed descriptions of related publicly known technologies will be omitted if they may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and do not limit the technical concepts disclosed herein. Therefore, the attached drawings should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

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 these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

When a component is said to be "connected" to another component, it is understood that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when a component is said to be "directly connected" to another component, it is understood that there are no other components in between.

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

Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a communication interface 11, an input/output interface 12, an aerosol generating module 13, a memory 14, a sensor module 15, a battery 16, and/or a control unit 17.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may consist of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may consist of a cartridge that stores the aerosol generating material and a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and/or network. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication such as USB (universal serial bus). For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark) low power (BLE), Zigbee (registered trademark), or NFC (near field communication).

The input/output interface 12 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and/or an output device that outputs information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, physical buttons, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display or light-emitting diode (LED), an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

The input/output interface 12 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by a user via an input device to other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 10. The input/output interface 12 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 10 via an output device.

The aerosol generating module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. Here, the aerosol generating material can refer to any one or a combination of two or more substances in various states, such as liquid, solid, or gel, that can generate an aerosol.

In one embodiment, the liquid aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance, including a volatile tobacco flavor component. In another embodiment, the liquid aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. For example, the liquid aerosol-forming material may include water, solvent, nicotine, plant extracts, flavorings, flavoring agents, vitamin mixtures, etc.

Solid-state aerosol-generating materials can include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials, such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, and granulated tobacco. Solid-state aerosol-generating materials can also include solid materials containing taste modifiers, seasonings, and the like. For example, taste modifiers can include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, and the like. For example, seasonings can include natural substances such as herb granules, and silica, zeolite, dextrin, and the like containing fragrance ingredients.

The aerosol generating material may also contain an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

The aerosol generation module 13 may include at least one heater.

The aerosol generation module 13 may include an electrical resistance heater. For example, the electrical resistance heater may include at least one electrically conductive track and may be heated by an electric current flowing through the electrically conductive track. Here, the aerosol generating material may be heated by the heated electrical resistance heater.

The electrically conductive track may include an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive track may be formed from a metal material. As another example, the electrically conductive track may be formed from a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

An electric resistance heater may include an electrically conductive track formed in a variety of shapes. For example, the electrically conductive track may be formed in any one of the following shapes: tubular, plate-shaped, needle-shaped, rod-shaped, and coil-shaped.

The aerosol generation module 13 may include a heater that uses induction heating. For example, an induction heater may include an electrically conductive coil, and an alternating magnetic field whose direction periodically changes may be generated by adjusting the current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss may occur in the magnetic material. The lost energy may be released as thermal energy, heating the aerosol-generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat due to the magnetic field may be referred to as a susceptor.

On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

The aerosol generation module 13 may be referred to as a cartomizer, atomizer, vaporizer, etc.

Memory 14 can store programs for each signal processing and control within control unit 17, and can store data processed by control unit 17 and data to be processed.

For example, memory 14 may store application programs designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by control unit 17, and may selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request from control unit 17.

For example, the memory 14 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 has been charged, the number of times the battery 16 has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging and discharging, etc. Here, a puff may refer to the user's inhalation, and inhalation may refer to the situation in which the user inhales through the mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs.

Memory 14 may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) and non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects puffs (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor may be embodied as a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, etc.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects puffs (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor may be embodied as a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, etc.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol-generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 15 may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes with temperature.

For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generating device 10, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick detection sensor).

For example, if the aerosol generating device 10 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge detection sensor) that detects the attachment/detachment, position, etc. of the cartridge relative to the main body.

Here, the stick detection sensor and/or cartridge detection sensor can be implemented using an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery 16) provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and/or a current sensor that detects the current.

The battery 16 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generation device 10 under the control of the control unit 17. The battery 16 can also supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the battery 16 can supply power to the communication module included in the communication interface 11, the output device included in the input/output interface 12, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, etc.

Battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery. For example, if battery 16 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, 10C and the discharge rate (C-rate) may be 10C to 20C. Furthermore, for stable use, battery 16 may be manufactured to maintain 80% or more of its total capacity even after 2,000 charge/discharge cycles.

The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The protection circuit module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to the top surface of the battery 16. For example, to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 16, the protection circuit module (PCM) may cut off the electrical path to the battery 16 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16, or when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16.

The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a charging terminal to which externally supplied power is input. For example, a charging terminal may be formed on one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 10, and the aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a power terminal (not shown) to which externally supplied power is input. For example, a power line may be connected to a power terminal located on one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge a battery using power supplied via the power line connected to the power terminal. Here, the power terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication.

The aerosol generation device 10 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

The control unit 17 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 10. The control unit 17 is connected to each component provided in the aerosol generation device 10 and can transmit and/or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

The control unit 17 may include at least one processor and may use the processor to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

The control unit 17 can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the control unit 17 can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generating device 10 (e.g., preheating function, heating function, charging function, cleaning function, etc.) depending on the state of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 10, user commands received via the input/output interface 12, etc.

The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component of the aerosol generation device 10 based on the data stored in the memory 14. For example, the control unit 17 can control the battery 16 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generation module 13 for a predetermined period of time based on data stored in the memory 14 about the temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, etc.

The control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred through the puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check temperature changes, flow rate changes, pressure changes, voltage changes, etc. within the aerosol generating device 10 based on the sensing values of the puff sensor, and can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the confirmed results based on the sensing values of the puff sensor.

The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component of the aerosol generating device 10 depending on whether or not a puff is made and/or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control the heater temperature to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

The control unit 17 can control the heater to cut off power supply under certain conditions. For example, the control unit 17 can control the heater to cut off power supply when the stick is removed and the cartridge is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a preset time, or when the remaining charge in the battery 16 is less than a predetermined value.

The control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the battery 16 (hereinafter referred to as the remaining amount). For example, the control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of power in the battery 16 based on the sensing values of the voltage sensor and/or current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

For example, the control unit 17 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulses.

For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature, which is the target for control, based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

Meanwhile, while the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, the present invention is not limited to these, and various control methods such as the Proportional-Integral (PI) method and the Proportional-Differential (PD) method can also be used.

Meanwhile, the control unit 17 can control the heater to supply power under preset conditions. For example, if a cleaning function for cleaning the space into which the stick is inserted is selected according to a command input by the user via the input/output interface 12, the control unit 17 can control the heater to supply a predetermined amount of power.

Figures 2 to 4 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a main body 100 and/or a cartridge 200.

Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 configured to allow a stick 20 to be inserted into a space formed by a housing 101.

The stick 20 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick 20 may be divided into a first portion containing an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the stick 20 may also contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance formed 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 10, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, or both the first part and the second part may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol by holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth by passing through the second part.

The main body 100 may be configured to have a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 100 when the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the external air that flows into the main body 100 can pass through the stick 20 and flow into the user's mouth.

The heater may be positioned within the body 100 at a location corresponding to the position of the stick 20 when the stick 20 is inserted into the body 100. In this drawing, the heater is shown as an electrically conductive heater 110 including a needle-shaped electrically conductive track, but the present invention is not limited in this respect.

The heater can heat the inside and/or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. The heated stick 20 can then generate an aerosol. The user can then inhale the tobacco-flavored aerosol by inhaling through one end of the stick 20 with their mouth.

Meanwhile, the control unit 17 can control the heater to supply power even when the stick 20 is not inserted under preset conditions. For example, if a cleaning function for cleaning the space into which the stick 20 is inserted is selected according to a command input by the user via the input/output interface 12, the control unit 17 can control the heater to supply a predetermined amount of power.

The control unit 17 can monitor the number of puffs based on the sensing value of the puff sensor from the moment the stick 20 is inserted.

