KR102607159B1 - Device for generating aerosol - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes a body providing an elongated hollow body; A cartridge coupled to one side of the body; As, a first chamber storing liquid; a second chamber disposed on one side of the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber and receiving the liquid from the first chamber; and a cartridge including a heater for heating the wick; a connection passage formed in the body and communicating with the hollow part of the body and the second chamber of the cartridge; an inflow passage formed in the cartridge and communicating with the second chamber and an exterior of the cartridge; And it may include a sensor located adjacent to the inflow passage and detecting the flow of air passing through the inflow passage.

Description

Aerosol generating device {DEVICE FOR GENERATING AEROSOL}

This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

An aerosol generating device is intended to extract certain components from a medium or material through aerosol. The medium may contain substances of various compositions. Substances included in the medium may be flavor substances of various ingredients. For example, substances included in the medium may include nicotine ingredients, herbal ingredients, and/or coffee ingredients. Recently, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices.

The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

Another goal may be to prevent problems with aerosols coming into contact with the sensor.

Another purpose may be to prevent problems resulting from sensor failure.

Another goal may be to enable the sensor to more accurately detect air ingress.

Another goal may be to improve stomach problems without the inconvenience of cartridge removal or aerosol inhalation.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, there is provided a body providing an elongated hollow body; A cartridge coupled to one side of the body; As, a first chamber storing liquid; a second chamber disposed on one side of the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber and receiving the liquid from the first chamber; and a cartridge including a heater for heating the wick; a connection passage formed in the body and communicating with the hollow part of the body and the second chamber of the cartridge; an inflow passage formed in the cartridge and communicating with the second chamber and an exterior of the cartridge; and a sensor located adjacent to the inflow passage and detecting the flow of air passing through the inflow passage.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the problem of aerosol coming into contact with the sensor can be prevented.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent a sensor failure.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a sensor can more accurately detect air inflow.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the above problems can be improved without inconvenience in cartridge detachment or aerosol inhalation.

Additional scope of applicability 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 present disclosure may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as being given only as examples.

1 to 13 are diagrams showing examples of aerosol generating devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, identical or similar components will be assigned the same reference numbers regardless of reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes “module” and “part” for components used in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the ease of preparing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

Additionally, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed descriptions will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and all changes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure are not limited. , should be understood to include equivalents or substitutes.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When a component is said to be "connected" or "connected" to another component, it is understood that it may be directly connected to or connected to the other component, but that other components may exist in between. It should be. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that a component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Hereinafter, the direction of the aerosol generating device 100 will be defined based on the coordinate system shown in the drawing.

In the coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 100. At this time, the direction toward +x relative to the origin may refer to the anterior direction, and the direction toward -x may refer to the posterior direction.

In the coordinate system, the y-axis direction can be defined as the left and right directions of the aerosol generating device 100. At this time, the direction toward +y relative to the origin may refer to the right direction, and the direction toward -y may refer to the left direction.

In the coordinate system, the z-axis direction can be defined as the vertical direction of the aerosol generating device 100. At this time, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +z may refer to the upward direction, and the direction toward -y may refer to the downward direction.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one of a battery 10, a control unit 20, a heater 30, a cartridge 40, and a sensor 21. At least one of the battery 10, the control unit 20, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, and the sensor 21 may be disposed inside the housing 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. Housing 110 may be referred to as body 110.

Housing 110 may provide an elongated hollow body. The housing 110 may provide an insertion space 114 (see FIG. 4) into which the stick 200 can be inserted. An insertion space 114 into which the stick 200 can be inserted may be formed around the heater 30 .

Referring to FIG. 1, the battery 10, control unit 20, sensor 21, cartridge 40, and heater 30 may be arranged in a row. Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 and the heater 30 may be arranged side by side, facing each other at adjacent heights. The internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown.

The battery 10 may supply power so that at least one of the control unit 20, heater 30, cartridge 40, and sensor 21 operates. The battery 10 can supply power necessary for the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 100 to operate. Battery 10 may be referred to as power source 10.

