WO2022203313A1

WO2022203313A1 - Aerosol-generating device

Info

Publication number: WO2022203313A1
Application number: PCT/KR2022/003917
Authority: WO
Inventors: Taehun Kim
Original assignee: Kt&G Corporation
Priority date: 2021-03-24
Filing date: 2022-03-21
Publication date: 2022-09-29
Also published as: CN116113339A; KR102607159B1; CA3185792A1; KR20220132946A; EP4312610A1; US20230255267A1; JP2023540236A

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure includes a body having therein an elongated hollow portion; a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising: a first chamber configured to store a liquid; a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber to receive the liquid from the first chamber; and a heater configured to heat the wick; a connection passage configured to allow communication between the hollow portion and the second chamber of the cartridge; an inflow passage formed at the cartridge to allow external air to enter the second chamber; and a sensor disposed adjacent to the inflow passage and configured to sense flow of air passing through the inflow passage.

Description

AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device.

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

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

It is another object of the present disclosure to prevent contact of an aerosol with a sensor.

It is still another object of the present disclosure to prevent malfunction of a sensor.

It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide a sensor capable of more accurately sensing inflow of air.

It is still another object of the present disclosure to improve the above problems while ensuring smooth mounting/demounting of a cartridge and smooth inhalation of an aerosol.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure for accomplishing the above and other objects, there is provided an aerosol-generating device including a body having therein an elongated hollow portion; a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising: a first chamber configured to store a liquid; a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber; a wick disposed in the second chamber to receive the liquid from the first chamber; and a heater configured to heat the wick; a connection passage configured to allow communication between the hollow portion and the second chamber of the cartridge; an inflow passage formed at the cartridge to allow external air to enter the second chamber; and a sensor disposed adjacent to the inflow passage and configured to sense flow of air passing through the inflow passage.

According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent contact of an aerosol with a sensor.

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

According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, a sensor is capable of more accurately sensing inflow of air.

According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the above problems while ensuring smooth mounting/demounting of a cartridge and smooth inhalation of an aerosol.

Additional applications of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, because various changes and modifications will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are merely given by way of example.

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

FIGS. 1 to 13 are views showing examples of an aerosol-generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

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

In the following description, with respect to constituent elements used in the following description, the suffixes "module" and "unit" are used only in consideration of facilitation of description, and do not have mutually distinguished meanings or functions.

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

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

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

As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Hereinafter, the directions of an aerosol-generating device 100 may be defined based on the coordinate system shown in the drawings.

In the coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the forward-backward direction of the aerosol-generating device 100. Here, based on the origin, the +x-axis direction may be the forward direction, and the -x-axis direction may be the backward direction.

In the coordinate system, the y-axis direction may be defined as the leftward-rightward direction of the aerosol-generating device 100. Here, based on the origin, the +y-axis direction may be the rightward direction, and the -y-axis direction may be the leftward direction.

In the coordinate system, the z-axis direction may be defined as the upward-downward direction of the aerosol-generating device 100. Here, based on the origin, the +z-axis direction may be the upward direction, and the -z-axis direction may be the downward direction.

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

The housing 110 may have formed therein an elongated hollow portion. The housing 110 may have formed therein an insertion space 114 (refer to FIG. 4), into which a stick 200 is inserted. The insertion space 114, into which the stick 200 is inserted, may be formed in the vicinity of the heater 30.

Referring to FIG. 1, the battery 10, the controller 20, the sensor 21, the cartridge 40, and the heater 30 may be arranged in a row. Referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge 40 and the heater 30 may be disposed parallel to each other so as to face each other at a similar height. The internal structure of the aerosol-generating device 100 is not limited to that illustrated in the drawings.

The battery 10 may supply power required to operate at least one of the controller 20, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, or the sensor 21. The battery 10 may supply power required to operate a display, a motor, etc. mounted in the aerosol-generating device 100. The battery 10 may be referred to as a power supply 10.

