KR102571203B1 - Sealing device for vibrator, and Sealing system including the same - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for sealing a vibrator according to an embodiment includes a sealing body surrounding at least a part of an outer side of a vibrator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source using an ultrasonic vibration method; and a first sealing member that is connected to the sealing body and surrounds the sealing body and another part of the outside of the vibrator. The first sealing member may extend along a direction away from the sealing body.

Description

Vibrator sealing device, and sealing system including the same {Sealing device for vibrator, and Sealing system including the same}

Embodiments relate to a vibrator sealing device and a sealing system including the same, and more particularly, to a vibrator sealing device capable of improving a sealing force for sealing a vibrator, and a sealing system including the same.

There is an increasing demand for an aerosol generating device that generates aerosol in a non-combustion method, replacing the method of generating an aerosol by burning a cigarette. An aerosol-generating device is, for example, a device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material in a non-combustible manner and supplies it to a user, or generates a flavored aerosol by passing vapor generated from an aerosol-generating material through a flavoring medium. am.

Among the methods for generating aerosol in a non-combustion method, there is one using an ultrasonic method. An aerosol generating device using an ultrasonic method includes an aerosol receiving unit accommodating an aerosol generating source and a vibrator generating aerosol from the aerosol generating source.

Here, in the prior art, since the sealing force for sealing the vibrator from the aerosol accommodating unit is low, there is a problem in that the possibility of lead (Pb) contained in the vibrator reaching the aerosol accommodating unit increases.

Embodiments provide a vibrator sealing device capable of sealing a vibrator, and a sealing system including the same.

Embodiments may implement a vibrator sealing device and a sealing system including the same.

An apparatus for sealing a vibrator according to an embodiment includes a sealing body surrounding at least a part of an outer side of a vibrator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source using an ultrasonic vibration method; and a first sealing member that is connected to the sealing body and surrounds the sealing body and another part of the outside of the vibrator. The first sealing member may extend along a direction away from the sealing body.

An airtight system according to an embodiment includes an aerosol receiving unit for accommodating an aerosol generating source; a vibrator for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating source; and a vibrator sealing device disposed to surround at least a portion of an outer side of the vibrator to separate the aerosol receiving unit from the vibrator.

As described above, the vibrator sealing device according to the embodiments and the sealing system including the same can improve the sealing force for sealing the vibrator, thereby reducing the possibility that lead contained in the vibrator reaches the aerosol container.

1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 .
3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating device including a vibrator sealing device according to an embodiment.
Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 3;
5 is a schematic bottom perspective view illustrating a vibrator sealing device according to an exemplary embodiment.
6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device arranged to surround the entire outer side of the vibrator.
7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including two protruding members.
FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .
FIG. 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a state in which the cartridge body is inserted into the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .
FIG. 10 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .
11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a support member.
12 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a partition member separating two vibrators.
FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view illustrating the vibrator sealing device and the vibrator shown in FIG. 12 .
14 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a protruding member.
FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view illustrating the vibrator shown in FIG. 14 .

The terms used in the embodiments have been selected from general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible while considering the functions in the present invention, but they may vary depending on the intention of a person skilled in the art, precedent, or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in a specific case, there is also a term arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the term used in the present invention should be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention, not simply the name of the term.

When it is said that a certain part "includes" a certain component throughout the specification, it means that it may further include other components without excluding other components unless otherwise stated. In addition, terms such as “…unit” and “…module” described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software or a combination of hardware and software.

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, a vibrator sealing device, and a sealing system. The vibrator sealing device and sealing system according to an embodiment may be included in an aerosol generating device.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily carry out the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1 , an aerosol generating device 100 may include a battery 110, an atomizer 120, a sensor 130, a user interface 140, a memory 150, and a processor 160. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1 . Depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 100, those skilled in the art can understand that some of the hardware configurations shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new configurations may be further added. .

As an example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a body, and in this case, hardware elements included in the aerosol generating device 100 are located in the body.

As another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a main body and a cartridge, and hardware elements included in the aerosol generating device 100 may be separately located in the main body and the cartridge. Alternatively, at least some of the hardware elements included in the aerosol generating device 100 may be located on the main body and the cartridge, respectively.

Hereinafter, the operation of each element will be described without limiting the space where each element included in the aerosol generating device 100 is located.

The battery 110 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device 100 . That is, the battery 110 may supply power so that the atomizer 120 can atomize the aerosol generating material. In addition, the battery 110 may supply power necessary for the operation of other hardware elements included in the aerosol generating device 100, that is, the sensor 130, the user interface 140, the memory 150, and the processor 160. there is. The battery 110 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery.

For example, the battery 110 may be a nickel-based battery (eg, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery), or a lithium-based battery (eg, a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-phosphate battery, or a lithium-based battery). titanate battery, lithium-ion battery or lithium-polymer battery). However, the type of battery 110 that can be used in the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited as described above. If necessary, the battery 110 may include an alkaline battery or a manganese battery.

The atomizer 120 receives power from the battery 110 under the control of the processor 160 . The atomizer 120 may atomize the aerosol generating material stored in the aerosol generating device 100 by receiving power from the battery 110 .