The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 may control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, heater 30, cartridge 40, and sensor 21. The control unit 20 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 20 may check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 100 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state.

The heater 30 may generate heat by power supplied from the battery 10. The heater 30 may heat the stick 40 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. The heater 30 may be referred to as the first heater 30.

Cartridge 40 may be coupled to one side of housing 110. Cartridge 40 may generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the cartridge 40 may pass through the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol generating device 100 and be delivered to the user. The cartridge 40 may be detachably coupled to the housing 110.

The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air. Sensor 21 may be a pressure sensor. The sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the path through which air flows. The sensor 21 may be electrically connected to the control unit 20. The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air and output information to the control unit 20.

Referring to FIG. 3, the housing 110 may include a lower housing (110a) and an upper housing (110b). The upper housing 110b may be disposed above the lower housing 110a. The upper housing 110b may be arranged side by side, facing the cartridge 40, on the upper side of the lower housing 110a. The lower housing 110a can accommodate at least one of the battery 10 and the control unit 20 (see FIG. 2). The upper housing 110b can accommodate at least one of the sensor 21 and the first heater 30 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The first heater 30 may be disposed around the insertion space 114. The lower housing 110a may be referred to as the lower body 110a. The upper housing (110a) may be referred to as the upper body (110b).

The upper housing 110b may provide an elongated hollow space. The upper housing 110b may provide an insertion space 114 into which the stick 200 can be inserted. The upper housing 110b may include a first outlet 114a formed by opening the upper wall 112. The insertion space 114 is connected to the first outlet 114a and may extend downward from the first outlet 114a. The insertion space 114 may have a long shape in the vertical direction. The insertion space 114 may be surrounded by the side wall 111 of the upper body 110b.

The first inlet 116 may be formed in the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may be formed on the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may be connected to the inside of the base 42 formed in the cartridge 40.

The connection passage 115 may be formed in the housing 110. The connection passage 115 may be formed in the upper housing (110b). The connection passage 115 may communicate with the hollow formed in the housing 110 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 40. The connection passage 115 may communicate with the insertion space 114 and the second chamber C2. The connection passage 115 may be disposed between the first inlet 116 and the insertion space 114. The connection passage 115 may communicate with the first inlet 116 and the insertion space 114.

The first inlet 116 may be disposed lower than the first outlet 114a. The first inlet 116 and the first outlet 114a may be in communication with each other. The first outlet 114a may be formed to be open upward. The first inlet 116 may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The first inlet 116 may be formed open in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 114. The first inlet 116 may be formed to be open toward the front.

The upper housing 110b may include a first extension 112a. The first extension portion 112a may extend in the forward direction from the top of the upper housing 110b. The first extension 112a may cover the upper side of the detachment space 113. The first extension 112a may face the upper part of the lower housing 110a.

The upper housing 110b may have a support surface 118 extending to one side from the lower part of the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The support surface 118 may face the lower part of the detachment space 113. The detachment space 113 may be divided by the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b, the first extension 112a, and the support surface 118. The detachment space 113 may be arranged in parallel with the insertion space 114.

The cartridge 40 may be inserted into the detachment space 113 by moving from the front to the rear. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the housing 110 in the detachment space 113. The side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may face the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The lower part of the cartridge 40 may be supported by contacting the support surface 118 formed on the upper housing 110b. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 may be covered by the first extension portion 112a. The cartridge 40 may be in contact with the support surface 118 and electrically connected to other components inside the aerosol generating device 100.

The cartridge 40 may include a container 41 that stores liquid. The cartridge 40 may include a base 42 disposed on the lower side of the container 41. Liquid stored in the container 41 may be supplied to the base 42. An aerosol may be generated at base 42. The interior of the base 42 may be connected to the first inlet 116.

Accordingly, the aerosol generated in the cartridge 40 may flow into the inlet 116 and flow toward the insertion space 114.

The cap 120 may be detachably coupled to the outside of the upper housing 110b. The cap 120 may cover the upper housing 110b and the cartridge 40 coupled to the upper housing 110b. The side wall 121 of the cap 120 may cover the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The upper wall 122 of the cap 120 may cover the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b.

