CN118201516A

CN118201516A - Aerosol generating device

Info

Publication number: CN118201516A
Application number: CN202280069074.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 曺炳盛; 朴相珪; 李宗燮
Original assignee: KT&G Corp
Current assignee: KT&G Corp
Priority date: 2021-10-19
Filing date: 2022-10-19
Publication date: 2024-06-14

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure includes: a housing having an elongated insertion space defined therein; a door configured to open and close the elongated insertion space; a magnetic sensor configured to detect a magnetic field corresponding to the door; a capacitive sensor disposed adjacent the elongated insertion space; and a controller. The controller determines whether the object is inserted into the elongated insertion space using the magnetic sensor, and determines whether the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a stick using the capacitive sensor.

Description

Aerosol generating device

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 an aerosol generating device.

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 can quickly determine whether a rod is inserted therein.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device that is capable of determining at least one of: whether a rod is inserted therein; or whether the inserted stick is a used stick.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device that can improve the accuracy of rod determination.

It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device capable of minimizing an amount of power consumed for determining an insertion space of an insertion rod.

Technical proposal

An aerosol-generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above and other objects may include: a housing having an elongated insertion space defined therein; a door configured to open and close the insertion space; a magnetic sensor configured to detect a magnetic field corresponding to the door; a capacitive sensor disposed adjacent to the insertion space; and a controller. The controller may determine whether the object is inserted into the insertion space using the magnetic sensor, and may determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a stick using the capacitive sensor.

Advantageous effects

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, whether a stick is inserted may be quickly determined.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the following may be determined: whether a rod is inserted; or whether the inserted stick is a used stick.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the determination accuracy of the stick may be improved.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the amount of power consumed for determining the insertion space of the insertion rod may be minimized.

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

fig. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

Fig. 2 to 4 are views for explaining an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 5 to 7 are views for explaining a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 8 to 19 are views for explaining an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 20 and 21 are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 22 is a view for explaining the operation of the aerosol-generating device; and

Fig. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an aerosol-generating device according to another 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. The same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals even though they are depicted in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

In the following description, for constituent elements used in the following description, suffixes "module" and "unit" are used only in consideration of convenience of description. "Module" and "unit" do not have mutually distinguishing meanings or functions.

Further, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, when a detailed description of known functions and configurations incorporated herein may obscure the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Further, 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 should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," and the like may be used herein to describe various components. However, these components 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. However, it should be understood that intermediate components may be present. On the other hand, when one component is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another component, there are no intervening components present.

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

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

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

In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating device 10 may be composed of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol-generating device 10 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating device 10 may be comprised of a cartridge and a body containing an aerosol-generating substance. In this case, the components included in the aerosol-generating device 10 may be located in at least one of the body or the cartridge.

The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communicating with external devices and/or networks. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 11 may comprise a communication module for wireless communication, such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), zigBee, or Near Field Communication (NFC).

The input/output interface 12 may include an input device (not shown) for receiving commands from a user and/or an output device (not shown) for outputting information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, physical buttons, a microphone, and the like. For example, the output device may include: display means for outputting visual information, such as a display or a Light Emitting Diode (LED); audio means for outputting audible information, such as a speaker or buzzer; a motor for outputting haptic information, such as haptic effects, etc.

The input/output interface 12 may transmit data corresponding to a command entered by a user through the input device to another component (or other component) of the aerosol-generating device 10. The input/output interface 12 may output information corresponding to data received from another component (or other component) of the aerosol-generating device 10 through an output device.

The aerosol-generating module 13 may generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. Here, the aerosol-generating substance may be a substance in a liquid, solid or gel state capable of generating an aerosol, or a combination of two or more aerosol-generating substances.

According to one embodiment, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid comprising tobacco material having volatile tobacco flavour components. According to another embodiment, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco material. For example, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may include water, solvents, nicotine, plant extracts, flavors, flavoring agents, vitamin mixtures, and the like.

The solid aerosol-generating substance may comprise a solid material based on a tobacco raw material, such as reconstituted tobacco sheet, cut filler or particulate tobacco. In addition, the solid aerosol-generating substance may comprise a solid material having a taste controlling agent and a flavouring material. For example, the taste control agent may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, and the like. For example, the flavoring material may comprise natural materials such as herbal granules, or may comprise materials containing aromatic components such as silica, zeolite or dextrin.

In addition, the aerosol generating substance may also include an aerosol former, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

The aerosol-generating module 13 may comprise at least one heater (not shown).

The aerosol-generating module 13 may comprise a resistive heater. For example, the resistive heater may include at least one conductive trace. The resistive heater may be heated when current flows through the conductive trace. At this time, the aerosol-generating substance may be heated by a heated resistance heater.

The conductive trace may include a resistive material. In one example, the conductive trace may be formed from a metallic material. In another example, the conductive trace may be formed from a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

The resistive heater may include conductive traces formed in any of a variety of shapes. For example, the conductive trace may be formed in any one of a tubular shape, a plate shape, a needle shape, a rod shape, and a coil shape.

The aerosol-generating module 13 may comprise a heater using an induction heating method. For example, the induction heater may comprise an electrically conductive coil. By adjusting the current flowing through the conductive coil, the induction heater can generate an alternating magnetic field whose direction is periodically changed. At this time, when an alternating magnetic field is applied to the magnet, energy loss may occur in the magnet due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. In addition, the lost energy may be released as thermal energy. Thus, the aerosol-generating substance located in the vicinity of the magnet may be heated. Here, the object generating heat due to the magnetic field may be referred to as a susceptor.

Meanwhile, the aerosol-generating module 13 may generate ultrasonic vibrations to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance.

The aerosol generating device 10 may be referred to as a cartomizer (cartomizer), a nebulizer (atomizer), or a vaporizer (vaporizer).

The memory 14 may store a program for processing and controlling each signal in the controller 17. The memory 14 may store processed data and data to be processed.

For example, the memory 14 may store applications designed to perform various tasks that may be handled by the controller 17. The memory 14 may selectively provide some of the stored applications in response to a request from the controller 17.

For example, the memory 14 may store data regarding an operation time of the aerosol-generating device 10, a maximum number of puffs, a current number of puffs, a number of uses of the battery 16, at least one temperature profile, a user's inhalation pattern, and data regarding charge/discharge. Here, "suction" refers to inhalation by the user. "inhalation" refers to the act of drawing air or other substances into the user's mouth, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

The memory 14 may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), static Random Access Memory (SRAM), or Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory), a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), or a Solid State Drive (SSD).

The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing suction (hereinafter referred to as a "suction sensor"). In this case, the suction sensor may be implemented as a proximity sensor, such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing suction (hereinafter referred to as a "suction sensor"). In this case, the suction sensor may be implemented by a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as "temperature sensor") for sensing the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol-generating module 13 and the temperature of the aerosol-generating substance. In this case, the heater included in the aerosol-generating module 13 may also be used as a temperature sensor. For example, the resistive material of the heater may be a material having a predetermined temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 15 may measure the resistance of the heater according to the temperature change, thereby sensing the temperature of the heater.

For example, in the case where the body of the aerosol-generating device 10 is formed to allow insertion of a rod therein, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing insertion of the rod (hereinafter referred to as a "rod detection sensor").

For example, in the case where the aerosol-generating device 10 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing the mounting/dismounting of the cartridge and the position of the cartridge (hereinafter referred to as "cartridge detection sensor").

In this case, the stick detection sensor and/or the cartridge detection sensor may be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, or a hall sensor (or hall IC) using the hall effect.

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

The battery 16 may supply power for operating the aerosol-generating device 10 under the control of the controller 17. The battery 16 may supply power to other components disposed in the aerosol-generating device 10. For example, the battery 16 may supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface 11, an output device included in the input/output interface 12, and a heater included in the aerosol generating module 13.

The battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 16 may be a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery or a lithium polymer (Li-polymer) battery. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, when the battery 16 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery 16 may be 10C, and the discharge rate (C-rate) thereof may be 10C to 20C. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Further, for stable use, the battery 16 may be manufactured such that 80% or more of the total capacity can be ensured even when 2000 charge/discharge is performed.

The aerosol generating device 10 may also include a battery Protection Circuit Module (PCM) (not shown), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. A battery Protection Circuit Module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to an upper surface of the battery cell 16. For example, in order to prevent overcharge and overdischarge of the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, or when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16, a battery Protection Circuit Module (PCM) may cut off an electrical path to the battery 16.

The aerosol generating device 10 may further comprise a charging terminal to which electric power supplied from the outside is input. For example, the charging terminal may be formed at one side of the main body of the aerosol-generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using the electric power supplied through the charging terminal. In this case, the charging terminal may be configured as a wired terminal for USB communication, pogo pin, or the like.

