CN118102929A - Device for generating aerosols - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device may comprise: a main body including an insertion space; a sensor mounted at the body and configured to detect an electromagnetic characteristic of the surrounding environment; an upper housing detachably coupled to the main body and including an insertion hole corresponding to an opening of the insertion space; and a ground main plate coupled to the upper housing and extending along a perimeter of the upper housing and configured to electrically ground the sensor.

Description

Device for generating aerosols

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device.

Background

An aerosol-generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or substance by forming an aerosol. The medium may comprise a multicomponent material. The substance contained in the medium may be a multi-component flavouring substance. For example, the substance contained in the medium may include a nicotine component, an herbal component, and/or a coffee component. Recently, various researches have been conducted on aerosol generating devices.

Disclosure of Invention

Technical problem

It is an object of the present disclosure to address the above and other problems.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device that is capable of reducing noise of a sensor and preventing malfunction.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device that ensures structural stability.

Another object of the present disclosure is to dissipate heat generated by a device.

Technical proposal

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above object, an aerosol-generating device comprises: a main body including an insertion space; a sensor mounted at the body and configured to detect an electromagnetic characteristic of the surrounding environment; an upper housing detachably coupled to the main body and including an insertion hole corresponding to an opening of the insertion space; and a ground main plate coupled to the upper housing and extending along a perimeter of the upper housing and configured to electrically ground the sensor.

Advantageous effects of the invention

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device capable of reducing noise of a sensor and preventing malfunction may be provided.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating device with improved structural stability may be provided.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, heat generated in the device may be dissipated.

Additional applications of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description that follows. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art, it is to be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments (such as the preferred embodiments of the disclosure) are given by way of example only.

Drawings

The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 to 22 are diagrams showing examples of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals even though they are shown in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

In the following description, regarding constituent elements used in the following description, the suffixes "module" and "unit" are used only in view of convenience of description and have no meaning or function differentiated from each other.

In addition, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, a detailed description of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted when it may make the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification rather unclear. In addition, the drawings are provided only for better understanding of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, and are not intended to limit the technical ideas disclosed in the present specification. Accordingly, the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

It will be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. On the other hand, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element, there are no intervening elements present.

As used herein, the singular is also intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, the body 100 may include a lower body 110 and an upper body 120. The upper body 120 may be located above the lower body 110. The lower body 110 may extend vertically. The main body 100 may house therein components for driving the device. The upper body 120 may provide an insertion space 134 that is open upward. The insertion space 134 may be located inside the upper body 120. The insertion space 134 may extend vertically. The insertion space 134 may be formed in a tube 130 (see fig. 3) located inside the upper body 120.

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

The insertion hole 214 may be formed at the upper portion 212 of the upper case 200. The insertion hole 214 may correspond to an opening of the insertion space 134. The cap 215 may be movably mounted on the upper portion 212 of the upper housing 200. The sliding hole 213 may extend to one side from the insertion hole 214 in the upper portion 212 of the upper case 200. The cap 215 may move along the sliding hole 213. The cap 215 may open and close the insertion hole 214 and the insertion space 134. The rod 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 134 through the insertion hole 214. For example, the rod 400 may be a cigarette.

The outer wall 121 and the partition wall 125 may form a lateral portion of the upper body 120. The partition wall 125 may separate the cartridge coupling space 124a and the insertion space 134 (see fig. 3). The seating part 122 may extend to one side from a lower portion of the partition wall 125. The extension 140 may extend from an upper portion of the partition wall 125 to one side.

The cartridge coupling space 124a may be formed at one side of the upper body 120. The cartridge coupling space 124a may be defined by the seating portion 122 and the partition wall 125 of the upper body 120 and the extension 140. A lower portion of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the seating portion 122. One lateral portion of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the partition wall 125 of the upper body 120. An upper portion of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the extension 140. The cartridge coupling space 124a may be outwardly opened between the seating part 122 and the extension part 140.

The cartridge 300 may be coupled to one side of the upper body 120. The cartridge 300 may be inserted into the cartridge coupling space 124 a. The bottom of the cartridge 300 may be seated on the seating part 122. One lateral portion of the cartridge 300 may face the partition wall 125 of the main body 120. Another lateral portion of the cartridge 300 may be exposed to the outside of the upper body 120. The upper portion of the cartridge 300 may be covered by the extension 140.

Cartridge 300 may store a liquid therein. The cartridge 300 may be electrically connected to the body 100 through the cartridge terminal 128 exposed from the seating part 122. The cartridge 300 may receive power to generate an aerosol therein.

Referring to fig. 1 to 3, the cartridge 300 may include a first chamber C1. The first chamber C1 may store a liquid. Cartridge 300 may include a second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be separated from the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1.

The core 311 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The core 311 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 311 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The heater 312 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 312 may be wound around the core 311. The heater 312 may be electrically connected to the cartridge terminal 128 to receive power. The heater 312 may heat the core 311. When the heater 312 heats the wick 311 supplied with the liquid, aerosol may be generated in the second chamber C2.

The cartridge 300 may have a first inlet 3011. The first inlet 3011 may be formed at an upper end of the cartridge 300. The first inlet 3011 may be in communication with the exterior of the cartridge 300. The cartridge 300 may have a second inlet 3012. The second inlet 3012 may be formed at one side of the second chamber C2 and may communicate with the second chamber C2. The inflow channel 302 may connect the first and second inlets 3011, 3012. The inflow channel 302 may be positioned between the first and second inlets 3011, 3012. The inflow channel 302 may extend long in the vertical direction inside the cartridge 300. Cartridge 300 may have an outlet 303. An outlet 303 may be formed at the second chamber C2 to communicate with the outside of the cartridge 300. The outlet 303 may be opposite the second inlet 3012 with respect to the second chamber C2. When the cartridge 300 is coupled to the upper body 120, the outlet 303 may be connected to the connection channel 133.