The atomizer 120 may be located in the body of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, when the aerosol generating device 100 includes a main body and a cartridge, the atomizer 120 may be located in the cartridge or separately located in the main body and the cartridge. When the atomizer 120 is located in the cartridge, the atomizer 120 may receive power from the battery 110 located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge. In addition, when the atomizer 120 is divided into the main body and the cartridge, parts requiring power supply in the atomizer 120 may receive power from the battery 110 located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

The atomizer 120 generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating material inside the cartridge. Aerosol means a suspension in which liquid and/or solid fine particles are dispersed in a gas. Accordingly, the aerosol generated from the atomizer 120 may refer to a state in which vaporized particles generated from an aerosol generating material and air are mixed. For example, the atomizer 120 may convert the phase of the aerosol-generating material into a gaseous phase through vaporization and/or sublimation. In addition, the atomizer 120 may generate an aerosol by discharging liquid and/or solid aerosol-generating substances into fine particles.

For example, the atomizer 120 may generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material by using an ultrasonic vibration method. The ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol generating material with ultrasonic vibration generated by a vibrator.

Although not shown in FIG. 1 , the atomizer 120 may optionally include a heater capable of heating an aerosol generating material by generating heat. The aerosol-generating material may be heated by a heater, resulting in the creation of an aerosol.

The heater may be formed from any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials are titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. It may be a metal or metal alloy containing, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the heater may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate on which an electrically conductive track is disposed, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

For example, in one embodiment the heater may be part of the cartridge 20 . Also, the cartridge 20 may include a liquid delivery unit and a liquid storage unit, which will be described later. The aerosol-generating material contained in the liquid reservoir may move to the liquid delivery means, and the heater may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material absorbed in the liquid delivery means. For example, a heater may be wound around the liquid delivery means or disposed adjacent to the liquid delivery means.

As another example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include an accommodation space capable of accommodating cigarettes, and the heater may heat the cigarette inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 . As the cigarette is accommodated in the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100, the heater may be located inside and/or outside the cigarette. As such, the heater may heat the aerosol-generating material in the cigarette to generate an aerosol.

Meanwhile, the heater may be an induction heating type heater. The heater may include an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette or cartridge by induction heating, and the cigarette or cartridge may include a susceptor capable of being heated by the induction heater.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one sensor 130 . A result sensed by at least one sensor 130 is transmitted to the processor 160, and according to the sensing result, the processor 160 controls the operation of the atomizer 120, restricts smoking, and inserts a cartridge (or cigarette) / The aerosol generating device 100 may be controlled so that various functions such as non-judgment and notification display are performed.

For example, at least one sensor 130 may include a puff detection sensor. The puff detection sensor may detect a user's puff based on at least one of a change in flow of air flowing in from the outside, a change in pressure, and detection of sound. The puff detection sensor may detect the start timing and end timing of the user's puff, and the processor 160 may determine a puff period and a non-puff period according to the detected start timing and end timing of the puff. can judge

Also, at least one sensor 130 may include a user input sensor. The user input sensor may be a sensor capable of receiving a user's input, such as a switch, a physical button, or a touch sensor. For example, the touch sensor may be a capacitive sensor capable of detecting a user's input by generating a change in capacitance when the user touches a predetermined area formed of a metal material and detecting the change in capacitance. there is. The processor 160 may determine whether a user's input has occurred by comparing values before and after the change in capacitance received from the capacitive sensor. When the value before and after the capacitance change exceeds a preset threshold, the processor 160 may determine that a user's input has occurred.

Also, at least one sensor 130 may include a motion sensor. Information about the movement of the aerosol generating device 100, such as an inclination, moving speed, and acceleration of the aerosol generating device 100, may be acquired through a motion sensor. For example, the motion sensor may include a moving state of the aerosol generating device 100, a stationary state of the aerosol generating device 100, a state where the aerosol generating device 100 is tilted at an angle within a predetermined range for a puff, and each puff action. Information about the tilted state of the aerosol generating device 100 may be measured at an angle different from that during the puff operation. The motion sensor may measure motion information of the aerosol generating device 100 using various methods known in the art. For example, the motion sensor may include an acceleration sensor capable of measuring acceleration in three directions, an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, and a gyro sensor capable of measuring angular velocity in three directions.

Also, at least one sensor 130 may include a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor refers to a sensor that detects the presence or distance of an approaching object or an object existing nearby without mechanical contact by using electromagnetic field force or infrared rays, through which a user approaches the aerosol generating device 100. It can be detected whether or not

Also, at least one sensor 130 may include an image sensor. The image sensor may include, for example, a camera for obtaining an image of an object. The image sensor may recognize an object based on an image acquired by a camera. The processor 160 may determine whether the user is in a situation to use the aerosol generating device 100 by analyzing the image acquired through the image sensor. For example, when the user brings the aerosol generating device 100 close to the lips to use the aerosol generating device 100, the image sensor may acquire an image of the lips. The processor 160 may analyze the obtained image to determine that the user is in a situation to use the aerosol generating device 100 when the lips are determined. Through this, the aerosol generating device 100 may operate the atomizer 120 in advance or preheat the heater.