The opening 124 may be formed by opening the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The opening 124 may be formed at a location corresponding to the insertion space 114. When the cap 120 is coupled to the housing 110, the opening 124 may be connected to the insertion space 114 and the first outlet 114a.

The cap 120 may include a cover 123 that opens and closes the opening 124. The cover 123 may be installed on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. The slit 125 is formed on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120 and may be connected to the opening 124. Slit 125 may extend in one direction from opening 124. The cover 123 may be installed to be movable along the slit 125. The cover 123 may move along the slit 125 to close the opening 124 in a first position and to open the opening 124 in a second position.

Referring to FIG. 4, the cartridge 40 may include a first chamber (C1) and a second chamber (C2). The first chamber C1 can store liquid. The second chamber C2 may be placed on one side of the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may receive liquid from the first chamber C2. An aerosol may be generated within the second chamber (C2). Air may pass through the second chamber C2 and transport the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 into the hollow of the housing 110.

Cartridge 40 may include a container 41 and a base 42. The base 42 may be placed on the lower side of the container 41. The container 41 may have a first chamber C1 storing liquid therein. The base 42 may have a second chamber C2 therein.

The side wall 411 of the container 41 may be connected to the upper wall 412 of the container 41 to form the perimeter of the container 41. The side wall 411 and the top wall 412 of the container 41 may form the outer wall of the container 41.

The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by the outer walls 411 and 412 of the container 41. The side wall 411 of the container 41 may surround the side of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 412 of the container 41 may cover the upper part of the first chamber C1. The lower part of the container 41 may be open toward the second chamber C2.

The inflow passage 400 may be formed in the cartridge 40. The inflow passage 400 may communicate with the second chamber C2 and the outside of the cartridge 40. The inflow passage 400 may include at least one of the second inlet 401, the third inlet 402, the first passage 403, and the chamber inlet 404. Outside air may pass through the inflow passage 400 and flow into the second chamber C2.

The inflow passage 400 may include a second inlet 401 open to the outside. The second inlet 401 may communicate with the second chamber C2 through the first flow path 403. The second inlet 401 may be open upward at the top of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the outer walls 411, 412, 421, and 422 of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the upper wall 412 of the container 41 upward. The second inlet 401 may be formed at the top of the container 41.

The inflow passage 400 may include a first passage 403. The first flow path 403 may extend in the vertical direction from the second chamber C2 to the second inlet 401. The first flow path 403 may be formed between the second inlet 401 and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow path 403 may extend in the vertical direction from the second inlet 401 to the chamber inlet 404. The first flow path 403 may connect the second inlet 401 and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow path 403 may be formed at a position opposite the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b with respect to the first chamber C1.

The first flow path 403 may be formed by opening the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40. The first flow path 403 may be formed inside the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the side walls 411 and 421.

The inflow passage 400 may include a chamber inlet 404. The chamber inlet 404 may be in communication with the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be located opposite the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the first flow path 403. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed at a higher position than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The side wall 411 of the container 41 may include a first flow path side wall 4111 and a second flow path side wall 4112. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may form part of the side wall 411 of the container 41.

The first flow path side wall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first flow path side wall 4111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second flow path side wall 4112 may form part of the outer wall of the container 41. The second flow path side wall 4112 faces the first flow path side wall 4111 and may be spaced outward from the first flow path side wall 4111. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may be arranged parallel to each other. The second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403 may be formed between the first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112.

The side wall 421 of the base 42 may be connected to the lower wall 422 of the base 42 to form the perimeter of the base 42. The side wall 421 and the lower wall 422 of the base 42 may constitute the outer wall of the base 42.

The second chamber C2 may be in communication with the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403. The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by the outer walls 421 and 422 of the base 42. The side wall 421 of the base 42 may surround the side of the second chamber C2. The lower wall 422 of the base 42 may cover the lower part of the second chamber C2. The upper part of the base 42 may be open toward the first chamber C1.