The controller 20 may control the overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 100. The controller 20 may control the operation of at least one of the battery 10, the heater 30, the cartridge 40, or the sensor 21. The controller 20 may control the operation of the display, the motor, etc. mounted in the aerosol-generating device 100. The controller 20 may determine whether the aerosol-generating device 100 is in an operable state by checking the state of each of the components of the aerosol-generating device 100.

The heater 30 may generate heat using power supplied from the battery 10. The heater 30 may heat the stick 200 inserted into the aerosol-generating device 100. The heater 30 may be referred to as a first heater 30.

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

The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be a pressure sensor. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to a path through which air flows. The sensor 21 may be electrically connected to the controller 20. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air, and may output information about the flow of air to the controller 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 on the lower housing 110a. The upper housing 110b may be disposed parallel to the cartridge 40 so as to face the cartridge 40 above the lower housing 110a. The lower housing 110a may accommodate at least one of the battery 10 or the controller 20 (refer to FIG. 2). The upper housing 110b may accommodate at least one of the sensor 21 or the first heater 30 (refer to 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 a lower body 110a. The upper housing 110b may be referred to as an upper body 110b.

The upper housing 110b may provide an elongated hollow portion. The upper housing 110b may provide an insertion space 114, into which the stick 200 is inserted. The upper housing 110b may have formed therein a first outlet 114a. The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may be open to form the first outlet 114a. The insertion space 114 may be connected to the first outlet 114a, and may extend downwards from the first outlet 114a. The insertion space 114 may have a shape that is elongated in the upward-downward direction. The insertion space 114 may be surrounded by the sidewall 111 of the upper body 110b.

A first inlet 116 may be formed in the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may be formed in the sidewall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The first inlet 116 may communicate with the interior of a base 42 of the cartridge 40.

A 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 be configured to allow communication between the hollow portion formed in the housing 110 and a second chamber C2 in the cartridge 40. The connection passage 115 may be configured to allow communication between 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 be configured to allow communication between the first inlet 116 and the insertion space 114.

The first inlet 116 may be disposed at a position lower than the first outlet 114a. The first inlet 116 and the first outlet 114a may communicate with each other. The first outlet 114a may be formed to be open upwards. The first inlet 116 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The first inlet 116 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 114. The first inlet 116 may be formed to be open forwards.

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

The upper housing 110b may include a support surface 118, which extends in one direction from the lower portion of the sidewall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The support surface 118 may face the lower portion of the mounting space 113. The mounting space 113 may be defined by the sidewall 111, the first extended portion 112a, and the support surface 118 of the upper housing 110b. The mounting space 113 may be disposed parallel to the insertion space 114.

The cartridge 40 may move from the front to the rear to be inserted into the mounting space 113. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the housing 110 in the mounting space 113. The

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may face the sidewall 111 of the upper housing 110b. The lower portion of the cartridge 40 may be in contact with and supported by the support surface 118 of the upper housing 110b. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 may be covered by the first extended portion 112a. The cartridge 40 may be in contact with the support surface 118 to be electrically connected to other components located inside the aerosol-generating device 100.

The cartridge 40 may include a container 41 for storing a liquid. The cartridge 40 may include a base 42 disposed beneath the container 41. The liquid stored in the container 41 may be supplied to the base 42. An aerosol may be generated in the 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 be introduced into the inlet 116, and may flow toward the insertion space 114.

The cap 120 may be detachably coupled to the outer side 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 sidewall 121 of the cap 120 may cover the sidewall 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 upper wall 122 of the cap 120 may be open to form an opening 124. The opening 124 may be formed at a position 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, which opens or closes the opening 124. The cover 123 may be mounted on the upper wall 122 of the cap 120. A slit 125 is formed in the upper wall 122 of the cap 120, and may be connected to the opening 124. The slit 125 may extend in one direction from the opening 124. The cover 123 may be mounted so as to be movable along the slit 125. The cover 123 may move along the slit 125 to close the opening 124 at a first position and to open the opening 124 at 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 may store a liquid therein. The second chamber C2 may be disposed beside the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1. The second chamber C2 may receive a liquid from the first chamber C1. An aerosol may be generated in the second chamber C2. Air may pass through the second chamber C2 to deliver the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 to the hollow portion in the housing 110.

