RU2840347C2 - Heating assembly of aerosol-generating device and aerosol-generating device comprising such heating assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: tobacco industry.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to the tobacco industry, in particular to systems imitating the tobacco smoking process. Heating assembly for an aerosol-generating device includes a housing comprising a space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article. Current collector is configured to surround the aerosol-generating article placed in the accommodation space and configured to heat the aerosol-generating article. Coil is configured to surround current collector on housing side, and is configured to generate magnetic field for heating of current collector. Support supports heater. Holder comprises a hole through which the aerosol-generating article is inserted, and a projection protruding in the direction of the hole and supporting the aerosol-generating article. Shielding part is located inside the housing and surrounds the coil for shielding of magnetic field generated by the coil. Insulating element is placed between the current collector and the housing and is configured to prevent the heat generated by the coil from being removed to the outside. Disclosed is an aerosol generating device comprising a disclosed heating assembly, a battery configured to supply power to the heating assembly, and a controller configured to control operation of the heating assembly.

EFFECT: reduced power consumption for heating due to higher thermal insulation.

7 cl, 19 dwg, 1 tbl

Description

Field of technology

The invention relates to a heating unit and a device for generating an aerosol containing the heating unit, in particular to a heating unit with improved insulation characteristics and a device for generating an aerosol containing the heating unit.

Prior art

Recently, there has been a growing demand for an aerosol generating device that generates aerosol without burning tobacco. The aerosol generating device can generate aerosol from an aerosol generating material without burning, and pass the aerosol through an aromatic medium before discharging it from the aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating device may be a heating type aerosol generating device comprising a heater configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article.

The essence of the invention

Aerosol generating devices known from the prior art are disclosed in patents RU 2675712, 2636649, 2670044. The closest analogue 20 of the claimed invention is the aerosol generating device according to patent RU 2743742 (published 02/25/2021), comprising a casing defining a chamber for accommodating at least part of an aerosol generating article, an inductor comprising an induction coil located around at least part of the chamber, and a power source connected to 25 the induction coil and configured to provide high-frequency electric current to the induction coil.

Technical task

The heat generated by the heater can heat the aerosol generating article and can also be transmitted to the outside of the aerosol generating device. If the aerosol generating device has poor insulation, the heat generated by the heater is easily transmitted to the outside. In this case, in order to continuously heat the aerosol generating article to a predetermined temperature, the amount of energy supplied to the heater inevitably increases, and accordingly, the operating cost of the heater increases. In addition, due to the increase in temperature that can be felt when the user holds the aerosol generating device, it is difficult to ensure a safe use environment for the aerosol generating device.

Therefore, to reduce the operating costs of the heater and ensure safe use of the aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating device having improved thermal insulation characteristics may be required.

The technical aspects, features and advantages that can be achieved in the embodiments of the invention are not limited to the solution of the above-described problems, and embodiments that are not mentioned in the description will be obvious to a person skilled in the art from the present description and the accompanying drawings.

Technical solution

The present invention proposes a heating unit with improved thermal insulation characteristics and an aerosol generating device containing the heating unit.

A heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention comprises: a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating article; a housing surrounding the aerosol generating article; a first cover connected to one side of the housing and containing a first opening for introducing the aerosol generating article; and a second cover connected to the other side of the housing and containing a second opening for introducing a power line for supplying power to the heater, in which the space for accommodating the aerosol generating article is formed by the first cover, the housing and the second cover, and the material configured to reflect the heat generated by the heater into the space for accommodating is applied to the inner surface of at least one of the housing, the first cover and the second cover.

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, a battery configured to supply power to the heating unit for the aerosol generating device, and a controller configured to control the operation of the heating unit for the aerosol generating device.

Beneficial effects of the invention

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to the above-described embodiments of the invention make it possible to reduce the amount of energy consumed by the heater by improving the insulation characteristics, thereby reducing the operating costs of the heater.

In addition, the heating unit for the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to the above-described embodiments of the invention make it possible to reduce the temperature felt by the user holding the aerosol generating device, and thereby improve the safety of the aerosol generating device.

The beneficial effects according to one embodiment of the invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned herein will be obvious to a person skilled in the art from the present description and the accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example in which an aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is an expanded perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

In FIG. 5, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line V-V in FIG. 2;

In FIG. 6, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line VI-VI in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a group comprising a first cover, a heater and a heater assembly holder for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a heater, antenna and heating unit sensor assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a group comprising a first cover and an antenna of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a group comprising an antenna, a sensor and a shielding portion of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, to describe a lower seal connected to a second lid.

FIG. 12 shows, in expanded form, a second cover and a lower seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a second cover of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a first seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram of a second seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

In FIG. 16, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line XVI-XVI in FIG. 11;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a support, heater, and heating unit sensor assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention; and

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate exemplary diagrams of an aerosol generating device.

The best embodiment of the invention

A heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention comprises: a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating article; a housing surrounding the aerosol generating article; a first cover connected to one side of the housing and containing a first opening for introducing the aerosol generating article; and a second cover connected to the other side of the housing and containing a second opening for introducing a power line for supplying power to the heater, in which the space for accommodating the aerosol generating article is formed by the first cover, the housing and the second cover, and the material configured to reflect the heat generated by the heater into the space for accommodating is applied to the inner surface of at least one of the housing, the first cover and the second cover.

The first cover may comprise an insulating cover element oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater and located between the heater and the housing.

The insulating element of the lid may partially surround the heater.

The first lid may comprise: a first lid body containing an insertion opening into which an aerosol generating article is inserted; a first protruding element protruding from the first lid body and containing an opening for inserting a connecting element intended to connect the first lid to the aerosol generating device.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise an antenna located inside the housing, surrounding at least a portion of the heater and configured to recognize the presence of the aerosol generating device in the accommodation space.

The antenna may comprise an antenna body oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater and surrounding at least a portion of the heater, and

the first cover may comprise an insulating cover element oriented in the longitudinal direction and located in a position corresponding to the antenna body.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise a sensor located inside the housing and configured to determine the temperature of the heater, wherein the antenna may comprise an insertion portion through which a portion of the sensor passes.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise a shielding portion located between the antenna and the housing and surrounding at least a portion of the antenna.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise a sensor located inside the housing and configured to determine the temperature of the heater,

wherein the shielding portion may comprise a groove for inserting a sensor, through which a portion of the sensor passes.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise a lower seal connected to the second cover, wherein the second cover may comprise an inner surface facing the second opening, and the lower seal may comprise a first seal filling the second opening, coming into contact with the inner surface of the second cover.