The aerosol-generating device 10 may further comprise a power terminal (not shown) to which power supplied from the outside is input. For example, the power line may be connected to a power terminal provided at one side of the main body of the aerosol-generating device 10. The aerosol-generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using electric power supplied through a power line connected to the power terminal. In this case, the power terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication.

The aerosol-generating device 10 may wirelessly receive power supplied from the outside through the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may wirelessly receive power using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using wirelessly supplied power.

The controller 17 may control the overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 10. The controller 17 may be connected to each component provided in the aerosol-generating device 10. The controller 17 may send and/or receive signals to and/or from each component to control the overall operation of each component.

The controller 17 may include at least one processor. The controller 17 may use a processor included therein to control the overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 10. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose processor such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a special purpose device, such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or may be any other hardware-based processor.

The controller 17 may perform any of a variety of functions of the aerosol-generating device 10. For example, the controller 17 may perform any one of various functions (e.g., a warm-up function, a heating function, a charging function, and a cleaning function) of the aerosol-generating device 10 according to the state of each component provided in the aerosol-generating device 10 and a user command received through the input/output interface 12.

The controller 17 may control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol-generating device 10 based on data stored in the memory 14. For example, the controller 17 may control the supply of a predetermined amount of electric power from the battery 16 to the aerosol-generating module 13 for a predetermined time based on data about the temperature distribution, the inhalation pattern of the user, stored in the memory 14.

The controller 17 may use a suction sensor included in the sensor module 15 to determine whether suction is occurring or not. For example, the controller 17 may check the temperature change, the flow rate change, the pressure change, and the voltage change of the aerosol-generating device 10 based on the values sensed by the suction sensor. The controller 17 may determine the occurrence or non-occurrence of aspiration based on the value sensed by the aspiration sensor.

The controller 17 may control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol-generating device 10 according to the number of times that suction is or is not occurring and/or is being sucked. For example, the controller 17 may perform control such that the temperature of the heater is changed or maintained based on the temperature distribution stored in the memory 14.

The controller 17 may perform control such that the power supply to the heater is interrupted according to a predetermined condition. For example, the controller 17 may perform control such that when the stick is removed, when the cartridge is detached, when the number of times of suction reaches a predetermined maximum number of times of suction, when suction is not sensed for a predetermined period of time or more, or when the remaining capacity of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined value, power supply to the heater is interrupted.

The controller 17 may calculate the remaining capacity with respect to the full charge capacity of the battery 16. For example, the controller 17 may calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 16 based on values sensed by a voltage sensor and/or a current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

The controller 17 may perform control such that the heater is supplied with power using at least one of a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) method or a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) method.

For example, the controller 17 may perform control such that a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and a predetermined duty ratio is supplied to the heater using a PWM method. In this case, the controller 17 can control the amount of electric power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and the duty ratio of the current pulses.

For example, the controller 17 may determine the target temperature to be controlled based on the temperature distribution. In this case, the controller 17 may control the amount of electric power supplied to the heater using a PID method that is a feedback control method using a difference between the temperature of the heater and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference with respect to time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference with respect to time.

Although the PWM method and the PID method are described as examples of a method of controlling power supply to the heater, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and any one of various control methods, such as a proportional-integral (PI) method or a proportional-derivative (PD) method, may be employed.

Meanwhile, the controller 17 may perform control such that power is supplied to the heater according to a predetermined condition. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning a space of an insertion rod is selected in response to a command input by a user through the input/output interface 12, the controller 17 may perform control such that a predetermined amount of power is supplied to the heater.

Fig. 2 to 4 are views for explaining an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

Referring to fig. 2, the aerosol-generating device 10 according to the embodiment may include a body 100, the body 100 being formed such that the rod 20 may be inserted into an inner space formed by the case 101.

Rod 20 may resemble a conventional combustion cigarette. For example, the rod 20 may be divided into a first portion comprising aerosol generating material and a second portion comprising a filter or the like. Alternatively, the aerosol generating material may be included in the second portion of the rod 20. For example, a flavouring substance in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

The entire first portion is inserted into the insertion space of the aerosol-generating device 10, and the second portion may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first portion may be inserted into the insertion space of the aerosol-generating device 10, or a part of the second portion and the first portion may be inserted. In this case, the aerosol may be generated by passing external air through the first portion, and the generated aerosol may be delivered into the mouth of the user through the second portion.

The main body 100 may be configured such that external air is introduced into the main body 100 in a state in which the stick 20 is inserted therein. In this case, the external air introduced into the main body 100 may flow into the user's mouth via the stick 20.

The heater may be provided in the body 100 at a position corresponding to a position where the rod 20 is inserted into the body 100. Although the heater is shown in the drawings as a conductive heater 110 including a pin-shaped conductive trace, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The heater may use power supplied from the battery 16 to heat the inside and/or outside of the wand 20. Aerosol may be generated from the heated rod 20. At this time, the user may hold one end of the rod 20 in the mouth to inhale the aerosol containing the tobacco material.

Meanwhile, the controller 17 may perform control such that power is supplied to the heater in a state in which the rod 20 is not inserted into the main body according to a predetermined condition. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space of the insertion rod 20 is selected in response to a command input by the user through the input/output interface 12, the controller 17 may perform control such that a predetermined amount of power is supplied to the heater.

The controller 17 may monitor the number of puffs based on a value sensed by a puff sensor from a point in time when the wand 20 is inserted into the main body.

When the wand 20 is removed from the main body, the controller 17 may initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14.

Referring to fig. 3, the aerosol-generating device 10 according to an embodiment may include a body 100 and a cartridge 200. The body 100 may support the cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 may contain an aerosol generating substance.

According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be removably mounted to the body 100. According to another embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be integrally configured with the body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 may be mounted to the body 100 in such a manner that at least a portion of the cartridge 200 is inserted into an insertion space formed by the housing 101 of the body 100.

The main body 100 may be formed to have a structure in which external air may be introduced into the main body 100 in a state in which the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air introduced into the main body 100 may flow into the mouth of the user via the cartridge 200.

The controller 17 may use a cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15 to determine whether the cartridge 200 is in the installed state or in the detached state. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may transmit a pulsed current through a first terminal connected to the cartridge 200. In this case, the controller 17 may determine whether the cartridge 200 is in the connected state based on whether the pulse current is received through the second terminal.

The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 configured to heat the aerosol-generating substance and/or a reservoir 220 configured to contain the aerosol-generating substance. For example, a liquid delivery element impregnated with (containing) an aerosol-generating substance may be disposed within the reservoir 220. The conductive traces of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transport element. In this case, when the liquid delivery element is heated by the heater 210, an aerosol may be generated. Here, the liquid transport element may comprise a core made of, for example, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers or porous ceramics.

The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 configured to allow insertion of the rod 20. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall extending in a circumferential direction along the direction of the insertion rod 20. In this case, the insertion space may be formed by opening the inner side of the inner wall up and down. The rod 20 may be inserted into an insertion space formed by the inner wall.

The insertion space into which the rod 20 is inserted may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of a portion of the rod 20 inserted into the insertion space. For example, when the rod 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

When the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer surface of the rod 20 may be surrounded by and contact with the inner wall.

A portion of the rod 20 may be inserted into the insertion space, and the remaining portion of the rod 20 may be exposed to the outside.

A user may inhale the aerosol while biting one end of the rod 20 with the mouthpiece. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 may pass through the rod 20 and be delivered to the user's mouth. At this time, as the aerosol passes through the rod 20, the material contained in the rod 20 may be added to the aerosol. An aerosol of infusion material may be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the rod 20.

Referring to fig. 4, the aerosol-generating device 10 according to the embodiment may include a body 100 supporting a cartridge 200 and the cartridge 200 containing an aerosol-generating substance. The body 100 may be formed to allow the rod 20 to be inserted into the insertion space 130 therein.

The aerosol-generating device 10 may comprise a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user holds one end of the rod 20 in the mouth to inhale the aerosol, the aerosol generated by the first heater may pass through the rod 20. At this time, a fragrance may be added to the aerosol as it passes through the rod 20. The aerosol containing the fragrance may be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the wand 20.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the aerosol-generating device 10 may comprise a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater for heating the rod 20 inserted into the body 100. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200 and the rod 20 using the first heater and the second heater, respectively.

Fig. 5 to 7 are views for explaining a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

Figure 5 shows that the filter rod 22 comprises a single segment. However, the filter rod 22 is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may comprise a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment configured to cool the aerosol and a second segment configured to filter specific components contained in the aerosol. Moreover, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment configured to perform other functions, as desired.

The diameter of the rod 20 may be in the range of 5mm to 9mm, and the length of the rod 20 may be about 48mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12mm, although the embodiment is not limited thereto.