When the inserted stick 20 is removed, the control unit 17 can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14.

Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 that stores an aerosol generating substance.

In one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be detachable from the main body 100. In another embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured as an integral part of the main body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 may be attached to the main body 100 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 200 into the internal space formed by the housing 101 of the main body 100.

The main body 100 may be configured to allow external air to flow into the main body 100 when the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air that flows into the main body 100 can flow through the cartridge 200 to the user's mouth.

The control unit 17 can determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached using a cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge detection sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200. Here, the cartridge detection sensor can detect whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached based on whether a pulse current is received through another terminal.

The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and/or a reservoir 220 for storing the aerosol-generating substance. For example, a liquid transfer means impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be disposed inside the reservoir 220. The electrically conductive track of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transfer means. Here, the liquid transfer means is heated by the heater 210, thereby generating an aerosol. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick made of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 configured to allow the stick 20 to be inserted. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending circumferentially along the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the insertion space may be formed by opening the inside of the inner wall upward and downward. The stick 20 may be inserted into the insertion space 230 formed by the inner wall.

The insertion space into which the stick 20 is inserted may be formed in a shape that corresponds to the shape of the portion of the stick 20 that will be inserted into the insertion space. For example, if the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer periphery of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and may come into contact with the inner wall.

A portion of the stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 230 of the cartridge 200, with the remaining portion exposed to the outside.

The user can inhale the aerosol while holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can pass through the stick 20 and be delivered to the user's mouth. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, the substance contained in the stick 20 is added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added substance can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

Referring to FIG. 4, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 stores an aerosol generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 130.

The aerosol generating device 10 may include a first heater that heats the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user inhales through one end of the stick 20 into their mouth, the aerosol generated by the first heater can pass through the stick 20. Here, as the aerosol passes through the stick 20, a flavor can be added to the aerosol. The flavored aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

Meanwhile, in another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a first heater that heats the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater that heats the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may generate aerosol by heating the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20 using the first heater and the second heater, respectively.

Figures 5 to 7 are diagrams illustrating a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 5, the stick 20 can include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first portion described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the tobacco rod 21. The second portion described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the filter rod 22.

Although FIG. 5 shows the filter rod 22 as a single segment, it 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 first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters specific components contained in the aerosol. If necessary, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one additional segment that performs another function.

The diameter of the stick 20 may range from 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be approximately 48 mm, but is not limited to these. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to these.

The stick 20 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole formed therein, allowing external air to enter or internal gas to escape. As an example, the stick 20 may be wrapped in a single wrapper 24. As another example, the stick 20 may be wrapped in two or more overlapping wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped in wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The tobacco rod 21 and filter rod 22 wrapped in individual wrappers may be combined, and the entire stick 20 may be further wrapped in a third wrapper. If each filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped in an individual wrapper 242, 243, and 244. The entire stick 20, comprising the combined segments wrapped in individual wrappers, may be further wrapped in another wrapper.

The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made from a typical filter wrapper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous or non-porous wrapper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may also be made from oil-resistant paper and/or aluminum laminate packaging material.

The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 88 g/ _m to 96 g/ _m . For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 90 g/ _m to 94 g/ _m . Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

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

The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) may refer to 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 245 may be in the range of 57 g/m ₂ to 63 g/m _2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 60 g/m ^2. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 67 μm.

The fifth wrapper 245 may contain a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., no oxidation), resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-mentioned properties may be applied or coated onto the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the stick 20 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 210, the stick 20 may burn. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the flash point of any one of the materials contained in the tobacco rod 21, the stick 20 may burn. Even in such cases, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-flammable material, preventing the stick 20 from burning.

In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the main body 100 from being contaminated by the substance produced in the stick 20. A liquid substance can be produced within the stick 20 when the user puffs. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., water) can be produced when the aerosol produced in the stick 20 is cooled by external air. By encasing the stick 20 in the fifth wrapper 245, the liquid substance produced within the stick 20 can be prevented from leaking outside the stick 20.

The tobacco rod 21 may contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance 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 contain 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 a variety of ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a strand. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from finely cut pieces of a tobacco sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material can be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 and improve thermal conductivity to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco taste. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the exterior.

The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. However, there are no limitations on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical type rod. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a tubular type rod having a hollow interior. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a recessed type rod. When 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 tubular structure with a hollow interior. The first segment prevents the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed back when the heater 110 is inserted, and also provides a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to this.

The length of the first segment can be any suitable length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited to this. For example, the length of the first segment can be 10 mm, but is not limited to this.

The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 110 heating the tobacco rod 21. This allows the user to inhale aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the stick 20. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately set within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment can be approximately 14 mm, but is not limited to this.

The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavor liquid can be applied to the fibers made from the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving together separate fibers coated with a flavor liquid and fibers made from the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed from a crimped polymer sheet.

For example, the polymer may be made from 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.

When the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment can include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, a channel can refer to a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

For example, the second segment of the crimped polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, e.g., between about 10 μm and about 250 μm, and the total surface area of the second segment can be between about 300 ^mm /mm and about 1000 ^mm /mm, and the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area between about 10 ^mm /mg and about 100 ^mm /mg.

Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor component may be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may 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 may 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 approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

The filter rod 22 may be manufactured to emit a flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the filter rod 22. For example, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 22.

The filter rod 22 may also include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may function to generate a flavor. The capsule 23 may also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 23 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

Referring to FIG. 6, the stick 30 according to one embodiment may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside. The front end plug 33 can prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device 10.

The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. The first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 5. The second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 5.

The diameter and overall length of the stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the stick 20 in Figure 5. For example, but not limited to, the length of the front end plug 33 may be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be approximately 14 mm.

The stick 30 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air can enter or internal gas can escape. For example, the front end plug 33 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped in a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped in a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped in a fourth wrapper 354. The entire stick 30 may then be rewrapped in a fifth wrapper 355.

Furthermore, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited to this. For example, the perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 210 shown in FIG. 3 to the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

The second segment 322 may also include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may function to generate a flavor. The capsule 34 may also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 34 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

The first wrapper 351 may be formed by bonding a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, to a typical filter wrapper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 50 g/m ² to 55 g/m ^2. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be 53 g/m ² .

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

For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be, but is not limited to, 35,000 CU. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of ²⁰ g/m to 25 g/ ^m . For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be 23.5 g/ ^m .

For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be, but is not limited to, 24,000 CU. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 20 g/m to 25 g/m. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 21 g/ ^m .

The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper may refer to a triple-ply paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 110 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 80 g/ ^m to 100 g/ ^m . For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 88 g/ ^m .

The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to 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 may be in the range of 57 g/m ² to 63 g/m ^2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 60 g/m ^2. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 67 μm.

The fifth wrapper 355 may contain a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., no oxidation), resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

The front end plug 33 may be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate toe. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may range from 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may range from 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 may range from 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may range from 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be 28,000.

Optionally, the front end plug 33 may also include at least one channel. The cross section of the channel may be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 5. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

The first segment 321 may be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate. 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 front end 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. For example, the mono-denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. For example, 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. For example, the total denier of the second segment 322 may be 25,000.

Referring to FIG. 7, the stick 40 may include a medium portion 410. The stick 40 may include a cooling portion 420. The stick 40 may include a filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The stick 40 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may encase the medium portion 410. The wrapper 440 may encase the cooling portion 420. The wrapper 440 may encase the filter portion 430. The stick 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

The medium portion 410 may include a medium 411. The medium portion 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium portion 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be disposed between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be disposed at one end of the stick 40. The length of the medium portion 410 may be 24 mm.