The first seal can be inserted into the second hole with an interference fit.

The first seal may comprise: a first seal body inserted into the second opening; a first insertion groove formed in the first seal body in such a way that a portion of the heater passes through the first insertion groove; and a second insertion groove formed in the first seal body separately from the first insertion groove in such a way that a portion of the sensor passes through the second insertion groove.

The second cover may further comprise an outer surface opposite the inner surface, and the lower seal may further comprise a second seal located on the outer surface of the second cover.

The heating unit for the aerosol generating device may further comprise a support located in the heater and supporting the heater.

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a heating unit for the aerosol generating device, a battery configured to supply power to the heating unit for the aerosol generating device, and a controller configured to control the operation of the heating unit for the aerosol generating device.

Principle of the invention

The terms used in the embodiments of the invention are general terms that are widely used in the art today when discussing the functions of the present invention; however, the terms may be changed according to the intentions of specialists in the art, precedents or new technologies in the art. In addition, these terms may be chosen by the applicant, in which case their detailed meaning will be described in the detailed description of the invention. Thus, the terms used in the description of the present invention should not be understood as simple names, but based on the meaning of the terms and the general description of the present invention.

Throughout the text, if a part "contains" an element, the part may further contain another element, and the existence of another element is not excluded unless otherwise indicated. In addition, the terms "block", "module", etc., specified in the description mean blocks for processing at least one function or operation and can be implemented by hardware components or software components.

Expressions such as "at least one of" used herein, when preceding a list of elements, define the entire list of elements and do not define individual elements of the list. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" shall be understood to include only a, only b, only c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown so that one skilled in the art can easily implement the present description. However, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth herein.

The terms, in particular "first" and "second", may be used to describe different components without, however, limiting the components. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

In addition, some components in the drawings may be shown in exaggerated sizes or proportions. In addition, components shown in one figure may not be shown in another figure.

In addition, throughout the text, the "longitudinal direction" or "length direction" of a component may be understood to mean the direction of the longest axis of the component. In particular, the longitudinal direction of the heater is understood to mean the direction in which the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) is inserted into the heating unit.

Throughout this text, "puffing" refers to inhalation by the user, and inhalation may refer to a situation in which the user draws air into the mouth, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

Since the various embodiments described in the description are arbitrarily classified only for the purpose of explaining the invention, the embodiments of the invention cannot be interpreted as mutually exclusive. For example, some features described in one embodiment of the invention may be applied or implemented in other embodiments of the invention.

It is also possible to change some features for application or implementation of these features in other embodiments of the invention within the scope and idea of this description. In this description, the singular form implies the plural form, unless otherwise expressly stated.

Embodiments of the invention relate to an insulating structure of a heater. However, embodiments of the invention are not limited to the detailed embodiments of the invention that will be described below, and may be other modifications, provided that the modified structure is capable of insulating the heater.

The present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are depicted in such a way that one skilled in the art can easily understand the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the embodiments of the invention set forth herein.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example in which an aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise a battery 110, a controller 120 and a heating unit 1.

The aerosol generating device 100 may further comprise an evaporator 130. In addition, the aerosol generating article 200 may be introduced into the interior space of the aerosol generating device 100.

FIG. 1 shows the components of the aerosol generating device 100 that relate to the present embodiment of the invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that other components may be included in the aerosol generating device 100 in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1.

In FIG. 1, it is shown that the battery 110, the controller 120, the evaporator 130 and the heating unit 1 are arranged in series. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 1. In other words, the structure of the aerosol generating device 100 allows the arrangement of the battery 110, the controller 120, the evaporator 130 and the heating unit 1 to be changed.

When the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 drives the heating unit 1 and/or the evaporator 130 to generate an aerosol using the aerosol generating article 200 and the evaporator 130. The aerosol generated by the heating unit 1 and/or the evaporator 130 can be supplied to the user by passing through the aerosol generating article 200.

If necessary, even if the aerosol generating article 200 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 can heat the heating unit 1.

The battery 110 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the battery 110 can supply power for heating the heating unit 1 or the evaporator 130 and for operating the controller 120. In addition, the battery 110 can supply power required for operating the display, sensor, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device 100.

The controller 120 can essentially control the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. In particular, the controller 120, in addition to the battery 110, the heating unit 1 and the evaporator 130, can control the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 100. In addition, the controller 120 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 100 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operating state.

The controller 120 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of several logical elements or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executed in the microprocessor is stored. A person skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented using other types of hardware.

The heating unit 1 can be heated by energy supplied from the battery 110. For example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the heating unit 1 can be outside the aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, the heated heating unit 1 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material in the aerosol generating article 200.

The heating unit 1 may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heating unit 1 may be an electrically conductive path, and the heating unit 1 may be heated when an electrical current flows along the electrically conductive path. However, the heating unit 1 is not limited to the example described above and may comprise any other heater capable of heating to a desired temperature. In this case, the desired temperature may be set in the aerosol generating device 100 or set by the user.

In another example, the heating unit 1 may be an induction heater. In particular, the heating unit 1 may comprise an electrically conductive coil for heating an aerosol-generating article in an induction manner, wherein the aerosol-generating article may comprise a current collector that can be heated by the induction heater. The heater 10 may be an electrically conductive coil.

Although the embodiments of the invention describe that the heating unit 1 is an induction heater, the embodiments of the invention are not limited to the type of heater. For example, the heating unit 1 can be implemented as an electrical resistive heater.

For example, the heating unit 1 may comprise a cylindrical heating element, a plate heating element, a needle or rod heating element and may heat the inner or outer part of the article 200 to generate an aerosol according to the shape of the heating element.

In addition, the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise several heaters. In this case, several heaters may be introduced into the aerosol generating article 200 or located outside the aerosol generating article 200. Also, some of several heating units 1 may be introduced into the aerosol generating article 200, and other heating units may be located outside the aerosol generating article 200.

In addition, the shape of the heating unit 1 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 1 and may differ.

The evaporator 130 can generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, after which the generated aerosol can be supplied to the user through the aerosol generating article 200. In other words, the aerosol generated by the evaporator 130 can move along the air channel of the aerosol generating device 100, which can be configured to deliver the aerosol generated by the evaporator 130 to the user through the aerosol generating article 200.