The cartridge 40 may include a container 41 and a base 42. The base 42 may be disposed beneath the container 41. The container 41 may have formed therein a first chamber C1 to store a liquid. The base 42 may have formed therein a second chamber C2.

The sidewall 411 of the container 41 may be connected to the upper wall 412 of the container 41 to form the periphery of the container 41. The sidewall 411 and the upper 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 sidewall 411 of the container 41 may surround the side surface of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 412 of the container 41 may cover the upper portion of the first chamber C1. The lower portion of the container 41 may be open toward the second chamber C2.

An inflow passage 400 may be formed in the cartridge 40. The inflow passage 400 may allow external air to enter the second chamber C2. The inflow passage 400 may include at least one of a second inlet 401, a third inlet 402, a first flow passage 403, or a chamber inlet 404. External air may be introduced into the second chamber C2 through the inflow passage 400.

The inflow passage 400 may include a second inlet 401, which is open toward the outside. The second inlet 401 may communicate with the second chamber C2 through the first flow passage 403. The second inlet 401 may be open upwards in the upper end of the cartridge 40. The

outer walls

411, 412, 421, and 422 of the cartridge 40 may be open to form the second inlet 401. The upper wall 412 of the container 41 may be open upwards to form the second inlet 401. The second inlet 401 may be formed in the upper portion of the container 41.

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

The

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may be open to form the first flow passage 403. The first flow passage 403 may be formed inside the

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 so as to be surrounded by the

sidewalls

411 and 421.

The inflow passage 400 may include a chamber inlet 404. The chamber inlet 404 may communicate with the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be located opposite a second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the first flow passage 403. The sidewall 421 of the base 42 may be open to form the chamber inlet 404. The chamber inlet 404 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The sidewall 411 of the container 41 may include a first passage sidewall 4111 and a second passage sidewall 4112. The first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112 may form a portion of the sidewall 411 of the container 41.

The first passage sidewall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first passage sidewall 4111 may be contiguous with the first chamber C1. The second passage sidewall 4112 may form a portion of the outer wall of the container 41. The second passage sidewall 4112 may face the first passage sidewall 4111, and may be spaced outwards apart from the first passage sidewall 4111. The first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112 may be disposed parallel to each other. The second inlet 401 and the first flow passage 403 may be formed between the first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112.

The sidewall 421 of the base 42 may be connected to the lower wall 422 of the base 42 to form the periphery of the base 42. The sidewall 421 and the lower wall 422 of the base 42 may form the outer wall of the base 42.

The second chamber C2 may communicate with the second inlet 401 and the first flow passage 403. The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by the

outer walls

421 and 422 of the base 42. The sidewall 421 of the base 42 may surround the side surface of the second chamber C2. The lower wall 422 of the base 42 may cover the lower portion of the second chamber C2. The upper portion of the base 42 may be open toward the first chamber C1.

The base 42 may include a chamber inlet 404, which communicates with the second chamber C2 and into which air is introduced. The sidewall 421 of the base 42 may be open to form the chamber inlet 404. The chamber inlet 404 may be connected to the first flow passage 403.

The base 42 may include a second outlet 405, which communicates with the second chamber C2 and from which air is discharged. The sidewall 421 of the base 42 may be open to form the second outlet 405. The second outlet 405 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The second outlet 405 may be disposed opposite the chamber inlet 404 with respect to the second chamber C2. The second outlet 405 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2. The second outlet 405 may communicate with the second chamber C2 and the connection passage 115.

A 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 in order to isolate the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2 from each other. The plate 43 may have formed therein a liquid supply hole (not shown), through which the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2 communicate with each other.

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

A heater 45 may be disposed 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 to generate heat. The heater 45 may heat the wick 44. The heater 45 may be wound around the wick 44 multiple times. The heater 45 may heat the wick 44, to which the liquid is supplied, to generate an aerosol. The heater 45 disposed inside the cartridge 40 may be referred to as a second heater 45.