The medium 411 may contain various substances. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances. The medium 411 may be composed of a plurality of granules. Each of the granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The medium 411 may be filled with the granules approximately 70% of the interior. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be composed of paper material and may have a wrinkled shape, forming multiple gaps between them for air to flow through. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule in the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot detach from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40.

The cooling portion 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling portion 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the second medium portion 415 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the cooling passage 424 therein. The cooling portion 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling portion 420 may be made of a paper material that is thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 10, at least a portion of the cooling portion 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generation device 10.

Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, ensuring the rigidity of the stick 40. The cooling unit 420 also supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, ensuring a location where the wrapper 440 is adhered. Furthermore, the heated air and aerosol can be cooled as they pass through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

The filter part 430 may be composed of an acetate filter. The filter part 430 may be disposed at the other end of the stick 40. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, the filter part 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 10. A user may hold the filter part 430 in their mouth and inhale air. The length L5 of the filter part 430 may be 14 mm.

The wrapper 440 may wrap or surround the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430. The wrapper 440 may form the outer shape of the stick 40. The wrapper 440 may be made of a paper material. The adhesive portion 441 may be formed on one side edge of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430, and the adhesive portion 441 formed on one side edge and the other side edge may be adhered to each other. The wrapper 440 that wraps the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 40.

Therefore, the wrapper 440 can secure the medium section 410, the cooling section 420, and the filter section 430, preventing them from coming off the stick 40.

The first thin film 443 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metal material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

The second thin film 445 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metal material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

Hereinafter, the directions of the aerosol generation device 10 can be defined based on the Cartesian coordinate system shown in Figures 8 to 19. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +x can be the rightward direction, and the direction toward -x can be the leftward direction. The y-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +y can be the upward direction, and the direction toward -y can be the downward direction. The z-axis direction can be defined as the front-to-back direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Based on the origin, the direction toward +z can be the forward direction, and the direction toward -z can be the backward direction.

Referring to Figures 8 to 10, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the body 100 may have a shape that extends vertically. The body 100 may have a hollow shape. The body 100 may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. The body 100 may be referred to as the main body 100. The body 100 may constitute the housing of the aerosol generating device 10.

The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend vertically. The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend along the outer periphery of the body 100. The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend circumferentially to form a cylindrical shape. The body 100 may be elongated. The longitudinal direction of the body 100 may be the direction in which the body 100 extends longitudinally. The longitudinal direction of the body 100 may be the vertical direction.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend vertically. The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend along the inner circumference of the body 100. The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend circumferentially to form a cylindrical shape.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may form an insertion space 130 into which the stick 20 is inserted. The insertion space 130 of the body 100 may be a space formed by recessing the body 100 to a predetermined depth toward the inside of the aerosol generating device 100 so that at least a portion of the stick 20 can be inserted.

The outer wall 102 and inner wall 103 of the body 100 may be connected to each other at their upper sides. The outer wall 102 and inner wall 103 of the body 100 may form the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 10.

The body 100 may include a door 310 that opens and closes the insertion space 130 to the outside. The door 310 may be disposed adjacent to the portion where the upper portion of the outer wall 102 and the upper portion of the inner wall 103 of the body 100 are connected to each other. The shape of the door 310 may correspond to the shape of the left-right cross section of the insertion space 130.

The door 310 and the outer wall 102 of the body 100 can form a continuous surface.

The hinge member 311 may be disposed at the portion where the upper portion of the outer wall 102 and the upper portion of the inner wall 103 of the body 100 are connected to each other. The hinge member 311 may be referred to as a pivot shaft or shaft.

The door 310 may be connected to a hinge member 311. The door 310 may be connected to the hinge member 311 so as to be pivotable toward the insertion space 130. When the stick 20 is inserted, the door 310 may pivot downwards as the stick 20 is inserted.

The hinge member 311 may include at least one elastic member that provides an elastic restoring force in the direction opposite to the pivot direction of the door 310. For example, the hinge member 311 may include at least one spring. For example, when the door 310 pivots and a rotational restoring force is provided to the door 310 by the elastic member, the door 310 can return to a position (hereinafter referred to as the original position) where it forms a continuous surface with the outer wall 102 of the body 100.

When the door 310 pivots toward the insertion space 130, the insertion space 130 may be exposed to the outside. When the door 310 is positioned to form a continuous surface with the outer wall 102 of the body 100, the insertion space 130 may be isolated from the outside.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may have a concave region 104 formed by being recessed inward of the body 100. The concave region 104 of the inner wall 103 may be recessed radially outward of the body 100. The depth to which the concave region 104 of the inner wall 103 is recessed may correspond to the vertical height of the door 310. The cross section of the concave region 104 of the inner wall 103 may correspond to the left-right cross section of the door 310.

A pivoted door 310 may be placed in the interior space 131 formed by the recessed recessed region 104 of the interior wall 103. The lower surface of the pivoted door 310 may contact the recessed region 104 of the interior wall 103. The upper surface of the pivoted door 310 may form a continuous surface with the rest of the interior wall 103 excluding the recessed region 104.

When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130, the outer periphery of the stick 20 may be surrounded by the inner wall 103 and the upper surface of the pivoted door 310.

The door 310 may include a magnetic material 315 having magnetic properties. The magnetic material may include a magnet. For example, the magnetic material 315 may be disposed inside the door 310.

At least one sensor may be disposed inside the body 100.

The first sensor 154 may be disposed between the outer wall 102 and the inner wall 103 of the body 100. The first sensor 154 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130 into which the stick 20 is inserted. The first sensor 154 may be disposed facing the insertion space 130. The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the insertion space 130.

The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics of the insertion space 130 to sense information about the insertion space 130. The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics caused by nearby objects. For example, the first sensor 154 can be a capacitance sensor. For example, the first sensor 154 can be a magnetic proximity sensor. The type of the first sensor 154 is not limited thereto. For example, when a stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130, a change can occur in the electromagnetic characteristics sensed by the first sensor 154. Here, the first sensor 154 can sense information about the insertion space 130 based on the change in the electromagnetic characteristics.

The first sensor 154 may include a conductor. The conductor may be formed to have a length corresponding to the insertion space 130 along the direction in which the insertion space 130 extends.

The first sensor 154 can generate and output a signal. The first sensor 154 can generate a signal while a current flows through a conductor. The first sensor 154 can generate a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic characteristics of the surroundings, for example, the capacitance around the conductor.

The second sensor 155 may be disposed between the outer wall 102 and the inner wall 103 of the body 100. The second sensor 155 may be disposed adjacent to the interior space 131 formed by the recessed region 104 of the interior wall 103. The second sensor 155 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the position of the magnetic material 315 included in the door 310 when the door 310 is disposed in the interior space 131.

The second sensor 155 may be a magnetic sensor. The magnetic sensor can sense the magnetization of the magnetic material 315, the direction, strength, and changes in the magnetic field. The magnetic sensor can output a signal corresponding to the sensed value. For example, the magnetic sensor may be, but is not limited to, a Hall sensor, a rotating coil, a magnetoresistive element, or a SQUID (superconducting quantum interference device).

The heater 115 is positioned adjacent to the insertion space 130 and can heat the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130. The heater 115 can be positioned corresponding to the position of the tobacco rod 12 of the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130.

In this diagram, the heater 115 is shown as an induction heater that generates an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically by adjusting the current flowing through an electrically conductive coil, but the present invention is not limited to this.

The terminals 121, battery 16, and/or control unit 17 may be located inside the body 100, which is surrounded by the outer wall 102 and inner wall 103 of the body 100.