For example, the evaporator 130 may comprise a liquid storage, a liquid supply element, and a heating element, as well as other components. For example, the liquid storage, the liquid supply element, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 100 as independent modules.

A liquid composition may be stored in the liquid storage. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco material, which includes a volatile component of a tobacco flavoring agent, or a liquid containing non-tobacco material. The liquid storage may be designed to be detachable from the evaporator 130 or as a single unit with the evaporator 130.

For example, the liquid composition may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, spices, aromatic substances or a vitamin mixture. Spices may be menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil and various ingredients with fruit aromas, as well as other spices. Aromatic substances may be ingredients that can provide the user with various aromas or tastes. Vitamin mixtures may be a mixture of at least one of vitamins: A, B, C and E, as well as other vitamins. In addition, the liquid composition may also contain a substance for forming an aerosol, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

The liquid supply element may deliver the liquid composition from the liquid storage to the heating element. For example, the liquid supply element may be a wick, such as, but not limited to, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition supplied by the liquid supply element. For example, the heating element may be, among other things, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater or another similar device. In addition, the heating element may comprise a conductive thread, such as a nichrome wire, and may be wound around the liquid supply element. The heating element may be heated by supplying current and may impart heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

For example, the vaporizer 130 may be, among other things, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

The aerosol generating device 100 may also comprise general-purpose components in addition to the battery 110, the controller 120, the heating unit 1 and the evaporator 130. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise a display configured to output visual information and/or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise at least one sensor (a puff recognition sensor, a temperature sensor, an aerosol generating article insertion sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device 100 may be designed such that even in a state in which the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, external air may be introduced into it or internal air may be removed from it.

Although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 100 and the additional stand may form a single system. For example, the stand may be used to charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, the heating unit 1 may be heated when the stand and the aerosol generating device 100 are connected to each other.

The aerosol generating article 200 may be similar to a conventional combustion cigarette. For example, the aerosol generating article 200 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating material and a second part containing a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of the aerosol generating article 200 may also contain an aerosol generating material. For example, an aerosol generating material in the form of granules or capsules may be introduced into the second part.

The first part can be fully inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, and the second part can be led out. In some embodiments, only one portion of the first part can be inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, or a portion of the first part and a portion of the second part can be inserted into this device. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in the mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated when external air passes through the first part, after which the resulting aerosol passes through the second part and enters the user's mouth.

For example, external air can enter at least one air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the user can regulate the opening and closing of the air channel and/or the size of the air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 100. Accordingly, the user can regulate the amount and quality of smoking. In another example, external air can enter the aerosol generating article 200 through at least one opening formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 200.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view from the front of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the back of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention may comprise a body 2, a first cover 3 and a second cover 4. However, the components of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to this embodiment, and other components may be added or at least one component may be omitted in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

The first cover 3 can be connected to one of the sides of the housing 2. A holder 20 for supporting the article 200 for generating an aerosol can be connected to the first cover 3.

The second cover 4 can be connected to the other side of the housing 2. That is, the first cover 3 and the second cover 4 can be connected to different parts of the housing 2, respectively.

The second cover 4 may comprise a second cover body 41, a second protruding element 42, a second opening 43 and a groove 44 for inserting a seal.

The second cover body 41 can serve as the body of the second cover 4. The second cover body 41 can be connected to the body 2 and located on the other side of the body 2. The second cover body 41 can be formed, for example, substantially in the form of a circular plate, as well as in other shapes, provided that the second cover body 41 can be located on the other side of the body 2.

The second protruding element 42 may protrude from the second cover body 41. The second protruding element 42 may be formed as a single unit with the second cover body 41. The second protruding element 42 may essentially have the shape of a circular ring.

The second opening 43 can be formed in the second projecting element 42 for at least one of the contact portions shown in FIG. 8, for example, the contact portion 10a of the heater 10, the contact portion 53 of the antenna 5 and the contact portion 63 of the sensor 6, for penetration. The contact portion 10a of the heater and/or the contact portion 53 of the antenna and/or the contact portion 63 of the sensor can pass through the second opening 43 and be electrically connected to the battery 110 or the controller 120. The second opening 43 can pass through the housing 41 of the second cover and the second projecting element 42. The size of the second opening 43 can exceed the size of each of the contact portions 10a of the heater, 53 of the antenna and 63 of the sensor.

A portion of the lower seal 8 (see FIG. 4) can be inserted into the groove 44 for introducing the seal. The groove 44 for introducing the seal can be made on the outer surface of the second protruding element 42. The groove 44 for introducing the seal can be made on opposite sides of the second protruding element 42.

FIG. 4 is an expanded perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 4, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention may further comprise an antenna 5, a sensor 6, a shielding portion 7, a lower seal 8, a support 9, a heater 10, a current collector 11 and a holder 20. However, the components of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to this embodiment, and other components may be added or at least one component may be omitted according to embodiments of the invention.

In FIG. 5, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line V-V in FIG. 2; and in FIG. 6, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line VI-VI in FIG. 2.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a heating unit 1 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a heater 10 (for example, an electrically conductive coil) configured to heat an article 200 for generating an aerosol, a housing 2 surrounding the article 200 for generating an aerosol, a first cover 3 located on one side of the housing 2 and comprising a first opening 311 through which the article 200 for generating an aerosol is inserted, and a second cover 4 comprising a second opening 43 (see FIGS. 3, 12 and 13) through which the power supply line to the heater 10 exits to the outside of the heating unit 1.

The first cover 3 is connected to one side of the housing, and the second cover 4 is connected to the other side of the housing 2, thus forming a space 21 for placing the aerosol generating article.

A material that reflects the heat generated by the heater 10 into the accommodation space 21 is applied to at least a part of the inner surface of the body 2, or the first cover 3, or the second cover 4. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can provide the following beneficial effects of the invention.

Firstly, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the second cover 4, the first cover 3 and the body 2 can be arranged so that they completely surround the outer side of the heater 10 and serve as a physical barrier configured to prevent the heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged to the outside. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can improve the insulation characteristics due to the physical barrier, which in turn will reduce the energy consumption for the operation of the heater 10.

Secondly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention makes it possible to reduce the amount of heat supplied to the aerosol generating device 100, which will make it possible to reduce the temperature felt by the user holding the aerosol generating device 100. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention makes it possible to ensure safe conditions for using the aerosol generating device 100.