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

The upper housing 110b may be open in one direction to form the mounting space 113. The upper housing 110b may be open forwards to form the mounting space 113. The mounting space 113 may be surrounded and defined by the sidewall 111, the first extended portion 112a, and the support surface 118 of the upper housing 110b.

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

The lower wall 422 of the cartridge 40 may be supported by the support surface 118. The

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may be in contact with the sidewall 111 of the upper housing 110b.

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

The first extended portion 112a may be spaced upwards apart from the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extended portion 112a and the second inlet 401. The first extended portion 112a may be spaced upwards apart from the second passage sidewall 112. The third inlet 402 may be formed between the first extended portion 112a and the second passage sidewall 4112. The third inlet 402 may be open in a direction intersecting the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may be formed to be open forwards. External air may be introduced into the third inlet 402, and may flow to the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 may be mounted inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the inflow passage 400. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air passing through the inflow passage 400.

The sensor 21 may be mounted inside the first extended portion 112a. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the cartridge 40. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the second chamber C2. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed so as to face the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed above the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed so as to face the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be in contact with the third inlet 402.

The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air. The sensor 21 may be a pressure sensor. The sensor 21 may sense a change in the pressure of ambient air. The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air near the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When air flows in the vicinity of the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit sensed information to the controller 20 (refer to FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the sensor 21 from being directly exposed to the outside. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the sensor 21 malfunctions.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first extended portion 112a may include a first depressed portion 112b. A portion of the first extended portion 112a may be depressed inwards to form the first depressed portion 112b. A portion of the first extended portion 112a may be depressed in a "[" shape to form the first depressed portion 112b. The first depressed portion 112b may be formed above the second inlet 401. The upper side of the second inlet 401 may be open due to the first depressed portion 112b, which is formed by depressing a portion of the first extended portion 112a.

The third inlet 402 may be formed on the second inlet 401. The first depressed portion 112b may define the third inlet 402 by exposing the upper side of the second inlet 401. The third inlet 402 may communicate with the second inlet 401. The first depressed portion 112b may surround at least a portion of the third inlet 402. External air may be introduced into the second inlet 401 through the third inlet 402, which is defined by the first depressed portion 112b. The third inlet 402 may be open in the upward direction and the forward direction.

The sensor 21 may be mounted in the first extended portion 112a. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed at the first depressed portion 112b toward the third inlet 402.

The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air near the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401. When external air flows in the vicinity of the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit sensed information to the controller 20 (refer to FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the flow of air. In addition, since air is induced to flow to the vicinity of the first depressed portion 112b and the third inlet 402, the sensor 21 may more sensitively react to the flow of air, with the result that the accuracy of the sensor 21 may be increased. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the sensor 21 malfunctions.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the inflow passage 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 sidewall 421 of the base 42 may be open to form the second inlet 401. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open forwards. The second inlet 401 may be disposed parallel to the second outlet 405. The second inlet 401 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The housing 110 may include a second extended portion 111a. The second extended portion 111a may extend upwards from the lower housing 110a. The second extended portion 111a may be disposed in front of the upper housing 111b. The second extended portion 111a may face the upper housing 110b. The second extended portion 111a may be spaced apart from the upper housing 111b to form a mounting space 113, in which the cartridge 40 is disposed. The second extended portion 111a may be disposed parallel to the upper housing 110b, with the cartridge 40 interposed therebetween. The second extended portion 111a may extend to the same height as the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b. The second extended portion 111a may cover the periphery of the second inlet 401. The second extended portion 111a may cover at least a portion of the

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40.

The second extended portion 111a may be open to form the fourth inlet 402a. The fourth inlet 402a may communicate with the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed to be open forwards. The fourth inlet 402a may be disposed parallel to the second inlet 401. The fourth inlet 402a may be disposed parallel to the second outlet 405. The fourth inlet 402a may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

The cartridge 40 may be detachably disposed between the upper housing 110b and the second extended portion 111a. The cartridge 40 may be mounted or demounted in the upward-downward direction between the upper housing 110b and the second extended portion 111a. The cartridge 40 may move from above to below to be inserted into the mounting space 113 formed between the upper housing 110b and the second extended portion 111a. The cartridge 40 may be coupled to the housing 110 in the mounting space 113.