The terminal 121 may be disposed at the bottom end of the body 100. The terminal 121 may be electrically connected to an external power source to receive power and transmit it to the battery 16. The terminal 121 may be disposed below the battery 16. The terminal 121 may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

The control unit 17 can determine the position of the door 310 based on the signal received from the second sensor 155. For example, the control unit 17 can determine whether the door 310 is positioned in the internal space 131 based on the signal output from the second sensor 155. Here, if the control unit 17 determines that the door 310 is positioned in the internal space 131, it can determine that an object has been inserted into the insertion space 130.

The control unit 17 can determine whether the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the signal received from the first sensor 154. For example, the control unit 17 can determine whether the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 based on a change in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154.

The control unit 17 can determine whether the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a used stick based on the signal received from the first sensor 154. For example, it can determine whether the stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the degree to which the signal level of the first sensor 154 has changed.

Referring to Figures 11-13, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cartridge 200 may have a vertically elongated shape. The cartridge 200 may have a hollow shape. The cartridge 200 may have a vertically elongated cylindrical shape.

The cartridge 200 may include an outer wall 202 and an inner wall 203. The outer wall 202 may extend vertically. The outer wall 202 may extend along the outer periphery of the cartridge 200. The outer wall 202 may extend circumferentially to form a cylindrical shape. The cartridge 200 may be elongated. The longitudinal direction of the cartridge 200 may be the direction in which the cartridge 200 extends longitudinally. The longitudinal direction of the cartridge 200 may be the vertical direction.

The inner wall 203 may extend vertically. The inner wall 203 may extend along the inner circumference of the cartridge 200. The inner wall 203 may extend circumferentially to form a cylindrical shape.

The inner wall 203 may be spaced inward from the outer wall 202. The inner wall 203 may be spaced radially inward from the outer wall 202. The outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203 may be connected to each other at their upper sides.

The inner wall 203 may extend circumferentially along the top and bottom to form an insertion space 230 therein. The insertion space 230 may be formed by opening the inside of the inner wall 203 upward and downward. The inner wall 203 may be disposed between the chamber 220 and the insertion space 230. The inner wall 203 may define the insertion space.

The insertion space 230 may have a shape corresponding to the portion into which the stick 20 is inserted. The insertion space 230 may be elongated vertically. The insertion space 230 may have a cylindrical shape. When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230, the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall 203 and can be tightly attached to the inner wall 203.

The chamber 220 may be defined by the outer wall 202, inner wall 203, and lower portion 205 of the cartridge 200.

The chamber 220 may be formed between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203. The chamber 220 may extend vertically. The chamber 220 may extend circumferentially along the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203. The chamber 220 may have a cylindrical shape. The pre-vaporized formulation may be stored in the chamber 220. The pre-vaporized formulation may be liquid.

The flow path portion 235 may be formed on the lower inner side of the inner wall 203. The inhaled air may pass through the flow path portion 235.

The flow path portion 235 may be formed between the insertion space 230 and the wick 211. The aerosol generated from the wick 211 may flow toward the insertion space 230 through the flow path portion 235. The flow path portion 235 may have a shape that narrows and then widens in width along the direction of aerosol flow. The aerosol may flow upward.

The wick 211 may be connected to the interior of the chamber 220. The wick 211 may absorb the pre-vaporized formulation stored in the chamber 220. The wick 211 may be adjacent to one end of the insertion space 230 in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 200.

The wick 211 may be positioned below the insertion space 230. The wick 211 may be positioned below the flow path portion 235. The wick 211 is connected to the chamber 220 and can absorb the pre-vaporized formulation stored in the chamber 220. The wick 211 may be inserted between the inner wall 203 and the lower portion 205 of the cartridge 200. The wick 211 may be extended in one direction. The wick 211 may be elongated in the left-right direction. Both end portions of the wick 211 may be connected to the interior of the chamber 220.

The heater 210 may be arranged around the wick 211. The heater 210 may be wrapped around the wick 211 along the direction in which the wick 211 extends. The heater 210 can apply heat to the wick. The heater 210 can generate an aerosol from the pre-vaporized formulation absorbed by the wick 211 by electrical resistance heating. The heater 210 is connected to the control unit 17, and the control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater 210.

The stick 20 can be elongated vertically. The stick 20 can be inserted inside the cartridge 200. The stick 20 can be inserted inside the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200. The aerosol generated in the core 211 can be transmitted to the stick 20 through the flow path portion 235.

Therefore, the chamber 220 of the cartridge 200 in which the pre-vaporized formulation is stored is arranged to surround the stick 20, efficiently increasing the storage space for the liquid pre-vaporized formulation.

As a result, the distance from the wick 211 connected to the chamber 220 that stores the pre-vaporized formulation and the heater 210 that heats the pre-vaporized formulation to generate the aerosol to the stick 20 is reduced, thereby improving the efficiency of heat transfer from the aerosol to the stick 20.

The cartridge 200 may include a door 310 that opens and closes the insertion space 230 to the outside. The door 310 may be positioned adjacent to the portion where the upper portion of the outer wall 202 and the upper portion of the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 are connected to each other. The shape of the door 310 may correspond to the shape of the left-right cross section of the insertion space 230.

The hinge member 311 connected to the door 310 may be located on the upper side of the outer wall 102 of the cartridge 200.

When the door 310 pivots and a rotational restoring force is applied to the door 310 by the elastic member, the door 310 can return to its original position where it forms a continuous surface with the outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200.

When the door 310 pivots toward the insertion space 230, the insertion space 230 can be exposed to the outside. When the door 310 is positioned so that it forms a continuous surface with the outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200, the insertion space 230 can be isolated from the outside.

The inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 may have a recessed area 204 formed by being recessed into the inside of the cartridge 200. The depth to which the recessed area 204 of the inner wall 203 is recessed may correspond to the vertical height of the door 310. The cross section of the recessed area 204 of the inner wall 203 may correspond to the left-right cross section of the door 310.

A pivoted door 310 may be placed in the interior space 231 formed by the recessed region 204 of the interior wall 203. The lower surface of the pivoted door 310 may contact the recessed region 204 of the interior wall 203. The upper surface of the pivoted door 310 may form a continuous surface with the remainder of the interior wall 203 excluding the recessed region 204.

When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230, the outer periphery of the stick 20 may be surrounded by the inner wall 203 and the upper surface of the pivoted door 310.

The sensor 154 may be disposed between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200. The first sensor 154 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 230 into which the stick 20 is inserted. The first sensor 154 may be disposed facing the insertion space 230. The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the insertion space 230.

The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics of the insertion space 230 to sense information about the insertion space 230. The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object.

The second sensor 155 may be positioned between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200.

The second sensor 155 may be positioned adjacent to the internal space 231 formed by the recessed recessed region 204 of the inner wall 203. When the door 310 is placed in the internal space 231, the second sensor 155 may be positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the magnetic material 315 included in the door 310.

The vertical length of the portion of the chamber 220 located at the lower end of the second sensor 155 may be shorter than the vertical length of the remainder of the chamber 220.

The cartridge 200 and the body 100 may be connected to each other. The cartridge 200 may be placed on the upper side of the body 100. The cartridge 200 may be detachably connected to the body 100. The outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200 and the outer wall 102 of the body 100 may form a continuous surface. The body 100 and the cartridge 200 may constitute the housing of the aerosol generating device 10.

The control unit 17 may be located inside the body 100. The control unit 17 may control the on/off of the device. The control unit 17 may be electrically connected to the heater 210 and may control the power supply to the heater 210 so that the heater 210 heats the wick. The control unit 17 may be located below the heater 210. The control unit 17 may be located adjacent to the heater 210.

Referring to Figures 14 to 17, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device 10 may include at least one of a body 100, a cartridge 200, and a cap 300. The body 100, the cartridge 200, and/or the cap 300 may constitute a housing for the aerosol generating device 10.

The body 100 may include at least one of a lower body 1100 and an upper body 1200. The lower body 1100 may house various components necessary for power supply and control, such as a battery and a control unit, inside. The lower body 1100 may form the outer shape of the aerosol generating device. The upper body 1200 may be disposed above the lower body 1100. The cartridge 200 may be coupled to the upper body 1200. The body 100 may be referred to as the main body 100.

The upper body 1200 may include at least one of a mount 1300 and a column 1400. The mount 1300 may be disposed above the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may provide a space 1340 into which the lower part of the cartridge 200 can be inserted. The mount 1300 may have an open top and a shape that surrounds the space 1340 on the inside. The mount 1300 may surround the lower part of the cartridge 200 inserted into the space 1340. The mount 1300 may fasten the cartridge 200. The mount 1300 may support the lower part of the cartridge 200.

The column 1400 may be disposed above the lower body 1100. The column 1400 may have an elongated shape. The column 1400 may extend upward from one side of the mount 1300. The column 1400 may face one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may be disposed parallel to the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may have a shape that surrounds one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may support one side wall of the cartridge 200.

The first chamber C1 may be provided on one side of the interior of the first container 2100, and the insertion space 2140 may be provided on the other side of the interior of the first container 2100. The insertion space 2140 may be disposed adjacent to the column 1400. The column 1400 may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the interior of the first container 2100 in which the insertion space 2140 is formed.

The cartridge 200 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 200 may provide a space for storing liquid therein. The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 2140. One end of the insertion space 2140 may be open to form an opening. The insertion space 2140 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space 2140.

The cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 2100 and a second container 2200. The second container 2200 may be coupled to the first container 2100.

The first container 2100 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 2200. The first container 2100 may provide a space for storing liquid inside. The first container 2100 may be open at the top and provide an insertion space 2140 that extends vertically. The stick 40 (see FIG. 17) may be inserted into the insertion space 2140. One side wall of the first container 2100 may face the column 1400. The column 1400 may surround one side wall of the first container 2100. The first container 2100 may be disposed above the mount 1300.

The second container 2200 may be coupled to the underside of the first container 2100. The second container 2200 may provide a space in which the wick 26100 and heater 26200 are installed. The second container 2200 may be inserted into the space 1340 provided by the mount 1300. The space 1340 of the mount 1300 may be referred to as the container accommodating space 1340. The mount 1300 may surround the second container 2200. The second container 2200 may be coupled to the mount 1300.

The cap 300 can be detachably connected to the body 100. The cap 300 can cover the cartridge 200. The cap 300 can cover at least a portion of the body 100. The cap 300 can protect at least a portion of the cartridge 200 and/or the body 100 from the outside. A user can replace the cartridge 200 by separating the cap 300 from the body 100.

The cap 300 may be coupled to the top of the body 100. The cap 300 may be coupled to the upper side of the lower body 1100. The cap 300 may cover the upper body 1200. The cap 300 may cover the cartridge 200. The side wall 3010 of the cap 300 may surround the side of the cartridge 200. The side wall 3010 of the cap 300 may surround the side of the upper body 1200. The top wall 3030 of the cap 300 may cover the top of the cartridge 200. The top wall 3030 of the cap 300 may cover the top of the column 1400.

The cap 300 may have an insertion opening 3040. The insertion opening 3040 may be formed by opening the upper wall 3030 of the cap 300. The insertion opening 3040 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 2140. The insertion opening 3040 may communicate with one end or the upper end of the insertion space 2140.

The cap 300 may have a cap inlet 3040a. The cap inlet 3040a may be formed by opening one side of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 3040a may be formed by opening the upper wall 3030 of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 3040a may be formed by opening the side wall 3010 of the cap 300. The cap inlet 3040a may be connected to the outside. Air may flow into the inside of the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 3040a.

The first container 2100 may have an outer wall 2110 surrounding an internal space. The first container 2100 may have an inner wall 2120 that separates the space surrounded by the outer wall 2110 to define a first chamber C1 on one side and a long, elongated insertion space 2140 on the other side. The insertion space 2140 may have a shape that extends long in the vertical direction. The inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 may be formed inside the first container 2100. The stick 40 may be inserted into the insertion space 2140.

The second container 2200 may be connected to the first container 2100. The second container 2200 may have a second chamber C2 that communicates with the insertion space 2140. The second chamber C2 may be formed inside the second container 2200. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the other end or the lower end of the insertion space 2140.

The cartridge inlet 2240 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 200. The cartridge inlet 2240 may be formed by opening the outer wall of the second container 2200. The cartridge inlet 2240 may be connected to the insertion space 2140. The cartridge inlet 2240 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The cartridge inlet 2240 may be formed in the side wall 2210 of the second container 2100.

The wick 2610 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The wick 2610 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 2610 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The heater 2620 may heat the wick 2610. The heater 2620 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The heater 2620 may be wound multiple times around the wick 2610. The heater 2620 may be electrically connected to the battery 16 and/or the control device. The heater 2620 may be a resistive coil. When the heater 2620 generates heat and heats the wick 2610, the liquid supplied to the wick 2610 may atomize, generating an aerosol in the second chamber C2.

Therefore, the first chamber C1 of the first container 2100 that stores the liquid is arranged to surround the stick 40 and/or the insertion space 2140 into which the stick 40 is inserted, thereby improving the efficiency of use of the space that stores the liquid.

In addition, the distance from the stick 40 to the wick 2610 and heater 2620 connected to the first chamber C1 is reduced, thereby increasing the heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol.

The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly 1500 may be installed inside the column 1400. At least one of the light source 1530 and the sensors 154, 155 may be mounted on the PCB 151 of the PCB assembly 1500. The PCB assembly 1500 may be installed facing the side of the cartridge 200. The light source 1530 of the PCB assembly 1500 may provide light to the cartridge 200. The sensors 154, 155 of the PCB assembly 1500 may sense information inside and outside the cartridge 200. The sensors 154, 155 mounted on the PCB assembly 1500 may be referred to as the first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155, respectively.

The sensor 1800 may be provided on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor 1800 may detect the flow of air flowing into the cartridge 200. The sensor 1800 may be an airflow sensor or a pressure sensor. The sensor 1800 may be referred to as the third sensor 1800.

The sensor 1800 may be inserted inside the mount 1300. The sensor 1800 may be positioned toward the side. The sensor 1800 may be positioned adjacent to the cartridge inlet 2240. The sensor 1800 may be positioned facing the cartridge inlet 2240.

The lower body 1100 may house a battery 16 therein. The lower body 1100 may house various control devices therein. The battery 16 may supply power to various components of the aerosol generating device. The battery 16 may be charged through a charging port 115 formed on one side or bottom of the lower body 1100.

The door 3100 can open and close the insertion space 2140. The door 3100 can open and close an opening that exposes the insertion space 2140 to the outside. The door 3100 can be provided adjacent to the opening of the insertion space 2140. The door 3100 can be provided adjacent to one end or the upper end of the insertion space 2140. For example, the door 3100 can be provided at the upper end of the first container 2100 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 2140. For example, the door 3100 can be provided on the cap 300 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 2140.

The door 3100 may be pivotally operable. The door 3100 may pivot to open and close the insertion space 2140. The door 3100 may pivot toward the inside of the insertion space 2140 to open the insertion space 2140. The direction in which the door 3100 pivots to open the insertion space 2140 is referred to as the first direction. The door 3100 may pivot toward the outside of the insertion space 2140 to close the insertion space 2140. The direction in which the door 3100 pivots to close the insertion space 2140 is referred to as the second direction.

When the end of the stick 40 contacts the door 3100 and pushes it out, the door 3100 pivots in a first direction to open the insertion space 2140. The stick 40 pushes the door 3100 out and can be inserted into the insertion space 2140. When the stick 40 leaves the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 pivots in a second direction to close the insertion space 2140.

The spring 3120 (see FIG. 9) may provide a resilient force to the door 3100 in the second direction. One end of the spring 3120 may support the door 3100, and the other end of the spring 3120 may support the top end of the first container 2100 or the cap 300. The spring 3120 may be wound around the pivot shaft of the door 3100.

When the stick 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140, one end of the stick 40 is exposed to the outside of the cap 300, and the other end of the stick 40 is adjacent to the second chamber C2 and can be positioned above the second chamber C2. The user can hold the exposed end of the stick 40 in their mouth and inhale air.

Air can flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 3040a. The air flowing in from the cap inlet 3040a can flow into the cartridge inlet 2240. The air can pass through the cartridge inlet 2240 and flow into the interior of the cartridge 200. The air that passes through the cartridge inlet 2240 can flow into the second chamber C2 and toward the insertion space 2140. The air can pass through the stick 40, carrying the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

As described above, when the stick 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 pivots to open the insertion space 2140. Furthermore, simultaneously with the operation of removing the stick 40 from the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 pivots, automatically closing the insertion space 2140. Furthermore, the interior of the insertion space 2140 can be protected from external foreign objects.

The hinge member 3110 of the door 3100 may be positioned above the insertion space 2140. The hinge member 3110 of the door 3100 may be positioned between the insertion space 2140 and the insertion opening 3040.

When the door 3100 pivots in a first direction to open the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 can be accommodated in the internal space 2150. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 can be accommodated in the internal space 2150 and overlap with the inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 located below the internal space 2150. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 can be arranged parallel to the inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 located below the internal space 2150.

The first guide 2160 may be formed at an angle from the bottom of the internal space 2150 toward the lower side of the insertion space 2140. The first guide 2160 may be formed at an angle so that the insertion space 2140 gradually narrows toward the lower side. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the first guide 2160 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the door 3100 on the lower side of the door 3100. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the first guide 2160 may protrude into the insertion space 2140 beyond the end of the door 3100.

The second guide 3060 may be formed at an angle so that the inner space gradually narrows toward the bottom. The second guide 3060 may be positioned adjacent to the pivot radius of the door 3100. The second guide 3060 may be positioned outside the pivot radius of the door 3100. The second guide 3060 may extend at an angle along the pivot radius of the door 3100.

One end of the second guide 3060 may be in close contact with the insertion opening 3040. One end of the second guide 3060 may be positioned outside the insertion opening 3040. One end of the second guide 3060 may be positioned below the insertion opening wall 3050. The insertion opening wall 3050 may protrude inward beyond one end of the second guide 3060. When the door 3100 pivots in the second direction to close the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 comes into contact with the insertion opening wall 3050, thereby restricting its movement.

Referring to Figures 18 and 19, the upper body 1200 may be coupled to the upper part of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may cover the upper part of the lower body 1100. The lower part of the mount 1300 may be surrounded by the upper part of the side wall 111 of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may be coupled to the upper part of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may be coupled to the lower body 1100 using a snap fit method. The mount 1300 may be inseparably fastened to the lower body 1100.

The third sensor 1800 may be disposed on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor support portion 1850 may have a shape extending upward from the upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor support portion 1850 may support the third sensor 1800. The third sensor 1800 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 1850. The third sensor 1800 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 1850 and disposed facing toward the side. The sensor accommodating portion 1370 of the mount 1300 may accommodate and cover the third sensor 1800 and the sensor support portion 1850.

The upper body 1200 may include a column 1400 extending upward. The column 1400 may extend upward from one side of the mount 1300. The side walls 1410, 1420 of the column 1400 may be connected to the side walls 1310, 1320 of the mount 1300. The column 1400 may surround a portion of the space 1340 provided by the mount 1300. The inner surface 1410 of the column 1400 may have a concave shape that is recessed outward. The column 1400 may face the side of the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may surround one side of the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

The column 1400 can accommodate a PCB assembly 1500. The PCB assembly 1500 can provide light to the cartridge 200 or sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the information about the cartridge 200 can be at least one of information about a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about whether a stick 40 has been inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200, information about the extent to which the stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is still usable, information about whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information about the type of coupled cartridge 200. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to the above.

The column 1400 may house a light source 1530 that provides light. The column 1400 may house a first sensor 154 and a second sensor 155 that sense information about the cartridge 200.

The column 1400 may provide an installation space 1440 therein. The installation space 1440 may have a shape that extends vertically along the column 1400. The inner surface 1410 of the column 1400 may surround the installation space 1440. The installation space 1440 may open toward the space 1340 of the mount 1300. The installation space 1440 may open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

The PCB assembly 1500 may be provided within the installation space 1440. The plate 1600 may cover the PCB assembly 1500 and be positioned within the installation space 1440.

The window 1700 can cover the PCB assembly 1500 and the installation space 1440. The PCB assembly 1500, plate 1600, and window 1700 can be stacked in sequence. The installation space 1440 can be referred to as the assembly accommodating space 1440.

The PCB assembly 1500 may include at least one of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 1510, a light source 1530, a first sensor 154, and a second sensor 155. The light source 1530 may be mounted on the PCB 1510. At least one light source 1530 may be provided. The first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may be mounted on the PCB. The light source 1530, the first sensor 154, and the second sensor 155 may be mounted at different positions on a single PCB. The first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may be mounted in an area that avoids the at least one light source 1530.

The PCB assembly 1500 may be arranged inside the column 1400 facing the cartridge 200. The PCB assembly 1500 may face the first container 2100, which has a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 2140. The PCB assembly 1500 may extend vertically along the column 1400. A connector 1520 for electrical connection may be formed at one end of the PCB assembly 1500.

The PCB 1510 may extend vertically along the column 1400. The PCB 1510 may be a FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board). The connector 1520 may be formed at one end of the PCB 1510. A plurality of light sources 1530 may be arranged on the PCB 1510. The first sensor 154 may be located in the center of the PCB 1510. At least one light source 1530 may be arranged on each side of the first sensor 154. The plurality of light sources 1530 may be arranged vertically along the PCB 1510. The plurality of light sources 1530 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the column 1400. The first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may be arranged facing the insertion space 2140. The light source 1530 may be arranged facing the outside of the insertion space 2140. The light source 1530 may provide light to the first chamber C1 toward the outside of the insertion space 2140. The light source 1530 may be a light emitting diode (LED).

Therefore, the light source 1530 can provide light uniformly to the first chamber C1.

In addition, the stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 can be prevented from blocking the path of light provided by the light source 1530.

The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the PCB 1510. The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the first container 2100 or the insertion space 2140. The second sensor 155 may be positioned adjacent to the upper center of the PCB 1510.

The first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may face the insertion space 2140. The first sensor 154 may sense information about the cartridge 200.

For example, the first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may sense at least one of information regarding a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information regarding the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information regarding whether a stick 40 has been inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200, information regarding the type of stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200, information regarding the extent to which the stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is usable, information regarding whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information regarding the type of coupled cartridge 200. The information regarding the cartridge 200 is not limited to this.

The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics of the insertion space 2140 to sense information about the insertion space 2140. The first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object. For example, when a stick 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200 or when a change occurs in the volume of liquid stored in the first chamber C1, the electromagnetic characteristics sensed by the first sensor 154 change, and the first sensor 154 can measure this and sense information about the cartridge 200.

The first sensor 154 may include a conductor. The conductor may be formed to have a length corresponding to the insertion space 2140 of the cartridge 200, depending on the direction in which the insertion space 2140 extends. For example, the conductor may be formed to have a maximum length adjacent to the upper and lower sides of the PCB 1510, respectively, depending on the longitudinal direction of the column 1400.

The second sensor 155 can sense the direction, strength, and changes in the magnetization or magnetic field caused by the magnetic material included in the door 3100. For example, the second sensor 155 can sense changes in the magnetic field when the door 3100 pivots in a first direction or a second direction.

The window 1700 can be attached to the column 1400. The window 1700 can be made of a transparent material. The window 1700 can transmit light. The window 1700 can be attached to the column 1400 and cover the PCB assembly 1500.

The plate 1600 may cover an area of the PCB assembly 1500 that avoids at least one light source 1530. The plate 1600 may be attached to the PCB assembly 1500 and cover the first sensor 154. The plate 1600 may cover an area of the PCB assembly 1500 that avoids at least one second sensor 155. The plate 1600 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves. The plate 1600 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves but not transparent to visible light, or may be translucent.

A printed circuit connected to the light source 1530 may be printed in an area of the PCB 1510 adjacent to the light source 1530. The plate 1600 may cover the printed circuit printed on the PCB 1510 near the light source 1530. A printed circuit connected to the second sensor 155 may be printed in an area of the PCB 1510 adjacent to the second sensor 155. The plate 1600 may cover the printed circuit printed on the PCB 1510 near the second sensor 155.

The plate 1600 may expose the light source 1530 without covering it. The light sources 1530 may be arranged vertically on both sides with the first sensor 154 sandwiched between them. The plate 1600 may expose the second sensor 155 without covering it. The plate 1600 may be open at positions corresponding to the positions of the light source 1530 and the second sensor 155. When the plate 1600 is attached to the PCB assembly 1500, the light source 1530 may be exposed through the open portion of the plate 1600.

As a result, the light emitted from the light source 1530 is not blocked, and the first sensor 154 and/or the printed circuit printed on the PCB 1510 are not exposed to the outside and can be protected from the outside.

In addition, the first sensor 154 can sense changes in the surrounding electromagnetic properties when covered by the plate 1600.

Figures 20 and 21 are flowcharts illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 20, the aerosol generating device 10 can check the signal from the first sensor 154 and/or the signal from the second sensor 155 in operation S2010.

Referring to FIG. 21, the aerosol generating device 10 can monitor the signal of the second sensor 155 in operation S2110. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can monitor the signal of the second sensor 155 in a standby mode, which is a mode that minimizes consumption of power stored in the battery 16 of the aerosol generating device 10.

In operation S2120, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine via the second sensor 155 whether insertion of an object into the insertion space (e.g., insertion space 130 in FIG. 8) is detected. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine via the second sensor 155 whether a door (e.g., door 310 in FIG. 8) has pivoted and been placed into the internal space (e.g., internal space 131 in FIG. 8).

When the aerosol generating device 10 determines in operation S2130 that an object has been inserted into the insertion space, it can monitor the signal from the first sensor 154. For example, when the aerosol generating device 10 determines that an object has been inserted into the insertion space, it can supply power to the first sensor 154 to activate the operation of the first sensor 154.

Here, the aerosol generating device 10 can check the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 while monitoring the signal from the first sensor 154. Here, the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 can be a value corresponding to the capacitance around the conductor provided in the first sensor 154.

In operation S2140, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick (e.g., stick 20 in FIG. 9) based on the signal from the first sensor 154. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick if the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 is outside a predetermined level range. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick if the degree of change in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 is equal to or greater than a predetermined standard.

Also, referring to FIG. 20, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether a stick is inserted into the insertion space in operation S2020.

When the aerosol generating device 10 determines in operation S2030 that a stick has been inserted into the insertion space, it can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick based on the signal level of the first sensor 154.

When a heater (e.g., heater 115 in FIG. 8) is heated while the stick is inserted into the insertion space, aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol passes through the stick and can be inhaled into the user's mouth. Furthermore, after the stick is used, components contained in the aerosol, such as water and glycerin, may remain in the stick. Therefore, the signal level of the first sensor 154 when a new, unused stick is inserted into the insertion space and the signal level of the first sensor 154 when a used stick is inserted into the insertion space may differ depending on the aerosol components remaining inside the stick. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick based on a change in the signal level of the first sensor 154.

For example, if the degree of change in the signal level of the first sensor 154 is greater than or equal to a first standard and less than a second standard, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick. For example, if the degree of change in the signal level of the first sensor 154 is greater than or equal to a second standard, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick.

For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can check the level range that includes the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 based on a lookup table. Here, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick based on the checked level range.

In operation S2040, the aerosol generating device 10 can control the heater to supply power if the stick inserted into the insertion space is not a used stick, i.e., if a new stick is inserted into the insertion space.

When the aerosol generation device 10 determines that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick, it can deactivate the operation of the first sensor 154. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can deactivate the operation of the first sensor 154 by cutting off the power supply to the first sensor 154.

In operation S2050, the aerosol generating device 10 may cut off the supply of power to the heater if no stick is inserted into the insertion space or if the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick.

Referring to FIG. 22, the signal level of the first sensor 154 can be observed to be at a first level LV1 before a stick is inserted into the insertion space.

If the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick that has not been used, the signal level of the first sensor 154 may change to a second level LV2. Here, the degree of change 2210 in the signal level of the first sensor 154 may be greater than or equal to the first standard and less than the second standard.

On the other hand, if the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick, the signal level of the first sensor 154 may change to a third level LV3. Here, the degree of change 2220 in the signal level of the first sensor 154 may be greater than or equal to the second standard, which is greater than when a new stick is inserted.

In other words, if the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick, the moisture remaining inside the stick, aerosol components such as glycerin, etc. may cause a larger change in the signal level of the first sensor 154 than when a new stick is inserted into the insertion space.

Figure 23 is a flowchart showing a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed explanations of content that overlaps with the content explained in Figures 20 and 21 will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 23, in operation S2301, the aerosol generating device 10 can detect the connection of the cartridge 200 to the body 100 using the cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15.

In operation S2302, the aerosol generating device 10 can monitor the signals of the first sensor 154 and/or the second sensor 155. For example, when the aerosol generating device 10 detects that the body 100 and the cartridge 200 are connected, it can supply power to the second sensor 155 to activate the operation of the second sensor 155. For example, when the aerosol generating device 10 determines via the second sensor 155 that an object has been inserted into the insertion space, it can supply power to the first sensor 154 to activate the operation of the first sensor 154.

In operation S2303, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick (e.g., stick 20 in Figure 9) based on the signals from the first sensor 154 and/or the second sensor 155.

When the aerosol generating device 10 determines in operation S2204 that a stick has been inserted into the insertion space, it can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick based on the signal level of the first sensor 154.

In operation S23050, the aerosol generating device 10 can be controlled to supply power to the heater if the stick inserted into the insertion space is not a used stick, i.e., if a new stick is inserted into the insertion space. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can supply power to the heater based on a temperature profile stored in memory 15.

On the other hand, if the aerosol generating device 10 determines that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick, it can deactivate the operation of the first sensor 154.

The aerosol generating device 10 may determine whether use of the heater has ended in operation S2306. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may monitor the number of puffs from the time a puff is first detected by the puff sensor of the sensor module 15. Here, if the number of puffs reaches the maximum number of puffs, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine that use of the heater has ended. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine that use of the heater has ended if the remaining capacity of the battery 19 is less than a predetermined value.

In operation S2307, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the stick has been removed from the insertion space if the heater use has not ended. The aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the stick has been removed from the insertion space based on the signal from the second sensor 155 while the heater is being used.

The aerosol generating device 10 can continue to supply power to the heater if the heater is not used and the stick is not removed from the insertion space.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generation device 10 can cut off the supply of power to the heater in operation S2308. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can cut off the supply of power to the heater if the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick, or if power has been supplied to the heater and use of the heater has ended.

In operation S2309, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a message regarding the cutoff of power supply to the heater via the output device of the input/output interface 12. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a message notifying that the object inserted into the insertion space is not a stick but another object. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a message notifying that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a message notifying that use of the heater has ended.

In operation S2310, the aerosol generating device 10 can monitor whether the stick is removed from the insertion space while the power supply to the heater is cut off.

In operation S2311, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the body 100 and cartridge 200 are separated when the stick is removed from the insertion space.

The aerosol generating device 10 can continuously monitor the signals from the first sensor 154 and/or the second sensor 155 while the body 100 and the cartridge 200 are connected.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 10 can deactivate all of the multiple sensors 154, 155 by cutting off the power supply to the multiple sensors 154, 155 in operation S2312.

As mentioned above, at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure allows for quick determination of whether a stick has been inserted.

At least one embodiment of the present disclosure makes it possible to determine at least one of whether a stick has been inserted and whether the inserted stick is a used stick.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the accuracy of stick judgment.

At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can minimize the amount of power consumed in determining the insertion space into which the stick is inserted.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 23, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a housing having a long insertion space 130 formed therein, a door 310 for opening and closing the long insertion space 130, a magnetic sensor 155 for sensing a magnetic field corresponding to the door 310, a capacitance sensor 154 disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130, and a control unit 17. The control unit 17 may determine via the magnetic sensor 155 whether an object is inserted into the insertion space 130, and may determine via the capacitance sensor 154 whether the object inserted into the insertion space 130 is a stick 20.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 may activate the operation of the capacitance sensor 154 when the object is inserted.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 17 determines that the object inserted into the insertion space 130 is the stick 20, it can determine via the capacitance sensor 154 whether the stick 20 is a used stick.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 may determine that the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a new stick 20 if the degree of change in the level of the signal received from the capacitance sensor 154 is equal to or greater than a first criterion and less than a second criterion, and may determine that the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a used stick if the degree of change in the level of the signal is equal to or greater than the second criterion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a heater 115 that heats the aerosol generating material. The control unit 17 may control the heater 115 to supply power if the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a new stick 20, and may control the heater 115 to cut off power supply if the object inserted into the insertion space is not the stick 20 or is a used stick.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a heater 115 that heats the aerosol generating material. The control unit 17 may deactivate the operation of the capacitance sensor 154 when the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is determined to be a new stick.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can check the level range that includes the level of the signal received from the capacitance sensor 154 based on a lookup table, and determine at least one of whether a stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 and whether the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a used stick based on the checked level range.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a hinge member 311 connected to the door 310 so that the door 310 can pivot in the direction in which the object is inserted. The hinge member 311 may include an elastic member that provides an elastic restoring force in a direction opposite to the direction of the pivoting movement of the door 310.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing includes an inner wall 103 that defines the insertion space 130, and a portion of the inner wall 103 may be formed with an internal space 131 in which the door 310, pivoted in the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted, is disposed.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing may include a cartridge 200 that stores a pre-vaporized formulation in the space between an inner wall 203 and an outer wall 202, and a body 100 that is coupled to the cartridge 200. The inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 may define the long insertion space 230. The cartridge 200 may include an internal space 231 formed by a portion of the inner wall 203 being recessed inward of the cartridge 200. The door 310, which pivots in the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted, may be disposed in the internal space 231.

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

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

While the embodiments have been described above in accordance with a number of exemplary embodiments, 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 particularly, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and/or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and/or arrangements, other uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (11)

a housing having a long insertion space;
a door coupled to the housing and positionable to open and close the elongated insertion space;
a magnetic sensor for sensing a magnetic field associated with the door;
a capacitance sensor disposed adjacent to the long insertion space;
a control unit;
The control unit
The magnetic sensor determines whether an object is inserted into the long insertion space;
When it is determined that the object is inserted into the long insertion space, the capacitance sensor is activated;
An aerosol generating device that determines, using the capacitance sensor, whether the object inserted into the long insertion space is a stick. The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, wherein the control unit further determines whether the stick has been used when the object inserted into the long insertion space is determined to be the stick. a housing having a long insertion space;
a door coupled to the housing and positionable to open and close the elongated insertion space;
a magnetic sensor for sensing a magnetic field associated with the door;
a capacitance sensor disposed adjacent to the long insertion space;
a control unit;
The control unit
The magnetic sensor determines whether an object is inserted into the long insertion space;
The capacitance sensor determines whether the object inserted into the long insertion space is a stick;
If the change in the level of the signal received from the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a first reference value and less than a second reference value, the object inserted into the long insertion space is determined to be a new stick;
The aerosol generating device is characterized in that, when the degree of change in the signal level is equal to or greater than the second criterion, the object inserted into the long insertion space is determined to be a used stick. further comprising a heater for heating the aerosol generating material;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit further deactivates the operation of the capacitance sensor when the stick inserted into the long insertion space is determined to be a new stick. further comprising a heater that heats the aerosol generating material with the supplied power;
The control unit further
Controlling the power supplied to the heater based on a determination that the object inserted into the long insertion space is a new stick;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the power supplied to the heater is cut off based on a determination that the object inserted into the long insertion space is not the stick or is a used stick. a housing having a long insertion space;
a door coupled to the housing and positionable to open and close the elongated insertion space;
a magnetic sensor for sensing a magnetic field associated with the door;
a capacitance sensor disposed adjacent to the long insertion space;
a control unit;
The control unit
The magnetic sensor determines whether an object is inserted into the long insertion space;
The capacitance sensor determines whether the object inserted into the long insertion space is a stick;
determining a level range that includes the level of the signal received from the capacitance sensor;
An aerosol generating device characterized by determining, based on the confirmed level range, at least one of whether a stick is inserted into the long insertion space and whether the stick inserted into the long insertion space is a used stick. a hinge coupled to the door such that the door pivots in a first direction when the object is inserted into the long insertion space;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the hinge includes an elastic member that provides an elastic restoring force in a direction opposite to the first direction. the housing includes an inner wall that defines the long insertion space;
The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the inner wall forms an internal space sized to accommodate at least a portion of the door so that the door pivots and the stick is inserted into the long insertion space. The housing includes:
a cartridge configured to store a pre-vaporized formulation in a space between an inner wall and an outer wall;
a body coupled to the cartridge;
the cartridge has an internal space formed by a recess in a part of the inner wall,
The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the door can be positioned so that the stick is accommodated in the internal space when the stick is inserted into the long insertion space. a housing having a long insertion space;
a door coupled to the housing and positionable between a first position and a second position to open and close the elongated insertion space;
a magnetic sensor that senses a magnetic field associated with the door when the door is in a first position exposing the elongated insertion space;
a capacitance sensor disposed adjacent to the elongated insertion space, the capacitance sensor generating a signal when sensing capacitance around a conductor;
a control unit;
The control unit
When an instruction is received from the magnetic sensor that the magnetic field has been detected, it is determined that an object has been inserted into the long insertion space;
When it is determined that the object is inserted into the long insertion space, the capacitance sensor is activated;
An aerosol generating device that determines that an object inserted into the long insertion space is a stick based on a signal from the capacitance sensor. further comprising a heater that heats the aerosol-generating material by power supplied to the heater;
The control unit further
Controlling the power supplied to the heater based on a determination that the object inserted into the long insertion space is a new stick;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that the power supplied to the heater is cut off based on a determination that the object inserted into the long insertion space is not a stick or that the object inserted into the long insertion space is a used stick.