Thirdly, the deposited material can reflect the heat generated by the heater 10 into the accommodation space 21, thereby reducing the amount of heat transmitted to the outside. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can have improved insulation characteristics.

The above three beneficial effects of the invention can be confirmed by the following experiment.

Experiment

First, the temperature profile of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is set such that the current collector 11 is heated to 270°C (process 1).

After this, the current collector 11 is heated for 270 seconds (process 2).

After this, processes 1 and 2 are repeated three times (process 3).

After five minutes, the temperature of the aerosol generating device 100 is measured (process 4).

Thereafter, processes 1-4 are repeated using a heating unit according to the prior art (Comparative Example 1) and a heating unit (Comparative Example 2) containing an insulating structure of a vacuum tube (Process 5).

The following table 1 shows the result of the experiment.

Table 1

Temperature
aerosol generating devices Embodiment of the invention 59.5°C Comparative example 1 87.3°C Comparative example 2 58.0°C

According to Table 1, due to the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the temperature of the aerosol generating device 100 is lower by about 27 degrees than in comparative example 1. Based on this, the use of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention improves the overall insulation performance of the aerosol generating device 100 compared to the prior art. In addition, it was found that the heating unit 1 of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention has insulation performance similar to that of comparative example 2, which includes an insulation structure of a vacuum tube. Below, the housing 2, the first cover 3 and the second cover 4 will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Terms such as “upper” or “lower” used in the description are intended to distinguish the positions of components in the lower portion of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, and are not intended to indicate specific directions.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the housing 2 is located outside the heater 10 and surrounds the heater 10. The housing 2 can prevent heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged to the outside.

In the housing 2, a space 21 for accommodating the aerosol generating article 200 is formed. When the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the accommodating space 21, the aerosol generating article 200 can be disposed inside the susceptor 11. When the heater contact portion 10a is electrically connected to the battery 110, and the heater 10 heats the susceptor 11 using the energy supplied from the battery 110, the aerosol generating article 200 can be heated by an induction heating method and can generate an aerosol. The heater contact portion 10a may include a power line for supplying power to the heater 10 as described above. Although the susceptor 11 shown in FIG. 7 has a shape of a hollow cylinder, such a shape is taken solely as an example. That is, the susceptor 11 may have other shapes as long as the aerosol generating article 200 can be accommodated therein. Current collector 11 can be located inside heater 10. Current collector 11 can comprise a metallic material.

A material capable of reflecting heat generated by the heater 10 into the accommodation space 21 may be applied to the inner surface of the housing 2. The inner surface of the housing 2 may be the surface of the housing 2 facing the heater 10. The material may comprise a metallic material such as silver (Ag).

Although the housing 2 may essentially have the shape of a hollow cylinder, such a shape is taken solely as an example. That is, the housing 2 may have other shapes, provided that the heater 10 can be accommodated therein. The housing 2 may comprise a metal material. For example, the housing 2 may comprise a material such as stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum.

As shown in FIG. 5 and 6, the first cover 3 is located on one side of the housing 2, covering the side of the heater 10. The first cover 3 can prevent the heat generated by the heater 10 from being removed from the heating unit 1 through the side of the housing 2. The side of the housing 2 can comprise the upper part of the housing 2.

The first cover 3 and the side of the housing 2 can be connected to each other to form a space 21 for accommodating the article 200 for generating an aerosol.

A material capable of reflecting the heat generated by the heater 10 into the accommodation space 21 may be applied to the inner surface of the first cover 3. The inner surface of the first cover 3 may be the surface of the first cover 3 facing the heater 10.

The first cover 3 may comprise a polymer material having high heat resistance. For example, the first cover 3 may comprise a material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), and polycarbonate (PC).

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first cover 3 may comprise a first cover body 31.

The first cover body 31 may serve as the body of the first cover 3. The first cover body 31 may be connected to the body 2 and located on one side of the body 2. When the first cover body 31 is connected to the body 2, the first cover body 31 may cover the side of the heater 10. The first cover body 31 may have a substantially circular ring shape, but embodiments of the invention are not limited to this. That is, the first cover body 31 may have other shapes, provided that the first cover body 31 may be located on the side of the body 2 and cover the heater 10.

In addition, the first cover 3 may comprise a first opening 311. The article 200 for generating an aerosol may be inserted into the first opening 311. The first opening 311 may be formed in the body 31 of the first cover and pass through the upper part and the lower part of the body 31 of the first cover.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first cover 3 may further comprise a groove 312 for inserting a holder. The holder 20 may be inserted into the groove 312 for inserting a holder. When the holder 20 is inserted into the groove 312 for inserting a holder, the holder 20 may be connected to the first cover 3. The groove 312 for inserting a holder may be formed on the upper surface of the body 31 of the first cover.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first cover 3 may further comprise a first housing insertion groove 313. The side of the housing 2 may be inserted into the first housing insertion groove 313. When the side of the housing 2 is inserted into the first housing insertion groove 313, the housing 2 may be connected to the first cover 3. Accordingly, the first cover 3 may support the side of the housing 2. The first housing insertion groove 313 may be formed on the lower surface of the housing 31 of the first cover.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first cover 3 may further comprise an insulating element 32.

The insulating element 32 of the lid is oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10. The insulating element 32 can be located between the heater 10 and the housing 2. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can implement a physical double-layer barrier of the insulating element 32 of the lid and the housing 2, preventing the heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged to the outside. The longitudinal direction of the heater 10 can correspond to the direction of the longer side of the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

The length of the insulating element 32 may exceed the length of the heater 10 in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the area of the insulating element 32, which can cover the heater 10, may increase.

The insulating element 32 can be connected to the body 31 of the first cover and can extend in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10. The insulating element 32 can be integrated with the body 31 of the first cover.

When the first cover 3 is connected to the housing 2, the insulating element 32 of the cover can be inserted into the housing 2 in such a way as to surround a part of the outer side of the heater 10. That is, the side surface of the insulating element 32 can contain an opening, so that the heater 10 will be partially surrounded by the insulating element 32.

Accordingly, compared with the comparative examples in which the insulating member 32 completely surrounds the outer portion of the heater 10, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device, the insulating member 32 can be easily inserted into the housing 2. In the embodiments of the invention, in the process of inserting the lid insulating member 32 into the housing 2, compared with the comparative examples, the friction between the lid insulating member 32 and the housing 2 is reduced. Accordingly, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the installation of the first lid 3 and the housing 2 can be facilitated.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first cover 3 may further comprise a first protruding element 33.