The base 42 is in communication with the second chamber C2 and may include a chamber inlet 404 through which air flows. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the first flow path 403.

The base 42 may be in communication with the second chamber C2 and may be provided with a second outlet 405 through which air is discharged. The second outlet 405 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The second outlet 405 may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The second outlet 405 may be disposed opposite to the chamber inlet 404 with respect to the second chamber C2. The second outlet 405 may be formed at a higher position than the bottom of the second chamber C2. The second outlet 405 may communicate with the second chamber C2 and the connection passage 115.

The plate 43 may be disposed between the container 41 and the base 42. The plate 43 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2 to partition the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2. The plate 43 may include a liquid supply hole (not shown) connecting the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2.

Wick 44 may be placed inside the base 42. The wick 44 may be placed in the second chamber C2. The wick 44 can receive liquid from the first chamber C1 through a liquid supply hole (not shown) formed in the plate 43.

The heater 45 may be placed inside the base 42. The heater 45 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 45 may receive power from the battery 10 and generate heat. The heater 45 may heat the wick 44. The heater 45 can wind the wick 44 multiple times. The heater 45 may generate an aerosol by heating the wick 44 supplied with the liquid. The heater 45 disposed inside the cartridge 40 may be referred to as the second heater 45.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the cartridge 40 may be inserted into the detachment space 113. The cartridge 40 may be detachably coupled to the upper housing 110b in the detachable space 113.

The detachment space 113 may be formed by opening the upper housing 110b to one side. The detachment space 113 may be formed by opening the upper housing 110b forward. The detachment space 113 may be surrounded and partitioned by the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b, the first extension 112a, and the support surface 118.

When the cartridge 40 is inserted into the detachment space 113 and coupled to the housing 110, the second outlet 405 may be connected to the first inlet 116. Outdoor air flowing into the second inlet 401 may flow along the first flow path 403 and flow into the second chamber C2 through the chamber inlet 404. The aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 may flow into the first inlet 116 through the second outlet 405. The aerosol flowing into the first inlet 116 may sequentially pass through the connection passage 115 and the insertion space 114 and be discharged through the first outlet 114a. The aerosol flowing into the first inlet 116 may be supplied to the stick 200 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) inserted into the insertion space 114.

Lower wall 422 of cartridge 40 may be supported by support surface 118 . The side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may be in contact with the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b.

The first extension 112a may extend from the top of the upper housing 110b to around the second inlet 401. The first extension 112a may face the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The first extension 112a may cover at least a portion of the upper part of the cartridge 40.

The first extension 112a may be disposed above and spaced apart from the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extension 112a and the second inlet 401. The first extension portion 112a may be spaced apart from the second flow path side wall 112 . The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extension 112a and the second flow path side wall 4112. The third inlet 402 may be open in a direction crossing the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed to be open forward. Outside air may flow into the third inlet 402 and move to the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 may be installed inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the inflow passage 400. The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air passing through the inflow passage 400.

The sensor 21 may be installed inside the first extension portion 112a. The sensor 21 may be placed above the cartridge 40. The sensor 21 may be placed above the second chamber C2. The sensor 21 may be placed above the second inlet 401. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed toward the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be placed above the third inlet 402. It may be disposed toward the third inlet 402. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the third inlet 402. Sensor 21 may be in contact with the third inlet 402.

The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air. Sensor 21 may be a pressure sensor. Sensor 21 can detect pressure changes in surrounding air. The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, the problem of the aerosol generated from the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, it is possible to prevent the sensor 21 from being directly exposed to the outside. Additionally, it is possible to solve a problem that causes a failure of the sensor 21.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the first extension portion 112a may include a first recessed portion 112b. The first recessed portion 112b may be formed by recessing one side of the first extension portion 112a inward. The first depression 112b may be formed by depression of one side of the first extension 112a in a 'ㄷ' shape. The first depression 112b may be formed on the upper side of the second inlet 401. The first recessed portion 112b may open the upper side of the second inlet 401 by recessing the first extension portion 112a.