The rod 20 may be wrapped with at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole through which external air may be introduced or through which internal air may be exhausted. For example, a wrapper 24 may be used to wrap the rod 20. As another example, the rod 20 may be double wrapped with at least two wraps 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped with a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped with wrappers 242, 243, 244. The tobacco rod 21 and the filter rod 22, which are wrapped by the wrapper, may be combined. Rod 20 may be repacked by a single wrapper 245. When each of the tobacco rod 21 and filter rod 22 includes a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped with a wrapper 242, 243, 244. The entire rod 20, consisting of multiple segments wrapped by a wrapper, may be repacked by another wrapper.

The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be formed of a common filter wrapper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous wrapper paper or non-porous wrapper paper. Further, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of an oil resistant paper sheet and an aluminum laminate packaging material.

The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrap paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrap 243 may be in the range of 88g/m2 to 96g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrap 243 may be in the range of 90g/m2 to 94g/m 2. Further, the total thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 1200 μm to 1300 μm. For example, the total thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of about 88g/m2 to about 96g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 90g/m2 to 94g/m 2. Further, the total thickness of the fourth wrap 244 may be in the range of 1200 μm to 1300 μm. For example, the total thickness of the fourth wrap 244 may be 125 μm.

The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). Here, MFW refers to specially manufactured paper having enhanced tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, and the like as compared to plain paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 57g/m2 to 63g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be about 60g/m2. Further, the total thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the total thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 67 μm.

The predetermined material may be included in the fifth wrapper 245. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon exhibits characteristics such as heat resistance that hardly change due to temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, electrical insulation, and the like. However, any material other than silicon may be applied to (or coated on) the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation, so long as the material has the above-described characteristics.

The fifth wrapper 245 may prevent the burning of the rod 20. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 110, there is a possibility that the rod 20 burns. In detail, the rod 20 may burn when the temperature rises to a temperature above the ignition point of any one of the materials contained in the tobacco rod 21. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper 245 includes a non-combustible material, the burning of the rod 20 can be prevented.

In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 may prevent the aerosol-generating device 10 from being contaminated by the substance formed by the rod 20. By suction from the user, a liquid substance may be formed in the wand 20. For example, when the aerosol formed by the rod 20 is cooled by outside air, a liquid material (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be formed. When the fifth wrapper 245 wraps the rod 20, the liquid material formed in the rod 20 may be prevented from leaking out of the rod 20.

The tobacco rod 21 may comprise an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may include other additives such as flavors, humectants, and/or organic acids. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may include a flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, that is injected into the tobacco rod 21.

The tobacco rod 21 may be made in various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be formed as a sheet or wire. Also, the tobacco rod 21 may be formed as cut tobacco, which is formed of small pieces cut from a tobacco sheet. Also, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, and thus, the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod can be increased, and the taste of tobacco can be improved. Furthermore, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may serve as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. Here, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21.

The filter rod 22 may comprise a cellulose acetate filter. The shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may comprise a cylindrical rod or tubular rod having a hollow interior. Also, the filter rod 22 may comprise a fluted rod. When the filter rod 22 includes a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may have a different shape.

The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first section may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment may prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed back when the heater 110 is inserted into the tobacco rod 21, and may also provide a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow included in the first section may be a suitable diameter in the range of 2mm to 4.5mm, but is not limited thereto.

The length of the first segment may be a suitable length in the range of 4mm to 30mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first section may be 10mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second section of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated when the heater 110 heats the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can suck the aerosol cooled at an appropriate temperature.

The length or diameter of the second segment may be determined differently depending on the shape of the rod 20. For example, the length of the second section may be a suitable length in the range of 7mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second section may be about 14mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second segment may be made by braiding polymer fibers. In this case, the flavouring liquid may also be applied to the fibres formed from the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by braiding together additional fibers coated with a flavored liquid and fibers formed from a polymer. Alternatively, the second section may be formed from a curled polymeric sheet.

For example, the polymer may be formed of a material selected from the group consisting of Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose Acetate (CA), and aluminum coil.

When the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or crimped polymer sheets, the second segment may include a single channel or multiple channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, a channel refers to a channel through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

For example, the second segment formed from the crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness of between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Likewise, the total surface area of the second section may be between about 300mm2/mm and about 1000mm 2/mm. Furthermore, the aerosol-cooling element may be formed from a material having a specific surface area of between about 10mm2/mg and about 100mm 2/mg.

The second section may comprise a thread containing volatile flavour ingredient. Here, the volatile fragrance ingredient may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the strands may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide a second segment having 1.5mg or more menthol.

The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third section may be a suitable length in the range of 4mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third section may be about 12mm, but is not limited thereto.

The filter rod 22 may be manufactured to produce a flavor. For example, a flavored liquid can be injected onto the filter rod 22. For example, additional fibers coated with a flavored liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 22.

Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may comprise at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsules 23 may generate fragrance. The capsule 23 may generate an aerosol. For example, the pouch 23 may have a configuration in which a liquid including a flavoring material is wrapped by a film. The bladder 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to fig. 6, rod 30 may also include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 may be located on a side of the tobacco rod 31 that does not face the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 prevents the tobacco rod 31 from separating and prevents liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device 10 during smoking.

The filter rod 32 may include a first section 321 and a second section 322. The first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 of fig. 4. The second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 of fig. 4.

The diameter and overall length of rod 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of rod 20 of fig. 4. For example, the front end plug 33 may be about 7mm in length, the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15mm in length, the first section 321 may be about 12mm in length, and the second section 322 may be about 14mm in length, although the embodiment is not limited thereto.

The rod 30 may be wrapped with at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole through which external air may be introduced or through which internal air may be discharged. For example, front end plug 33 may be wrapped with a first wrapper 351, tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped with a second wrapper 352, first section 321 may be wrapped with a third wrapper 353, and second section 322 may be wrapped with a fourth wrapper 354. Moreover, the entire rod 30 may be repacked using a fifth wrapper 355.

In addition, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in an area of the fifth wrapper 355 surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. For example, perforations 36 may transfer heat formed by heater 210 shown in FIG. 3 into tobacco rod 31.

Likewise, second section 322 may include at least one bladder 34. Here, the pouch 34 may generate a scent. The bladder 34 may generate an aerosol. For example, the pouch 34 may have a configuration in which the liquid including the flavoring material is wrapped by a film. The bladder 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

The first wrapper 351 may be formed by combining a conventional filter wrapper with a metal foil such as an aluminum roll. For example, the total thickness of the first wrap 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrap 351 may be 50.3 μm. Further, the thickness of the metal roll of the first wrap 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal roll of the first wrap 351 may be 6.3 μm. Further, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 50g/m2 to 55g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be 53g/m2.

The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be formed from conventional filter wrap paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be porous wrap or non-porous wrap.

For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000CU, but is not limited thereto. Further, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrap 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 20g/m2 to 25g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be 23.5g/m2.

For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000CU, but is not limited thereto. Further, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of about 60 μm to about 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 can be in the range of about 20g/m2 to about 25g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 21g/m2.

The fourth wrapper 354 may be formed from PLA laminate paper. Here, PLA laminated paper refers to three-ply paper including a paper ply, a PLA layer, and a paper ply. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrap 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 1200 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrap 354 may be 110 μm. Further, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 80g/m2 to 100g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 88g/m2.

Fifth wrapper 355 may be formed of sterile paper (MFW). Here, the aseptic paper (MFW) refers to paper which is particularly manufactured to be more improved in tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. than plain paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 57g/m2 to 63g/m 2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 60g/m2. Further, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 67 μm.

Fifth wrapper 355 may include a preset material added thereto. Examples of the material may include silicon, but are not limited thereto. Silicon has properties such as temperature resistance, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, and electrical insulation. In addition to silicon, any other material having the above characteristics may be applied (or coated) onto fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

The front end plug 33 may be formed of cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 may be formed by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. Shan Dan denier filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, shan Dan denier filaments making up the cellulose acetate tow may be in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, shan Dan denier filaments of the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. Also, the cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 20000 to 30000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 25000 to 30000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 is 28000.

In addition, the front end plug 33 may include at least one channel, as desired. The cross-sectional shape of the channel may be made in various shapes.

The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to fig. 4. Accordingly, hereinafter, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

The first section 321 may be formed from cellulose acetate. For example, the first section 321 may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first section 321 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the Shan Dan denier and the total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the Shan Dan denier and the total denier of the front end plug 33.

Second section 322 may be formed from cellulose acetate. Shan Dan denier filaments making up second section 322 may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the Shan Dan denier filaments of the second section 322 may be in the range of about 8.0 to about 10.0. For example, shan Dan denier filaments of second section 322 may be 9.0. Also, the filaments of second section 322 may be Y-shaped in cross-section. The total denier of second segment 322 may be in the range of 20000 to 30000. For example, the total denier of second segment 322 may be 25000.