The first protruding element 33 may protrude outward from the first lid body 31. The first protruding element 33 may be located at both ends of the first lid body 31. The first protruding element 33, the lid insulating element 32, and the first lid body 31 may be formed as a single unit.

The first protruding element 33 may comprise a connecting hole 331. The connecting element 3a (shown in FIG. 7) for connecting the first cover 3 to the aerosol generating device 100 may be inserted into the connecting hole 331. When the connecting element 3a is inserted into the connecting hole 331 and connected to the aerosol generating device 100, the first cover 3 may be fixed to the aerosol generating device 100. The connecting element 3a may be a bolt. In this case, a screw thread may be formed in the connecting hole 331.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second cover 4 is located on the other side of the housing 2, covering the other side of the heater 10. The second cover 4 can prevent the heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged to the outside through the other side of the housing 2. The other side of the housing 2 can comprise a lower portion of the housing 2.

The second cover 4 and the other side of the housing 2 can be connected to each other to form the accommodation space 21. That is, the housing 2, the first cover 3 and the second cover 4 can be arranged with the possibility of connecting to each other and completely surrounding the accommodation space 21.

A material capable of reflecting the heat generated by the heater 10 into the accommodation space 21 may be applied to the inner surface of the second cover 4. The inner surface of the second cover 4 may be the surface of the second cover 4 facing the heater 10.

The second cover 4 may contain a polymer material having high heat resistance. For example, the second cover 4 may contain a material such as PEEK, PPSU and PC.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second cover 4 may further comprise a second groove 411 for inserting the housing.

The other side of the housing 2 can be inserted into the second housing insertion groove 411. When the other side of the housing 2 is inserted into the second housing insertion groove 411, the housing 2 can be connected to the second cover 4. Accordingly, the second cover 4 can support the other side of the housing 2. The second housing insertion groove 411 can be formed in the housing 41 of the second cover.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second cover 4 may further comprise an engagement element 412.

The engagement member 412 can be inserted into the groove 22 for inserting the lid formed in the body 2. When the engagement member 412 is inserted into the groove 22 for inserting the lid, the other side of the body 2 can be connected to the second lid 4. Accordingly, the second lid 4 and the body 2 can be securely connected to each other. The engagement member 412 can protrude from the body 41 of the second lid in the direction of the second groove 411 for inserting the lid. The engagement member 412 can be formed as a single unit with the body 41 of the second lid.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the antenna 5 determines whether the aerosol generating article 200 is in the accommodation space 21. The antenna 5 can be connected to the battery 110 and the controller 120. The antenna 5 can comprise a metal material.

For example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is in the accommodation space 21, the antenna 5 can identify the aerosol generating article 200 located in the accommodation space 21 and transmit information about the accommodation status of the aerosol generating article 200 to the controller 120. Accordingly, the controller 120 can control the battery 110 to supply power to the heater 10.

In another example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is separated from the accommodation space 21, the antenna 5 can identify the separated aerosol generating article 200 and transmit information about the separation status of the aerosol generating article 200 to the controller 120. Accordingly, the controller 120 can control the battery 110 to stop supplying power to the heater 10.

The antenna 5 is located inside the housing 2. The antenna 5 can be located between the insulating element 32 of the lid and the shielding part 7 so that it surrounds at least part of the heater 10. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can implement a physical three-layer barrier of the insulating element 32 of the lid, the antenna 5 and the housing 2, preventing the heat generated by the heater 10 from being released to the outside.

As shown in FIG. 5 and 6, the sensor 6 detects the temperature of the heater 10 and/or the current collector 11. As shown in FIG. 5, the sensor 6 can be in contact with the current collector 11. The sensor 6 can be connected to the battery 110 or the controller 120.

The sensor 6 can be located inside the housing 2, and at least a part of the sensor 6 can extend in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10. The sensor 6 can comprise a metallic material.

As shown in FIG. 5, the sensor 6 may comprise a sensing element 61 and a bendable element 62.

At least a part of the sensitive element 61 extends in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10. The sensitive element 61 can be located between the housing 2 and the shielding part 7.

The bendable element 62 extends towards the current collector 11 in such a way that the sensor 6 comes into contact with the current collector 11. The bendable element 62 can extend between the cover 3 and the holder 9 in the direction of the current collector 11. The bendable element 62 can be connected to the upper part of the sensitive element 61.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the shielding portion 7 is located inside the housing 2. The shielding portion 7 is located between the housing 2 and the antenna 5 and surrounds at least a part of the heater 10. Accordingly, according to one embodiment of the invention, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device can have the following advantageous effects of the invention.

Firstly, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the shielding portion 7 is located outside the antenna 5, which will reduce the probability that the antenna 5 will recognize electronic devices located outside the shielding portion 7. Accordingly, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the efficiency of the antenna 5 can be improved, since the antenna 5 can recognize the presence of the aerosol generating article 200.

Secondly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can implement a physical four-layer barrier of the insulating element 32 of the cover, the antenna 5, the shielding part 7 and the body 2, which prevents the heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged to the outside. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can have improved insulation characteristics.

The shielding portion 7 may comprise a metallic material. For example, the shielding portion 7 may comprise a material such as aluminum (Al) and silver (Ag).

As shown in FIG. 5 and 6, the lower seal 8 may close the gap between the second cover 4 and at least one of the contact portions 10a, 53 and 63 (see FIG. 8). The lower seal 8 may be connected to the second cover 4. The lower seal 8 may be connected to the outer side of the second protruding element 42 and the inner side of the second protruding element 42. The lower seal 8 may comprise rubber. The lower seal 8 may comprise the first seal 81 and the second seal 82, which will be described in detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the support 9 is located inside the heater 10 and supports the heater 10. The heater 10 can be connected to the support 9. Although the support 9 can essentially have the shape of a hollow cylinder, such a shape is taken solely for example. That is, the support 9 can have other shapes, provided that it is capable of supporting the heater 10.

The current collector 11 can be located inside the support 9. Accordingly, the support 9 can prevent the heat generated by the current collector 11 from being removed to the outside.

As shown in FIG. 4-6, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention may further include a first sealing ring 30, a second sealing ring 40 and a third sealing ring 50.

The first sealing ring 30 can be located between the holder 20 and the first cover 3. The first sealing ring 30 can close the gap between the holder 20 and the first cover 3.