The user may put the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 134 into the inlet and inhale air. In a state where the upper case 200 is coupled to the main body 100, air may be introduced into the first inlet 3011 through the opening 201 formed in the upper case 200. Air may be introduced from the outside of the cartridge 300 to the inside of the cartridge 300 through the first inlet 3011. Air introduced into the first inlet 3011 may sequentially pass through the inflow channel 302 and the second inlet 3012 to be introduced into the second chamber C2. The air introduced into the second chamber C2 may be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 300 through the outlet 303 along with the aerosol generated near the core 311. Air discharged through the outlet 303 may be supplied to the insertion space 134 and the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 134 through the connection passage 133.

Referring to fig. 3 and 4, the upper body 120 may include an outer wall 121 and a partition wall 125. The outer wall 121 and the partition wall 125 may be connected to each other. The pipe installation space 124 may be surrounded by the outer wall 121 and the partition wall 125. The tube installation space 124 may be opened upward. The pipe installation space 124 may extend vertically.

The partition wall 125 may extend vertically between the tube 130 and the cartridge coupling space 124a. The partition wall 125 may separate the pipe installation space 124 and the cartridge coupling space 124a. One surface of the partition wall 125 may face the pipe installation space 124, and the other surface of the partition wall 125 may face the cartridge coupling space 124a. The connection hole 123 may be formed by opening a lower portion of the partition wall 125. The connection hole 123 may communicate with the pipe installation space 124. The partition wall 125 may be formed between the insertion space 134 and the cartridge coupling space 124a.

The tube 130 may be elongated in a vertical direction. The tube 130 may be hollow. An insertion space 134 may be formed inside the tube 130. The insertion space 134 may be upwardly opened. The insertion space 134 may extend vertically. The connection passage 133 may be formed in the tube 130. The connection passage 133 may be formed under the insertion space 134. One end of the connection channel 133 may communicate with the outside of the tube 130, and the other end may communicate with the insertion space 134. The connection passage 133 may be bent to one side from the lower portion of the insertion space 134.

Referring to fig. 4 and 5, a tube 130 may be inserted into the tube installation space 124. The tube 130 may be surrounded by the outer wall 121 and the partition wall 125. The connection passage 133 may communicate with the connection hole 123.

The partition wall 125 may include a first partition wall portion 1251 and a second partition wall portion 1252. The first and second partition wall portions 1251 and 1252 may be formed in parallel to each other. The first partition wall portion 1251 may extend vertically. The second partition wall portion 1252 may extend vertically. The first partition wall 1251 may face one side of the pipe installation space 124 or the pipe 130. The second partition wall 1252 may face the cartridge coupling space 124a.

The partition wall 125 may provide a first space S1 therein. The first space S1 may be formed between the first and second partition wall portions 1251 and 1252. The first space S1 may extend vertically. The first space S1 may be opened upward. One side and the other side of the first space S1 may be covered with a first partition wall portion 1251 and a second partition wall portion 1252, respectively. The first partition wall 1251 may separate the pipe installation space 124 from the first space S1. The second partition wall 1252 may separate the cartridge coupling space 124a and the second space S2.

The bracket 127 may be positioned or fixed in the first space S1. The bracket 127 may extend longer in the vertical direction. The bracket 127 may support or fix the second main board 162 inserted into the first space S1.

One side of the connection member 126 may be disposed in the first space S1, and the other side of the connection member 126 may be disposed in the second space S2. The connection member 126 may be bent from the first space S1 and extend to the second space S2. One end of the first connection member 126 may be connected to a first main board 129 mounted under the upper body 120. The first main board 129 may be directly or indirectly connected to a power source, a memory, a control unit, a sensor, etc. provided inside the main body 100, or the memory, the control unit, the sensor, etc. may be mounted on the first main board 129. The first connector 126 may be conductive.

The upper body 120 may include an extension 140. The extension 140 may extend to one side from the upper end of the second partition wall portion 1252. The extension 140 may extend in a direction opposite to the tube installation space 124 or the tube 130 with respect to the partition wall 125. The extension portion 140 may extend in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the second partition wall portion 1252. The extension 140 may cover an upper side of the cartridge coupling space 124a or an upper side of the cartridge 300. The second space S2 may be formed inside the extension 140. The second space S2 may be defined as a space formed between the extension 140 and the inner cap 170 (see fig. 13). The second space S2 and the first space S1 may be connected.

The extension 140 may include an extension plate 141. The extension plate 141 may extend from the second partition wall portion 1252 to one side. The extension plate 141 may have a thin plate shape. The extension plate 141 may cover a lower portion of the second space S2.

The extension 140 may include a rim portion 142. The rim portion 142 may extend in the circumferential direction along an edge of the extension plate 141 and an upper portion of the outer wall 121 of the upper body 120. The rim portion 142 may include a portion protruding upward from an edge of the extension plate 141. The rim portion 142 may cover the periphery of the second space S2.

The sealing member 150 may be disposed above the extension plate 141. The sealing member 150 may be disposed in the second space S2. One side of the sealing member 150 may cover the upper end of the first partition wall portion 1251. The other side of the sealing member 150 may cover at least a portion of the extension plate 141. The sealing member 150 may include a main board insertion hole 154 and a column insertion hole 157. The main board insertion hole 154 and the opening of the first space S1 may communicate with each other. The sealing member 150 may have elasticity. For example, the sealing member 150 may be made of rubber or silicone material.