Referring to fig. 7, the wand 40 may include a media portion 410. The rod 40 may include a cooling portion 420. The rod 40 may include a filtering portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the media portion 410 and the filtering portion 430. The wand 40 may include a wrapper 440. Wrap 440 may wrap media portion 410. The wrap 440 may wrap the cooling portion 420. The wrap 440 may wrap the filtering portion 430. The rod 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

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

The medium 411 may comprise a multi-component substance. The substance contained in the medium may be a multi-component flavouring substance. The medium 411 may be composed of a plurality of particles. Each of the plurality of particles may have a size of 0.4mm to 1.12 mm. The particles may comprise about 70% of the volume of the medium 411. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10mm. The first dielectric cover 413 may be made of acetate material. The second dielectric cap 415 may be made of acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be made of a paper material. The second media cover 415 may be made of a paper material. At least one of the first media cover 413 or the second media cover 415 may be made of a paper material and may be crimped so as to be crimped, and a plurality of gaps may be formed between the crimps so as to allow air to flow therethrough. Each gap may be smaller than each particle of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second media cover 415 may be shorter than the length L2 of the media 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7mm. The length L2 of the second media cover 415 may be 7mm.

Thus, each particle of the medium 411 can be prevented from being separated from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40.

The cooling portion 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling portion 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the media portion 410 and the filtering portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the second media cover 415 and the filtering portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be formed in the shape of a tube surrounding the cooling path 424 formed therein. The cooling portion 420 may be thicker than the wrap 440. The cooling portion 420 may be made of a thicker paper material than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 may be equal to or similar to the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of each of the cooling portion 420 and the cooling path 424 may be 10mm. When the rod 40 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, at least a portion of the cooling portion 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol-generating device.

Accordingly, the cooling portion 420 may support the medium portion 410 and the filtering portion 430, and may ensure rigidity of the rod 40. In addition, the cooling portion 420 may support the wrap 440 between the media portion 410 and the filtering portion 430, and may provide a portion to which the wrap 440 is adhered. Additionally, the heated air and aerosol may be cooled as it passes through the cooling path 424 in the cooling portion 420.

The filtering portion 430 may include a filter made of acetate material. The filtering portion 430 may be provided at the other end of the rod 40. When the rod 40 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, the filtering portion 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol-generating device. The user can inhale air in a state where the filtering part 430 is held in the mouth. The length L5 of the filtering portion 430 may be 14mm.

The wrap 440 may wrap or surround the media portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filtering portion 430. The wrap 440 may form the appearance of the stick 40. The wrapper 440 may be made of a paper material. The adhesive portion 441 may be formed along one edge of the wrapper 440. The wrap 440 may surround the medium part 410, the cooling part 420, and the filtering part 430, and the adhesive part 441 formed along one edge of the wrap 440 and the other edge thereof may be adhered to each other. Wrap 440 may surround media portion 410, cooling portion 420, and filtering portion 430, but may not cover one end or the other of rod 40.

Thus, the wrap 440 may secure the media portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filtering portion 430, and may prevent these components from being separated from the rod 40.

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

The second film 445 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second film 445 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the second media cover 415 or may be disposed outside of the wrapper 440. The second film 445 may be made of a metal material. The second film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second film 445 may be in intimate contact with the wrapper 440 or may be coated on the wrapper 440.

Hereinafter, the direction of the aerosol-generating device 10 may be defined based on the orthogonal coordinate system shown in fig. 8 to 19. In an orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol-generating device. Here, based on the origin, +x-axis direction may be a rightward direction, -x-axis direction may be a leftward direction. The y-axis direction may be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol-generating device 10. Here, the +y-axis direction may be an upward direction, and the-y-axis direction may be a downward direction based on the origin. The z-axis direction may be defined as the front-to-back direction of the aerosol-generating device 10. Here, based on the origin, +z-axis direction may be a forward direction, -z-axis direction may be a backward direction.

Referring to fig. 8 to 10, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the body 100 may have a shape extending in an up-down direction. The body 100 may have a hollow shape. The body 100 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction. The body 100 may be referred to as a main body 100. The body 100 may constitute a housing of the aerosol-generating device 10.

The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend in an up-down direction. The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend along the outer periphery of the body 100. The outer wall 102 of the body 100 may extend in a circumferential direction to form a cylindrical shape. The body 100 may be elongated. The longitudinal direction of the body 100 may refer to the direction in which the body 100 is elongated. The longitudinal direction of the body 100 may be an up-down direction.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend in the up-down direction. The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend along the inner periphery of the body 100. The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may extend in a circumferential direction to form a cylindrical shape.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may form an insertion space 130 into which the rod 20 is inserted. The insertion space 130 in the body 100 may be a space recessed to a predetermined depth in the aerosol-generating device 10 for inserting at least a portion of the rod 20 therein.

The body 100 may be formed such that an upper side of the outer wall 102 and an upper side of the inner wall 103 are connected to each other. The outer wall 102 and the inner wall 103 of the body 100 may constitute a housing 101 of the aerosol-generating device 10.

The body 100 may include a door 310 for opening and closing the insertion space 130 with respect to the outside. The door 310 may be disposed adjacent to a portion where the upper side of the outer wall 102 and the upper side of the inner wall 103 of the body 100 are connected to each other. The door 310 may have a shape corresponding to a sectional shape of the insertion space 130 in the left-right direction.

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

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

The door 310 may be connected to a hinge member 311. The door 310 may be connected to the hinge member 311 so as to be pivotable into the insertion space 130. When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130, the door 310 may pivot in a downward direction in which the stick 20 is inserted.

The hinge member 311 may include at least one elastic member that provides an elastic restoring force in a direction opposite to a direction in which the door 310 pivots. For example, the hinge member 311 may include at least one spring. For example, when a rotational restoring force of the elastic member is applied to the door 310 in a state in which the door 310 is pivoted, the door 310 may return to a position (hereinafter referred to as an initial position) where a continuous surface is formed with the outer wall 102 of the body 100.

When the door 310 is pivoted into the insertion space 130, the insertion space 130 may be exposed to the outside. The insertion space 130 may be isolated from the outside when the door 310 is located at a position forming a continuous surface with the outer wall 102 of the body 100.

The inner wall 103 of the body 100 may have a recessed region 104 recessed in the body 100. Specifically, the recessed region 104 of the inner wall 103 may be recessed in a radially outward direction of the body 100. The depth of the recessed region 104 of the inner wall 103 may correspond to the height of the door 310 in the up-down direction. The sectional shape of the recessed region 104 of the inner wall 103 may correspond to the sectional shape of the door 310 in the left-right direction.

When the door 310 is pivoted into the insertion space 130, the door 310 may be located in the inner space 131 defined by the recessed region 104 of the inner wall 103. The lower surface of the pivoted door 310 may be in contact with the recessed region 104 of the inner wall 103. The upper surface of the pivoted door 310 may form a continuous surface with the remaining area of the inner wall 103 except for the recessed area 104.

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

The door 310 may include a magnet 315 having magnetism. The magnet 315 may be implemented as a magnet. For example, the magnet 315 may be disposed inside the door 310.

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

The first sensor 154 may be disposed between the outer wall 102 and the inner wall 103 of the body 100. The first sensor 154 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130, and the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130. The first sensor 154 may be disposed to face the insertion space 130. The first sensor 154 may be elongated in the up-down direction along the insertion space 130.

The first sensor 154 may detect a change in electromagnetic characteristics of the insertion space 130 to obtain information about the insertion space 130. The first sensor 154 may detect a change in electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object. For example, the first sensor 154 may be a capacitive sensor. For example, the first sensor 154 may be a magnetic proximity sensor. However, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular type of first sensor 154. For example, when the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130, the electromagnetic characteristics detected by the first sensor 154 are changed. In this case, the first sensor 154 may obtain information about the insertion space 130 based on a change in electromagnetic characteristics.

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

The first sensor 154 may generate and output a signal. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal when current flows through the electrical conductor. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal corresponding to an electromagnetic characteristic of the surrounding environment (e.g., capacitance around the electrical conductor).

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

The second sensor 155 may be implemented as a magnetic sensor. The magnetic sensor may sense the magnetization of the magnetic body 315, the direction or strength of the magnetic field, or a change in the magnetic field. The magnetic sensor may output a signal corresponding to the sensed value. The magnetic sensor may be, for example, a hall sensor, a rotating coil, a magnetoresistor, or a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

The heater 115 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130, and may heat the rod 20 inserted into the insertion space 130. The heater 115 may be disposed at a position corresponding to a position of the tobacco rod 21 of the rod 20 when the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130.