The second sealing ring 40 can be located in the first cover 3. The second sealing ring 40 can be located inside the body 31 of the first cover and surround the first opening 311. At least a part of the aerosol generating article 200 can be inserted into the second sealing ring 40. When the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the space 21 for placement, the second sealing ring 40 can close the gap between the aerosol generating article 200 and the body 31 of the first cover.

The third sealing ring 50 can be located at the lower end of the current collector 11 in the holder 9. At least a part of the aerosol generating article 200 can be inserted into the third sealing ring 50. When the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the accommodation space 21, the third sealing ring 50 can close the gap between the aerosol generating article 200 and the holder 9.

The first sealing ring 30, the second sealing ring 40 and the third sealing ring 50 may comprise rubber. The first sealing ring 30, the second sealing ring 40 and the third sealing ring 50 may have the shape of a circular ring or another shape.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a group comprising a first cover, a heater and a heater assembly holder for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

The holder 20 supports the aerosol-generating article 200. The holder 20 may comprise an opening 20a through which the aerosol-generating article 200 is inserted, a projection 20b protruding in the direction of the opening 20a and supporting the aerosol-generating article 200, and a holder protruding portion 20c protruding in the direction of the first lid body 31 for insertion into the holder insertion groove 312. When the holder protruding portion 20c is inserted into the holder insertion groove 312, the holder 20 may be connected to the first lid body 31.

When the holder 20 is connected to the body 31 of the first lid, the opening 20a for inserting the holder 20 can communicate with the first opening 311 of the body 31 of the first lid.

The holder 20 may comprise several projections 20b. Several projections 20b may be located at some distance from each other in the circumferential direction of the holder 20.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a group consisting of a heater, an antenna, and a sensor of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a group consisting of a cover and an antenna of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the antenna 5 may comprise an antenna body 51, an antenna protruding portion 52, and an antenna contact portion 53.

As shown in FIG. 8, the antenna body 51 extends in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10 and is arranged so as to surround a part of the heater 10. That is, the side surface of the antenna body 51 may have an opening so that the heater 10 is partially surrounded by the antenna body 51.

Accordingly, compared with the comparative examples in which the antenna body 51 completely surrounds the heater 10, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna body 51 can be easily inserted into the housing 2. In the embodiments of the invention, in the process of inserting the antenna body 51 into the housing 2, compared with the comparative examples, the friction between the antenna body 51 and the housing 2 is reduced. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can simplify the installation of the antenna 5 and the housing 2.

When the antenna body 51 is oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10 and is arranged to surround a part of the heater 10, the cover insulating member 32 may be arranged in a position corresponding to the position of the antenna body 51, as shown in FIG. 9. Accordingly, the antenna body 51 may support the cover insulating member 32 from the outside of the cover insulating member 32.

The protruding portion 52 of the antenna is connected to the antenna housing 51. The protruding portion 52 of the antenna may comprise a first protruding portion protruding in the circumferential direction of the heater 10 from the side of the antenna housing 51, and a second protruding portion protruding in the circumferential direction of the heater from the other side of the antenna housing 51.

As shown in FIG. 8, the antenna 5 may comprise a penetrating portion 5a through which the bendable element 62 of the sensor 6 passes. Accordingly, in the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the sensor 6 may not have an electrical connection with the antenna 5 when in contact with the current collector 11 located inside the heater 10. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention makes it possible to reduce the likelihood of a short circuit between the antenna 5 and the sensor 6. The penetrating portion 5a may be a space between the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the antenna contact portion 53 is connected to the antenna housing 51 and is located at a certain distance from the antenna protruding portion 52. The antenna contact portion 53 can be connected to the battery 110 and/or the controller 120. The antenna contact portion 53 can comprise a first contact element oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction of the heater 10 and a second contact element oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater. The antenna contact portion 53, the antenna protruding portion 52 and the antenna housing 51 can be formed as a single unit.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a group comprising an antenna, a sensor and a shielding portion of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 10, the sensor 6 may include a sensing element 61, a bending element 62, and a sensor contact portion 63. Hereinafter, repeated descriptions of the sensing element 61 and the bending element 62 with reference to FIG. 5 will be omitted.

The sensitive element 61 may comprise a first housing oriented in the longitudinal direction of the heater 10, a second housing connected to the first housing and oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction, and a third housing connected to the second housing and the contact section 63 of the sensor.

The bendable element 62 may comprise a first bendable element oriented in the longitudinal direction and a second bendable element connected to the first bendable element and bent downwards in the direction of the current collector 11.

The contact section 63 of the sensor can be connected to the lower part of the sensing element 61. The contact section 63 of the sensor can be connected to the battery 110 and/or the controller 120. The contact section 63 of the sensor can comprise two contact elements oriented in different directions, respectively. The contact section 63 of the sensor, the bendable element 62 and the sensing element 61 can be made as a single whole.

As shown in FIG. 10, the shielding portion 7 may comprise a shielding body 71 and a groove 72 for penetration of the sensor.

The shielding body 71 can form the overall appearance of the shielding portion 7. The shielding body 71 can be located inside the body 2 and surround the antenna 5. The protective body 71 can essentially have the shape of a hollow cylinder, but such a shape is taken solely as an example. That is, the shielding body 71 can have a different shape, provided that the shielding body 71 can be located outside the antenna 5.

The groove 72 for penetration of the sensor may be a space through which the bendable element 62 passes. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention may have a structure in which the shielding part 7 and the sensor 6 do not have an electrical connection with each other, while the sensor 6 comes into contact with the current collector 11 located inside the shielding part 7. Accordingly, the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention can reduce the likelihood of a short circuit between the shielding part 7 and the sensor 6. The groove 72 for penetration of the sensor may be formed in the shielding body 71.

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 11, the contact portion 10a of the heater, the contact portion 53 of the antenna and the contact portion 63 of the sensor pass through the second opening 43 (see FIGS. 3 and 12-13). The lower seal 8 can close the gap between the second cover 4 and the contact portion 10a of the heater and/or the contact portion 53 of the antenna and/or the contact portion 63 of the sensor. The lower seal 8 can be connected to the second protruding member 42.

FIG. 12 shows an expanded view of a second cover and a lower seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 13 shows a second cover of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 12, the lower seal 8 may comprise a first seal 81 inserted into the second opening 43 and a second seal 82 located at some distance from the first seal 81.

The first seal 81 can be inserted into the second opening 43 and come into contact with the inner surface 4a (shown in FIG. 13) of the second protruding element 42 to close the second opening 43. Therefore, the first seal 81 can prevent the heat generated by the heater 10 from being discharged downwards through the second opening 43. The inner surface 4a can be the surface of the second protruding element 42 facing the second opening 43.

The first seal 81 can be inserted into the second opening 43 with a tight fit. Accordingly, the sealing force of the first seal 81 for closing the second opening 43 can be increased.

The second seal 82 is located at some distance from the first seal 81. The second seal 82 can be connected to the outer surface 4b (shown in FIG. 13) of the second protruding element 42. The outer surface 4b is a surface opposite to the inner surface 4a. The outer surface 4b of the second protruding element 42 can be a surface identical to the outer surface of the second cover 4. The second seal 82 can be located with the possibility of surrounding the second protruding element 42.

FIG. 14 shows a first seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 14, the first seal 81 comprises a first seal body 811, a first insertion groove 812 and a second insertion groove 813.

The first seal body 811 is inserted into the second opening 43. The first insertion groove 812 and the second insertion groove 813 may be formed in the first seal body 811. The first seal body 811 may generally have a rectangular shape. However, other shapes are also possible, provided that the first sealing element 811 can be inserted into the second opening 43.

The first groove 812 for insertion may be formed in the first sealing element 811 and is intended for inserting the contact portion 10a of the heater. The first groove 812 for insertion may be formed by making a groove having a certain depth from the outer surface of the first seal body 811. Although two first grooves 812 for insertion are shown in FIG. 14, such an embodiment is given solely as an example, and the number of the first grooves 812 for insertion is not limited.

The second groove 813 for insertion may be formed separately from the first groove 812 for insertion, and the contact portion 63 of the sensor may pass through the second groove 813 for insertion. The second groove 813 for insertion may be formed by making a groove having a certain depth from the outer surface of the first seal body 811. Although one second groove 813 for insertion is shown in FIG. 14, such an embodiment is given solely as an example, and the number of the second grooves 813 for insertion is not limited.

FIG. 15 is a diagram of a second seal of a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, the second seal 82 may comprise a second seal body 821, a groove 822 for inserting a second cover, and a seal protruding portion 823.

The second seal housing 821 is connected to the second projecting element 42 of the second cover 4. The groove for inserting the second cover 822 and the projecting portion 823 of the seal can be formed in the second seal housing 821. The second seal housing 821 can serve as the second seal housing 82.

The second projecting element 42 of the second cover 4 can be inserted into the groove 822 for inserting the second cover. For example, the second projecting element 42 can be inserted into the groove 822 for inserting the second cover with a tight fit so that there is no gap between the second projecting element 42 and the housing 821 of the second seal.

The seal protruding portion 823 protrudes toward the second cap insertion groove 822. When the second protruding member 42 of the second cap 4 is inserted into the second cap insertion groove 822 of the second seal 82, the seal protruding portion 823 enters the seal insertion groove 44 formed in the outer surface 4b of the second protruding member 42 (see FIG. 12). Accordingly, the second cap 4 and the second seal 82 can be securely connected to each other. The seal protruding member 823 can be formed at various positions on the inner surface of the second seal body 821. The seal protruding portion 823 can be formed integrally with the second seal body 821.

In FIG. 16, a heating unit for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in section along line XVI-XVI in FIG. 11.

When the first seal 81 is inserted into the second opening 43, as shown in FIG. 16, the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 can be located between the first seal 81 and the second cover 4. Accordingly, even if vibration or shock is applied to the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the movement of the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 can be restricted.

When the first seal 81 is inserted into the second hole 43 with a tight fit, the first seal 81 can press the contact portion 10a of the heater, the contact portion 53 of the antenna and the contact portion 63 of the sensor to the inner surface 42 of the second protruding member 42.

Next, the process of assembling the first seal 81, the second cover 4, as well as the contact section 10a of the heater, the contact section 53 of the antenna and the contact section 63 of the sensor will be described.

First, the contact portion 10a of the heater, the contact portion 53 of the antenna and the contact portion 63 of the sensor are passed through the second opening 43. The contact portion 10a of the heater, the contact portion 53 of the antenna and the contact portion 63 of the sensor can pass through the second opening 43 simultaneously or sequentially.

Since the size of the second hole 43 is larger than the size of both the heater contact portion 10a and the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63, the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 can easily pass through the second hole 43.

After this, the first seal 81 is inserted into the second opening 43. In this case, the contact portion 10a of the heater is inserted into the first groove 812 for insertion, the contact portion 53 of the antenna is on the inner surface 4a of the second protruding element 42, and the contact portion 63 of the sensor can be inserted into the second groove 813 for insertion.

If the first seal 81 is inserted into the second opening 43 before the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 are inserted, then the passage of the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 through the second opening 43 will be difficult. As a result, the assembly process of the first seal 81, the second cover 4, as well as the heater contact portion 10a, the antenna contact portion 53 and the sensor contact portion 63 will be difficult.

In this regard, in one embodiment of the invention, the contact section 10a of the heater, the contact section 53 of the antenna and the contact section 63 of the sensor are first inserted into the second opening 43, and then the first seal 81 is inserted into the first opening 43. This will simplify the assembly of the first seal 81, the second cover 4, as well as the contact section 10a of the heater, the contact section 53 of the antenna and the contact section 63 of the sensor.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a support, heater, and heating unit sensor assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 17, the heater 10 may be wound around the support 9. Accordingly, the support 9 may support the heater 10.

In the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention, the support 9 can also support the sensor 6. For this purpose, the support 9 can comprise a groove into which the bendable element 62 of the sensor 6 is inserted. When the bendable element 62 is inserted into the groove, the support 9 can support the sensor 6. Accordingly, the position of the sensor 6 can remain fixed even when the heating unit 1 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention is subjected to vibration or shock, and therefore the sensor 6 can stably detect the temperature of the heater 10 or the susceptor 11.

For example, the support 9 may comprise a metal material. For example, the support 9 may comprise a material such as stainless steel or aluminum. In another embodiment of the invention, the support 9 may comprise a polymeric material that has high heat resistance. For example, the support 9 may comprise a material such as PEEK, PPSU, and PC.

Next, examples of the aerosol generating article 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19.

In FIGS. 18 and 19, which illustrate examples of an article for generating an aerosol.