In addition, the at least one sensor 130 may include a consumables attachment/detachment sensor capable of detecting attachment or detachment of consumables (eg, cartridges, cigarettes, etc.) that may be used in the aerosol generating device 100 . For example, the consumables detachment sensor may detect whether consumables are in contact with the aerosol generating device 100 or determine whether consumables are detached by an image sensor. In addition, the consumable detachment sensor may be an inductance sensor that detects a change in inductance value of a coil that can interact with a marker of consumables, or a capacitance sensor that detects a change in capacitance value of a capacitor that can interact with markers of consumables.

Also, at least one sensor 130 may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may detect the temperature at which the heater (or aerosol generating material) of the atomizer 120 is heated. The aerosol generating device 100 may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heater, or the heater itself may serve as the temperature sensor instead of including the separate temperature sensor. Alternatively, a separate temperature sensor may be further included in the aerosol generating device 100 while the heater serves as the temperature sensor. In addition, the temperature sensor may detect not only the temperature of the heater but also the temperature of internal parts such as a printed circuit board (PCB) and a battery of the aerosol generating device 100.

Also, the at least one sensor 130 may include various sensors that measure information about the surrounding environment of the aerosol generating device 100 . For example, the at least one sensor 130 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the surrounding environment, a humidity sensor for measuring the humidity of the surrounding environment, and an atmospheric pressure sensor for measuring the pressure of the surrounding environment.

The sensor 130 that may be provided in the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to the above-described type, and may further include various sensors. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a fingerprint sensor capable of acquiring fingerprint information from a user's finger for user authentication and security, an iris recognition sensor analyzing an iris pattern of a pupil, and a vein injection from a palm image. It may include a vein recognition sensor that detects the amount of infrared absorption of reduced hemoglobin, a face recognition sensor that recognizes feature points such as eyes, nose, mouth, and facial contours in a 2D or 3D manner, and a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensor. .

In the aerosol generating device 100, only some of the examples of the various sensors 130 illustrated above may be selected and implemented. In other words, the aerosol generating device 100 may combine and utilize information sensed by at least one of the sensors described above.

The user interface 140 may provide information about the status of the aerosol-generating device 100 to the user. The user interface 140 includes a display or lamp that outputs visual information, a motor that outputs tactile information, a speaker that outputs sound information, and an input/output (I/O) that receives information input from a user or outputs information to the user. ) Terminals for data communication with interfacing means (e.g., buttons or touch screens) or receiving charging power, wireless communication with external devices (e.g., WI-FI, WI-FI Direct, Bluetooth, NFC (Near-Field Communication), etc.) may include various interfacing means such as a communication interfacing module.

However, only some of the various user interface 140 examples exemplified above may be selected and implemented in the aerosol generating device 100.

The memory 150 is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating device 100, and the memory 150 may store data processed by the processor 160 and data to be processed. The memory 150 may be a random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), and an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). It can be implemented in different types.

The memory 150 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

The processor 160 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The processor 160 may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which programs executable by the microprocessor are stored. Also, those skilled in the art can understand that the processor 160 may be implemented in other types of hardware.

The processor 160 analyzes a result sensed by at least one sensor 130 and controls subsequent processes to be performed.

Based on a result sensed by at least one sensor 130, the processor 160 may control power supplied to the atomizer 120 so that the operation of the atomizer 120 starts or ends. In addition, the processor 160 determines the amount of power supplied to the atomizer 120 so that the atomizer 120 can generate an appropriate amount of aerosol based on the result sensed by the at least one sensor 130 and You can control when power is supplied. For example, the processor 160 may control the current supplied to the vibrator of the atomizer 120 so that the vibrator vibrates at a predetermined frequency.

In one embodiment, the processor 160 may initiate the operation of the atomizer 120 after receiving a user input for the aerosol generating device 100 . In addition, the processor 160 may start the operation of the atomizer 120 after detecting a user's puff using a puff sensor. In addition, the processor 160 may count the number of puffs using a puff sensor and stop supplying power to the atomizer 120 when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined number.

The processor 160 may control the user interface 140 based on a result sensed by the at least one sensor 130 . For example, when the number of puffs reaches a preset number after counting the number of puffs using a puff sensor, the processor 160 provides the user with an aerosol generating device 100 using at least one of a lamp, a motor, and a speaker. ) can be foretold that it will end soon.

Meanwhile, although not shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating device 100 may be included in the aerosol generating system along with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100 by receiving power from the battery of the cradle while being accommodated in the accommodation space inside the cradle.

An embodiment may be implemented in the form of a recording medium including instructions executable by a computer, such as program modules executed by a computer. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Also, computer readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Communication media typically includes computer readable instructions, data structures, other data in a modulated data signal such as program modules, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

The aerosol generating device 100 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a cartridge 20 holding an aerosol generating substance, and a main body 10 supporting the cartridge 20 .