Although the heater 115 is illustrated in the drawings as an induction heater that generates an alternating magnetic field whose direction is periodically changed by adjusting a current flowing through a conductive coil, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The terminals 121, the battery 16, and/or the controller 17 may be disposed inside the body 100, surrounded by the outer wall 102 and the inner wall 103 of the body 100.

The terminals 121 may be disposed in the bottom of the body 100. The terminal 121 may be electrically connected to an external power source to receive power therefrom, and may transmit power to the battery 16. Terminals 121 may be disposed below battery 16. Terminal 121 may be implemented as a wired terminal for USB communication, pogo pin, or the like.

The controller 17 may determine the position of the door 310 based on the signal received from the second sensor 155. For example, the controller 17 may determine whether the door 310 is located in the inner space 131 based on a signal output from the second sensor 155. Upon determining that the door 310 is located in the inner space 131, the controller 17 may determine that an object has been inserted into the insertion space 130.

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

The controller 17 may determine whether the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130 is a used stick based on the signal received from the first sensor 154. For example, the controller 17 may determine whether the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the degree of variation in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154.

Referring to fig. 11 to 13, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cartridge 200 may have a shape extending in an up-down direction. The cartridge 200 may have a hollow shape. The cartridge 200 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction.

Cartridge 200 may include an outer wall 202 and an inner wall 203. The outer wall 202 may extend in an up-down direction. The outer wall 202 may extend along the outer periphery of the cartridge 200. The outer wall 202 may extend in a circumferential direction to form a cylindrical shape. The cartridge 200 may be elongated. The longitudinal direction of the cartridge 200 may refer to the direction in which the cartridge 200 is elongated. The longitudinal direction of the cartridge 200 may be an up-down direction.

The inner wall 203 may extend in the up-down direction. The inner wall 203 may extend along the inner periphery of the cartridge 200. The inner wall 203 may extend in a circumferential direction to form a cylindrical shape.

The inner wall 203 may be spaced inwardly from the outer wall 202. The inner wall 203 may be spaced apart from the outer wall 202 in a radially inward direction. The upper side of the outer wall 202 and the upper side of the inner wall 203 may be connected to each other.

The inner wall 203 may extend in an up-down direction and a circumferential direction to define an insertion space 230 therein. The insertion space 230 may be defined such that the inside of the inner wall 203 is opened in the up-down direction. The inner wall 203 may be disposed between the chamber 220 and the insertion space 230. The inner wall 203 may define an insertion space.

The insertion space 230 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the portion of the rod 20 inserted therein. The insertion space 230 may be elongated in the up-down direction. The insertion space 230 may have a cylindrical shape. When the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230, the rod 20 may be surrounded by the inner wall 203 and may be in close contact with the inner wall 203.

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

The chamber 220 may be formed between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203. The chamber 220 may extend in the up-down direction. The chamber 220 may extend in a circumferential direction along the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203. The chamber 220 may have a cylindrical shape. The pre-vaporized aerosol material may be stored in the chamber 220. The pre-vaporized aerosol material may be a liquid.

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

A flow path 235 may be formed between the insertion space 230 and the core 211. Aerosol generated from the core 211 may flow to the insertion space 230 through the flow path 235. The flow path 235 may have a shape that narrows at the middle and widens at the ends in the direction of aerosol flow. The direction of aerosol flow may be an upward direction.

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

The core 211 may be disposed under the insertion space 230. The core 211 may be disposed below the flow path 235. The wick 211 may be connected to the chamber 220 to absorb the pre-vaporized aerosol material stored in the chamber 220. The core 211 may be inserted into the space between the inner wall 203 and the lower portion 205 of the cartridge 200. The core 211 may extend in one direction. The core 211 may be elongated in the left-right direction. Both ends of the core 211 may be connected to the inside of the chamber 220.

The heater 210 may be disposed around the core 211. The heater 210 may be wound around the core 211 in a direction in which the core 211 extends. The heater 210 may apply heat to the wick. The heater 210 may use a resistive heating method to generate aerosol from pre-vaporized aerosol material absorbed in the core 211. The heater 210 may be connected to the controller 17, and power supply to the heater 210 may be controlled by the controller 17.

The rod 20 may be elongated in the up-down direction. The rod 20 may be inserted into the cartridge 200. The rod 20 may be inserted into the space defined by the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200. Aerosol generated from the core 211 may be transferred to the rod 20 through the flow path 235.

Thus, the chamber 220 of the cartridge 200 in which the pre-vaporized aerosol material is stored may be disposed around the rod 20, thereby making it possible to effectively increase the amount of space for storing the pre-vaporized aerosol material in a liquid state.

Accordingly, the distance from the heater 210 to the rod 20 may be short, the heater 210 generates aerosol by heating the core 211 and the pre-vaporized aerosol material, and the core 211 is connected to the chamber 220 storing the pre-vaporized aerosol material, and thus the heat transfer efficiency from the aerosol to the rod 20 may be increased.

The cartridge 200 may include a door 310 for opening and closing the insertion space 230 with respect to the outside. The door 310 may be disposed adjacent to a portion where the upper side of the outer wall 202 and the upper side of the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 are connected to each other. The door 310 may have a shape corresponding to a sectional shape of the insertion space 230 in the left-right direction.

A hinge member 311 connected to the door 310 may be provided at an upper side of the outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200.

When a rotational restoring force of the elastic member is applied to the door 310 in a state in which the door 310 is pivoted into the insertion space, the door 310 may return to its initial position where a continuous surface is formed with the outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200.

When the door 310 is pivoted into the insertion space 230, the insertion space 230 may be exposed to the outside. When the door 310 is located at a position forming a continuous surface with the outer wall 202 of the cartridge 200, the insertion space 230 may be isolated from the outside.

The inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 may have a recessed region 204 recessed into the cartridge 200. The depth of the recessed region 204 of the inner wall 203 may correspond to the height of the door 310 in the up-down direction. The sectional shape of the recessed area 204 of the inner wall 203 may correspond to the sectional shape of the door 310 in the left-right direction.

When the door 310 is pivoted into the insertion space 230, the door 310 may be located in the inner space 231 defined by the recessed region 204 of the inner wall 203. The lower surface of the pivoted door 310 may be in contact with the recessed area 204 of the inner wall 203. The upper surface of the pivoted door 310 may form a continuous surface with the remaining area of the inner wall 203 except for the recessed area 204.

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

The first sensor 154 may be disposed between the outer wall 202 and the inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200. The first sensor 154 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 230, and the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230. The first sensor 154 may be disposed to face the insertion space 230. The first sensor 154 may be elongated in the up-down direction along the insertion space 230.

The first sensor 154 may detect a change in electromagnetic characteristics of the insertion space 230 to obtain information about the insertion space 230. The first sensor 154 may detect a change in electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object.

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

The second sensor 155 may be disposed adjacent to the interior space 231 defined by the recessed region 204 of the inner wall 203. When the door 310 is located in the inner space 231, the second sensor 155 may be disposed at a position corresponding to a position where the magnet 315 included in the door 310 is located.

The portion of the chamber 220 disposed below the second sensor 155 may have a length in the up-down direction shorter than the remaining portion of the chamber 220.

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

The controller 17 may be provided in the body 100. The controller 17 may control the on/off operation of the device. The controller 17 may be electrically connected to the heater 210 to control the power supply to the heater 210 such that the heater 210 heats the wick. The controller 17 may be disposed below the heater 210. The controller 17 may be disposed adjacent to the heater 210.

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

The body 100 may include at least one of a lower body 1100 or an upper body 1200. The lower body 1100 may house various components required for power supply or control, such as a battery or a controller. The lower body 1100 may form the external appearance of the aerosol generating device. The upper body 1200 may be disposed on the lower body 1100. The cartridge 200 may be coupled to the upper body 1200. The body 100 may be referred to as a main body 100.

The upper body 1200 may include at least one of the mount 1300 or the post 1400. The mount 1300 may be disposed on the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may provide a space 1340 into which the lower portion of the cartridge 200 is inserted. The mount 1300 may have an open upper side and may define a space 1340 therein. The mount 1300 may surround a lower portion of the cartridge 200 inserted into the space 1340. The mount 1300 may secure the cartridge 200. The mount 1300 may support a lower portion of the cartridge 200.

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

The first chamber C1 may be formed in a portion of the interior of the first container 2100, and the insertion space 2140 may be formed in another portion of the interior of the first container 2100. The insertion space 2140 may be disposed adjacent to the column 1400. The column 1400 may be disposed adjacent to another portion of the interior of the first container 2100 forming the insertion space 2140.