As shown in FIG. 18, the aerosol generating article 200 comprises a tobacco rod 210 and a filter rod 220. The first part may comprise the tobacco rod 210, and the second part may comprise the filter rod 220.

The filter rod 220 is shown as a single segment, but other embodiments are possible. In other words, the filter rod 220 may contain several segments. For example, the filter rod 220 may contain a first segment configured to cool the aerosol and a second segment configured to filter a specific component contained in the aerosol. In addition, if necessary, the filter rod 220 may additionally contain at least one segment configured to perform another function.

The aerosol generating article 200 may be packaged in at least one wrapper 240. The wrapper 240 may have at least one opening through which external air may enter or internal air may exit. For example, the aerosol generating article 200 can be packed in one wrapper 240. In another example, the aerosol generating article 200 can be twice packed in two or more wrappers 240. For example, the tobacco rod 210 can be packed in the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 220 in wrappers 242, 243, 244. Also, the aerosol generating article 200 can be re-packaged in another single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 220 contains several segments, each segment can be packed in a separate wrapper 242, 243, 244.

The tobacco rod 210 may contain an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may contain at least one of the following components: glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol and oleyl alcohol, as well as other components. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 may contain other additives, in particular, flavors, a humectant and/or an organic acid. Also, the tobacco rod 210 may contain a flavored liquid, in particular, menthol or a humectant, injected into the tobacco rod 210.

The tobacco rod 210 can be made in various shapes. For example, the tobacco rod 210 can be formed in the form of a sheet or a strand. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 can be formed in the form of pipe tobacco, consisting of tiny pieces cut from a tobacco leaf. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, as well as other materials, can serve as a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 210, which makes it possible to increase the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and improve the taste of tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can serve as a current collector heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 210 may comprise an additional current collector along with the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 210.

The filter rod 220 may comprise a filter made of cellulose acetate. The filter rod 220 may have any shape. For example, the filter rod 220 may have the shape of a hollow cylinder or a hollow tube. In addition, the filter rod 220 may comprise a rod with a recess. If the filter rod 220 comprises several segments, at least one of the segments may have a different shape.

The filter rod 220 may be configured to generate aromas. For example, an aromatic liquid may be introduced into the filter rod 220, or a separate fiber coated with an aromatic liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 220.

In addition, the filter rod 220 may contain at least one capsule 230. In this case, the capsule 230 may generate a fragrance or an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 may have a configuration in which a liquid containing an aromatic material is placed in a film. For example, the capsule 230 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, or another shape.

If the filter rod 220 comprises a segment configured to cool the aerosol, the cooling segment may comprise a polymer or biodegradable polymer material. For example, the cooling segment may comprise only pure polylactic acid, but the material for forming the cooling segment is not limited to this embodiment. In some embodiments of the invention, the cooling segment may comprise a cellulose acetate filter comprising several holes. However, the cooling segment is not limited to this example and may be made in another way, provided that its function of cooling the aerosol is maintained.

As shown in FIG. 19, the aerosol generating article 300 may further comprise a front plug 330. The front plug 330 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 310 opposite the filter rod 320. The front plug 330 may prevent the tobacco rod 310 from detaching and the liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod 310 from entering the aerosol generating device (100 in FIG. 1) during smoking.

The filter rod 320 may comprise a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. In this case, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 220 in FIG. 18, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 220 in FIG. 18.

The diameter and overall length of the aerosol generating article 300 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the aerosol generating article 200 in FIG. 18. For example, the length of the front plug 330 is at least about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 310 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm; other variations are also possible.

The aerosol generating article 300 may be packaged in at least one wrapper 350. The wrapper 350 may have at least one opening through which external air may enter or internal air may exit. For example, the front plug 330 may be packaged in the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 310 in the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 in the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 in the fourth wrapper 354. In addition, the entire aerosol generating article 300 may be repackaged in the fifth wrapper 355.

In addition, at least one opening 360 may be provided in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the opening 360 may be made at least in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 310. The opening 360 may serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater into the tobacco rod 310.

In addition, at least one capsule 340 can be contained in the second segment 322. In this case, the capsule 340 can generate a fragrance or an aerosol. For example, the capsule 340 can have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance material is placed in a film. For example, the capsule 340 can have, among other things, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

One or more embodiments of the invention may also be implemented in the form of a storage medium containing instructions executable by a computer, such as program modules executable by a computer. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium that a computer can access, and includes both non-power-off and power-off storage media, and removable and non-removable media. In addition, a computer-readable medium may be both a computer storage medium and a communication medium. A computer storage device is volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technique for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium may be computer-readable instructions, data structures, other data in non-volatile data signals, such as program modules.

Those skilled in the art who have read this embodiment understand that it can be implemented in a modified form without departing from the essence of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention should be considered only illustrative of the essence of the invention and not limiting the protected scope of the invention. The scope of the present invention is described in the claims, not in the preceding description, and any modifications, replacements and improvements of the embodiments of the description should be considered included in the present invention.

Claims (20)

1. A heating unit for an aerosol generating device comprising: a housing containing a space for accommodation in which the aerosol generating article is accommodated, a current collector configured to surround an aerosol generating article located in the placement space and configured to heat the aerosol generating article, a coil configured to surround the current collector on the housing side and configured to generate a magnetic field for heating the current collector, a support that holds the heater, a holder comprising an opening through which an aerosol generating article is inserted, and a projection projecting in the direction of the opening and supporting the aerosol generating article, a shielding portion located inside the housing and surrounding the coil for shielding the magnetic field generated by the coil, and an insulating element placed between the current collector and the housing and designed to prevent the heat generated by the coil from being released to the outside. 2. The heating unit according to claim 1, wherein the current collector transfers heat into the product for generating an aerosol located in the placement space. 3. The heating unit according to item 1, additionally comprising Bottom seal located on the bottom of the housing to seal the bottom of the housing. 4. The heating unit according to claim 1, in which the insulating element extends over a greater length than the current collector, in the longitudinal direction in which the housing extends. 5. The heating unit according to item 1, additionally comprising an antenna located inside the housing so as to surround at least a portion of the coil and configured to recognize whether an aerosol generating article is placed in the placement space. 6. The heating unit according to item 1, additionally comprising a sensor located inside the housing and designed to measure the temperature of the current collector. 7. An aerosol generating device comprising: a heating unit according to any one of paragraphs 1-6, a battery configured to supply power to the heating unit, and a controller capable of controlling the operation of the heating unit.

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