The cap 120 may cover the upper housing 110b and the cartridge 40. The sidewall 121 of the cap 120 may be open to form a fifth inlet 126. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed to be open in a direction intersecting the upward-downward direction. The fifth inlet 126 may be formed to be open forwards. 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 mounted inside the second extended portion 111a. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a. The sensor 21 may be disposed so as to face the fourth inlet 402a.

The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air near the second inlet 401 and the fourth inlet 402a. When external air flows in the vicinity of the fourth inlet 402a and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit sensed information to the controller 20 (refer to FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the flow of air. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the sensor 21 malfunctions.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may not include the extended 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 in substantially the same plane. The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 and the upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have substantially 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 with each other.

The upper wall 112 of the upper housing 110b may have a second depressed portion 112c formed in one side thereof. The second depressed portion 112c may be formed by depressing one side of the upper wall 112 in a direction opposite the cartridge 40. The second depressed portion 112c may have a shape that is open in the forward direction.

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

The

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40 may be open to form the first flow passage 403a. The first flow passage 403a may be formed inside the

sidewalls

411 and 421 of the cartridge 40, and may be surrounded by the

sidewalls

411 and 421.

The first flow passage 403a may extend upwards from the second chamber C2. The first flow passage 403a may be formed between the second flow passage 403b and the chamber inlet 404, and may connect the second flow passage 403b to the chamber inlet 404. The first flow passage 403a may be formed at a position opposite the sidewall 111 of the upper housing 110b with respect to the first chamber C1.

The upper wall 412 of the cartridge 40 may be open to form the second flow passage 403b. The second flow passage 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 passage 403b may be formed above the first chamber C1.

The second flow passage 403b may extend in the forward-backward direction. The second flow passage 403b may extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first flow passage 403a. The second flow passage 403b may extend from the first flow passage 403a toward the second inlet 401. The second flow passage 403b may be formed between the second inlet 401 and the first flow passage 403a, and may connect the second inlet 401 to the first flow passage 403a.

The first passage sidewall 4111 may be disposed inside the container 41. The first passage sidewall 4111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second passage sidewall 4112 may form a portion of the outer wall of the container 41. The second passage sidewall 4112 may face the first passage sidewall 4111, and may be spaced outwards apart from the first passage sidewall 4111. The first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first flow passage 403a may be formed between the first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112. The first passage sidewall 4111 and the second passage sidewall 4112 may extend in the upward-downward direction.

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

The second upper passage wall 4122 may face the first upper passage wall 4121, and may be spaced outwards apart from the first upper passage wall 4121. The second upper passage wall 4122 may be connected to the second passage sidewall 4112 of the container 41. The second upper passage wall 4122 may extend from the second passage sidewall 4112 toward the second depressed portion 112c.

The second inlet 401 may be formed in the upper portion of the cartridge 40. The upper wall 411 of the container 41 may be open to form the second inlet 401. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open toward the second depressed portion 112c. The second inlet 401 may be formed to be open backwards. The second inlet 401 may be connected to the second flow passage 403b. The second inlet 401 may be formed between an end of the first upper passage wall 4121 and an end of the second upper passage wall 4122.

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

External air may be introduced into the second inlet 401 via the third inlet 402, which is surrounded by the second depressed portion 112c. The air introduced into the first inlet 401 may sequentially pass through the second flow passage 403b and the first flow passage 403a, and may then be supplied to the second chamber C2.

The sensor 21 may be mounted inside the housing 110. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the upper end of the housing 110. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be disposed at the second depressed portion 112c toward the third inlet 402. The sensor 21 may be mounted at a position between the first outlet 114a and the second inlet 401. The sensor 21 may be mounted at a position between the hollow portion in the upper housing 110b and the second inlet 401.

The sensor 21 may sense the flow of air near the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402. When external air flows in the vicinity of the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401, the sensor 21 may transmit sensed information to the controller 20 (refer to FIGS. 1 and 2).