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

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

The first container 2100 may be coupled to an upper side of the second container 2200. The first container 2100 may provide a space for storing liquid therein. The first container 2100 may have an open upper side, and may have an insertion space 2140 elongated in a vertical direction formed therein. The rod 40 may be inserted into the insertion space 2140. One sidewall of the first container 2100 may face the column 1400. The column 1400 may cover a sidewall of the first container 2100. The first container 2100 may be disposed on the mount 1300.

The second container 2200 may be coupled to an underside of the first container 2100. The second container 2200 may provide a space for installing the wick and the heater therein. The second container 2200 may be inserted into the space 1340 provided by the mount 1300. The space 1340 in the mount 1300 may be referred to as a cartridge receiving space 1340. The mount 1300 may surround the second container 2200. The second container 2200 may be coupled to the mount 1300.

The cap 300 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cap 300 may cover the cartridge 200. The cap 300 may cover at least a portion of the body 100. The cap 300 may protect at least a portion of the cartridge 200 and/or the body 100 from the outside. The user can separate the cap 300 from the body 100 in order to replace the cartridge 200.

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

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

The cap 300 may have a cap inlet 3040a formed therein. One side of the cap 300 may be opened to form a cap inlet 3040a. For example, the upper wall 3030 of the cap 300 may be opened to form a cap inlet 3040a. For example, the sidewall 3010 of the cap 300 may be opened to form the cap inlet 3040a. The cap inlet 3040a may communicate with the outside. Air may be introduced into the aerosol-generating device through the cap inlet 3040a.

First container 2100 may include an outer wall 2110 surrounding an interior space formed therein. The first container 2100 may include an inner wall 2120 dividing a space surrounded by the outer wall 2110 into a first chamber C1 on one side and an elongated insertion space 2140 on the other side. The insertion space 2140 may have a shape elongated in the vertical direction. An inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 may be formed inside the first container 2100. The rod 40 may be inserted into the insertion space 2140.

The second container 2200 may be coupled to the first container 2100. The second container 2200 may include a second chamber C2 communicating with the insertion space 2140. The second chamber C2 may be formed in the second container 2200. The second chamber C2 may be connected to an opposite end or a lower end of the insertion space 2140.

One side of cartridge 200 may be opened to form cartridge inlet 2240. The outer wall of the second container 2200 may be opened to form a cartridge inlet 2240. The cartridge inlet 2240 may communicate with the insertion space 2140. The cartridge inlet 2240 may communicate with the second chamber C2. The cartridge inlet 2240 may be formed in the side wall 2210 of the second container 2200.

The core 2610 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The core 2610 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The core 2610 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The heater 2620 may heat the core 2610. The heater 2620 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 2620 may be wound around the core 2610 a plurality of times. Heater 2620 may be electrically connected to battery 16 and/or a control device. The heater 2620 may be a resistive coil. When the heater 2620 generates heat and thus the core 2610 is heated, the liquid supplied to the core 2610 is atomized, and thus, aerosol may be generated in the second chamber C2.

Accordingly, the first chamber C1 in the first container 2100 in which the liquid is stored may be disposed to surround the rod 40 and/or the insertion space 2140 in which the rod 40 is inserted, so that the use efficiency of the space for storing the liquid may be improved.

In addition, the distance from the rod 40 to the core 2610 and the heater 2620 connected to the first chamber C1 may be reduced, so that the efficiency of transferring heat from the aerosol may be improved.

A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly 1500 may be mounted in the column 1400. At least one of the light source 1530 or the sensor 154 may be mounted on the PCB 1510 of the PCB assembly 1500. The PCB assembly 1500 may be mounted to face the side of the cartridge 200. The light source 1530 of the PCB assembly 1500 may provide light to the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 of the PCB assembly 1500 may sense information about the interior and exterior of the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 mounted on the PCB assembly 1500 may be referred to as a first sensor 154.

The sensor 1800 may be installed at one side of the upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor 1800 may be disposed above the partition wall 1120 of the lower body 1100. The sensor 1800 may sense the air flow introduced into the cartridge 200. Sensor 1800 may be an air flow sensor or a pressure sensor. The sensor 1800 may be referred to as a second sensor 1800.

The sensor 1800 may be inserted into the mount 1300. The sensor 1800 may be disposed facing the side of the mount. Sensor 1800 may be disposed adjacent to cartridge inlet 2240. Sensor 1800 may be disposed facing cartridge inlet 2240.

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

The door 3100 may open and close the insertion space 2140. The door 3100 may open and close an opening exposing the insertion space 2140 to the outside. The door 3100 may be installed adjacent to an opening in the insertion space 2140. The door 3100 may be installed adjacent to one end or an upper end of the insertion space 2140. For example, the door 3100 may be installed to the upper end of the first container 2100 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 2140. For example, the door 3100 may be mounted to the cap 300 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 2140.

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

When one end of the rod 40 contacts the door 3100 and pushes the door 3100, the door 3100 may pivot in a first direction to open the insertion space 2140. The rod 40 may push the door 3100 and may be inserted into the insertion space 2140. When the rod 40 is separated from the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 may pivot in a second direction to close the insertion space 2140.

A spring 3120 (referring to fig. 9) may provide an elastic force to the door 3100 in the second direction. One end of the spring 3120 may support the door 3100 and the other end of the spring 3120 may support the upper end of the first container 2100 or the cap 300. The spring 3120 may be wound around the pivot of the door 3100.

When the rod 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140, one end of the rod 40 may be exposed to the outside of the cap 300, and the other end of the rod 40 may be disposed above the second chamber C2 at a position adjacent to the second chamber C2. The user may hold the exposed end of the wand 40 in the mouth and may inhale air.

Air may be introduced into the aerosol-generating device through the cap inlet 3040 a. Air introduced through cap inlet 3040a may flow into cartridge inlet 2240. Air may flow into cartridge 200 through cartridge inlet 2240. Air that has passed through cartridge inlet 2240 may be introduced into second chamber C2, and then may flow toward insertion space 2140. Air may pass through the rod 40 along with aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

As described above, when the rod 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140, the insertion space 2140 may be opened by the pivoting motion of the door 3100. In addition, the insertion space 2140 may be automatically closed by the pivoting motion of the door 3100 while the rod 40 is separated from the insertion space 2140, and in addition, the inside of the insertion space 2140 may be protected from external foreign substances.

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

When the door 3100 pivots in the first direction to open the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 may be received in the cover recess 2150. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 may be received in the cover recess 2150 and may overlap with the inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 disposed under the cover recess 2150. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 may be disposed parallel to the inner wall 2120 of the first container 2100 under the cover recess 2150.

The first guide 2160 may be formed to be inclined from the bottom of the cover recess 2150 toward the lower side of the insertion space 2140. The first guide 2160 may be formed to be inclined such that the insertion space 2140 is gradually narrowed toward the lower side thereof. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the first guide 2160 may be disposed at a position below the door 3100 adjacent to one end of the door 3100. When the door 3100 opens the insertion space 2140, the first guide 2160 may protrude toward the insertion space 2140 farther than an end of the door 3100.

The second guide 3060 may be formed to be inclined such that the inner space is gradually narrowed toward the lower side thereof. The second guide 3060 may be disposed adjacent to a pivot radius of the door 3100. The second guide 3060 may be disposed outside of the pivot radius of the door 3100. The second guide 3060 may extend to tilt along a pivot radius of the door 3100.

One end of the second guide 3060 may be adjacent to the insertion hole 3040. An end of the second guide 3060 may be disposed outside the insertion hole 3040. The end of the second guide 3060 may be disposed below the insertion hole wall 3050. The insertion hole wall 3050 may protrude more inward than the end of the second guide 3060. When the door 3100 pivots in the second direction to close the insertion space 2140, the door 3100 may contact the insertion hole wall 3050, so that movement thereof may be restricted.

Referring to fig. 18 and 19, the upper body 1200 may be coupled to an upper portion of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may cover an upper portion of the lower body 1100. The lower portion of the mount 1300 may be surrounded by the upper portion of the sidewall 111 of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may be coupled to an upper portion of the lower body 1100. The mount 1300 may be coupled to the lower body 1100 in a snap fit manner. The mount 1300 may be engaged with the lower body 1100 so as not to be separated therefrom.

The third sensor 1800 may be disposed at one side of the upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor support portion 1850 may have a shape extending upward from an upper portion of the lower body 1100. The sensor support portion 1850 may support the third sensor 1800. The third sensor 1800 may be coupled to a sensor support portion 1850. The third sensor 1800 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 1850 so as to be oriented in a lateral direction. The sensor receiving portion 137 of the mounting member 1300 may receive and cover the third sensor 1800 and the sensor support portion 1850.