The third inlet 402 may be formed above the second inlet 401. The first depression 112b may open the upper side of the second inlet 401 and partition the third inlet 402. The third inlet 402 may be in communication with the second inlet 401. The first depression 112b may surround at least a portion of the third inlet 402. Outdoor air may flow into the second inlet 401 through the third inlet 402 defined by the first depression 112b. The third inlet 402 may be open upward and forward.

The sensor 21 may be installed in the first extension portion 112a. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the second inlet 401. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be arranged to face the third inlet 402 in the first depression 112b.

The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When outside air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, the efficiency of air flow can be improved. In addition, by inducing a flow of air around the first depression 112b and the third inlet 402, the sensor 21 can respond more quickly and the accuracy of the sensor 21 can be improved. Additionally, the problem of the aerosol generated from the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, it is possible to solve a problem that causes a failure of the sensor 21.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10 , the inlet flow path 400 may include a second inlet 401 and a fourth inlet 402a. The second inlet 401 may be located opposite the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the side wall 421 of the base 42. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open forward. The second inlet 401 may be arranged parallel to the second outlet 405. The second inlet 401 may be formed at a higher position than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The housing 110 may include a second extension portion 111a. The second extension portion 111a may extend upward from the lower housing 110a. The second extension portion 111a may be disposed in front of the upper housing 111b. The second extension portion 111a may face the upper housing 110b. The second extension portion 111a may be spaced apart from the upper housing 111b to form a detachable space 113 in which the cartridge 40 is placed. The second extension portion 111a may be arranged in parallel with the upper housing 110b with the cartridge 40 interposed therebetween. The second extension portion 111a may extend to the same height as the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b. The second extension 111a may cover the periphery of the second inlet 401. The second extension portion 111a may cover at least a portion of the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40.

The fourth inlet 402a may be formed by opening the second extension portion 111a. The fourth inlet 402a may be in communication with the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed to be open forward. The fourth inlet 402a may be arranged parallel to the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be arranged parallel to the second outlet 405. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed at a higher position than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The cartridge 40 may be detachably disposed between the upper housing 110b and the second extension portion 111a. The cartridge 40 can be detached in the vertical direction between the upper housing 110b and the second extension portion 111a. The cartridge 40 may move from the upper side to the lower side and be inserted into the detachable space 113 formed between the upper housing 110b and the second extension portion 111a. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the housing 110 in the detachment space 113.

The cap 120 may cover the upper housing 110b and the cartridge 40. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed by opening the side wall 121 of the cap 120. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed to be open in a direction crossing the vertical direction. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed to be open forward. When the cap 120 is coupled to the housing 110, the fifth inlet 126 may communicate with the fourth inlet 402a. The fifth inlet 126 may be located parallel to the third inlet 401 and the fourth inlet 402a.

The sensor 21 may be installed inside the second extension part 111a. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the second inlet 401. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a. The sensor 21 may be arranged to face the fourth inlet 402a.

The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air around the second inlet 401 and the fourth inlet 402a. When outside air flows around the fourth inlet 402a and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, the efficiency of air flow can be improved. Additionally, the problem of the aerosol generated from the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, it is possible to solve a problem that causes a failure of the sensor 21.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13 , the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may not have an extension portion 112b. The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may not cover the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may be disposed on approximately the same plane. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have approximately the same height. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may be in contact.

The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have a second recessed portion 112c on one side. The second recessed portion 112c may be formed by recessing the upper wall 112 in a direction opposite to the cartridge 40. The second recessed portion 112c may have a shape that is open toward the front.

The inflow passage 400 may include at least one of the second inlet 401, the third inlet 402, the first passage 403a, the second passage 403b, and the chamber inlet 404.

The first flow path 403a may be formed by opening the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40. The first flow path 403a may be formed inside the side walls 411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the side walls 411 and 421.

The first flow path 403a may extend upward from the second chamber C2. The first flow path 403a is formed between the second flow path 403b and the chamber inlet 404, and can connect the second flow path 403b and the chamber inlet 404. The first flow path 403a may be formed at a position opposite the side wall 111 of the upper housing 110b with respect to the first chamber C1.