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the liquid leaking from the cartridge 40 contacts the sensor 21. In addition, it is possible to prevent the problem in which the sensor 21 malfunctions. In addition, it is possible to increase the efficiency of use of space in which the sensor 21 is disposed. In addition, mounting/demounting of the cartridge 40 may be further facilitated. In addition, the amount of liquid that can be stored in the container 41 may be increased.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 13, an aerosol-generating device 100 in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body 100 having therein an elongated hollow portion, a cartridge 40 coupled to the body 110 and comprising: a first chamber C1 configured to store a liquid, a second chamber C2 disposed adjacent to the first chamber C1, a wick 44 disposed in the second chamber C2 to receive the liquid from the first chamber C1, and a heater 45 for heating the wick 44, a connection passage 115 configured to allow communication between the hollow portion 114 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 40, an inflow passage 400 formed at the cartridge 40 to allow external air to enter the second chamber C2, and a sensor 21 disposed adjacent to the inflow passage 400 and configured to sense the flow of air passing through the inflow passage 400.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1. The inflow passage 400 may include a first flow passage 403 extending vertically, and a second inlet 401 disposed at an upper end of the first flow passage 403.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 may include a lower body 110a, an upper body 110b, which is disposed above the lower body 110a and laterally adjacent to the cartridge 40, wherein the hollow portion 114 is formed at the upper body 110b, and a first extended portion 112a extending from the upper portion of the upper body 110b and configured to cover at least a portion of the upper portion of the cartridge 40. The sensor 21 may be mounted at the first extended portion 112a so as to be adjacent to the second inlet 401.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extended portion 112a may be disposed over the upper side of the second inlet 401, and may be spaced apart from a portion of the cartridge 40 adjacent to the second inlet 401 to define a third inlet 402 in communication with the second inlet 401. Wherein a direction of air flow through The third inlet 402 intersects a direction of air flow through the second inlet 401.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed at the first extended portion 112a so as to be adjacent to the second inlet 401 and the third inlet 402.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the first extended portion 112a may include a first depressed portion 112b formed by depressing one side of the first extended portion 112a. The first depressed portion 112b may open the upper side of the second inlet 401 to define a third inlet 402 that communicates with the second inlet 401.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed at the first depressed portion 112b toward the third inlet 402.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may be configured to allow air to flow sequentially through the third inlet 402, the second inlet 401, the first flow passage 403, the second chamber C2, the connection passage 115, and the hollow portion 114, and the sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401 to sense the flow of air passing through the third inlet 402 and the second inlet 401.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1 and comprise a second outlet 405 in communication with the connection passage 115. The inflow passage 400 may include a second inlet 401, which is located opposite the second outlet 405 with respect to the second chamber C2 and configured to allow external air to flow therethrough in a horizontal direction.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the body 110 may include a lower body 110a, an upper body 110b, which is disposed above the lower body 110a and laterally adjacent to the cartridge 40, wherein the hollow portion 114 is formed at the upper body 110b, and a second extended portion 111a, which extends upwards from the lower body 110a wherein the cartridge 40 is secured between the upper body 110b and the second extended portion 111a, and wherein the inflow passage 400 may include a fourth inlet 402a in communication with the second inlet 401 and defined by an opening at the second extended portion 111a.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a direction of air flow through the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, and the second outlet 405 may be parallel to each other.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may be mounted or demounted at a position between the upper body 110b and the second extended portion 111a in upward or downward direction.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be disposed at the second extended portion 111a so as to be adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 40 may be configured to allow air to flow sequentially through the fourth inlet 402a, the second inlet 401, the second chamber C2, the connection passage 115, and the hollow portion 114, and the sensor 21 may be disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet 402a to sense the flow of air passing through the fourth inlet 402a.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the second chamber C2 may be disposed below the first chamber C1. The inflow passage 400 may include a first flow passage 403a extending vertically from a chamber inlet 404 of the second chamber C2, a second flow passage 403b extending from an end of the first flow passage 403a in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first flow passage 403a extends, and a second inlet 401 disposed at an end of the second flow passage 403 b.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be mounted at the upper end of the body 110 toward the second inlet 401.

In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensor 21 may be mounted at a position between the hollow portion in the body 110 and the second inlet 401.

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, 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.

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

An aerosol-generating device comprising:

a body having therein an elongated hollow portion;

a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising:

a first chamber configured to store a liquid;

a second chamber disposed adjacent to the first chamber;

a wick disposed in the second chamber to receive the liquid from the first chamber; and

a heater configured to heat the wick;

a connection passage configured to allow communication between the hollow portion and the second chamber of the cartridge;

an inflow passage formed at the cartridge to allow external air to enter the second chamber; and

a sensor disposed adjacent to the inflow passage and configured to sense flow of air passing through the inflow passage.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber is disposed below the first chamber, and

wherein the inflow passage includes:

a first flow passage extending vertically; and

a second inlet disposed at an upper end of the first flow passage.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein the body comprises:

a lower body;

an upper body disposed above the lower body and laterally adjacent to the cartridge, wherein the hollow portion is formed at the upper body; and

a first extended portion extending from an upper portion of the upper body and configured to cover at least a portion of an upper portion of the cartridge, and

wherein the sensor is mounted at the first extended portion so as to be adjacent to the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 3, wherein the first extended portion is disposed over an upper side of the second inlet, and is spaced apart from a portion of the cartridge adjacent to the second inlet to define a third inlet in communication with the second inlet, and

wherein a direction of air flow through the third inlet intersects a direction of air flow through the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4, wherein the sensor is disposed at the first extended portion so as to be adjacent to the second inlet and the third inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 3, wherein the first extended portion includes a first depressed portion at an end of the first extended portion, and

wherein the first depressed portion is positioned above an upper side of the second inlet to define a third inlet in communication with the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the sensor is disposed at the first depressed portion toward the third inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4, wherein the cartridge is configured to allow air to flow sequentially through the third inlet, the second inlet, the first flow passage, the second chamber, the connection passage, and the hollow portion, and

wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the third inlet and the second inlet to sense flow of air passing through the third inlet and the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the cartridge is configured to allow air to flow sequentially through the third inlet, the second inlet, the first flow passage, the second chamber, the connection passage, and the hollow portion, and

wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the third inlet and the second inlet to sense flow of air passing through the third inlet and the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber is disposed below the first chamber and comprises a second outlet in communication with the connection passage, and

wherein the inflow passage includes a second inlet located opposite the second outlet with respect to the second chamber and configured to allow external air to flow therethrough in a horizontal direction.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 10, wherein the body comprises:

a lower body;

an upper body disposed above the lower body and laterally adjacent to the cartridge, wherein the hollow portion is formed at the upper body; and

a second extended portion extending upwards from the lower body wherein the cartridge is secured between the upper body and the second extended portion, and

wherein the inflow passage includes a fourth inlet in communication with the second inlet and defined by an opening at the second extended portion.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 10, wherein a direction of air flow through the fourth inlet, the second inlet, and the second outlet are parallel to each other.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 10, wherein the cartridge is mounted or demounted at a position between the upper body and the second extended portion in an upward or downward direction.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 10, wherein the sensor is disposed at the second extended portion so as to be adjacent to the fourth inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 11, wherein the cartridge is configured to allow air to flow sequentially through the fourth inlet, the second inlet, the second chamber, the connection passage, and the hollow portion, and

wherein the sensor is disposed adjacent to the fourth inlet to sense flow of air passing through the fourth inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber is disposed below the first chamber, and

wherein the inflow passage includes:

a first flow passage extending vertically from a chamber inlet of the second chamber;

a second flow passage extending from an end of the first flow passage in a direction intersecting a direction in which the first flow passage extends; and

a second inlet disposed at an end of the second flow passage.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 16, wherein the sensor is mounted so as to face toward the second inlet.
The aerosol-generating device according to claim 17, wherein the sensor is mounted at a position between the hollow portion in the body and the second inlet.