The upper body 1200 may include an upwardly extending post 1400. The post 1400 may extend upward from one side of the mount 1300. The side walls 1410 and 1420 of the post 1400 may be connected to the side walls 1310 and 1320 of the mount 1300. The post 1400 may cover a portion of the space 1340 provided by the mount 1300. The inner wall 1410 of the column 1400 may have an outwardly concave shape. The column 1400 may face the side of the cartridge 200 (see fig. 6). The column 1400 may cover one side of the cartridge 200. The column 1400 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

The post 1400 may house the PCB assembly 1500. The PCB assembly 1500 may provide light to the cartridge 200 or may sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the information about the cartridge 200 may include at least one of: information about a change in the remaining amount of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 in the cartridge 200, information about the type of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 in the cartridge 200, information about whether the rod 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about the type of the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about the degree of use or availability of the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about whether the cartridge 200 having the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 is coupled to the body 100, or information about the type of the cartridge 200 coupled to the body 100. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to the above information.

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

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

PCB assembly 1500 may be mounted in mounting space 1440. The board 1600 may cover the PCB assembly 1500 and may be disposed in the mounting space 1440.

The window 170 may cover the PCB assembly 1500 and the mounting space 1440. The PCB assembly 1500, the board 1600, and the window 1700 may be sequentially stacked. The mounting space 1440 may be referred to as a component receiving space 1440.

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

The PCB assembly 1500 may be disposed inside the column 1400 so as to face the cartridge 200. The PCB assembly 1500 may face the first container 2100, and the first container 2100 is provided with a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 2140. The PCB assembly 1500 may be vertically elongated along the column 1400. A connector 1520 for electrical connection may be formed at one end of the PCB assembly 1500.

The PCB 1510 may be vertically elongated along the column 1400. The PCB 1510 may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB). A connector 1520 may be formed at one end of the PCB 1510. A plurality of light sources 1530 may be disposed on the PCB 1510. The first sensor 154 may be located at the center of the PCB 1510. The first sensor 154 may be located between the light sources 1530 and at least one light source 1530 may be disposed on each side of the first sensor 154. The plurality of light sources 1530 may be vertically arranged along the PCB 1510. The plurality of light sources 1530 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the column 1400. The first sensor 154 may be disposed to face the insertion space 2140. The light source 1530 may be disposed to face the outside of the insertion space 2140. The light source 1530 may emit light toward the outside of the insertion space 2140, thereby providing light to the first chamber C1. The light source 1530 may be disposed to radiate light toward the first chamber C1 through the outside of the insertion space 2140 while facing the first container 2100. The light source 1530 may be a light emitting diode.

Accordingly, the light source 1530 may provide uniform light to the first chamber C1.

Further, the light path provided by the light source 1530 can be prevented from being blocked by the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140.

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

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

For example, the first sensor 154 and the second sensor 155 may sense at least one of: information about a change in the remaining amount of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 in the cartridge 200, information about the type of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 in the cartridge 200, information about whether the rod 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about the type of the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about the degree of use or availability of the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, information about whether the cartridge 200 having the rod 40 inserted into the insertion space 2140 is coupled to the body 100, or information about the type of the cartridge 200 coupled to the body 100. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to the above information.

The first sensor 154 may sense a change in an electromagnetic characteristic of the cartridge 200 to sense information about the cartridge 200. The first sensor 154 may sense a change in electromagnetic characteristics caused by adjacent objects. For example, when the rod 40 is inserted into the insertion space 2140 in the cartridge 200, or when the volume of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 is changed, the electromagnetic characteristics sensed by the first sensor 154 may be changed, and the first sensor 154 may measure the change to sense information about the cartridge 200.

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

The second sensor 155 may sense the magnetization, the direction or the strength of the magnetic field, or a change in the magnetic field of the magnet 315 disposed inside the door 3100. For example, the second sensor 155 may sense a change in the magnetic field when the door 3100 pivots in the first direction or the second direction.

Window 1700 may be coupled to column 1400. Window 1700 may be formed of a transparent material. Window 1700 may allow light to pass through. Window 1700 may be coupled to post 1400 to cover PCB assembly 1500.

The board 1600 may cover an area of the PCB assembly 1500 that is shielded from the at least one light source 1530. The board 1600 may be attached to the PCB assembly 1500 to cover the first sensor 154. The plate 1600 may allow electromagnetic waves to pass through. The plate 1600 through which the electromagnetic wave passes may not allow visible light to pass through, or may be translucent.

Printed circuitry connected to the light source 1530 may be printed on an area of the PCB 1510 adjacent to the light source 1530. The board 1600 may cover printed circuitry printed on the PCB 1510 in the vicinity of the light source 1530. The printed circuit connected to the second sensor 155 may be printed on an area adjacent to the light source 1530 in the PCB 1510. The board 1600 may cover printed circuitry printed on the PCB 1510 in the vicinity of the second sensor 155.

The board 1600 may expose the light source 1530 rather than cover the light source 1530. The light sources 1530 may be disposed at both sides of the first sensor 154 with the first sensor 154 interposed therebetween, and may be disposed in a vertical direction. The portion of the board 1600 corresponding to the location of the light source 1530 may be turned on. When the board 1600 is attached to the PCB assembly 1500, the light source 1530 may be exposed through the open portion of the board 1600.

Accordingly, light emitted from the light source 1530 may not be blocked, and the first sensor 154 and/or a printed circuit printed on the PCB 1510 may not be exposed to the outside, and may be protected from the external environment.

Further, the first sensor 154 may sense a change in electromagnetic characteristics of the surrounding environment in a state of being covered by the board 1600.

Fig. 20 and 21 are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

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

In operation S2120, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the second sensor 155 detects that an object is inserted into an insertion space (e.g., the insertion space 130 shown in fig. 8). For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may use the second sensor 155 to determine whether a door (e.g., the door 310 shown in fig. 8) is pivoted and positioned in an interior space (e.g., the interior space 131 shown in fig. 8).

Upon determining that an object has been inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may monitor a signal from the first sensor 154 in operation S2130. For example, upon determining that an object has been inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may power the first sensor 154 to activate operation of the first sensor 154.

In this case, the aerosol-generating device 10 may check the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 while monitoring the signal from the first sensor 154. Here, the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may refer to a value corresponding to the capacitance around the conductor provided in the first sensor 154.

In operation S2140, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a rod (e.g., the rod 20 shown in fig. 9) based on the signal from the first sensor 154. For example, when the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 exceeds a predetermined level range, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the object inserted into the insertion space is a rod. For example, when the level change of the signal from the first sensor 154 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the object inserted into the insertion space is a rod.

Referring back to fig. 20, in operation S2020, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether a rod is inserted into the insertion space.

Upon determining that the stick has been inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick based on the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 in operation S2030.

When a heater (e.g., the heater 115 shown in fig. 8) is heated in a state where a rod is inserted into the insertion space, aerosol may be generated. The generated aerosol may be inhaled into the user's mouth via the wand. Components contained in the aerosol (e.g., moisture and glycerin) may remain in the stick after the stick is used. For this reason, when a new stick, which has not been used before, is inserted into the insertion space, the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be different from the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 when a used stick is inserted into the insertion space due to the aerosol composition remaining in the stick. Accordingly, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the rod inserted into the insertion space is a used rod based on the level change of the signal from the first sensor 154.

For example, when the level change of the signal from the first sensor 154 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value but less than the second threshold value, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick. For example, when the level change of the signal from the first sensor 154 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick.

For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may check a level range in which the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 falls with reference to a lookup table. In this case, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the rod inserted into the insertion space is a new rod based on the checked level range.

When the rod inserted into the insertion space is not a used rod, i.e., when a new rod is inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may perform control such that power is supplied to the heater in operation S2040.

Upon determining that the rod inserted into the insertion space is a new rod, the aerosol-generating device 10 may deactivate operation of the first sensor 154. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may interrupt power to the first sensor 154 in order to deactivate operation of the first sensor 154.

When the rod is not inserted into the insertion space, or when the rod inserted into the insertion space is a used rod, the aerosol-generating device 10 may interrupt power supply to the heater in operation S2050.

Referring to fig. 22, in a state where the stick is not inserted into the insertion space, it can be observed that the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 is the first level Lv1.

When the stick inserted into the insertion space is a new stick that has not been used before, the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be changed to the second level Lv2. In this case, the change 2210 in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be equal to or greater than the first threshold but less than the second threshold.

Meanwhile, when the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick, the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be changed to the third level Lv3. In this case, the change 2220 in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be equal to or greater than the second threshold value, which is greater than when a new stick is inserted.

That is, due to the composition of the aerosol (e.g., moisture and glycerin) remaining in the rod, when the rod inserted into the insertion space is a used rod, the change in the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 may be greater than when a new rod is inserted into the insertion space.

Fig. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an aerosol-generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. A detailed description of the same contents as those described with reference to fig. 20 and 21 will be omitted.

Referring to fig. 23, in operation S2301, the aerosol-generating device 10 may detect the coupling of the cartridge 200 with the body 100 using a cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15.