The second flow path 403b may be formed by opening the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The second flow path 403b may be formed inside the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and may be surrounded by the upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40. The second flow path 403b may be formed on the upper side of the first chamber C1.

The second flow path 403b may extend in the front-to-back direction. The second flow path 403b may extend in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the first flow path 403a. The second flow path 403b may extend from the first flow path 403a toward the second inlet 401. The second flow path 403b is formed between the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403a, and can connect the second inlet 401 and the first flow path 403a.

The side wall 411 of the container 41 may include a first flow path side wall 4111 and a second flow path side wall 4112. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may form part of the side wall 411 of the container 41.

The first flow path side wall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first flow path side wall 4111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second flow path side wall 4112 may form part of the outer wall of the container 41. The second flow path side wall 4112 faces the first flow path side wall 4111 and may be spaced outward from the first flow path side wall 4111. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may be arranged parallel to each other. The first flow path 403a may be formed between the first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112. The first flow path side wall 4111 and the second flow path side wall 4112 may extend along the vertical direction.

The upper wall 412 of the container 41 may include a first upper channel wall 4121 and a second upper channel wall 4122. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first upper channel wall 4121 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may be connected to the first flow path side wall 4111. The first flow path upper wall 4121 may extend from the first flow path side wall 4111 toward the second recessed portion 112c.

The second channel upper wall 4122 faces the first channel upper wall 4121 and may be spaced outward from the first channel upper wall 4121. The second flow path upper wall 4122 may be connected to the second flow path side wall 4112 of the container 41. The second flow path upper wall 4122 may extend from the second flow path side wall 4112 toward the second recessed portion 112c.

The second inlet 401 may be formed at the top of the cartridge 40. The second inlet 401 may be formed by opening the upper wall 411 of the container 41. The second inlet 401 may be formed open toward the second recessed portion 112c. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open toward the rear. The second inlet 401 may be connected to the second cartridge passage 403b. The second inlet 401 may be formed between the ends of the first flow path upper wall 4121 and the second flow path upper wall 4122.

When the cartridge 40 is coupled to the upper housing 110b, the second inlet 401 may face the second depression 112c. When the cartridge 40 is coupled to the upper housing 110b, a third inlet 402 may be formed between the second recessed portion 112c and the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be surrounded by the second depression 112c and the upper wall 412 of the container 41. The third inlet 402 may be open upward.

Outdoor air may flow into the second inlet 401 through the third inlet 402 surrounded by the second depression 112c. The air flowing into the first inlet 401 may be supplied to the second chamber C2 through the second flow path 403b and the first flow path 403a sequentially.

The sensor 21 may be installed inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the top of the housing 110. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the second inlet 401. Sensor 21 may be placed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be arranged to face the third inlet 402 in the second depression 112c. The sensor 21 may be installed at a location between the first outlet 114a and the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be installed at a position between the hollow of the upper housing 110b and the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 can detect the flow of air around the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402. When outside air flows around the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, the problem of the aerosol generated from the second chamber C2 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, the problem of liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 coming into contact with the sensor 21 can be solved. Additionally, it is possible to solve a problem that causes a failure of the sensor 21. Additionally, the efficiency of the space where the sensor 21 is placed can be improved. Additionally, detachment and attachment of the cartridge 40 may be more convenient. Additionally, the capacity of liquid that the container 41 can store can be further improved.

1 to 13, an aerosol generating device 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 110 providing a long elongated hollow body; A cartridge 40 coupled to one side of the body 110; As, a first chamber (C1) storing liquid; a second chamber (C2) disposed on one side of the first chamber (C1); a wick (44) disposed in the second chamber (C2) and receiving the liquid from the first chamber (C1); and a cartridge 40 including a heater 45 that heats the wick 44; A connection passage 115 formed in the body 110 and communicating with the hollow 114 of the body 110 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 40; an inflow passage 400 formed in the cartridge 40 and communicating with the second chamber C2 and the outside of the cartridge 40; And it may include a sensor 21 located adjacent to the inflow passage 400 and detecting the flow of air passing through the inflow passage 400.

Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber (C2) is disposed below the first chamber (C1), and the inflow passage 400 is located at the top of the cartridge 40. , a second inlet 401 open toward the upper side; And it may include a first flow path 403 extending in the vertical direction from the second chamber C2 to the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 includes a lower body 110a; An upper body (110b) disposed parallel to the cartridge 40 on the upper side of the lower body (110a) and providing the hollow 114; And a first extension part (112a) extending from the upper part of the upper body (110b) around the second inlet (401) and covering at least a portion of the upper part of the cartridge (40), wherein the sensor (21) may be installed adjacent to the second inlet 401 in the first extension portion 112a.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extension portion 112a covers the upper side of the second inlet 401 and is spaced apart from the second inlet 401. ) and can define a third inlet 402 that is open in a direction crossing the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402 in the extension portion 112a.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extension portion 112a is a first recessed portion 112b formed by recessing one side of the first extension portion 112a, and the second inlet ( 401) may include a first recessed portion 112b that opens the upper side and defines a third inlet 402 communicating with the second inlet 401.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed in the first recessed portion 112b toward the third inlet 402.

Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the third inlet 402, the second inlet 401, the first flow path 403, the second chamber C2, and the connection flow path 115 and the hollows 114 are arranged sequentially along the air flow direction, and the sensor 21 is arranged adjacent to the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, The flow of air passing through 402 and the second inlet 401 can be detected.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber (C2) is disposed below the first chamber (C1), and the cartridge 40 includes the second chamber (C2) and the It includes a second outlet 405 communicating with the connection passage 115, and the inlet passage 400 is located opposite the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2, and is located in an upward and downward direction. It may include a second inlet 401 formed to be open in a direction crossing the .

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 includes a lower body 110a; An upper body (110b) disposed parallel to the cartridge 40 on the upper side of the lower body (110a) and providing the hollow 114; and a second extension portion 111a extending upward from the lower body 110a, arranged in parallel with the upper body 110b with the cartridge 40 in between, and covering the periphery of the second inlet 401. ), and the inflow passage 400 is formed by opening the second extension portion 111a and may include a fourth inlet 402a communicating with the second inlet 401.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, and the second outlet 405 are open in directions intersecting the vertical direction and are arranged parallel to each other. It can be.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may be detachable in the vertical direction between the upper body 110b and the second extension portion 111a.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a in the second extension portion 111a.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, the second chamber C2, the connection passage 115, and the hollow 114 are air are arranged sequentially along the flow direction, and the sensor 21 is disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a and can detect the flow of air passing through the fourth inlet 402a. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 is disposed below the first chamber C1, and the inflow passage 400 is located at the top of the body 110. At an adjacent location, a second inlet 401 opening toward the top of the body 110; a first flow path (403a) extending upward from the second chamber (C2); and a second flow path 403b extending from the first flow path 403a to the second inlet 401 along a direction intersecting the direction in which the first flow path 403a extends.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be installed at the top of the body 110 toward the second inlet 401.

Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be installed at a position between the hollow portion of the body 110 and the second inlet 401.

Any or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from each other. Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or combined (Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the disclosure described above may be combined with another or combined with each other in configuration or function).

For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and/or drawing may be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and/or drawings. In other words, even if the combination between configurations is not directly explained, this means that the combination is possible except in cases where the combination is described as impossible (For example, a configuration "A" described in one embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings and a configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings may be combined with each other. Namely, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in the case where it is described that the combination is impossible).

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in any respect and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included within the scope of the present invention (Although 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 particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art).