The cartridge 20 may be coupled to the main body 10 while accommodating the aerosol generating material therein. For example, the cartridge 20 may be mounted on the body 10 by inserting a portion of the cartridge 20 into the body 10 or by inserting a portion of the body 10 into the cartridge 20 . At this time, the body 10 and the cartridge 20 may maintain a coupled state by a snap-fit method, a screw coupling method, a magnetic coupling method, an interference fit method, or the like, but the main body 10 and the cartridge The combination method of (20) is not limited by the above.

Cartridge 20 may include a mouthpiece 21 . The mouthpiece 21 may be formed in the opposite direction to a portion coupled to the main body 10, and is a portion inserted into the user's oral cavity. The mouthpiece 21 may include a discharge hole 211 through which aerosol generated from an aerosol generating material inside the cartridge 20 is discharged to the outside.

The cartridge 20 may hold the aerosol generating material in any one state, such as, for example, a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. Aerosol generating materials may include liquid compositions. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material.

The liquid composition may include, for example, any one of water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring agent, and vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these ingredients. Fragrance may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavor components, etc., but is not limited thereto. Flavoring agents can include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Liquid compositions may also contain aerosol formers such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

For example, a liquid composition may comprise a solution of glycerin and propylene glycol in any weight ratio to which a nicotine salt has been added. A liquid composition may also include two or more nicotine salts. Nicotine salts can be formed by adding a suitable acid, including organic or inorganic acids, to nicotine. The nicotine can be either naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine in any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

The acid for forming the nicotine salt may be appropriately selected in consideration of the absorption rate of nicotine in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 100, flavor or taste, solubility, and the like. For example, acids for the formation of nicotine salts include benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid , citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or a single acid selected from the group consisting of malic acid or the above It may be a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group, but is not limited thereto.

Cartridge 20 may include a liquid reservoir 22 containing an aerosol generating material therein. The fact that the liquid storage unit 22 'accommodates the aerosol generating material' therein means that the liquid storage unit 22 simply performs a function of containing the aerosol generating material, such as the use of a container, and the liquid storage unit ( 22) means including an element that impregnates (contains) an aerosol-generating material such as a sponge, cotton, cloth, or porous ceramic structure.

The aerosol generating device 100 may include an atomizer for generating an aerosol by converting a phase of an aerosol generating material inside the cartridge 20 .

For example, the atomizer of the aerosol generating device 100 may change the phase of the aerosol generating material by using an ultrasonic vibration method to atomize the aerosol generating material with ultrasonic vibration. The atomizer transmits ultrasonic vibrations to the vibrator 11 generating ultrasonic vibrations, the liquid delivery means 24 absorbing the aerosol-generating substances and maintaining them in an optimal state for converting them into aerosols, and the aerosol-generating substances of the liquid delivery means. It may include a vibration receiving unit 23 that generates an aerosol.

The vibrator 11 may generate vibration of a short period. The vibration generated from the vibrator 11 may be ultrasonic vibration, and the frequency of the ultrasonic vibration may be, for example, 100 kHz to 3.5 MHz. Due to the short period of vibration generated from the vibrator 11, the aerosol-generating material may be vaporized and/or made into particles to be atomized into an aerosol.

The vibrator 11 may include, for example, piezoelectric ceramic, which generates electricity (voltage) by physical force (pressure) and conversely generates vibration (mechanical force) when electricity is applied. It is a functional material that can convert between electricity and mechanical power. Therefore, vibration (physical force) is generated by electricity applied to the vibrator 11, and such small physical vibration can break the aerosol-generating material into small particles and atomize it into an aerosol.

The vibrator 11 may be electrically connected to the circuit through a pogo pin or a C-clip. Accordingly, the vibrator 11 may generate vibration by receiving current from a pogo pin or a C-clip. However, the type of element connected to supply current to the vibrator 11 is not limited as described above.

The vibration receiving unit 23 may perform a function of receiving vibration generated from the vibrator 11 and converting an aerosol generating material transferred from the liquid storage unit 22 into an aerosol.

The vibration accommodating unit 23 may be implemented as a vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment to be described below.

The liquid delivery unit 24 may deliver the liquid composition in the liquid storage unit 22 to the vibration receiving unit 23 . For example, the liquid delivery unit 24 may be a wick including at least one of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, and porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

The atomizer also has a mesh shape that performs both functions of absorbing aerosol-generating substances and maintaining them in an optimal state for conversion into aerosols without using a separate liquid delivery means and generating aerosols by transmitting vibrations to aerosol-generating substances. It can be implemented as a mesh shape or plate shape vibration receiving unit.

In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the atomizer vibrator 11 is disposed in the main body 10, and the vibration receiving unit 23 and the liquid delivery means 24 are disposed in the cartridge 20, but are limited thereto. it is not going to be For example, the cartridge 20 may include a vibrator 11, a vibration receiving unit 23, and a liquid delivery means 24, and when a portion of the cartridge 20 is inserted into the main body 10, the main body 10 ) may supply power to the cartridge 20 or a signal related to the operation of the cartridge 20 to the cartridge 20 through a terminal (not shown), and through this, the operation of the vibrator 11 may be controlled. .