In operation S2302, the aerosol-generating device 10 may monitor the signal from the first sensor 154 and/or the signal from the second sensor 155. For example, upon detecting the coupling of the cartridge 200 to the body 100, the aerosol generating device 10 may power the second sensor 155 to activate operation of the second sensor 155. For example, upon determining that an object has been inserted into the insertion space using the second sensor 155, the aerosol-generating device 10 may power the first sensor 154 to activate operation of the first sensor 154.

In operation S2303, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the object inserted into the insertion space is a rod (e.g., the rod 20 shown in fig. 9) based on the signal from the first sensor 154 and/or the signal from the second sensor 155.

Upon determining that the stick has been inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick based on the level of the signal from the first sensor 154 in operation S2304.

When the rod inserted into the insertion space is not a used rod, i.e., when a new rod is inserted into the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may perform control such that power is supplied to the heater in operation S2305. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may power the heater based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

Meanwhile, upon determining that the rod inserted into the insertion space is a new rod, the aerosol-generating device 10 may deactivate the operation of the first sensor 154.

In operation S2306, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the use of the heater is ended. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may monitor the number of puffs starting from the point in time when the first puff is detected by the puff sensor of the sensor module 15. In this case, when the number of puffs reaches the maximum number of puffs, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the use of the heater has ended. For example, when the remaining amount of the battery 19 is less than a predetermined value, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine that the use of the heater has ended.

When the use of the heater is not finished, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether to remove the rod from the insertion space in operation S2307. While the heater is in use, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the rod is removed from the insertion space based on the signal from the second sensor 155.

When the use of the heater is not finished, and when the rod is not removed from the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may continue to supply power to the heater.

Meanwhile, in operation S2308, the aerosol-generating device 10 may interrupt power supply to the heater. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may interrupt power supply to the heater when the rod inserted into the insertion space is a used rod, or when the use of the heater has ended after power is supplied to the heater.

In operation S2309, the aerosol-generating device 10 may output a message related to interrupting power supply to the heater through the output device of the input/output interface 12. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may output a message indicating that the object inserted into the insertion space is not a rod. For example, the aerosol-generating device 10 may output a message indicating that the stick inserted into the insertion space is a used stick. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may output a message indicating that the use of the heater has ended.

In a state in which the power supply to the heater is interrupted, the aerosol-generating device 10 may monitor whether the rod is removed from the insertion space in operation S2310.

When the rod is removed from the insertion space, the aerosol-generating device 10 may determine whether the body 100 and the cartridge 200 are separated from each other in operation S2311.

With the body 100 and cartridge 200 coupled to one another, the aerosol-generating device 10 may continue to monitor the signal from the first sensor 154 and/or the signal from the second sensor 155.

Meanwhile, in operation S2312, the aerosol-generating device 10 may deactivate all of the sensors 154 and 155 by interrupting power supply to the sensors 154 and 155.

As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, whether a stick is inserted can be quickly determined.

Referring to fig. 1 to 23, an aerosol-generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a housing having an elongated insertion space 130 defined therein; a door 310 configured to open and close the elongated insertion space 130; a magnetic sensor 155 configured to detect a magnetic field corresponding to the door 310; a capacitive sensor 154 disposed adjacent the elongated insertion space 130; and a controller 17. The controller 17 may determine whether an object is inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 using the magnetic sensor 155, and may determine whether the object inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is the stick 20 using the capacitive sensor 154.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may activate operation of the capacitive sensor 154 in response to insertion of an object.

Further, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, upon determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a wand 20, the controller 17 may use the capacitive sensor 154 to determine whether the wand 20 is a used wand.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may determine that the stick 20 inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a new stick when a change in the level of the signal from the capacitive sensor 154 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value but less than the second threshold value. When the change in the level of the signal is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the controller 17 may determine that the stick 20 inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a used stick.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a heater 115 configured to heat the aerosol-generating substance. Upon determining that the rod 20 inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a new rod, the controller 17 may perform control such that power is supplied to the heater 115. Upon determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is not a stick or that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a used stick, the controller 17 may perform control such that power supply to the heater 115 is interrupted.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a heater 115 configured to heat the aerosol-generating substance. Upon determining that the wand 20 inserted into the elongate insertion space 130 is a new wand, the controller 17 may deactivate operation of the capacitive sensor 154.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may check a level range within which a level of a signal received from the capacitive sensor 154 falls with reference to a lookup table, and may determine at least one of the following based on the checked level range: whether the rod 20 is inserted into the elongated insertion space 130; or whether the rod 20 inserted into the elongated insertion space 130 is a used rod.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a hinge member 311 connected to the door 310 to allow the door 310 to pivot in a direction in which an object is inserted. The hinge member 311 may include an elastic member configured to provide an elastic restoring force in a direction opposite to a direction in which the door 310 pivots.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing may include an inner wall 103 defining the elongated insertion space 130, and the inner wall 103 may have an inner space 131 defined in a portion thereof to allow the door 310 pivoted in the direction of the insertion rod 20 to be located therein.

Further, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing may include: a cartridge 200 storing pre-vaporized aerosol material in a space between an inner wall 203 and an outer wall 202 thereof; and a body 100 coupled to the cartridge 200. The inner wall 203 of the cartridge 200 may define the elongated insertion space 130. The cartridge 200 may have an interior space 231 defined such that a portion of the inner wall 203 is recessed in an inward direction of the cartridge 200. A door 310 pivoted in the direction of the insertion rod 20 may be located in the inner space 231.

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

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

While embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative 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 specifically, various variations and modifications of the constituent parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement are possible within the scope of the present disclosure, the accompanying 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

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

a housing shaped to define an elongated insertion space;

a door coupled to the housing and positionable to expose and cover the elongated insertion space;

a magnetic sensor configured to detect a magnetic field associated with the door;

a capacitive sensor disposed adjacent to the elongated insertion space; and

A controller configured to:

determining, using the magnetic sensor, whether an object is inserted into the elongated insertion space; and

Determining, using the capacitive sensor, whether the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a rod.

2. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to activate operation of the capacitive sensor in response to determining that the object is inserted into the elongated insertion space.

3. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:

in response to determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is the rod, determining whether the rod is a used rod.

4. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:

determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a new stick based on a change in a level of a signal from the capacitive sensor being equal to or greater than a first threshold value and less than a second threshold value, and

Determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a used stick based on a change in the level of the signal being equal to or greater than the second threshold.

5. The aerosol-generating device of claim 4, further comprising a heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating substance,

Wherein the controller is further configured to deactivate operation of the capacitive sensor in response to determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a new wand.

6. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, further comprising a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating substance according to power supplied to the heater,

Wherein the controller is further configured to:

Controlling power supplied to the heater based on determining that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a new rod; and

The power supply to the heater is interrupted based on a determination that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is not the stick or the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a used stick.

7. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:

identifying a range of levels including the level of the signal received from the capacitive sensor; and

Determining, based on the identified range of levels, at least one of: whether the rod is inserted into the elongated insertion space; or whether the rod inserted into the elongated insertion space is a used rod.

8. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, further comprising a hinge coupled to the door to allow the door to pivot in a first direction when the object is inserted into the elongated insertion space, and

Wherein the hinge comprises an elastic member configured to provide an elastic restoring force in a direction opposite to the first direction.

9. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an inner wall defining the elongated insertion space, and

Wherein the inner wall is shaped to define an interior space sized to receive at least a portion of the door to allow the door to pivot and allow the rod to be inserted into the elongated insertion space.

10. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises:

A cartridge shaped to store pre-vaporized aerosol material in a space between an inner wall and an outer wall thereof; and

A body coupled to the cartridge,

Wherein the inner wall of the cartridge defines the elongated insertion space,

Wherein the cartridge is shaped to define an interior space, a portion of the interior wall is recessed in the interior space, and

Wherein the door is positionable to be received in the interior space in response to insertion of the rod into the elongated insertion space.

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

a housing shaped to define an elongated insertion space;

a door coupled to the housing and positionable between a first position and a second position to expose and cover, respectively, the elongated insertion space;

a magnetic sensor configured to detect a magnetic field associated with the door when the door is positioned at the first position exposing the elongated insertion space;

a capacitive sensor disposed adjacent the elongated insertion space and configured to generate a signal in response to detecting a capacitance around the electrical conductor; and

A controller configured to:

determining insertion of an object into the elongated insertion space based on an indication from the magnetic sensor that the magnetic field has been detected; and

Based on the signal from the capacitive sensor, it is determined that the object inserted into the elongated insertion space is a rod.

12. The aerosol-generating device of claim 11, further comprising a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating substance according to power supplied to the heater,

Wherein the controller is further configured to: