JP7749842B2 - 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 prevents backflow of air.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that prevents airflow leakage.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that blocks the inflow of foreign matter from the outside.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device includes a body formed to define an insertion space, a cartridge formed to be coupled to the body, an exhaust port protruding from the cartridge and formed to define an exhaust outlet, a connecting flow path extending from the insertion space, sized to accommodate a portion of the exhaust port, and connecting the insertion space to the exhaust port, and a backflow prevention membrane positioned to cover a portion of the connecting flow path and configured to deform upon contact with the exhaust port in the insertion direction of the exhaust port.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device can be provided that prevents backflow of air.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device can be provided that prevents airflow leakage.

At least one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide an aerosol generating device that blocks the inflow of foreign matter from the outside.

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

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

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 descriptions 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 solely 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.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device may include at least one of a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, and a cartridge 300. At least one of the battery 10, the control unit 20, the heater 30, and the cartridge 300 may be disposed inside the body 110 of the aerosol generating device.

The insertion space 124 may be formed inside the body 110. The stick 200 may be inserted into the insertion space 124. The heater 30 may be disposed around the insertion space 124. The heater 30 may heat the insertion space or the stick 200 inserted into the insertion space 124.

Referring to FIG. 1, the battery 10, control unit 20, cartridge 300, and heater 30 may be arranged in a row. Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 300 and heater 30 may be arranged side by side facing each other. The internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in the figure.

The battery 10 can supply power to operate at least one of the control unit 20, heater 30, and cartridge 300. The battery 10 can also supply the power necessary to operate the display, sensor, motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100.

The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 100. The control unit 20 can control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, heater 20, and cartridge 300. The control unit 20 can control the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc. provided in the aerosol generation device 100. The control unit 20 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generation device 100 and determine whether the aerosol generation device 100 is in an operable state.

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

The cartridge 300 can be detachably connected to the body 100. The cartridge 300 can generate aerosol. The aerosol generated in the cartridge 300 can be transmitted to the user through the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. The heater 30 does not have to be included in the aerosol generating device.

Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the body 100 may include an upper body 120 and a lower body 110. The upper body 120 may be located above the lower body 110. The lower body 110 may extend vertically. The body 100 may house a structure for driving the device inside. The upper body 120 may provide an insertion space 124 that is open to the top. The insertion space 124 may be located inside the upper body 120. The insertion space 124 may extend vertically. The insertion space 124 may be formed inside the upper body 120. The upper body 120 may be referred to as a pipe portion 120.

The upper case 200 may have a hollow shape with an open bottom. The pipe portion 120 may be inserted into the hollow of the upper case 200. The upper case 200 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The upper case 200 may surround and cover the pipe portion 120. The lateral portion 211 of the upper case 200 may surround and cover the side wall 121 of the pipe portion 120. The upper portion 212 of the upper case 200 may cover the upper portion 180 or the outer cover 180 of the pipe portion 120. When the upper case 200 is coupled to the body 100, the upper case 200 may cover the body 100 and the cartridge 300 together. The cartridge 300 may be disposed inside the upper case 200.

The insertion opening 214 may be formed by opening the top 212 of the upper case 200. The insertion opening 214 may correspond to the opening of the insertion space 124. The cap 215 may be movably provided on the top 212 of the upper case 200. The slide hole 213 may extend to one side from the insertion opening 214 on the top 212 of the upper case 200. The cap 215 may move along the slide hole 213. The cap 215 may open and close the insertion opening 214 and the insertion space 124. The stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 124 through the insertion opening 214.

The side wall 121 and the partition wall 122 may form the lateral portion of the pipe portion 120. The side wall 121 and the partition wall 122 may be connected. The side wall 121 may be covered by the inner surface of the upper case 200. The partition wall 122 may separate the coupling space S from the insertion space 124.

The pipe portion 100 may include a seat 130. The seat 130 may extend to one side from the lower portion of one side of the pipe portion 120 or from the lower portion of the partition wall 122. The seat 130 may be formed on the upper side of the lower body 110. The seat 130 may cover the lower portion of the coupling space S. The bottom surface of the cartridge 300 may be seated and supported on the seat 130.

The pipe portion 100 may include an extension portion 140. The extension portion 140 may extend to one side from the upper portion of the partition wall 122. The extension portion 140 may extend in the direction in which the seat portion 130 is formed. The extension portion 140 may cover the upper portion of the coupling space S. The extension portion 140 may cover the upper end surface of the cartridge 300. The extension portion 140 may cover the cartridge inlet 301 portion formed in the cartridge 300. A gap through which air can flow may be formed between the extension portion 140 and the cartridge inlet 301.

The cartridge 300 can be inserted into the coupling space S and coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 300 can be detachably coupled to the body 100. One lateral surface 311 (see FIG. 5) of the cartridge 300 can face the partition wall 122. The top surface 312 of the cartridge 300 can be covered by an extension 140. The bottom surface 322 (see FIG. 6) of the cartridge 300 can be seated on the seat 130. The terminal 138 is connected to the cartridge 300 and can supply power to a heater 342 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) inside the cartridge 300.

The coupling hook 125 may be formed on the upper body 120. The pusher 126 may be formed on the upper body 120. The coupling hook 125 and the pusher 126 may be formed as a pair on both sides and positioned opposite each other. The cartridge 300 may include a hook coupling groove 315. The hook coupling groove 315 may be formed at a position corresponding to the coupling hook 125. When the cartridge 300 is inserted into the coupling space S, the coupling hook 125 may couple with the hook coupling groove 315, thereby coupling the cartridge 300 and the body 100. The pusher 126 and the coupling hook 125 may move in conjunction with each other. When the pusher 126 is pressed, the coupling hook 125 moves in a direction away from the hook coupling groove 315, and the cartridge 300 may be separated from the body 100.

The connecting channel 123 may be formed in the lower part of the partition wall 122. The connecting channel 123 may be connected to the insertion space 124. The connecting channel 123 may open to one side of the upper body 120. When the cartridge 300 is coupled to the body 100, the discharge port 323 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) may be inserted into the connecting channel 123, and the connecting channel 123 and the cartridge discharge port 304 may be connected to each other.

Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the cartridge 300 may include a first container 31 and a second container 32. The first container 31 may be attached to the upper side of the second container 32. A plate 35 may be attached between the first container 31 and the second container 32 or between the first container 31 and the frame 33.

The first container 31 may have a first chamber C1 in which a liquid can be stored. The first container 31 surrounds the first chamber C1, and the bottom of the first chamber C1 may be open. The opening of the first chamber C1 may be covered by a plate 35.

The first container 31 may have an inlet passage 302 through which air passes. The first chamber C1 and the inlet passage 302 may be isolated from each other. The inlet passage 302 may extend vertically on one side of the first container 31.

The first container 31 may have a cartridge inlet 301. The cartridge inlet 301 is formed by opening the top of the first container 31 and may be connected to the inlet channel 302. The cartridge inlet 301 may be connected to the upper end of the inlet channel 302. The lower end of the inlet channel 302 may be connected to the connecting hole 351 and the chamber inlet 303.

The second container 32 may be connected to the bottom of the first container 31. The second container 32 may have a space 324 that is open at the top and covered at the bottom. The frame 33 may be housed inside the space 324 of the second container 32.

The second container 32 may have a cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed on one side 321 of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed inside a port protruding from the side of the second container 32 in the thickness direction. The cartridge outlet 304 may be in communication with the space 324. The second container 32 may include an outlet port 323. The outlet port 323 may have the cartridge outlet 304 formed therein. The outlet port 323 may protrude to one side from one side 321 of the second container 32. The outlet port 323 may surround the cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet 304 may also be referred to as an outlet 304.

The frame 33 can be inserted into the space 324 inside the second container 32 and connected to the second container 32. Fastening members 326 protruding from the sidewall of the second container 32 into the space 324 can be fastened to the frame 33 to secure the frame 33.

The frame 33 may have a second chamber C2 inside. The frame 33 surrounds the second chamber C2, and the top of the second chamber C2 may be open. The top of the second chamber C2 may be covered by a plate 35.

The frame 33 may have a chamber inlet 303. The chamber inlet 303 may be formed by opening one surface of the sidewall surrounding the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet C2 may curve upward and extend from the second chamber C2 toward the inlet channel 302. One end of the chamber inlet 303 may be connected to the second chamber C2, and the other end of the chamber inlet 303 may be connected to the inlet channel 302 and the connecting hole 351.

The frame 33 may have a chamber outlet 332. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed on one side of the frame 33. The chamber outlet 332 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed inside a port protruding in the thickness direction from the side of the frame 33. The chamber outlet 332 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge outlet 304. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed at a position opposite the chamber inlet 303 with respect to the second chamber C2. When the frame 33 is coupled to the second container 32, the chamber outlet 332 and the cartridge outlet 304 may be connected to each other.

The frame 33 may have a core coupling groove 334 therein. The core coupling groove 334 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The core coupling groove 334 may be formed by recessing one side of the second chamber C2. The core coupling grooves 334 may be formed in pairs, and the pair of core coupling grooves 334 may be formed to be located on opposite sides of the second chamber C2. The top of the core coupling groove 334 may be open.

The wick 341 may have a cylindrical shape extending horizontally into the second chamber C2. Both ends of the wick 341 may be inserted into each of the pair of wick coupling grooves 334. The center of the wick 341 may be located in the second chamber C2. The wick 341 is connected to the first chamber C1 and can receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The wick 341 may be fixed in the wick coupling groove 334 by the frame 33 and plate 35.

The heater 342 may be wrapped around the wick 341. The heater 342 may generate heat to heat the wick 341. For example, the heater 342 may be a resistive heater. The heater 342 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. An end of the heater 342 may penetrate the bottom of the frame 33 and be electrically connected to an electrode disposed at the bottom of the second container 32.

The plate 35 may be connected between the first container 31 and the second container 32 or between the first container 31 and the frame 33. The plate 35 may cover and seal the opening of the first chamber C1. The plate 35 may cover the top of the frame 33. The plate 35 may cover and seal the opening of the second chamber C2.

The plate 35 may have a connection hole 351 on one side. The connection hole 351 may be located between the inlet 302 and the chamber inlet 303. The connection hole 351 may connect the inlet 302 and the chamber inlet 303.

The plate 35 may have liquid inlet holes 354. The liquid inlet holes 354 may be formed in pairs at positions corresponding to the wick coupling grooves 334. The pair of liquid inlet holes 354 may be located above both ends of the wick 341. The liquid inlet holes 354 may connect the first chamber C1 and the wick coupling groove 334. The wick 341 may be connected to the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlet holes 354.

The hook groove 335 may be formed on the upper side of the chamber outlet 332 at a position adjacent to the chamber outlet 332. The hook 353 may protrude downward from one side of the plate 35. The hook 353 may be inserted into the hook groove 335 formed on the upper part of the frame 33 and fastened. When the plate 35 is fastened to the frame 33, the first container 31 coupled to the second container 32 can push the edge of the plate 35 toward the frame 33.

Air flows into the cartridge 300 through the cartridge inlet 301 and can be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 300 through the cartridge outlet 304. The air that flows into the cartridge 300 can be discharged to the outside by sequentially passing through the inlet 302, the connecting hole 351, the chamber inlet 303, the second chamber C2, the chamber outlet 332, and the cartridge outlet 304.

When the heater 342 heats the wick 341, an aerosol can be formed from the wick 341 in the second chamber C2. Air passing through the cartridge 300 can be discharged from the second chamber C2 to the cartridge outlet 304, carrying the aerosol with it.

Referring to FIG. 7, the extension 140 may extend to one side from the upper portion of the pipe portion 120. The upper end surface 312 of the cartridge 300 may be covered by the extension 140. The extension 140 may cover the cartridge inlet 301 and its surroundings. Gaps may be formed between the extension 140 and the cartridge inlet 301 and between the lower portion 141 of the extension 140 and the upper end surface 312 of the cartridge 300. The gaps may connect the cartridge inlet 301 to the outside. The gaps may connect to the opening 201 formed in the upper case 200.

The connecting channel 123 may be formed inside the upper body 120. The connecting channel 123 may be connected to the lower end of the insertion space 124. The connecting channel 123 may extend downward from the lower end of the insertion space 124 and then bend to open outward. When the cartridge 300 is coupled to the upper body 120, the discharge port 323 may be inserted into the connecting channel 123. The cartridge discharge port 304 may be connected to the connecting channel 123. The connecting channel 123 may connect the cartridge discharge port 304 and the insertion space 124.

Air can flow into the cartridge inlet 301 through the opening 201 of the upper case 200. The air that flows into the cartridge inlet 301 can flow sequentially through the inlet 302 and the chamber inlet 303 into the second chamber C2. The air that flows into the second chamber C2 can be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 300 through the outlet 304, along with the aerosol generated around the core 341. The air discharged through the outlet 304 can be supplied to the insertion space 124 and the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 124 through the connecting flow path 123.

The sensor 80 may be provided inside the extension portion 140. The sensor 80 may face the top surface of the cartridge 300 or the cartridge inlet 301. The sensor 80 may be provided adjacent to the cartridge inlet 301. The sensor 80 may be located above the cartridge inlet 301. In terms of the vertical direction, the sensor 80 may overlap with the cartridge inlet 301.

The sensor 80 can sense the flow of air in the surrounding area. The sensor 80 can be an air flow sensor or a pressure sensor. The sensor 80 can sense the flow of air based on changes in the surrounding air pressure. The extension 140 can have a hole for sensing the air flow at a position adjacent to the cartridge inlet 301. The sensor 80 can be mounted on a substrate 81 disposed inside the extension 140 and electrically connected to the control unit 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The control unit 20 (see FIG. 1) can control the operation of various connected components based on the air flow detected by the sensor 80.

Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device may include a backflow prevention membrane 50. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may protrude inward from the outer circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel 123. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may extend circumferentially along the outer circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel 123. One end of the backflow prevention membrane 50 may be fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel 123. Both sides of the backflow prevention membrane 50 may be flat. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may be formed of a material that is deformable and has elasticity and restoring force. For example, the backflow prevention membrane 50 may be formed of a rubber or silicone material. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may be formed to be tiltable around the outer circumferential end of the backflow prevention membrane 50 fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel 123.

Referring to FIG. 8(a), the backflow prevention membrane 50, separated from the discharge port 323, may be located in a first position. In the first position, the backflow prevention membrane 50 may have a flange shape or a ring shape. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the discharge port 323. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may protrude perpendicular to the periphery of the connecting flow channel 123.

Referring to FIG. 8(b), the backflow prevention membrane 50 pushed by the exhaust port 323 may be positioned in a second position. The exhaust port 323 may be inserted into the connecting flow channel 123. The end of the exhaust port 323 may push the backflow prevention membrane 50 in the direction in which the exhaust port 323 protrudes. The protruding direction of the exhaust port 323 may be the same as the direction in which the exhaust port 323 is inserted or the air flow direction. As the backflow prevention membrane 50 is pushed by the exhaust port 323, the air flow direction may tilt in the direction in which air flows from the exhaust port 304. The backflow prevention membrane 50 may be formed so that the layer hole 54 gradually narrows in the air flow direction. When the exhaust port 323 is separated from the backflow prevention membrane 50, the backflow prevention membrane 50 may return to the first position (see FIG. 8(a)).

The backflow prevention membrane 50 may include a layer hole 54. The layer hole 54 may be surrounded by the inner circumferential edge of the backflow prevention membrane 50. The layer hole 54 may be in communication with the connecting channel 123. The layer hole 54 may expand as the backflow prevention membrane 50 moves from the first position to the second position. The width W22 or circumference of the layer hole 54 in the second position may be greater than the width W21 or circumference of the layer hole 54 in the first position. In the first position, the layer hole 54 appears smaller or non-existent. In the first position, the width W21 or circumference of the layer hole 54 may be smaller than the width W1 or circumference of the cartridge ejection port 304. In the second position, the width W22 or circumference of the layer hole 54 may be smaller than the width W1 or circumference of the cartridge ejection port 304.

This allows air to flow from the cartridge outlet 304 to the connecting flow path 123, preventing air from flowing back from the connecting flow path 123 toward the cartridge outlet 304 (see Figure 9).

In addition, when the cartridge 300 is separated from the body 100, the backflow prevention membrane 50, which is positioned in the first position, can block external foreign matter from entering the connecting flow path 123 and the insertion space 124.

The end surface 3231 of the discharge port 323 that contacts the backflow prevention membrane 50 may be inclined. The end surface 3231 of the discharge port 323 may be referred to as an inclined surface 3231. The inclined surface 3231 may have a circumference that gradually decreases toward the end (or tip).

Referring to FIG. 8(b), the inclined surface 3231 can support the backflow prevention membrane 50. In the second position, the inclination of the inclined surface 3231 and the inclination of the backflow prevention membrane 50 in the second position can correspond to each other. The backflow prevention membrane 50 can be in close contact with the inclined surface 3231 to form an inclination corresponding to the inclined surface 3231.

This reduces the gap between the backflow prevention membrane 50 and the exhaust port 323, improving air flow efficiency. Furthermore, because the backflow prevention membrane 50 is fixed at a set or predetermined inclination, the structural safety of the backflow prevention membrane 50 can be improved.

The aerosol generating device may include a stopper 127. The stopper 127 may be formed around the connecting passage 123. One side of the stopper 127 may surround a portion of the connecting passage 123. The other side of the stopper 127 may face one side 321 of the second container 321 outside the connecting passage 123. The stopper 127 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the stopper 127 may be made of rubber or silicone.

When the cartridge 300 is coupled to the body 100 and the discharge port 323 is inserted into the connecting channel 123, one side of the stopper 127 may surround the discharge port 323. One side of the stopper 127 may be in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the discharge port 323. One side of the stopper 127 may be in close contact with the side portion 321 of the second container 321 formed around the discharge port 323.

Therefore, the stopper 127 can adjust the depth to which the discharge port 323 is inserted into the connecting channel 123, and the inclination of the backflow prevention membrane 50 can be adjusted based on the adjusted insertion depth of the discharge port 323. Furthermore, the gap between the second container 321 and the stopper 127 is reduced, improving the air flow efficiency.

Referring to FIG. 10, the backflow prevention membrane 500 may include a first part 510 and a second part 520. The backflow prevention membrane 500 may be made of a material that is deformable and has elasticity and restoring force. For example, the backflow prevention membrane 500 may be made of a rubber or silicone material.

The first part 510 may protrude inward from the outer circumferential surface of the connecting passage 123. The first part 510 may extend circumferentially along the outer circumferential surface of the connecting passage 123. One end of the first part 510 may be fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the connecting passage 123. Both sides of the first part 510 may be flat. The first part 510 may be formed to be tiltable around the outer circumferential end of the first part 510 fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the connecting passage 123.

The second part 520 may extend from the first part 510. Both surfaces of the second part 520 may be flat. One end of the second part 520 may be fixed to the other end of the first part 510. The second part 520 may be formed so as to be tiltable around the portion between the first part 510 and the second part 520.

The layer hole 540 may be formed inside the backflow prevention membrane 500. The layer hole 540 may be connected to the connecting channel 123. The layer hole 540 may be surrounded by the first part 510 and the second part 520. The first part 510 and the second part 520 may form predetermined angles θ21 and θ22 outside the layer hole 540. Outside the layer hole 540, the angles θ21 and θ22 between the first part 510 and the second part 520 may be less than 180 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 10(a), the backflow prevention membrane 500 separated from the discharge port 323 may be located in a first position. In the first position, the first part 510 may have a hollow truncated cone shape. In the first position, the first part 510 may extend obliquely from the periphery of the connecting channel 123 toward the opening of the connecting channel 123. In the first position, the second part 520 may extend from the end of the first part 510 toward the opening of the connecting channel 123. In the first position, the second part 520 may face the discharge port 323. In the first position, the second part 520 may have a hollow cylindrical shape or a hollow truncated cone shape. The angle θ21 between the first part 510 and the second part 520 formed outside the layer hole 540 may be an obtuse angle.

Referring to FIG. 10(b), the backflow prevention membrane 500 pushed by the discharge port 323 may be positioned in a second position. The discharge port 323 may be inserted into the connecting flow path 123. The end of the discharge port 323 may push the backflow prevention membrane 500 in the direction in which the discharge port 323 protrudes. Because the backflow prevention membrane 500 is pushed by the discharge port 323 and moves in the protruding direction of the discharge port 323, the backflow prevention membrane 500 may be supported by the discharge port 323 in the second position.

When the backflow prevention membrane 500 moves from the first position to the second position, the first part 510 may tilt around one end of the first part 510 fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the connecting channel 123. The second part 520 may tilt around the other end of the first part 510. When the backflow prevention membrane 500 moves from the first position to the second position, the distance between the first part 510 and the second part 520 may gradually narrow. At the second position, the angle θ22 between the first part 510 and the second part 520 formed outside the layer hole 540 may be an acute angle. The angle θ22 between the first part 510 and the second part 520 at the second position may be smaller than the angle θ21 between the first part 510 and the second part 520 at the first position.

The first part 510 faces the opening of the connecting channel 123 in the first position and may be tilted so that the angles θ11, θ12 between the first part 510 and the periphery of the connecting channel 123 increase toward the second position. The angle θ12 between the first part 510 and the periphery of the connecting channel 123 in the second position may be larger than the angle θ11 between the first part 510 and the periphery of the connecting channel 123 in the first position.

At the first position of the backflow prevention membrane 500, the first part 510 may have a flange shape or a ring shape. The first part 510 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the discharge port 323. The first part 510 may protrude perpendicular to the periphery of the connecting flow channel 123.

When the backflow prevention membrane 500 is in the second position, the second part 520 may be formed to be inclined in the direction of air flow. When in the second position, the second part 520 may be inclined so that the layer hole 540 gradually narrows in the direction of air flow.

The backflow prevention membrane 500 may include a third part 530. The third part 530 may protrude perpendicularly from the end of the first part 510. The third part 530 may extend circumferentially around the first part 510. At the first position, the third part 530 may protrude into the layer hole 540. At the first position, the third part 530 may have a flange or ring shape. At the first position, the third part 530 may be formed perpendicular or obliquely to the discharge port 323. At the second position, the third part 530 may be formed parallel to the air flow direction. At the second position, the width W3 of the layer hole 540 surrounded by the third part 530 may be constant in the air flow direction. The width W3 of the layer hole 540 surrounded by the third part 530 may be smaller than the width W1 of the cartridge discharge port 304.

The aerosol generating device may include a supporter 550. The supporter 550 may protrude from the periphery of the connecting flow path 123. The supporter 550 may be positioned adjacent to the first part 510, rearward of the first part 510, or downstream of the first part 510. When the backflow prevention membrane 500 is in the second position, the supporter 550 may support one side of the first part 510. When the backflow prevention membrane 500 is in the second position, the supporter 550 may support a portion of the third part 530. The supporter 550 may limit movement of the first part 510 and fix the backflow prevention membrane 500 in the second position.

This guides the air so that it flows from the cartridge outlet 304 to the connecting flow path 123, preventing the air from flowing back from the connecting flow path 123 toward the cartridge outlet 304 (see Figure 11).

The aerosol generating device may include a stopper 127, the details of which are the same as those described above.

The end surface of the discharge port 323 may include an inclined surface 3232 and a pressing surface 3233. The inclined surface 3232 may be inclined so that the circumference gradually narrows in the direction in which the discharge port 323 protrudes. The inclination of the inclined surface 3232 and the inclination of the second part 520 in the second position may correspond to each other. The second part 520 may be in close contact with the inclined surface 3232, forming an inclination that corresponds to the inclined surface 3232.

The pressing surface 3233 may face the connecting channel 123. The pressing surface 3233 may be formed flat. The pressing surface 3233 may be perpendicular to the protruding direction of the discharge port 323. The pressing surface 3233 may press the second part 520 to move the second part 520 from the first position to the second position.

This reduces the gap between the backflow prevention membrane 500 and the exhaust port 323, improving air flow efficiency. Furthermore, because the backflow prevention membrane 500 is fixed at a set or predetermined inclination, the structural safety of the backflow prevention membrane 500 can be improved.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 11, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body formed to define an insertion space, a cartridge formed to be coupled to the body, an outlet port protruding from the cartridge and formed to define an outlet, a connecting flow path extending from the insertion space and sized to accommodate a portion of the outlet port and communicating the insertion space with the outlet port, and a backflow prevention membrane positioned to cover a portion of the connecting flow path and configured to deform upon contact with the outlet port in the insertion direction of the outlet port.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane can be positioned in a first position and a second position, and when the discharge port is separated from the backflow prevention membrane, the backflow prevention membrane can be positioned in the first position, and when the discharge port is in contact with the backflow prevention membrane, the backflow prevention membrane can be positioned in the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane may be formed from an elastic material.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane can extend circumferentially around the connecting flow path and form a layer hole that connects the connecting flow path to the discharge port.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the backflow prevention membrane is in the second position, the diameter of the layer hole may decrease in a direction extending from the discharge port toward the connecting flow channel.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the width of the layer hole when the backflow prevention membrane is in the first position may be smaller than the width of the layer hole when the backflow prevention membrane is in contact with the discharge port and in the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the backflow prevention membrane is in the first position, the backflow prevention membrane may protrude vertically from the periphery of the connecting flow channel.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the discharge port includes an inclined surface that contacts the backflow prevention membrane, and the inclined surface may be inclined at an angle corresponding to the inclination angle of the backflow prevention membrane that is deformed by contact with the discharge port.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device may further include a stopper positioned relative to the connecting flow channel, configured to support the periphery of the discharge port, and limiting the insertion depth of the discharge port within the connecting flow channel.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane may include a first part that protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel and is configured to deform from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel, a second part that extends tiltably from the first part, and a layer hole formed by the first part and the second part.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first part faces the opening of the connecting channel at a first position where the discharge port is separated from the second part, and is tilted toward a second position where the backflow prevention membrane contacts the discharge port so that the angle between the first part and the periphery of the connecting channel increases; the second part faces the opening of the connecting channel at the first position, and is formed so that the angle between the first part formed outside the layer hole and the second part decreases toward the second position, and the layer hole can be tilted so that it gradually decreases in the insertion direction of the discharge port.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane includes a third part that protrudes perpendicularly from the first part and surrounds a portion of the layer hole, and faces the inside of the layer hole when the backflow prevention membrane is in the first position and faces the insertion direction of the discharge port when the backflow prevention membrane is in the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device may further include a supporter that is disposed downstream of the first section, protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow path, and is positioned to support the first part when the backflow prevention membrane is in the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the backflow prevention membrane can protrude from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the deformation of the backflow prevention membrane may include tilting a portion of the backflow prevention membrane relative to an initial position that occurs prior to contact with the discharge port.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge may be configured to be coupled to one side of the body, and the discharge port may protrude from one side of the cartridge.

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 (15)

a body configured to define an insertion space;
a cartridge configured to be coupled to the body;
an exhaust port extending from the cartridge and configured to define an exhaust opening;
a connecting flow path extending from the insertion space, having a size sufficient to accommodate a portion of the discharge port, and communicating the insertion space with the discharge port;
a backflow prevention membrane positioned to cover a portion of the connecting channel and configured to deform upon contact with the discharge port in an insertion direction of the discharge port,
Air introduced into the cartridge from the outside is discharged through the outlet and flows into the insertion space through the connecting channel,
An aerosol generating device , wherein the backflow prevention membrane tilts from the outlet toward the connecting flow channel as it is pushed by the outlet port . The backflow prevention membrane may be positioned at a first position and a second position,
2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein when the discharge port is separated from the backflow prevention membrane, the backflow prevention membrane is positioned in the first position, and the backflow prevention membrane is positioned in the second position by contact with the discharge port. The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the backflow prevention membrane is formed from an elastic material. The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, wherein the backflow prevention membrane extends circumferentially around the connecting flow path and forms a layer hole that connects the connecting flow path to the discharge port. a body configured to define an insertion space;
a cartridge configured to be coupled to the body;
an exhaust port extending from the cartridge and configured to define an exhaust opening;
a connecting flow path extending from the insertion space, having a size sufficient to accommodate a portion of the discharge port, and communicating the insertion space with the discharge port;
a backflow prevention membrane positioned to cover a portion of the connecting channel and configured to deform upon contact with the discharge port in an insertion direction of the discharge port,
the backflow prevention membrane is in a first position when the discharge port is separated from the backflow prevention membrane, and in a second position when in contact with the discharge port;
the backflow prevention membrane extends in a circumferential direction of the connecting flow channel and forms a layer hole that connects the connecting flow channel and the discharge port;
When the backflow prevention membrane is located at the second position, the diameter of the layer hole decreases in a direction extending from the discharge port toward the connecting channel. The aerosol generating device of claim 5, wherein the width of the layer hole when the backflow prevention membrane is positioned at the first position is smaller than the width of the layer hole when the backflow prevention membrane is positioned at the second position by contact with the discharge port. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the backflow prevention membrane protrudes vertically from the periphery of the connecting flow channel when the backflow prevention membrane is in the first position. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the discharge port includes an inclined surface that contacts the backflow prevention membrane, and the inclined surface is inclined at an angle corresponding to the inclination angle of the backflow prevention membrane that is deformed by contact with the discharge port. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a stopper positioned relative to the connecting flow channel, configured to support the periphery of the discharge port, and limiting the insertion depth of the discharge port within the connecting flow channel. a body configured to define an insertion space;
a cartridge configured to be coupled to the body;
an exhaust port extending from the cartridge and configured to define an exhaust opening;
a connecting flow path extending from the insertion space, having a size sufficient to accommodate a portion of the discharge port, and communicating the insertion space with the discharge port;
a backflow prevention membrane positioned to cover a portion of the connecting channel and configured to deform upon contact with the discharge port in an insertion direction of the discharge port,
The backflow prevention membrane is
a first part configured to protrude from an inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow path and to be deformed from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow path;
a second part extending tiltably from the first part;
a layer hole formed by the first part and the second part,
the first part faces the opening of the connecting channel at a first position where the discharge port is separated from the second part, and is tilted toward a second position where the backflow prevention membrane contacts the discharge port such that an angle between the first part and a periphery of the connecting channel increases;
An aerosol generating device, wherein the second part faces the opening of the connecting channel at the first position, the angle between the first part and the second part formed outside the layer hole decreases toward the second position, and the layer hole is tilted so as to gradually decrease in the insertion direction of the discharge port. the backflow prevention film includes a third part that protrudes perpendicularly from the first part and surrounds a part of the layer hole;
The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein the backflow prevention membrane faces the inside of the layer hole when positioned at the first position, and faces the insertion direction of the discharge port when positioned at the second position. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, further comprising a supporter that is arranged downstream of the first part , protrudes from the inner surface of the connecting flow path, and is positioned to support the first part when the backflow prevention membrane is positioned at the second position. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the backflow prevention membrane protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting flow channel. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the deformation of the backflow prevention membrane includes tilting a portion of the backflow prevention membrane relative to an initial position that occurs prior to contact with the discharge port. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the cartridge is configured to be attached to one side of the body, and the discharge port protrudes from one side of the cartridge.