At least a part of the liquid storage unit 22 of the cartridge 20 may include a transparent material so that the aerosol-generating material accommodated inside the cartridge 20 can be visually confirmed from the outside. The entirety of the mouthpiece 21 and the liquid storage unit 22 may be made of a transparent material such as plastic or glass, and only a portion of the liquid storage unit 22 may be made of a transparent material.

The cartridge 20 of the aerosol generating device 100 may include an aerosol discharge passageway 25 and an airflow passageway 26 .

The aerosol discharge passage 25 may be formed inside the liquid reservoir 22 to communicate with the discharge hole 211 of the mouthpiece 21 . Accordingly, the aerosol generated from the atomizer may move along the aerosol discharge passage 25 and be delivered to the user through the discharge hole 211 of the mouthpiece 21 .

The airflow passage 26 is a passage through which external air can be introduced into the aerosol generating device 100 . External air introduced through the airflow passage 26 may flow into the aerosol discharge passage 25 or into a space where aerosol is generated. Accordingly, an aerosol may be created by mixing with the vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating material.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the air flow passage 26 may be formed to surround the outside of the aerosol discharge passage 25 . Therefore, the shape of the aerosol discharge passage 25 and the air flow passage 26 may be a double tube shape in which the aerosol discharge passage 25 is disposed inside and the air flow passage 26 is disposed outside the aerosol discharge passage 25. Through this, outside air may be introduced in the direction opposite to the direction in which the aerosol moves in the aerosol discharge passage 25 .

On the other hand, the structure of the airflow passage 26 is not limited by the above. For example, the airflow passage may be a space formed between the main body 10 and the cartridge 20 when the main body 10 and the cartridge 20 are coupled to fluid communication with the atomizer.

In the aerosol generating device 100 according to the above-described embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the body 10 and the cartridge 20 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction is approximately circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or various polygonal cross-sections. can be a shape. However, the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited by the above, and the aerosol generating device 100 is not necessarily limited to a structure extending in a straight line when extending in the longitudinal direction. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating device 100 may be curved in a streamlined shape to make it easier for a user to hold by hand, or may be bent at a predetermined angle in a specific area and extended long. can change according to

Hereinafter, a vibrator sealing device according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating device including a vibrator sealing device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment is disposed to surround at least a portion of the outside of the vibrator 11 so that the aerosol container 22 and the liquid delivery unit 24 are removed from the vibrator 11. It is to perform the function of separating the . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment reduces the possibility that components such as lead (Pb) included in the vibrator 11 reach the aerosol container 22 or the liquid delivery means 24. can Since the aerosol receiving unit 22 is implemented in the same manner as the liquid storage unit 22 described above, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment may be integrally formed without gaps or joints. Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment fundamentally blocks the possibility of components such as lead included in the vibrator 11 reaching the aerosol container 22 through gaps and seams, thereby sealing the whole. can improve performance.

Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 3;

3 and 4, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment is connected to a sealing body 2 surrounding at least a part of the outside of the vibrator 11 and the sealing body 2, (2) and a first sealing member (3) surrounding another part of the outside of the vibrator (11). The first sealing member 3 may extend along a direction away from the sealing body 2 . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may achieve the following operational effects.

First, in the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment, the sealing body 2 and the first sealing member 3 are arranged to seal another part of the outside of the vibrator 11, thereby sealing the vibrator 11. Enclosed area can be increased. Therefore, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment can improve the sealing force of sealing the vibrator 11 from the aerosol accommodating part 22 .

Second, in the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment, the first sealing member 3 extends in a direction away from the sealing body 2, so that the vibrator 11 and the aerosol as shown in the dotted line in FIG. It is possible to increase the overall separation distance between the accommodating parts 22. Therefore, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment reduces the possibility that components such as lead (Pb) contained in the vibrator 11 reach the aerosol container 22, thereby improving safety for smoking work. can make it

Hereinafter, the sealing body 2 and the first sealing member 3 will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the sealing body 2 surrounds at least a portion of the outside of the vibrator 11 . The sealing body 2 may be disposed to surround the first side of the vibrator 11 . For example, the sealing body 2 may be disposed to surround the upper side of the vibrator 11 . The sealing body 2 may be formed in a disk shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in a rectangular plate shape as long as it can be arranged to surround at least a part of the outside of the vibrator 11 . The sealing body 2 may function as a main body of the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment.

The sealing body 2 may be formed without a gap (Crack). Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment can fundamentally block the possibility that components such as lead included in the vibrator 11 reach the aerosol container 22 through the gap.

The sealing body 2 may include a material capable of vibrating. Accordingly, the vibration generated by the vibrator 11 may be transferred to the liquid delivery unit 24 and the aerosol container 22 through the sealing body 2 . The sealing body 2 may include a vibrating material such as STainless Steel (STS) or ALuminum (AL).

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first sealing member 3 surrounds the sealing body 2 and another part of the outside of the vibrator 11 . The first sealing member 3 may be disposed to surround the second side of the vibrator 11 . For example, the first sealing member 3 may be disposed to surround the side of the vibrator 11 . The first sealing member 3 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can be arranged to surround the side surface of the vibrator 11 .

The first sealing member 3 may be connected to the sealing body 2 . The first sealing member 3 may be connected to the sealing body 2 to surround the side of the vibrator 11 . The first sealing member 3 may be integrally formed with the sealing body 2 . The first sealing member 3 may be formed without gaps.

The first sealing member 3 and the sealing body 2 may be connected to each other without a joint. Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment can fundamentally block the possibility of components such as lead included in the vibrator 11 reaching the aerosol container 22 through the joint.

The first sealing member 3 may include a material capable of vibrating. For example, the first sealing member 3 may include a vibrating material such as STS or AL.

The first sealing member 3 may extend along a direction away from the sealing body 2 . For example, the first sealing member 3 may extend along the direction in which the aerosol generating device 100 extends. Accordingly, in the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment, the overall separation distance between the vibrator 11 and the aerosol container 22 may be increased.

5 is a schematic bottom perspective view illustrating a vibrator sealing device according to an exemplary embodiment.

3 to 5, the receiving groove 30 may be located inside the first sealing member 3 and the sealing body 2. The vibrator 11 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 30 . When the vibrator 11 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 30 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may be disposed to surround at least a part of the outside of the vibrator 11 . The accommodating groove 30 may be formed to have a shape and size corresponding to that of the vibrator 11 . When the vibrator 11 is formed in a disc shape, the accommodating groove 30 may be formed in a disc shape to correspond thereto.

6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device arranged to surround the entire outer side of the vibrator.

Referring to FIG. 6 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a second sealing member 4 .

The second sealing member 4 surrounds the sealing body 2 and the first sealing member 3 and other parts of the outside of the vibrator 11 . The second sealing member 4 may be disposed to surround the third side of the vibrator. For example, the second sealing member 4 may be disposed to surround the lower side of the vibrator 11 . The second sealing member 4 may be formed in a disk shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can be arranged to surround the lower side of the vibrator 11 .

The second sealing member 4 may be connected to the first sealing member 3 . The second sealing member 4 may be connected to the first sealing member 3 so as to surround the lower side of the vibrator 11 . The second sealing member 4, the first sealing member 3, and the sealing body 2 may be integrally formed. The second sealing member 4 may be formed without gaps.

The second sealing member 4 , the first sealing member 3 , and the sealing body 2 may be disposed to surround the entire outside of the vibrator 11 . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment has a structure surrounding the entire surface of the vibrator 11, so that the overall sealing force can be further improved. When the vibrator sealing device 1 according to the embodiment includes the second sealing member 4, the receiving groove 30 includes the second sealing member 4, the first sealing member 3, and the sealing body ( 2) may be located inside.

The second sealing member 4 and the first sealing member 3 may be connected to each other without a joint. The second sealing member 4 may include a material capable of vibrating. For example, the second sealing member 4 may include a vibrating material such as STS or AL.

FIG. 7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including two protruding members, and FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 8 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a first protruding member 5 .

The first protruding member 5 may protrude outward of the sealing body 2 . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may extend an area for sealing the vibrator 11 along the outside. In addition, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment may further increase the overall separation distance between the vibrator 11 and the aerosol container 22 by an extended area. The outer side of the sealing body 2 may be in a direction transverse to the extending direction of the aerosol generating device 100 .

The first protruding member 5 may be connected to the sealing body 2 . The first protruding member 5 may be integrally formed with the sealing body 2 . The first protruding member 5 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can protrude to the outside of the sealing body 2. The first protruding member 5 may be formed without gaps.

The first protruding member 5 and the sealing body 2 may be connected to each other without a joint. The first protruding member 5 may include a material capable of vibrating. For example, the first protruding member 5 may include a vibrating material such as STS or AL.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a second protruding member 6 .

The second protruding member 6 may protrude outward from the first sealing member 3 . The second protruding member 6 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the first protruding member 5 . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further extend an area where the vibrator 11 can be sealed along the outside. In addition, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment may further increase the overall separation distance between the vibrator 11 and the aerosol container 22 by an extended area.

The second protruding member 6 may be connected to the first sealing member 3 . The second protruding member 6 may be integrally formed with the first sealing member 3 . The second protruding member 6 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can protrude outward from the first sealing member 3 . The second protruding member 6 may be formed without gaps.

The second protruding member 6 and the first sealing member 3 may be connected to each other without a joint. The second protruding member 6 may include a material capable of vibrating. For example, the second protruding member 5 may include a vibrating material such as STS or AL.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a sealing ring 40 .

The sealing ring 40 is disposed between the second protruding member 6 and the first protruding member 5 . Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment further increases the overall separation distance between the vibrator 11 and the aerosol container 22 through the two protruding members 5 and 6 and also seals the sealing ring. Through (40), the overall sealing performance can be further improved. The sealing ring 40 may be inserted into the sealing ring groove 50 (shown in FIG. 7 ) formed between the second protruding member 6 and the first protruding member 5 . The sealing ring 40 may include a material such as rubber or silicon. The sealing ring 40 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can be inserted into the sealing groove 50.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a state in which the cartridge body is inserted into the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .

Referring to FIG. 9 , a portion of the cartridge 20 may be inserted between the second protruding member 6 and the first protruding member 5 . For example, a cartridge body 20a (shown in FIG. 9) may be inserted between the second protruding member 6 and the first protruding member 5. Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment implements a fixing force fixed to the cartridge 20, so that the vibrator 11 can generate an aerosol and the vibrator 11 can be sealed. can improve The cartridge body 20a can function as the body of the cartridge 20 . The cartridge body 20a may be inserted into the sealing groove 50.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of the vibrator sealing device shown in FIG. 7 .

Referring to FIG. 10 , the first sealing member 3 extends in a direction away from the sealing body 2 and may protrude downward from the second protruding member 6 . Accordingly, the first sealing member 3 can further increase the overall separation distance between the vibrator 11 and the aerosol container 22 . Since the configuration shown in FIG. 10 is the same as that described in the above-described embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In the above, the description has been made based on the embodiment of the vibrator sealing device 1 including two protruding members 5 and 6, but this is exemplary and the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment includes three or more A protruding member may be included. In this case, three or more protruding members may be disposed at positions spaced apart from each other. A sealing ring 40 may be disposed between each of the three or more protruding members.

11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a support member.

The supporting member 7 protrudes toward the receiving groove 30 so as to support the vibrator 11 . Accordingly, in the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment, the vibrator 11 may be maintained in the accommodating groove 30 through the support member 7 . Therefore, in the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment, the vibrator 11 may improve safety and ease of an operation of generating an aerosol. The support member 7 may support the vibrator 11 from a lower side.

The support member 7 may be connected to the first sealing member 3 so that a spaced groove 60 is formed therein. The size of the separation groove 60 may be smaller than that of the vibrator 11 . Accordingly, the supporting member 7 can implement a supporting force for supporting the vibrator 11 . In the comparative example in which the size of the separation groove 60 is larger than that of the vibrator 11, this is because the support member 7 cannot implement the supporting force to support the vibrator 11. The spaced groove 60 may communicate with the receiving groove 30 . The separation groove 60 may be located on the lower side of the receiving groove 30 .

The support member 7 may be integrally formed with the first sealing member 3 . The support member 7 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can support the vibrator 11 .

FIG. 12 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a partition member separating two vibrators, and FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view showing the vibrator sealing device and the vibrator shown in FIG. 12 . Meanwhile, the hatching shown in FIG. 13 is not a cross section, but is shown for classification of the configuration.

Prior to describing an embodiment of the vibrator sealing device including the partition member, an embodiment of the vibrator shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 will be described.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the vibrator 11 may include a first vibrator 11a and a second vibrator 11b. Hereinafter, an embodiment of an aerosol generating device including two vibrators 11a and 11b will be described as a reference, but deriving an embodiment of an aerosol generating device including three or more vibrators from this is a technical field to which the present invention belongs. will be clear to those skilled in the art.

The first vibrator 11a may be accommodated in the receiving groove 30 . The first vibrator 11a may be accommodated in the center of the accommodating groove 30 . The first vibrator 11a may be formed in a disk shape as a whole. The first vibrator 11a may be connected to the first power supply unit 10a (shown in FIG. 13 ) of the battery 110 . The processor 160 may control the first power supply unit 10a so that the first vibrator 11a vibrates within a predetermined frequency range.

The second vibrator 11b may be accommodated in the receiving groove 30 at a position spaced apart from the first vibrator 11a. Accordingly, the aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment may achieve the following operational effects.

First, in the aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment, as the two vibrators 11a and 11b vibrate independently, a dispersion force that induces vibration to be uniformly generated in the entire area of the receiving groove 30 can be implemented. This is because the aerosol generating device having one vibrator has a low dispersion force that induces vibration to be evenly generated because vibration is concentrated in a specific area.

Second, in the aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment, the two vibrators 11a and 11b are spaced apart and accommodated in the receiving groove 30. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment is implemented such that only the damaged or damaged vibrator is repaired or replaced among the two vibrators 11a and 11b, thereby reducing overall maintenance costs.

The second vibrator 11b may be accommodated at the edge of the accommodating groove 30 . In this case, the first vibrator 11a may be positioned inside the second vibrator 11b. The second vibrator 11b may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole. The second vibrator 11b may be connected to the second power source 10b (shown in FIG. 13 ) of the battery 110 . The processor 160 may control the second power supply unit 10b so that the second vibrator 11b vibrates within a predetermined frequency range. The processor 160 may control each of the second power supply unit 10b and the first power supply unit 10a. For example, the processor 160 may individually control the second power supply unit 10b and the first power supply unit 10a so that the second vibrator 11b and the first vibrator 11a vibrate within different frequency ranges. .

When the vibrator 11 includes two vibrators 11a and 11b, the support member 7 may support each of the two vibrators 11a and 11b. To this end, the size of the separation groove 60 may be smaller than that of the first vibrator 11a. In the comparative example in which the size of the separation groove 60 is larger than that of the first vibrator 11a, this is because the supporting member 7 can support at least only the second vibrator 11b.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a partition member 8 .

The partition member 8 is disposed between the first vibrator 11a and the second vibrator 11b. Accordingly, the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may realize a partitioning force for partitioning the two vibrators 11a and 11b. The partition member 8 may be formed in a circular ring shape as a whole, but this is exemplary and may be formed in another shape as long as it can partition the two vibrators 11a and 11b.

The partition member 8 may be connected to the sealing body 2 so as to protrude toward the receiving groove 30 . The partition member 8 and the sealing body 2 may be connected to each other without a joint. The partition member 8 may be integrally formed with the sealing body 2 . The partition member 8 may include a material such as rubber or silicon.

FIG. 14 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a vibrator sealing device including a protruding member, and FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view showing the vibrator shown in FIG. 14 .

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 , the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a protruding member 9 .

The protruding member 9 may be connected to the sealing body 2 so as to protrude toward the receiving groove 30 . The protruding member 9 may be connected to the sealing body 2 at a position spaced apart from the partition member 8 . The protruding member 9 may be disposed at a point where the distance from one side of the first sealing member 3 and the other side of the first sealing member 3 are the same. The protruding member 9 and the sealing body 2 may be connected to each other without a joint. The protruding member 9 may include a vibrating material such as STS or AL.

When the vibrator sealing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment includes the protruding member 9 , the vibrator 11 may include an insertion groove 70 .

The protruding member 9 is inserted into the insertion groove 70 . In a state in which the protruding member 9 is inserted into the insertion groove 70, the vibrator 11 may vibrate. Insertion groove 70 may be formed to have a shape and size corresponding to the protruding member (9).

3 to 15 , the sealing system according to an embodiment may include an aerosol container 22, a vibrator 11, and a vibrator sealing device 1 according to an embodiment.

Those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment will be able to understand that it may be implemented in a modified form within a range that does not deviate from the essential characteristics of the above description. Therefore, the disclosed methods are to be considered in an illustrative rather than a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is shown in the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all differences within the equivalent range should be construed as being included in the present invention.

1: vibrator sealing device 2: sealing body
3: first sealing member 4: second sealing member
5: first protruding member 6: second protruding member
7: support member 8: partition member
9: protruding member 11: vibrator
11a: first vibrator 11b: second vibrator
30: receiving groove 40: sealing ring
50: sealing groove 60: spaced groove
70: insertion groove

Claims (15)

A sealing body surrounding at least a part of the outer side of the vibrator for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating source using an ultrasonic vibration method;
a first sealing member connected to the sealing body and surrounding the sealing body and another part of the outside of the vibrator; and
Including; a first protruding member protruding outward of the sealing body,
The first sealing member extends in a direction away from the sealing body, the vibrator sealing device. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a second sealing member connected to the first sealing member,
The second sealing member, the first sealing member, and the sealing body surround the entire outer side of the vibrator, the vibrator sealing device. delete According to claim 1,
The vibrator sealing device further comprises a second protruding member protruding outward of the first sealing member. According to claim 4,
The vibrator sealing device further comprises a sealing ring disposed between the second protruding member and the first protruding member. According to claim 4,
A vibrator sealing device, wherein a body of a cartridge including the aerosol generating source is insertable between the second protruding member and the first protruding member. According to claim 1,
an accommodation groove for accommodating the vibrator; and
The vibrator sealing device further includes a support member connected to the first sealing member and protruding toward the receiving groove to support the vibrator. According to claim 7,
A spaced groove is formed inside the support member,
The size of the separation groove is smaller than the size of the vibrator, the vibrator sealing device. According to claim 1,
Further comprising an accommodating groove for accommodating the vibrator,
The vibrator sealing device includes a first vibrator accommodated in the accommodating groove, and a second vibrator accommodated in the accommodating groove at a position spaced apart from the first vibrator. According to claim 9,
The vibrator sealing device further comprises a partition member disposed between the second vibrator and the first vibrator. According to claim 9,
A support member connected to the first sealing member and protruding toward the receiving groove to support the first vibrator and the second vibrator;
A spaced groove is formed inside the support member,
The first vibrator is located inside the second vibrator,
The size of the separation groove is smaller than the size of the first vibrator. According to claim 1,
an accommodation groove for accommodating the vibrator; and
Further comprising an insertion member connected to the sealing body and protruding toward the receiving groove,
The vibrator sealing device further comprises an insertion groove into which the insertion member is inserted. According to claim 1,
The first sealing member and the sealing body are connected to each other without a joint, the vibrator sealing device. According to claim 1,
The vibrator sealing device further comprising: an accommodating groove located inside the first sealing member and the sealing body and accommodating the vibrator. an aerosol accommodating unit accommodating an aerosol generating source;
a vibrator for generating aerosol from the aerosol generating source accommodated in the aerosol receiving unit by using an ultrasonic vibration method; and
A vibrator sealing device disposed to surround at least a portion of an outer side of the vibrator to separate the aerosol receiving unit from the vibrator;
The vibrator sealing device,
a sealing body surrounding at least a part of the outside of the vibrator;
a first sealing member connected to the sealing body and surrounding the sealing body and another part of the outside of the vibrator; and
Including; a first protruding member protruding outward of the sealing body,
The first sealing member extends along a direction away from the sealing body, the sealing system.

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