The sensor assembly 160 may be disposed in the first space S1 and the second space S2. One side of the sensor assembly 160 may be inserted into the first space S1 through the first main board insertion hole 154. The other side of the sensor assembly 160 may be disposed in the second space S2.

The covers 170, 180 may cover the first space S1. The covers 170, 180 may cover the second space S2. The sealing member 150 may closely contact between the covers 170, 180 and the partition wall 125 to seal one side of the first space S1 and the second space S2 from the insertion space 134. The sealing member 150 may be in close contact between the covers 170, 180 and the extension 140 to seal the other side of the second space S2.

The covers 170, 180 may include an inner cover 170. The inner cap 170 may be disposed over the sealing member 150. The inner cover 170 may cover an upper portion of the sealing member 150 and an upper portion of the sensor assembly 160. The inner cap 170 may be coupled or secured to the extension 140 and the tube 130 by screws 1771, 1772. The inner cap 170 may press the sealing member 150 downward by the screws 1771, 1772. The inner cover 170 may cover an upper portion of the second space S2 (see fig. 13). The inner cover 170 may cover the periphery of the second space S2 together with the rim portion 142.

The covers 170, 180 may include an outer cover 180. The outer cap 180 may be disposed over the inner cap 170. The outer cap 180 may cover an upper portion of the inner cap 170 and an upper portion of the tube 130. The outer cover 180 may include a cover hole 184. The cover hole 184 may correspond to an opening of the insertion space 134. The outer cover 180 may be assembled or coupled to the upper body 120 and the extension 140.

Referring to fig. 6, the sensor assembly 160 may include a first sensor 161. The sensor assembly 160 may include a second motherboard 162. The sensor assembly 160 may include a third motherboard 163. The sensor assembly 160 may include a second connector 166. The sensor assembly 160 may include a first terminal 168.

The first sensor 161 may detect the flow of air. The first sensor 161 may detect that air flows around the first inlet 3011 (refer to fig. 3) of the cartridge 300. The first sensor 161 may be an air flow rate sensor 161.

The second main board 162 may be a Rigid Printed Circuit Board (RPCB), and the third main board 163 may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB). The second motherboard 162 and the third motherboard 163 may be connected to form a Rigid Flexible Printed Circuit Board (RFPCB). The second main plate 162 may have a plate shape extending in the vertical direction. The third main board 163 may be connected to an upper end of the second main board 162. The third main plate 163 may be bent from the second main plate 162 toward the second space S2. One end of the third main board 163 may be connected to the first sensor 161. The other end of the third main board 163 may be connected to the second main board 162.

An electrode pattern for sensing various information may be formed on the second main board 162. The second motherboard 162 may be referred to as a second sensor 162. The second sensor 162 may detect a change in electromagnetic characteristics of its surroundings. The second sensor 162 may sense various information according to a change in permittivity.

For example, the second sensor 162 may sense information about whether the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 134, information about the humidity of the stick 400, information about the type of the stick 400, information about whether the stick 400 is a product-only stick or a genuine stick, information about whether the cartridge 300 is mounted on the body 100, information about the type of the mounted cartridge 300, information about the remaining amount of liquid stored in the cartridge 300, and the like. The second sensor 162 may be a capacitive sensor 162.

The second connector 166 may be mounted on the third main board 163. The second connector 166 may be conductive. The second connector 166 may be electrically connected to the first connector 126. Accordingly, electrical signals may be exchanged between the first main board 129 (refer to fig. 5), the second main board 162, the third main board 163, and the first sensor 161.

The first terminal 168 may be mounted on the third main board 163. The first terminal 168 may be a clip-type or pogo pin type conductive terminal. The first terminal 168 may face upward.

Referring to fig. 6 to 8, the first sensing hole 144 may be formed by opening the extension plate 141. The first sensing hole 144 may be open toward the cartridge coupling space 124 a. The sealing coupling protrusion 145 may protrude upward from the extension plate 141. The sealing coupling protrusion 145 may have a protrusion shape. The sealing coupling protrusion 145 may have a non-circular cross section. The sealing coupling protrusion 145 may be located around the first sensing hole 144.

The posts 146 may protrude upward from the extension plate 141. The post 146 may have a cylindrical shape. The post 146 may have a screw fastening hole 147 therein, and screws 1771 and 1772 (refer to fig. 9) may be coupled to the screw fastening hole 147. The post 146 may be any one of a plurality of posts 146. The plurality of posts 146 may be arranged symmetrically to one another.

The sealing member 150 may be coupled to the extension 140. The sealing member 150 may cover the extension plate 141. The edge of the sealing member 150 may be in close contact with the rim portion 142. The periphery of the sensor assembly 160 may be sealed by the sealing member 150.

The sealing member 150 may include a first sealing portion 151 and a second sealing portion 152. The first sealing part 151 may have a bar shape elongated in one direction. The second sealing part 152 may have a plate shape. The first sealing part 151 and the second sealing part 152 may be spaced apart from each other.

The third sealing portion 153 may be located between the first sealing portion 151 and the second sealing portion 152. One end of the third sealing part 153 may be connected to the first sealing part 151, and the other end of the third sealing part 153 may be connected to the second sealing part 152. The third sealing portion 153 may connect the first sealing portion 151 and the second sealing portion 152. The third sealing portion 153 may extend in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the first sealing portion 151. The third sealing portion 153 may extend from the first sealing portion 151 toward the second sealing portion 152. The third sealing part 153 may have a bar shape. The third sealing portion 153 may be provided in a pair. Any one of the pair of third sealing parts 153 may be connected to one end of the first sealing part 151 and one side of the second sealing part 152, and the other one of the pair of third sealing parts 153 may be connected to the other end of the first sealing part 151 and the other side of the second sealing part 152.

The main board insertion hole 154 may be formed by opening the sealing member 150. The main board insertion hole 154 may be defined as a space formed between the first sealing part 151, the second sealing part 152, and the pair of third sealing parts 153. The main board insertion hole 154 may be opened up and down.

The seal coupling hole 155 may be formed by opening the second sealing portion 152. The sealing coupling hole 155 may correspond to the sealing coupling protrusion 145. The sealing coupling hole 155 may have a non-circular cross section. A protrusion guide surface 1551 may be formed around a lower portion of the sealing coupling hole 155. The protrusion guide surface 1551 may be formed to be inclined upward from the lower surface of the second sealing part 152 toward the sealing coupling hole 155. The protrusion guide surface 1551 may extend along the circumference of the sealing coupling hole 155. Accordingly, the sealing coupling protrusion 145 may be guided to the sealing coupling hole 155 by the protrusion guide surface 1551 and inserted into the sealing coupling hole 155 to be assembled.

The sensor receiving portion 156 may be formed in the second sealing portion 152 around the sealing coupling hole 155. The sensor receiving portion 156 may have a shape protruding upward from the second sealing portion 152. The sensor receiving part 156 may internally form a receiving groove 1565. The receiving groove 1565 may be upwardly open. A lower portion of the receiving groove 1565 is covered by the receiving portion bottom 1561 and may communicate with a second sensing hole 1564 formed by opening the receiving portion bottom 1561. The second sensing hole 1564 may correspond to the first sensing hole 144. The lateral sides of the receiving recess 1565 may be covered by the receiving portion lateral walls 1562. Receptacle transverse wall 1562 may extend along the perimeter of receptacle recess 1565. The receiving portion lateral wall 1562 may be formed to be inclined such that the receiving groove 1565 is gradually narrowed from the upper side to the lower side.

The column insertion hole 157 may be formed by opening the second sealing part 152. The column insertion holes 157 may correspond to the columns 146. The column insertion hole 157 may have a circular shape. A plurality of column insertion holes 157 may be provided. The post 146 may be inserted into the post insertion hole 157 for assembly.

The inner surface 1511 of the first sealing part 151 may be a surface facing the main board insertion hole 154. The inner surface 1511 may face in a direction crossing the upper surface 1512 of the first sealing portion 151. The inner surface 1511 may be closer to the main board insertion hole 154 than the upper surface 1512.

The first sealing part 151 may include a main board guide surface 1513. A motherboard guiding surface 1513 may be formed between the inner surface 1511 and the upper surface 1512. The main plate guide surface 1513 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the first sealing part 151. The main plate guide surface 1513 may be inclined from the upper surface 1512 toward the inner surface 1511. The main board guide surface 1513 may face the main board insertion hole 154. The main board guide surface 1513 may be inclined such that the main board insertion hole 154 becomes narrower toward the lower side. Therefore, even when the second main plate 162 is in contact with the first sealing part 151, the second main plate 162 may be guided to pass through the main plate insertion hole 154 by the main plate guide surface 1513.

A fitting groove 1515 may be formed on a lower surface of the first sealing part 151. The fitting groove 1515 may be opened downward. The fitting groove 1515 may extend longer in the longitudinal direction of the first sealing part 151. The fitting groove 1515 may correspond to the first partition wall portion 1251. The first partition wall portion 1251 may be inserted into the fitting groove 1515 to be fitted.

Referring to fig. 6 to 9, the sealing member 150 may be assembled or coupled to the extension 140. When the sealing member 150 is assembled to the extension portion 140, the first sealing portion 151 may be in close contact with the upper end of the first partition wall portion 1251. The second sealing part 152 may be in close contact with the extension plate 141. The periphery of the sealing member 150 may be in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the rim portion 142.

The sealing coupling protrusion 145 may be inserted into the sealing coupling hole 155 to be assembled. The second sensing holes 1564 may be positioned to correspond to the first sensing holes 144 and communicate with each other. The post 146 may be inserted into the post insertion hole 157 for assembly. Screw fastening holes 147 formed inside the posts 146 may pass through the post insertion holes 157 and open upward. The main board insertion hole 154 may be positioned above the first space S1 to communicate with the first space S1.

Accordingly, the sealing member 150 may be coupled to the extension 140 to be stably fixed.

The first sensor 161 may be accommodated in the accommodating groove 1565 to be in close contact with the sensor accommodating part 156. The first sensor 161 may face downward in the sensor housing 156. The first sensor 161 may be connected to the outside through the first sensing hole 144 and the second sensing hole 1564. The second main board 162 (or the second sensor 162) may be inserted into the first space S1 through the main board insertion hole 154.

The first connection 126 may be exposed from the first space S1 to the extension 140. The first connector 126 may be upwardly exposed through a main board insertion hole 154 of the sealing member 150 coupled to the extension 140. The second connector 166 mounted on the third main board 163 may be in contact with the first connector 126 exposed from the main board insertion hole 154 to be electrically connected. The sensor assembly 160 may be fixed relative to the extension 140. The sensor assembly 160 may be disposed within the perimeter of the sealing member 150.

Referring to fig. 9 to 11, the first screw fastening hole 137 may be formed by upwardly opening an upper portion of the tube 130. Threads may be formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first screw fastening hole 137. The first screw fastening hole 137 may be formed in plurality. A second screw fastening hole 147 may be formed inside the column 146. Threads may be formed on an inner circumferential surface of the second screw fastening hole 147. The second screw fastening holes 147 may be formed in plurality.

The inner cover 170 may include an inner plate 171. The inner plate 171 may cover the sealing member 150 and the sensor assembly 160. The inner plate 171 may cover at least a portion of the upper portion of the tube 130. The inner plate 171 may support the sealing member 150, the sensor assembly 160, and the tube 130, and may prevent them from being separated.

Screw through holes 1741, 1742 may be formed by opening the inner plate 171. Screws 1771, 1772 may pass through the screw through holes 1741, 1742 to be fastened to the screw fastening holes 137, 147 and couple the inner plate 171 and the upper body 120 to each other. Screws 1771, 1772 may be threaded into the screw fastening holes 137, 147 to press the inner plate 171 downward. An inner plate 171 may be disposed inside the rim portion 142.

A first screw through hole 1741 may be formed at one side of the inner plate 171. The first screw through holes 1741 may be formed in plurality. Each of the plurality of first screw through holes 1741 may be formed at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of first screw fastening holes 137. The first screw 1771 may pass through the first screw through hole 1471 to be screwed into the first screw fastening hole 137.

A second screw through hole 1742 may be formed at the other side of the inner plate 171. The second screw through holes 1742 may be formed in plurality. Each of the plurality of second screw through holes 1742 may be formed at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of second screw fastening holes 147. The second screw 1772 may pass through the second screw through hole 1472 to be screwed into the second screw fastening hole 147.

The pressing protrusion 175 may protrude downward from the lower surface of the inner plate 171. The pressing protrusion 175 may extend along an edge of the sealing member 150 and a periphery of the sensor receiving part 156. The pressing protrusion 175 may press the sealing member 150.

The pressing protrusion 175 may include a first pressing portion 1751. The first pressing part 1751 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first sealing part 151. The first pressing portion 1751 may extend longer along the first sealing portion 151. The width of the first pressing part 1751 may be thinner than the width of the upper surface of the first sealing part 151. The first pressing portion 1751 may press the upper surface of the first sealing portion 151 downward.

The pressing protrusion 175 may include a second pressing portion 1752. The second pressing part 1752 may extend along the outer periphery of the sensor housing 156 formed in the second sealing part 152. The second pressing portion 1752 may press down an upper surface of the second sealing portion 152 formed around the sensor housing portion 156.

The pressing protrusion 175 may include a third pressing portion 1753. The third pressing portion 1753 may connect the first pressing portion 1751 and the second pressing portion 1752. Each of the pair of third pressing parts 1753 may be formed at a position corresponding to each of the pair of third sealing parts 153. The third pressing portion 1753 may extend longer along the third sealing portion 153. The third pressing portion 1753 may have a width thinner than that of the upper surface of the third sealing portion 153. The third pressing portion 1753 may press the upper surface of the third sealing portion 153 downward.

Accordingly, by pressing down the sealing member 150, the inner plate 171 can be brought into close contact with the sealing member 150. Further, the first space S1 and the second space S2 are sealed, and foreign substances such as liquid are prevented from flowing into the first space S1 and the second space S2, and the connection 126 and the sensor assembly 160 can be protected from the foreign substances.

In addition, since one side of the inner cap 170 is coupled to the extension 140 and the other side of the inner cap 170 is coupled to the tube 130, the tube 130 may be stably fixed while an upper portion of the tube 130 inserted into the upper body 120 is supported. Further, the sealing member 150 may be stably fixed.

Referring to fig. 9 to 12, an outer cover 180 may be disposed over the upper body 120 and the extension 140. The outer cover 180 may be coupled to the upper body 120 and/or the extension 140. The outer cover 180 may be disposed inside the rim portion 142. The outer cover 180 may cover or block the gaps between the components of the interior of the rim portion 142.

The outer cover 180 may include an outer plate 181. An outer plate 181 may be disposed inside the rim portion 142 to cover the inner cap 170 and the tube 130. The periphery of the outer plate 181 may be in contact or close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the rim portion 142. The cover hole 184 may be formed by making one side of the outer plate 181 open up and down. The cover hole 184 may correspond to an opening of the insertion space 134.

The cover coupling groove 185 may be formed at the lower side of the outer plate 181. A plurality of cover coupling grooves 185 may be provided. The cover coupling groove 185 may be positioned adjacent to an edge of the outer plate 181. The cover coupling groove 185 may be opened in a lateral direction crossing the vertical direction.

Hooks 186 may protrude downwardly from the outer plate 181. A plurality of hooks 186 may be provided. Hooks 186 may be positioned adjacent to the edges of the outer plate 181.

The cover coupling protrusion 125 may protrude inward from the inner circumferential surface of the rim portion 142 in the upper circumference of the tube 130. The cover coupling protrusion 125 may be formed in plurality. The cover coupling protrusion 125 may correspond to the cover coupling groove 185. Accordingly, the cover coupling protrusion 125 may be inserted into the cover coupling groove 185 to couple one side of the outer cover 180 and the upper body 120 to each other.

The hook engagement groove 176 may be formed at one side of the inner plate 171. The hook engagement recess 176 may be open in a lateral direction. The hooks 186 may be inserted into the hook engagement grooves 176 to engage with the inner plate 171. Accordingly, the other side of the outer cap 180 and the inner cap 170 may be coupled to each other, and the other side of the outer cap 180 may be fixed to the extension 140 side.

The upper body 120 may block a gap between the tube 130 and the outer wall 121 or between the tube 130 and the rim 142. The upper body 120 may block a gap between the tube 130 and the partition wall 125. The upper body 120 may block a gap between the tube 130 and the inner plate 171. The upper body 120 may block the gap between the inner plate 171 and the rim portion 142. The upper body 120 may block the gap between the sealing member 150 and the rim portion 142.

Accordingly, it is possible to form the upper outer portions of the upper body 120 and the extension 140, and prevent foreign matter from entering the gap between the components from the outside.

The second terminal 178 may be coupled to the inner plate 171. The inner plate 171 may be formed by injection into the second terminal 178. An upper end of the second terminal 178 may be exposed by protruding upward from the inner plate 171. A lower end of the second terminal 178 may be exposed by protruding downward from the inner plate 171. The second terminal 178 may be conductive. A lower portion of the second terminal 178 may be electrically connected to the first terminal 168 coupled with the second connector 166.

The first terminal hole 188 may be formed by opening one side of the outer plate 181. The first terminal hole 188 may correspond to the second terminal 178. An upper end of the second terminal 178 may be exposed to an upper side of the outer cover 180 through the first terminal hole 188.

Referring to fig. 3 and 13, the sensor assembly 160 may be disposed in a space separate from the tube 130 and the cartridge 300. The sensor assembly 160 may be disposed in the first space S1 and the second space S2. The second main board 162 (or the second sensor 162) may be disposed in the first space S1. The first sensor 161 may be disposed in the second space S2. The third main board 163 may be disposed in the second space S2. The first connection member 126 may be exposed from the first space S1 to the second space S2 (refer to fig. 6). The second connector 166 may be disposed in the second space S2. The second connector 166 may be connected to the first connector 126 in the second space S2.

The first sealing portion 151 may be disposed between the first partition wall portion 1251 and the inner panel 171. The first sealing part 151 may be in close contact with the upper end of the first partition wall part 1251. The first sealing portion 151 may be in close contact with the lower end of the inner plate 171.

The sensor receiving portion 156 of the second sealing portion 152 may seal the periphery of the first sensing hole 144. The sensor receiving part 156 may be in close contact with the extension plate 141 around the first sensing hole 144. The second sensing hole 1564 formed in the sensor housing 156 may communicate with the first sensing hole 144. The sensor receiving part 156 may be in close contact with the first sensor 161.

Accordingly, foreign substances or aerosols discharged from the vicinity of the opening of the tube 130 can be prevented from flowing into the first space S1. Further, foreign matter may be prevented from flowing into the second space S2 through the first sensing hole 144. In addition, a malfunction of the main board or the sensor can be prevented.

Referring to fig. 14, the upper case 200 may include an outer case 210. The upper case 200 may include an inner case 220. The upper case 200 may include a ground motherboard 230.

The outer case 210 may form an outer shape of the upper case 200. The outer case 210 may have a hollow shape with an opened lower portion. The outer case 210 may include a lateral wall 211 forming the periphery of the hollow portion and an upper wall 212 covering the upper portion of the hollow portion.

The outer window 216 may be formed on the lateral wall 211 of the outer housing 210. The outer window 216 may extend longer in the vertical direction. The outer window 216 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 300. The first insertion hole 214 and the sliding hole 213 may be formed in the upper wall 212. A cap 215 for opening and closing the first insertion hole 214 may be mounted on the upper wall 212 of the outer case 210.

The inner case 220 may be inserted into the hollow of the outer case 210 and coupled thereto. The inner case 220 may surround the hollow of the upper case 200. The inner case 220 may have a hollow shape with an opened lower portion. The inner case 220 may include a lateral wall 221 forming a periphery of the hollow portion and an upper wall 222 covering an upper portion of the hollow portion.

The inner window 226 may be formed on a lateral wall 221 of the inner housing 220. The inner window 226 may extend longer in the vertical direction. The inner window 226 may correspond to the outer window 216. The second insertion hole 224 may be formed by opening the upper wall 222 of the inner case 220. The second insertion hole 224 may correspond to the first insertion hole 214. The rail 223 may extend from the upper wall 222 of the inner case 220 in a direction in which the sliding hole 213 extends. The rail 223 supports a lower portion of the cap 215 and may guide the cap 215 to move along the sliding hole 213.

The ground plate 230 may extend along the perimeter of the lateral wall 221 of the inner housing 220 to form a perimeter. The ground plate 230 may surround the outside of the lateral wall 221 of the inner case 220. The ground main plate 230 may be disposed between the inner case 220 and the outer case 210. The ground plate 230 may ground the second sensor 162 (refer to fig. 6).

The cutout space 236 may be formed by cutting the ground main plate 230. Cutout spaces 236 may be formed at positions corresponding to the inner window 226 and the outer window 216. The size of the cutout space 236 may be larger than the sizes of the inner and outer windows 226, 216, and the ground main plate 230 may not cover the inner and outer windows 226, 216.

Referring to fig. 15, the ground main board 230 may be rolled up to form a space 234 therein. The ground plate 230 may be flexible. The ground main plate 230 may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB). The size of the gap 237 and the space 234 formed between the two ends of the ground plate 230 may be varied.

