JP7844665B2 - Aerosol generator - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus.

An aerosol generator is used to extract specific components from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium can contain substances with diverse components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances with diverse components. For example, the substances contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal components, and/or coffee components. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generators.

This disclosure aims to resolve the aforementioned issues and other problems.

Another purpose of this disclosure is to enable configurations having different purposes and alternation cycles to be alternated independently of each other.

Another purpose of this disclosure is to reduce the costs associated with changing configurations.

Another purpose of this disclosure is to improve the lifespan of the configuration.

Another objective of this disclosure is to prevent liquid leakage.

Another object of this disclosure is to prevent leakage of flowing gases and to improve the flow efficiency of gases.

Another objective of this disclosure is to reduce the size of aerosol generating devices.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator capable of sensing independently interchangeable liquid storage configurations.

Another objective of this disclosure is to sense the configuration without separate electrical connection.

Another objective of this disclosure is to reduce the impact of external sensing noise and improve sensing accuracy.

Another objective of this disclosure is to increase the degree of freedom in sensor placement and improve the spatial efficiency of the device's internal structure.

According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, the aerosol generating apparatus includes a body, a first container coupled to the body and containing a wick and a heater, a second container detachably coupled to the first container and supplying liquid to the wick, and a sensor installed in the body for sensing whether the first container and the second container are coupled to each other.

According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, configurations having different purposes and alternation cycles can be alternated independently of each other.

According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the cost of changing configurations can be reduced.

According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the service life of the configuration can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, liquid leakage can be prevented.

According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to prevent leakage of flowing gas and improve the flow efficiency of the gas.

According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the flow path can be improved and the size of the aerosol generator can be reduced.

According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, an aerosol generator capable of independently sensing a liquid storage configuration can be provided.

According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the configuration can be sensed without separate electrical connection.

According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the influence of external sensing noise can be reduced and sensing accuracy can be improved.

According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in sensor placement and improve the spatial efficiency of the device's internal structure.

The additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure are readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples.

This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

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

The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description are used solely for the sake of clarity in the specification. "Module" and "part" do not have distinct meanings or roles.

Furthermore, in subsequent descriptions of the embodiments disclosed herein, detailed explanations of related known technologies will be omitted if they could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein and do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included in the ideas and scope of this disclosure.

Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe various components, but it must be understood that these components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When we say that one component is "linked" to another, it is understandable that other components may exist in between. Conversely, when we say that one component is "directly linked" to another, it is understandable that no other components exist in between.

A singular expression includes plural forms unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generator can include a body 10 and cartridges 20 and 30. Cartridges 20 and 30 can include a first container 20 and a second container 30. Cartridges 20 and 30 can be coupled to the body 10.

The body 10 can house the power supply 11 and the control unit 12. The power supply 11 can supply the power necessary for the configuration to operate. The power supply 11 can be considered a battery 11. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the configuration.

The first container 20 can provide a first chamber C1 inside. The first container 20 may include a core 25. The core 25 may be positioned in the first chamber C1. The upper end of the core 25 may protrude from the first chamber C1 onto the upper side of the first container 20.

The first container 20 may be equipped with a heater 2531. The heater 2531 may be located in the first chamber C1. The heater 2531 can heat the wick 25. The heater 2531 may be attached to the wick 25. The first container 20 may be equipped with a terminal 223 internally. The terminal 223 may be exposed on the underside of the first container 20. The terminal 223 may be electrically connected to the heater 2531. The first container 20 can be referred to as the lower container 20 or heating module 20.

The first container 20 may be equipped with a first airflow inlet 241 formed by opening the first chamber C1. The first container 20 may also be equipped with a first airflow outlet 242 formed by opening the first chamber C1.

The second container 30 can provide a second chamber C2 inside. The second container 30 can store liquid in the second chamber C2. The second container 20 can be equipped with an airflow discharge channel 340. Both ends 341 and 342 of the airflow discharge channel 340 can be open. The airflow discharge channel 340 can be separated from the second chamber C2. The second container 30 can be referred to as the upper container 30 or the liquid storage section 30.

The mouthpiece 35 can be coupled to the upper side of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 can cover the upper part of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 may have a second airflow outlet 354 inside. The second airflow outlet 354 can communicate with the other end 342 of the airflow outlet 340.

The first container 20 can be coupled to the body 10. The first container 20 can be inserted into the body 10. When the first container 20 is coupled to the body, the heater 2531 can be electrically connected to the power supply 11 via terminal 223. The heater 2531 can generate heat by receiving power from the power supply 11. The heater 2531 may be a resistive heater.

The second container 30 can be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The coupling of the second container 30 to the first container 20 can include direct coupling of the second container 30 to the first container 20, or indirect coupling of the second container 30 to the first container 20 by coupling to the body 10.

When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply the stored liquid to the wick 25. The wick 25 can receive and absorb the liquid from the second container 30. The heater 2531 can heat the wick, which has absorbed the liquid, to generate an aerosol in the first chamber C1.

The body 10 can have one side open to form a second airflow inlet 141. When the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10, the first airflow inlet 241 can communicate with the second airflow inlet 141. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, one end 341 of the airflow discharge channel 340 and the first airflow outlet 242 can communicate. Thus, an airflow channel can be formed. The user can inhale air by placing the mouthpiece 35 in their mouth. When the user inhales air, the outside air can be supplied to the user by sequentially passing through the second airflow inlet 141, the first airflow inlet 241, the first chamber C1, the first airflow outlet 242, the airflow discharge channel 340, and the second airflow outlet 354. The air can flow together with the aerosol generated in the first chamber C1.

Therefore, the first container 20 and the second container 30 can be replaced independently of each other. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20 may differ, and the user can replace only the second container 30 separately, or only the first container 20 separately. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20, and when the second container 30 is replaced several times, the first container 20 may only be replaced once. Therefore, the first container 20 can be used for a longer period, and cartridge replacement costs can be reduced.

Referring to Figure 2, the first container 20 can be detachably coupled to the body 10. The first coupler 151 can detachably couple the first container 20 and the body 10. For example, the first coupler 151 may include a hook groove 225 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 225. The hook 125 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone and may also seal the space between the body and the first container 20 around the second airflow inlet 141. As another example, the first coupler 151 can couple the first container 20 and the body 10 by magnetic force.

The second container 30 can be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 can be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The second container 30 can be coupled to the body 10 and indirectly coupled to the first container 20. The second coupler 152 can detachably couple the second container 30 and the body 10. For example, the second coupler 152 may include a hook groove 325 and a hook 135 that is detachably fastened to the hook groove 325. As another example, the second coupler 152 can couple the second container 30 and the body 10 by magnetic force.

Referring to Figures 3 to 5, the first container 20 may include a case 21, a core 25, and a heater 2531. The case 21 may include a first case 22 and a second case 23.

The second case 23 can be coupled to the upper side of the first case 22. The first case 22 may have an opening at the top, providing a space 224 for forming the first chamber C1. The second case 23 may have an opening at the bottom, providing a space 234 for forming the first chamber C1. The first case 22 and the second case 23 can be coupled vertically to form the first chamber C1 inside.

The terminals 223 are fixed to the bottom of the first case 22 and can be exposed on the underside of the first case 22. The terminals 223 can project upward from the first case 22 toward the first chamber C1. The terminals 223 may consist of a pair spaced horizontally apart from each other.

The first airflow inlet 241 may be formed at the bottom of the first case 22. The first airflow inlet 241 may be formed as a plurality of perforated holes. The first airflow inlet 241 may be horizontally separated from the terminal 223. The first airflow inlet 241 may be formed by openings in the side walls of the first case 22 and/or the side walls of the second case 23.

Case 21 may comprise one configuration of the first coupler 151 (see Figures 1 and 2). For example, the hook groove 225 can be formed by a recess in the lower periphery of the first case 22. Alternatively, the hook 125 can be formed by a protrusion in the lower periphery of the first case 22. Another example is that the first case 21 may include a magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the upper wall of the second case 23. Alternatively, the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the side wall of the second case 23. The first airflow outlet 242 may be positioned opposite the first airflow inlet 241.

The liquid inlet 235 can be formed on the upper wall of the second case 23. The liquid inlet 235 can be formed on the upper side of the first chamber C1. The liquid inlet 235 can be separated from the second airflow outlet 242. The liquid inlet 235 can be formed on one side of the upper wall of the second case 23, and the second airflow outlet 242 can be formed on the other side of the upper wall of the second case 23. The liquid inlet 235 can be formed on the side corresponding to the terminal 223 and the supporter 227, and the first airflow outlet 242 can be formed on the side corresponding to the first airflow inlet 241.

The core 25 may include a first core part 251 and a second core part 252. The first core part 251 may be located in the first chamber C1 between the first case 22 and the second case 23. The lower edge of the first core part 252 may be supported by a supporter 227.

The second core part 252 can protrude upward from the first core part 251. The second core part 252 can be exposed to the outside of the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlet 235. The second core part 252 can protrude upward through the liquid inlet 235 and the first core sealing portion 265.

The heater 2531 can be coupled to the first core part 251. The heater 2531 can heat the first core part 251. The first terminals 2533 formed at both ends of the heater 2531 can contact the second terminals 223, thereby electrically connecting the heater 2531 and the second terminals 233.

The supporter 227 can protrude upward from the bottom of the first case 22. The supporter 227 may be formed around the terminal 223. Multiple supporters 227 may be provided and arranged around the terminal 223. The supporter 227 may include a first supporter 227a and a second supporter 227b. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b may be positioned in a region corresponding to the lower corner of the first core part 251.

The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b can be separated from each other. The second supporter 227b can be formed adjacent to the first airflow inlet 242. The second supporter 227b can be formed between the terminal 223 and the first airflow inlet 241. The second supporters 227b can be formed as a pair. A pair of second supporters 227b can be separated from each other, forming a first gap 227c between them. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b can be separated from each other, forming a second gap 227d between them.

The sealer 26 can be attached to the upper side of the first container 20. The sealing plate 261 of the sealer 26 can cover the upper surface of the case 21. The sealer 26 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealer 26 may be made of rubber or silicone.

The sealer 26 may include a first core sealing portion 265. The first core sealing portion 265 can be formed by an opening in the sealing plate 261 at a position corresponding to the liquid inlet 235. The first core sealing portion 265 can form one inner circumferential surface of the sealing plate 261. The first core sealing portion 265 may have a shape corresponding to the circumferential surface 235a surrounding the liquid inlet 235. The first core sealing portion 265 can protrude downward from the sealing plate 261 and be in close contact with the inside of the circumferential surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The second core part 252 can pass through the first core sealing portion 265 and protrude above the liquid inlet 235.

The sealer 26 may include a second core sealing portion 262. The second core sealing portion 262 may project downward from the lower surface of the sealing plate 261. The second core sealing portion 262 may be formed below the first core sealing portion 265, or below its periphery. The second core sealing portion 262 may extend along the periphery of the first core sealing portion 265.

The sealer 26 may include sealing walls 266 and 267 that project upward from the upper surface of the sealing plate 261. The sealing walls 266 and 267 can surround the liquid inlet 235 and the periphery of the first core sealing section 265. The sealing walls 266 and 267 can extend along the periphery of the first core sealing section 265, forming a perimeter. Multiple sealing walls 266 and 267 may be formed. For example, the sealing walls 266 and 267 may include a first sealing wall 266 adjacent to the periphery of the first core sealing section 265, and a second sealing wall 267 spaced outward from the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may project upward higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may surround the first sealing wall 266.

The sealer 26 may include an airflow sealing section 268. The airflow sealing section 268 may surround the first airflow outlet 242. The airflow sealing section 268 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the sealing plate 261. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the airflow sealing section 268. The airflow sealing section 268 may be formed outside the sealing walls 266 and 267.

Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the core 25 can be formed from a porous rigid body that absorbs liquid. For example, the core 25 can be formed from a porous ceramic. The core 25 can have higher rigidity and heat resistance than a cotton core.

Therefore, the core 25 is unable to deform much, or can only deform slightly, and can be embodied in a variety of shapes. Furthermore, the durability of the core 25 can be improved, extending the replacement cycle of the first container 20 equipped with the core 25.

The first core part 251 can extend horizontally to one side. The first core part 251 can have a hexahedral shape. The upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251 can be formed horizontally. The lower surface 2513 of the first core part 251 can be formed horizontally. The side surface 2512 of the first core part 251 can be formed between the periphery of the upper surface 2511 and the periphery of the lower surface 2513, defining the periphery of the first core part 251. The side surface 2512 of the first core part 251 can be called the circumferential surface 2512 of the first core part 251.

The second core part 252 can project upward from the center of the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251. The second core part 252 can extend horizontally. The second core part 252 can have a hexahedral shape. The upper surface 2521 of the second core part 252 can be formed horizontally. The lower surface 2523 of the second core part 252 can be formed horizontally. The lower surface 2523 of the second core part 252 can overlap with the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251. The side surface 2522 of the second core part 252 can be formed between the periphery of the upper surface 2521 and the periphery of the lower surface 2523, defining the periphery of the second core part 252. The side surface 2522 of the second core part 252 can be called the circumferential surface 2522 of the second core part 252.

The first core part 251 may be larger than the second core part 252. The circumference of the top surface 2511 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the circumference of the top surface 2522 of the second core part 252. The height H1 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the height H2 of the second core part 252. The length L1 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the length L2 of the second core part 252. The width W1 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the width W2 of the second core part 252.

The first core part 251 can project horizontally outward from the lower surface of the second core part 252 by predetermined widths w31, w32, w33, and w34. The second core part 252 can project inward from the periphery of the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251. The periphery of the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 2511 can project outward from the lower surface of the second core part 252.

The heater 2531 can be attached to the first core part 2531. The heater 2531 can form a pattern on the lower surface 2513 of the first core part 251. The heater 2531 can form various patterns along the length of the first core part 251. Both ends of the heater 2531 can be adjacent to both ends of the first core part 251.

A pair of first terminals 2533 can be formed at both ends of the heater 2531. The first terminals 2533 can be coupled to the lower surface of the first core part 251. The pair of first terminals 2533 can be adjacent to both ends of the first core part 251. The first terminals 2533 can protrude from the lower side of the first core part 251.

Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the first airflow inlet 241 may be formed on the lower side of the first chamber C1. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the upper side of the first chamber C1. The first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed vertically side by side. The core 25 is located on the right side of the first chamber C1, and the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. The first channel CN1 is formed on the left side of the first chamber C1 and may include the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242. Air can flow into the first channel CN1 through the first airflow inlet 241 and be discharged through the first airflow outlet 242.

The first terminal 2533 contacts the second terminal 223, electrically connecting the heater 2531 and the second terminal 223. The second terminal 223 can support the first terminal 2533 and the lower surface 2513 of the first core part 251.

The lower part of the first core part 2511 can be supported by the supporter 227. The upper surface 2511 of the first core part 2511 can be supported by the lower part of the second case 23 and/or the second core sealing part 262 around the liquid inlet 235. The periphery of the side portion 2522 of the second core part 252 can be supported by the circumferential surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235 and/or the inner surface of the first core sealing part 265.

Therefore, the core 25 can be fixed to the first container 20.

The supporter 227 can separate the first core part 2511 from the bottom of the first chamber C1 to the upper side. The supporter 227 may be positioned around the heater 2513. The supporter 227 can form gaps 227c and 227d that connect the heater 2531, attached to the lower surface 2513 of the first core part 2511, to the first chamber C1. The supporter 227 can open between the first channel CN1 and the heater 2531 to form the first gap 227c.

The supporter 227 may include a first supporter 227a and a second supporter 227b. The second supporter 227b may be positioned closer to the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 than the first supporter 227a. The first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be adjacent to the left side of the first core part 251. The first supporter 227a may extend along the right-side edge between the lower surface 2513 and the side surface 2512 of the first core part 251. The first supporter 227a can support the right-side corner between the lower surface 2513 and the side surface 2512 of the first core part 251. A pair of second supporters 227b can support the left-side corner of the first core part 251.

The pair of second supporters 227b are spaced apart from each other to form a first gap 227c through which air can flow between the periphery of the heater 2531 and the first airflow inlet 242. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b are spaced apart from each other to form a second gap 227d through which air can flow between the periphery of the heater 2531 and the first airflow inlet 242. The first gap 227c and the second gap 227d can be formed around the lower surface 2513 of the first core part 251.

Therefore, the aerosol generated in the core 25 and the surrounding air can flow smoothly towards the first airflow outlet 242, passing through the vicinity of the multiple supporters 227.

The first core sealing portion 265 can be positioned between the circumferential surface 2522 of the second core part 252 and the circumferential surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The inner circumferential surface of the first core sealing portion 265 can be in close contact with the circumferential surface 2522 of the second core part 252. The first core sealing portion 265 can seal the space between the circumferential surface 2522 of the second core part 252 and the circumferential surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235.

The perimeter of the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the perimeter of the liquid inlet 235. The perimeter of the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251 may be formed horizontally outward than the perimeter of the liquid inlet 235. The edge portion of the first core part 251 can absorb liquid leaking between the liquid inlet 235 and the circumferential surface 2522 of the second core part 252.

The second core sealing portion 262 can protrude downward from the vicinity of the liquid inlet 235 toward the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251. The second core sealing portion 262 can be in close contact with the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251. The second core sealing portion 262 can support the upper surface 2511 of the first core part 251.

Therefore, the liquid supplied from the second container 30 to the core 25 is not absorbed by the core 25, and leakage into the first chamber C1 through the space between the second core part 252 and the circumferential surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235 can be prevented.

Referring to Figures 10 to 12, the second container 30 can provide a second chamber C2 for storing liquid. The second chamber C2 can be defined by the lower wall 311, side walls 321, 322, and upper wall 33 of the second container 30. The side walls 321 and 322 can extend vertically. The side walls 321 and 322 may include an outer wall 321 forming the exterior of the second container 30 and an inner wall 322 formed inside the second container 30. The inner wall 322 is formed between the second chamber C2 and the airflow discharge channel 340, thereby separating the second chamber C2 and the airflow discharge channel 340 from each other.

The liquid outlet 314 can be formed by opening the second chamber C2. The liquid outlet 314 can be formed at the bottom of the second chamber C2. The liquid outlet 314 can consist of multiple holes. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 can be discharged through the liquid outlet 314.

The discharge guide 313 may be formed around the liquid outlet 314. The discharge guide 313 may be formed to incline downward toward the liquid outlet 314. The discharge guide 313 may be formed on the lower surface 311 of the second chamber C2. The discharge guide 313 can guide the liquid stored in the second chamber C2 to the liquid outlet 314.

The absorbent portion 316 can block the lower part of the liquid outlet 314. The absorbent portion 316 can absorb the liquid that has passed through the liquid outlet 314. For example, the absorbent portion 316 may be made of felt material.

The bracket 317 can protrude downward from the second container 30 around the liquid outlet 314. The bracket 317 can surround the side perimeter of the absorbent section 316. The absorbent section 316 can be exposed from the bracket 317 to the underside of the second container 30. The bracket 317 can fix the absorbent section 316 to the lower part of the first container 30. The bracket 317 can support the lower perimeter of the absorbent section 316 in a hook shape.

The film 316a can be detachably attached to the lower surface of the absorbent portion 316. The edges of the film 316a can be attached to the lower surface of the bracket 317. The film 316a may be made of a waterproof material. The film 316a can prevent liquid leakage from the absorbent portion 316. Prior to connecting the second container 30 to the first container 20, the user can remove the film 316a from the absorbent portion 316.

The recess 315 can be formed by the lower surface 312 of the second container 30 being recessed upward. The groove formed by the recess 315 can surround the bracket 317.

The second container 30 may comprise one configuration of the second coupler 152 (see Figures 1 and 2). For example, the hook groove 325 may be formed by a recess in the outer wall 321 of the second container 30. In another example, the hook 135 may be formed by a protrusion of the outer wall 321 of the second container 30. In yet another example, the second container 30 may be equipped with a magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

The second container 30 may have an airflow discharge channel 340. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be separated from the second chamber C2 by the inner wall 322 of the second container 30. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be defined by the outer wall 321 and the inner wall 322 of the second container 30. Both ends of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may open downwards. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may open upwards. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be formed by an opening in the lower surface 312 of the second container 30. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may communicate with a second airflow outlet 354 formed inside the mouthpiece 35. The airflow discharge channel 340 can be referred to as the second channel CN2.

Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the first container 20 can be detachably coupled to the body 10. The first coupler 151 can detachably couple the first container 20 and the body 10. The second container 30 can be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 can be indirectly coupled to the first container 20 by coupling to the body 10 via the second coupler 152. The second container 30 can be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20.

When the second container 30 is connected to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply liquid to the wick 25. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 passes through the liquid outlet 314 and is absorbed by the absorption section 316. The absorption section 316, having absorbed the liquid, can then contact the second wick part 252 and transfer the liquid. The liquid absorbed by the second wick part 252 can then diffuse to the first wick part 251. The heater 3531 can heat the first wick part 251, which has absorbed the liquid, to generate an aerosol.

The sealer 26 can seal the area around the liquid inlet 235 where the core 25 is exposed from the first chamber C1. When the second container 30 is coupled to the upper side of the first container 20, the sealer 26 can seal the space between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

The sealing walls 266 and 267 can project toward the second container 30. The sealing walls 266 and 267 can be in close contact with the second container 30. The sealing walls 266 and 267 can surround the liquid inlet 235.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid discharged from the second container 30 from leaking into the gap between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

Referring to Figure 15, the first sealing wall 266 can surround the liquid inlet 235 and the periphery 2522 of the second core part 252. The first sealing wall 266 can be in close contact with the lower part of the second container 30. The first sealing wall 266 can be in close contact with the protruding portion formed inside the recess 266. For example, the first sealing wall 266 can be in close contact with the bracket 317. The bracket 317 and the first sealing wall 266 can surround the periphery 2522 of the second core part 252. Therefore, the bracket 317 can not only fix the absorption part 316 but also press the first sealing wall 266 to seal the periphery of the second core part 252 and the liquid inlet 235.

The second sealing wall 267 can protrude higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 can be positioned horizontally outside the first sealing wall 266, surrounding it. The second sealing wall 267 can be in close contact with the bottom of the second container 30. The second sealing wall 267 can be inserted into the groove formed by the recess 315 and be in close contact with the recess 315.

Therefore, the first sealing wall 266 can seal around the second core part 252 and the liquid inlet 235. Furthermore, even if the liquid flows beyond the first sealing wall 266, it can be sealed by the second sealing wall 267.

Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the first channel CN1 may be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. The core 25 and heater 2531 may be located on the right side of the first chamber C1. The first channel CN1 may include a first airflow inlet 241 and a first airflow outlet 242. The first airflow inlet 241 may be formed at one end of the first channel CN1. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed at the other end of the first channel CN1. The first channel CN1 may be offset from the core 25 with respect to the vertical direction. The core 25 may be spaced apart from the first airflow inlet 241 and the second airflow inlet 242. Unlike the illustrations, at least one of the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed by an opening in the side wall of the first container 20 within the first channel CN1.

When the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10, the second airflow inlet 141, formed by an opening on one side of the body 10, can communicate with the first airflow inlet 241. The gap between the body 10 and the first container 20 can be sealed around the second airflow inlet 141. For example, the hook 125 can seal the gap between the body 10 and the first container 20 around the second airflow inlet 141.

When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the first airflow outlet 242 and the lower end of the second channel CN2 can communicate. The first channel CN1 and the second channel CN2 can communicate to form a single flow path CN. The second channel CN2 can communicate with the second airflow outlet 354.

When the user places the mouthpiece 35 in their mouth and inhales air, the outside air can be supplied to the user by sequentially passing through the second airflow inlet 141, the first channel CN1, the second channel CN2, and the second airflow outlet 354. Aerosols can be generated in the first chamber C1, which is separated from the first channel CN1. The air passing through the first channel CN1 can flow together with the air and aerosols in the first chamber C1 due to the inhalation force and pressure difference. The air and aerosols can then flow into the first channel CN1 by passing through the first gap 227c and the second gap 227d between the supporters 227.

Therefore, by ensuring that air flows only to one side of the first chamber C1, the size of the flow path can be reduced, and the size of the aerosol generator can be reduced or optimized. Furthermore, the structure supporting the core 25 can reduce airflow resistance.

The airflow sealing section 268 can be in close contact with the lower part of the second container 30 around the lower end of the second channel CN2. The airflow sealing section 268 can surround the lower end of the second channel CN2 and the first airflow outlet 242. The airflow sealing section 268 can seal the space between the first container 20 and the second container 30 around the lower end of the airflow discharge passage 340 and the first airflow outlet 242.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent air passing through the airflow discharge channel 340 from the first airflow outlet 242 from leaking between the first container 20 and the second container 30, thereby improving the airflow efficiency.

Referring to Figure 17, the first airflow inlet 241' and the second airflow inlet 141' can be formed in different positions than in the embodiment shown in Figure 16. The first airflow inlet 241' can be formed on the side of the first chamber C1. The second airflow inlet 141' is formed in the body 10 and can communicate with the first airflow inlet 241'. The second airflow inlet 141' can face the first airflow inlet 241'.

The first channel CN1' is formed in the first chamber C1 and may have a first airflow inlet 241' and a first airflow outlet 242 at both ends. The core 25 may be positioned between the first airflow inlet 241' and the first airflow outlet 242. The first channel CN1' can pass through the core 25. The first channel CN1' can communicate with the second channel CN2 to form a flow path CN' through which air flows.

The four second supporters 227b can support the four lower vertices of the first core part 251. The first gap 227c can be formed around the lower periphery of the first core part 251. The first channel CN1' can pass through the first gap 227c.

Air can be discharged by sequentially flowing through the second airflow inlet 141', the first channel CN1', the second channel CN2, and the second airflow outlet. The air may be accompanied by aerosols from the first chamber C1 as it passes through the first channel CN1'.

Therefore, the size of the flow path can be reduced, and the size of the aerosol generator can be reduced. Furthermore, the airflow resistance from the structure supporting the core 25 can be reduced.

Referring to Figures 18 and 19, the aerosol generator may include a sensor 471. The sensor 471 can be installed inside the body 10. The second container 20 can be detachably coupled to the first container 10. The sensor 471 can sense whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20. The sensor 471 can be electrically connected to a power supply 11 (see Figure 1) and a control unit 12 (see Figure 1). The control unit 12 can control the operation of various components based on the sensing of the sensor 471.

For example, sensor 471 may be a contact sensor. Sensor 471 can sense, by physical contact, whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, physical contact can occur at sensor 471. Sensor 471 can detect the physical contact that has occurred. For example, physical contact can occur when sensor 471 directly contacts the second container 30 or through an intermediary configuration between sensor 471 and the second container 30.

The sensor 471 may be positioned adjacent to the first container 20. The sensor 471 may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11 and/or the control unit 12. The first container 20 may be positioned above the power supply 11. The sensor 471 may be positioned below the first container 20.

The pusher travel path 44 may be formed between the sensor 471 and the second container 30. The pusher travel path 44 can extend for a considerable length. One end of the pusher travel path 44 may open toward the second container 30. The other end of the pusher travel path 44 may open toward the sensor 471.

The pusher 40 can be positioned between the sensor 471 and the second container 30. The pusher 40 can be inserted into the pusher movement path 44. The pusher 40 can extend a considerable distance between the sensor 471 and the second container 30. The pusher 40 can move between the sensor 471 and the second container 30. One end of the pusher 40 can be adjacent to the second container 30. One end of the pusher 40 can be exposed toward the second container 30 through one end of the pusher movement path 44. The other end of the pusher 40 can be adjacent to the sensor 471. The other end of the pusher 40 can be exposed toward the sensor 471 through the other end of the pusher movement path 44.

For example, the pusher 40 and the pusher movement path 44 can have a shape that extends vertically. The upper end of the pusher 40 can be exposed above the first container 20. The sensor 471 may be located below the pusher 40. The pusher 40 can move up and down. The second container 30 is coupled above the first container 20, and the lower part of the second container 30 contacts the upper end of the pusher 40, pushing the pusher 40 downwards to contact the sensor 471.

One end of the pusher 40 can directly or indirectly contact the second container 30. The other end of the pusher 40 can directly or indirectly contact the sensor 471. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can push the pusher 40 toward the sensor 471. The other end of the pusher 40 is in direct or indirect contact with the sensor 471, and the sensor 471 can detect the physical contact. The sensor 471 transmits a detection signal to the control unit 12, which can determine that the second container 30 has been coupled to the first container 20.

The pusher passage 44 may be positioned adjacent to one side of the first container 20. The pusher passage 44 may be horizontally separated from the first chamber C1. One end of the pusher passage 44 may be formed facing the first airflow outlet 242 relative to the first chamber C1. The other end of the pusher passage 44 may be formed facing the first airflow inlet 241 relative to the first chamber C1.

Therefore, the coupling of the second container 30 can be detected by the sensor 471 without the need for a separate terminal configuration for electrical connection. This simplifies the configuration of the second container 30 for sensing and reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the physical contact method reduces the influence of external noise, improving the accuracy of sensing.

Furthermore, even when the sensor 471 is far away from the second container 30, it can still detect the second container 30. This increased flexibility in the placement of the sensor 471 improves the spatial efficiency of the device's internal structure.

The first container 20 can be detachably coupled to the body 10. Whether the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10 can be detected by a separate sensor or by the electrical connection between the second terminal 223 and the power supply 11.

The actuator 472 can be pushed by the pusher 40 and transmit physical contact to the sensor 471. The actuator 472 may be formed integrally with the sensor 471. The actuator 472 can project far from the sensor 471 toward the pusher 40. The actuator 472 can provide a repulsive force to the pusher 40 in the direction away from the sensor 471. The actuator 472 can provide a repulsive force to the pusher 40 from one end of the pusher travel path 44 to the other end. For example, the actuator 472 can provide a repulsive force that pushes the pusher 40 upward.

When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the pusher 40 can push the actuator 472 toward the sensor 471. When the pusher 40 pushes the actuator 472 toward the sensor 471, the sensor 471 can detect physical contact. When the second container 30 is separated from the first container 20, the pusher 40 can move away from the sensor 471 due to the repulsive force of the actuator 472, and the pressure on the sensor 471 can be released. The pusher 40 can return to its position before the second container 30 was coupled to the first container 20.

A sealing film 48 can be provided between the sensor 471 and the pusher movement path 44. The sealing film 48 may be formed between the actuator 472 and the pusher movement path 44. The sensor 471 or actuator 472 may contact one surface of the sealing film 48, and the pusher 40 may contact the other surface of the sealing film 48. The sealing film 48 may be made of an elastic material and be deformable in shape. For example, the sealing film may be made of rubber or silicone. The sealing film 48 can cover the sensor 471. The sealing film 48 can seal the space where the sensor 471 is located and the pusher movement path 44.

The actuator 472 pushes out the sealing film 48, which can have a shape that bulges toward the pusher 40. When the pusher 40 presses the sensor 471, the curvature of the sealing film 48 can decrease or it can deform to bulge toward the sensor 471.

Therefore, the sealing membrane 48 can prevent foreign matter such as liquid from leaking into the vicinity of the sensor 471 through the pusher movement path 44.

Referring to Figures 20 and 21, the pusher 40 may include a first pusher part 41 and a second pusher part 42. The first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 can be connected to each other from above and below.

The first pusher part 41 may include a first pusher body 411 and a first pusher projection 412. The first pusher body 411 may extend vertically. The first pusher projection 412 may project horizontally outward from the periphery of the first pusher body 411. The periphery of the first pusher projection 412 may be larger than the periphery of the first pusher body 411. The first pusher projection 412 may be formed at the upper end of the first pusher body 411.

The second pusher part 42 may include a second pusher body 421 and a second pusher projection 422. The second pusher body 421 may extend vertically. The second pusher projection 422 may project horizontally outward from the periphery of the second pusher body 421. The periphery of the second pusher projection 422 may be larger than that of the first pusher body 421. The second pusher projection 422 may be formed at the lower end of the second pusher body 421. The second pusher projection 422 may project horizontally more than the first pusher projection 412 and may have a larger periphery than the first pusher projection 412.

The pusher coupling groove 415 is formed inside the first pusher body 411 and can open on its lower side. The pusher coupling projection 425 can project upward from the second pusher body 421. By inserting and coupling the pusher coupling projection 425 into the pusher coupling groove 415, the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 can be coupled. When the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 are coupled, they can be aligned vertically. This is just one example, and the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 can be coupled in various ways other than the coupling method described above.

Referring to Figures 22 to 25, the pusher movement path 44 can be formed on one side of the first container 20. The pusher movement path 44 can be horizontally separated from the first chamber C1 by a partition wall 451 in the first container 20. The first chamber C1 may be located to the left of the partition wall 451, and the pusher movement path 44 may be located to the right of the partition wall 451.

The pusher travel path 44 can open vertically. The first pusher part 41 can be inserted into the upper part of the pusher travel path 44. The second pusher part 42 can be inserted into the lower part of the pusher travel path 44. Within the pusher travel path 44, the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 can be joined vertically. The first pusher body 411 can be inserted from the upper to the lower side of the pusher travel path 44. The second pusher body 421 can be inserted from the lower to the upper side of the pusher travel path 44 and joined with the first pusher body 411 within the pusher travel path 44.

The stopper 452 can restrict the range of motion of the pusher 40. The stopper 452 may be formed around the pusher's movement path 44. The stopper 452 may protrude in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the pusher 40. The stopper 452 may protrude inward from the periphery of the pusher's movement path 44. For example, the pusher 40 may move vertically, while the stopper 452 protrudes horizontally.

The stopper 452 can be positioned between the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42. The movement of the first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 can be restricted by the first pusher part 41 engaging over the stopper 452 and the second pusher part 42 engaging under the stopper 452.

The stopper 452 may include a first stopper 452a and a second stopper 452b. The second stopper 452b may be positioned below the first stopper 452a. The first pusher projection 412 can be restricted from moving downward by the first stopper 452a. The second pusher projection 422 can be restricted from moving upward by the second stopper 452b. As another example, the pusher 40 may be a single unit, and the configuration with the first stopper 452a and the configuration with the second stopper 452b may be connected vertically with the pusher 40 in between.

Therefore, the pusher 40 can be installed to move within a predetermined range within the pusher movement path 44, and it is possible to prevent the pusher 40 from detaching from the pusher movement path 44.

Referring to Figures 25 and 26, the pusher 40 can move up and down within the pusher movement path 44. The pusher 40's range of movement is restricted by the stopper 452, thus preventing it from detaching from the pusher movement path 44.

When the pusher 40 moves downward, the first stopper 452a contacts the first pusher projection 412, thereby restricting the pusher 40 from moving further downward. The first stopper 452a can restrict the movement of the pusher 40 when its lower portion protrudes below the pusher movement path 44. The first stopper 452a can also restrict the movement of the pusher 40 when its upper portion is retracted into the pusher movement path 44.

When the pusher 40 moves upward, the second stopper 452b contacts the second pusher projection 422, thereby restricting the pusher 40 from moving further upward. The second stopper 452b can restrict the movement of the pusher 40 when its upper portion protrudes above the pusher movement path 44. The second stopper 452b can also restrict the movement of the pusher 40 when its lower portion is retracted into the pusher movement path 44.

Referring to Figure 27, the first pusher part 41' and the second pusher part 42' of the pusher 40' can be joined vertically with a stopper 452' in between. The stopper 452' protrudes in the front-rear direction within the pusher movement path 44, separating the pusher movement path 44 to the left and right. The stopper 452' can be positioned inside the first pusher part 41' and the second pusher part 42'. The first pusher part 41' can surround the upper part of the stopper 452'. The second pusher part 42' can surround the lower part of the stopper 452'. The first pusher part 41' may have a coupling groove 415' opening downwards. The second pusher part 42' may have a coupling projection 425' protruding upwards and inserted into the coupling groove 415'.

The pusher 40' can form an internal space 404' through the connection of the first pusher part 41' and the second pusher part 42'. The space 404' may be longer than the stopper 452' in the direction of the pusher 40's movement. The stopper 452' is positioned in the space 404' and can restrict the movement of the pusher 40' within the space 404'. When the pusher 40' moves downward, the stopper 452' engages with the upper part of the first pusher part 41', and when the pusher 40' moves upward, the stopper 452' engages with the lower part of the second pusher part 42', thereby restricting the movement of both the first pusher part 41' and the second pusher part 42'.

Referring to Figure 28, sensor 471' may be a non-contact sensor. Sensor 471' can detect, in a non-contact manner, whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20. Sensor 471' may be positioned adjacent to the first container 20. Sensor 471' may be positioned horizontally away from the first container 20. Sensor 471' may be positioned adjacent to the second container 30.

When the second container 30 approaches the first container 20, the sensor 471' can detect an electromagnetic change. The sensor 471' can detect whether the second container 30 has coupled to the first container 20 by sensing the electromagnetic change.

For example, sensor 471' could be one of the following: a magnetic proximity sensor, an optical proximity sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, or an eddy current proximity sensor. This is merely an example; any sensor 471' that senses electromagnetic changes in a non-contact manner is acceptable, and it is not limited to the aforementioned sensors.

Therefore, whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20 can be sensed by the sensor 471' without requiring a separate terminal configuration for electrical connection. Thus, the configuration of the second container 30 for sensing is simplified, and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

Referring to Figures 1 to 28, an aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body housing a power supply, a first container detachably coupled to the body and containing a wick and a heater electrically connected to the power supply, and a second container detachably coupled to the first container and storing the liquid supplied to the wick.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the core may include a first core part located inside the first chamber of the first container, and a second core part protruding from the first core part to the outside of the first chamber through a liquid inlet formed in the first container, and receiving liquid from the second chamber of the second container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the periphery of the first core part may project horizontally outward from the periphery of the second core part.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the circumference of the first core part may be larger than the circumference of the liquid inlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the upper part of the first core part may be supported by the first container around the liquid inlet, and the lower part of the first core part may be supported by a supporter protruding from the lower part of the first container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a supporter for supporting the first core part and separating the first core part from one surface of the first chamber.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heater can be attached to one surface of the first core part, separated from one surface of the first chamber, to form a pattern.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a first terminal fixed to one surface of the first core part and formed at both ends of the heater, and a second terminal in contact with the first terminal, exposed to the outside of the first container, and electrically connected to the power supply.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, a first coupler may be included for detachably connecting the first container and the body.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second container may include a liquid outlet opening at the bottom of the second chamber, and an absorbent portion fixed to the bottom of the second container, covering the bottom of the liquid outlet, absorbing the liquid discharged from the liquid outlet, and contacting the core to transfer the absorbed liquid to the core.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second container may include a discharge guide formed to slope downward from the vicinity of the liquid discharge port toward the liquid discharge port.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second container may further include a film that is detachably attached to the lower part of the absorbent portion to prevent liquid permeation prior to the second container being coupled to the first container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first container may include a chamber inlet on one side of the first container that is open and communicates with the first chamber, a chamber outlet on the other side of the first chamber that is open and communicates with the first chamber, and an airflow discharge passage that is partitioned from the second chamber and communicates with the chamber outlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, a second coupler may be included for detachably connecting the second container and the body.

Referring to Figures 1 to 28, a cartridge according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first container comprising a first chamber, a wick, and a heater, and a second container detachably coupled to the first container and comprising a second chamber for storing a liquid supplied to the wick, wherein the first chamber includes a first airflow inlet and a first airflow outlet forming a first channel between them, and the second container may be configured to provide a second channel partitioned from the second chamber and communicating with the first airflow outlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the cartridge may further include a sealer that provides a seal between the first and second containers around the first airflow outlet when the second container is coupled to the first container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sealer can surround the first airflow outlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first channel may be positioned laterally offset from the position of the core.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first and second containers may be coupled to each other such that the second container is positioned above the first container, and the first airflow outlet may be formed at the top of the first chamber so as to be connected to the second channel on the upper side.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first airflow inlet may be formed at the bottom of the first chamber.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first airflow inlet and the first airflow outlet may be aligned vertically.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first airflow inlet may be formed on the side of the first chamber.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the core may include a first core part positioned in the first chamber, and a second core part protruding from the first core part through the liquid inlet of the first container to the outside of the first chamber and positioned to receive liquid from the second container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the cartridge further includes a supporter that supports the lower part of the first core part and separates the first core part from the lower surface of the first chamber, and the heater may be formed in a certain pattern on the lower surface of the first core part.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the supporter may be opened between the first channel and the heater.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the cartridge may further include a mouthpiece covering the second container and having a second airflow outlet communicating with the second channel.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when air from outside the first container flows into the first channel through the first airflow inlet and sequentially passes through the first airflow outlet and the second channel, the aerosol generated by the core can flow out of the first chamber and into the first channel through the first airflow outlet.

A cartridge according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first container comprising a first chamber and a wick and heater disposed in the first chamber, and a second container detachably coupled to the first container and comprising a second chamber for storing a liquid supplied to the wick, wherein the first chamber includes a first airflow inlet and a first airflow outlet forming a first channel through or adjacent to the wick, and the second container may be configured to provide a second channel partitioned from the second chamber and communicating with the first airflow outlet.

An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of this disclosure may include a body to which the first container is detachably coupled, and a second airflow inlet that opens in the body and communicates with the first airflow inlet.

Referring to Figures 1 to 28, a cartridge according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a first container having a liquid inlet that exposes the wick and a wick, a second container detachably coupled to the first container and supplying liquid to the wick through the liquid inlet, and a sealer that seals the first and second containers around the liquid inlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sealer may include a sealing wall surrounding the liquid inlet and projecting from the first container toward the second container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sealing wall may include a first sealing wall and a second sealing wall formed outside the first sealing wall.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second sealing wall may protrude longer than the first sealing wall, and the second container may include a recess into which the second sealing wall is inserted and tightly fitted.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second container may include an absorbent portion that covers the lower part of a liquid outlet from which the stored liquid is discharged, absorbs the liquid discharged from the liquid outlet, and contacts the core to transfer the absorbed liquid to the core; and a bracket that protrudes downward from the periphery of the liquid outlet, surrounds the absorbent portion, and secures the absorbent portion.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the recess surrounds the bracket, allowing the bracket to be in close contact with the first sealing wall.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the core may include a first core part located inside the first container, and a second core part protruding from the first core part through the liquid inlet to the outside of the first container and receiving liquid from the second chamber.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sealer may include a first chamber surrounding the second core part and sealing the space between the liquid inlet and the second core part.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the periphery of the first core part may project horizontally outward from the periphery of the second core part.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the circumference of the first core part may be larger than the circumference of the liquid inlet.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sealer may include a second chamber that surrounds the periphery of the liquid inlet, protrudes downward, and seals the space between the upper surface of the first core part and the wall on which the liquid inlet is formed.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first container may include a supporter that supports the lower part of the first core part.

An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of this disclosure may include a body that houses a power supply electrically connected to the heater, with the first container detachably coupled to it.

Referring to Figures 1 to 28, an aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body, a first container coupled to the body and containing a wick and a heater, a second container detachably coupled to the first container and supplying liquid to the wick, and a sensor installed in the body for sensing whether the first container and the second container are coupled to each other.

Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the sensor is a contact sensor and can sense physical contact when the second container is coupled with the first container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a pusher travel path having one end opening toward the second container and the other end opening toward the sensor, and a pusher movably disposed along the pusher travel path between the second container and the sensor. When the second container is coupled to the first container, the pusher can be pushed toward the sensor.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensor may include an actuator that is pushed by the pusher and provides force to the pusher in a direction away from the sensor.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a stopper that limits the range of movement of the pusher along the pusher's movement path.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the pusher may include a first pusher part located near the pusher travel path and a second pusher part located near the sensor. The stopper may be located between the first and second pusher parts.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first container has a first chamber in which the core and the heater are arranged, and the pusher travel path may be adjacent to the first chamber laterally and partitioned from the first chamber.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a deformable sealing film that covers the sensor and seals the space between the pusher and the actuator.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensor can sense electromagnetic changes due to the proximity of elements resulting from the coupling of the second container to the first container.

Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensor may be positioned adjacent to the first container.

The specific or other embodiments of the aforementioned embodiments of this disclosure are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or all elements of the aforementioned embodiments of this disclosure can be combined with or combined with other elements in terms of their configuration or function.

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. That is, even if the combination of configurations is not directly described, such combinations are possible unless otherwise stated as impossible.

While the embodiments have been described above with reference to numerous exemplary examples, those skilled in the art in the field relating to the principles of this disclosure should understand that many other modifications and embodiments are possible. More specifically, a variety of modifications and variations are possible in the components and/or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of this disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and/or arrangements, other applications will also become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (8)

The body and,
A first container, which includes a wick and a heater, is detachably connected to the body.
A second container is detachably connected to the first container and supplies liquid to the core,
A sensor installed in the body detects whether the first container and the second container are connected to each other,
The system includes a pusher, which is positioned in the first container and is movable between the second container and the sensor ,
The second container is an aerosol generating device that, when coupled to the first container, pushes the pusher toward the sensor . The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a contact sensor, and when the second container is coupled with the first container, the sensor detects physical contact. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the pusher is arranged to be movable along a pusher movement path between the second container and the sensor. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sensor is pushed by the pusher and includes an actuator that provides force to the pusher in a direction away from the sensor. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a stopper that limits the range of movement of the pusher along the pusher's movement path. The aforementioned pusher,
A first pusher part is located near the second container,
It includes a second pusher part positioned near the sensor,
The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the stopper is disposed between the first pusher part and the second pusher part. The first container comprises a first chamber in which the core and the heater are arranged,
The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the pusher movement path is adjacent to the first chamber in the lateral direction and is partitioned from the first chamber. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a deformable sealing membrane that covers the sensor and seals the space between the pusher and the actuator.