Claims (17)

a body providing an elongated hollow body;
A cartridge coupled to one side of the body; As, a first chamber storing liquid; a second chamber disposed on one side of the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber and receiving the liquid from the first chamber; and a cartridge including a heater for heating the wick;
a connection passage formed in the body and communicating with the hollow part of the body and the second chamber of the cartridge;
an inflow passage formed in the cartridge and communicating with the second chamber and an exterior of the cartridge; and
It is located adjacent to the inflow passage and includes a sensor that detects the flow of air passing through the inflow passage,
The inflow flow path is,
It is formed in the cartridge, and includes a second inlet located above the second chamber and communicating with the outside of the cartridge,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed adjacent to the second inlet.
According to claim 1,
The second chamber is,
disposed below the first chamber,
The second inlet opens upward at the top of the cartridge,
The inflow flow path is,
An aerosol generating device comprising a first flow path extending in a vertical direction from the second chamber to the second inlet.
According to clause 2,
The body is,
lower body;
An upper body disposed parallel to the cartridge on the upper side of the lower body and providing the hollow space; and
A first extension extending from the top of the upper body around the second inlet and covering at least a portion of the top of the cartridge,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device installed adjacent to the second inlet in the first extension.
According to clause 3,
The first extension part,
An aerosol generating device that covers an upper side of the second inlet, and defines a third inlet that is spaced apart from the second inlet, communicates with the second inlet, and is open in a direction intersecting the second inlet.
According to clause 4,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed in the first extension adjacent to the second inlet and the third inlet.
According to clause 3,
The first extension part,
An aerosol generating device comprising a first depression formed by collapsing one side of the first extension, and opening an upper side of the second inlet to define a third inlet communicating with the second inlet.
According to clause 6,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed in the first depression toward the third inlet.
According to claim 4 or 6,
The third inlet, the second inlet, the first flow path, the second chamber, the connecting flow path, and the hollow are sequentially arranged along the air flow direction,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed adjacent to the third inlet and the second inlet and detecting the flow of air passing through the third inlet and the second inlet.
a body providing an elongated hollow body;
A cartridge coupled to one side of the body; As, a first chamber storing liquid; a second chamber disposed on one side of the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber and receiving the liquid from the first chamber; and a cartridge including a heater for heating the wick;
a connection passage formed in the body and communicating with the hollow part of the body and the second chamber of the cartridge;
an inflow passage formed in the cartridge and communicating with the second chamber and an exterior of the cartridge; and
It is located adjacent to the inflow passage and includes a sensor that detects the flow of air passing through the inflow passage,
The body is,
lower body;
An upper body disposed parallel to the cartridge on the upper side of the lower body and providing the hollow space; and
A second extension part extends upward from the lower body and is arranged in parallel with the upper body with the cartridge in between,
The inflow flow path is
An aerosol generating device comprising a fourth inlet formed by opening the second extension portion and communicating with the second chamber.
According to clause 9,
The second chamber is,
disposed below the first chamber,
The cartridge is,
It includes a second outlet communicating with the second chamber and the connection passage,
The inflow flow path is,
A second inlet is located opposite to the second outlet with respect to the second chamber, is open in a direction crossing the upper and lower directions, and communicates with the second chamber and the outside,
The second inlet is an aerosol generating device in communication with the fourth inlet.
According to claim 10,
The fourth inlet, second inlet and second outlet are,
Aerosol generating devices are open in the vertical direction and arranged side by side.
According to clause 9,
The cartridge is,
An aerosol generating device that is detachable in a vertical direction between the upper body and the second extension part.
According to clause 9,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet in the second extension.
According to claim 10,
The fourth inlet, the second inlet, the second chamber, the connection passage, and the hollow are sequentially arranged along the air flow direction,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet and detecting the flow of air passing through the fourth inlet.
According to claim 1,
The second chamber is,
disposed below the first chamber,
the second inlet opens toward the top of the body at a location adjacent to the top of the body,
The inflow flow path is,
a first flow path extending upward from the second chamber; and
An aerosol generating device comprising a second flow path extending from the first flow path to the second inlet along a direction intersecting the direction in which the first flow path extends.
According to claim 15,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device installed at the top of the body toward the second inlet.
According to claim 16,
The sensor is,
An aerosol generating device installed at a position between the hollow part of the body and the second inlet.

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