The ground main board 230 may include a connection portion 232. The connection part 232 may be formed at an upper end of the ground main plate 230. The connection portion 232 may be formed by bending from an upper end of one side of the ground main plate 230 toward a space 234 inside the ground main plate 230. The connection portion 232 may be bent in the inner thickness direction of the ground main plate 230. The connection 232 may be conductive. The third terminal 238 may be mounted on the connection 232. The third terminal 238 may face downward from the lower surface of the connection 232. The third terminal 238 may be a clip-type or pogo pin-type conductive terminal (see fig. 22). The third terminal 238 may be electrically connected to the ground motherboard 230.

Referring to fig. 16, the second terminal hole 228 may be formed by opening one side of the upper wall 222 of the inner case 220 up and down. The second terminal hole 228 may correspond to the third terminal 238. The second terminal hole 228 may be formed adjacent to an edge of the upper wall 222. The locking protrusion 227 may be formed to protrude from the upper wall 222 to an upper side of the second terminal hole 228.

The ribs 2231, 2232 may protrude from the lateral wall 221 of the inner case 220 in the outer thickness direction. The ribs 2231, 2232 may extend along the perimeter of the transverse wall 221 to form a perimeter.

The first rib 2231 may be adjacent to the upper wall 222 of the inner case 220. The first rib 2231 may be formed on an upper end of the inner case 220. The first rib 2231 may protrude from the lateral wall 221 to form a first locking protrusion 2231a downward.

The second rib 2232 may be spaced downwardly from the first rib 2231. The second rib 2232 may be formed at a lower end of the inner case 220. The second rib 2232 may protrude from the lateral wall 221 to form a second locking protrusion 2232a upward. The coupling protrusion 225 may protrude from the second rib 2232. The plurality of coupling protrusions 225 may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the second rib 2232.

Referring to fig. 17 to 19, a ground main plate 230 may be coupled to the inner case 220 to cover a lateral wall 221 of the inner case 220. The cutout space 236 may correspond to the inner window 226.

When the ground main plate 230 is coupled to the inner case 220, the connection portion 232 of the upper side of the third terminal 238 may be inserted into the second terminal hole 228 to cover the second terminal hole 228. The third terminal 238 may be exposed downward through the second terminal hole 228. Accordingly, the third terminal 238 may be exposed toward the hollow 204 (refer to fig. 20) inside the inner case 220.

The locking protrusion 227 may be provided at an upper side of the connection part 232. The upper surface of the connection part 232 may be caught by the locking protrusion 227. The locking protrusion 227 may limit the vertical movement of the connection portion 232. Accordingly, the connection portion 232 and the third terminal 238 may be prevented from being separated upward from the second terminal hole 228, and positions of the connection portion 232 and the third terminal 238 may be fixed.

The ground main plate 230 may be disposed between the first rib 2231 and the second rib 2232. The upper end of the ground main plate 230 may be located under the first rib 2231. The upper end of the ground main plate 230 may be supported by the first locking protrusion 2231a of the first rib 2231. The lower end of the ground main plate 230 may be located above the second rib 2232. The lower end of the ground main plate 230 may be supported by the second locking protrusion 2232a of the second rib 2232.

The inner housing 220 and the ground main plate 230 may be inserted into the hollow of the outer housing 210. The inner housing 220 and the outer housing 210 may be coupled.

The coupling protrusion 225 may couple the lateral wall 221 of the inner case 220 and the lateral wall 211 of the outer case 210 in a snap-fit manner by being inserted into a groove formed at the inner side of the outer case 210. The upper wall 222 of the inner housing 220 may be coupled to the upper wall 212 of the outer housing 210. The first and second insertion holes 214 and 224 may correspond to each other. The inner window 226 and the outer window 216 may correspond to each other.

The perimeter of the ground plate 230 may be disposed between the lateral wall 211 of the outer housing 210 and the lateral wall 221 of the inner housing 220. The lateral wall 211 of the outer case 210 may cover the outer circumferential surface of the ground main plate 230. The lateral wall 221 of the inner case 220 may cover the inner circumferential surface of the ground main plate 230. The ribs 2231, 2232 may contact the lateral wall 211 of the outer case 210 to block a space in which the upper and lower ends of the ground main plate 230 may move. The connection 232 may be disposed between the upper wall 222 of the inner housing 220 and the upper wall 212 of the outer housing 210.

Accordingly, it is possible to fix the position of the ground main plate 230 and prevent the ground main plate 230 from being separated from the inner case 220.

Referring to fig. 20 to 22, the third terminal 238 may be exposed through the hollow 204 of the upper case 200. The third terminal 238 may face the hollow 204 from the inside of the upper case 200. The third terminal 238 may be exposed through the hollow 204 in the upper portion of the upper case 200 and may face downward. The third terminal 238 may protrude from the inner housing 220 into the hollow 204. The third terminal 238 may be a clip-type or pogo pin type conductive terminal.

The upper case 200 may be detachably coupled or mounted to the upper body 120. When the upper case 200 is separated from the upper body 120, the third terminal 238 may be separated from the second terminal 178 and may not be electrically connected. When the upper case 200 is mounted on the upper body 120, the upper case 200 may cover the upper body 120 to surround the upper body 120. The ground main board 230 may cover the upper body 120 to surround the upper body 120. The ground motherboard 230 may surround the second sensor 162 (refer to fig. 6). The third terminal 238 may be in contact with an upper end of the second terminal 178 to be electrically connected when the upper housing 200 is mounted on the upper body 120. The third terminal 238 may be electrically connected to the first terminal 168.

Accordingly, when the upper case 200 is coupled to the upper body 120, the ground main plate 230 and the second sensor 162 may be connected to each other, and the second sensor 162 may be grounded through the ground main plate 230.

Further, when the second sensor 162 is operated, sensing noise in the second sensor 162 generated by causing a change in permittivity in the second sensor 162 by bringing a body or the like of a user into contact with the aerosol-generating device can be prevented. For example, the ground main plate 230 connected to the second sensor 162 may prevent noise generated near the second sensor 162 from the outside of the upper case 200, so that accuracy may be improved when sensing information about the remaining amount of the stick or the liquid stored in the cartridge.

The windows 216, 226 may be formed at positions corresponding to the first chamber C1, and may extend in a vertical direction along the height of the first chamber C1. The capacity or state of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 300 can be visually checked through the windows 216, 226 formed in the upper case 200 of the first chamber C1.

Referring to fig. 1 to 22, an aerosol-generating device according to an aspect of the present disclosure may comprise: a body including an insertion space; a sensor mounted at the body and configured to detect an electromagnetic characteristic of an ambient environment; an upper housing detachably coupled to the main body and including an insertion hole corresponding to an opening of the insertion space; and a ground motherboard coupled to the upper housing and extending along a perimeter of the upper housing and configured to electrically ground the sensor.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may comprise: a second terminal connected to the sensor and exposed from the main body; and a third terminal connected to the ground main plate and mounted at the upper housing to be exposed to an inside of the upper housing to contact the second terminal when the upper housing is coupled to the main body.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the second terminal may be exposed upward from an upper portion of the main body, and wherein the third terminal is exposed downward from an upper wall of the upper housing.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the third terminal may be separated from the second terminal when the upper housing is separated from the main body.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, wherein at least one of the second terminal or the third terminal may be a clip pin or a pogo pin.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the upper case may include: an upper wall covering an upper end of the main body; and a lateral wall covering a lateral surface of the perimeter of the body; wherein the ground plate may be mounted at the transverse wall to extend along a periphery of the transverse wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper case may include: an inner housing; and an outer case coupled to surround an outside of the inner case, wherein the ground main plate may be disposed between the inner case and the outer case.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the inner housing may include: a first rib supporting an upper end of the ground motherboard; and a second rib supporting a lower end of the ground main plate.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may comprise: a second terminal connected to the sensor and exposed from the main body; a terminal hole formed at an upper wall of the inner case; a connection portion at an upper end of the ground main plate, the connection portion being bent inward to be disposed in the terminal hole; and a third terminal mounted on the connection portion and exposed to an inside of the inner case to contact the second terminal.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further include a locking protrusion protruding from the inner housing at the terminal hole and configured to contact the connection portion to limit vertical movement of the connection portion when the third terminal contacts the second terminal.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the ground motherboard may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB).

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper case 200 may include a cap configured to cover or expose the insertion hole.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a cartridge configured to store a liquid and coupled with the body adjacent to the insertion space, wherein the sensor may be disposed between the insertion space and the cartridge.

Certain embodiments of the above disclosure or other embodiments are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all of the elements of the above disclosed embodiments may be combined with one another or with one another in configuration or function.

For example, the configuration "a" described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawing and the configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawing may be combined with each other. That is, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except the case where the combination is not described.

While embodiments have been described with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (14)

1. An aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device comprising:

a body including an insertion space;

a sensor mounted at the body and configured to detect an electromagnetic characteristic of an ambient environment;

An upper housing detachably coupled to the main body and including an insertion hole corresponding to an opening of the insertion space; and

A ground motherboard coupled to the upper housing and extending along a perimeter of the upper housing and configured to electrically ground the sensor.

2. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, the aerosol-generating device further comprising:

a second terminal connected to the sensor and exposed from the main body; and

A third terminal connected to the ground main plate and mounted at the upper housing to be exposed to an inside of the upper housing to contact the second terminal when the upper housing is coupled to the main body.

3. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein the second terminal is exposed upwardly from an upper portion of the body, and

Wherein the third terminal is exposed downward from an upper wall of the upper housing.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein the third terminal is separated from the second terminal when the upper housing is separated from the body.

5. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the second or third terminals is a clip pin or a pogo pin.

6. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the upper housing comprises:

An upper wall covering an upper end of the main body; and

A lateral wall covering a lateral surface of a perimeter of the body;

Wherein the ground plate is mounted at the transverse wall to extend along a periphery of the transverse wall.

7. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the upper housing comprises:

An inner housing; and

An outer housing coupled to surround an exterior of the inner housing,

Wherein the ground main plate is disposed between the inner housing and the outer housing.

8. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, wherein the inner housing comprises:

A first rib supporting an upper end of the ground motherboard; and

And a second rib supporting a lower end of the ground main plate.

9. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, the aerosol-generating device further comprising:

a second terminal connected to the sensor and exposed from the main body;

A terminal hole formed at an upper wall of the inner case;

A connection portion at an upper end of the ground main plate, the connection portion being bent inward to be disposed in the terminal hole; and

And a third terminal mounted on the connection portion and exposed to an inside of the inner case to contact the second terminal.

10. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 9, the aerosol-generating device further comprising:

A locking protrusion protruding from the inner housing at the terminal hole and configured to contact the connection portion to restrict vertical movement of the connection portion when the third terminal contacts the second terminal.

11. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the ground motherboard is a flexible printed circuit board, FPCB.

12. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the upper housing comprises a cap configured to cover or expose the insertion aperture.

13. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is arranged adjacent to the insertion space.

14. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 13, further comprising a cartridge configured to store a liquid and coupled to the body adjacent to the insertion space,

Wherein the sensor is disposed between the insertion space and the cartridge.