RU2845003C2 - Aerosol generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol generating devices.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol-generating device comprises a housing comprising a first introduction space with an upper opening, a tube configured to be inserted into the first insertion space and defining a second insertion space with an upper and a lower opening in which the hook is provided at the lower end of the tube, and a support configured to close the lower opening of the second insertion space and comprising an engaging portion configured to engage with the hook. Support comprises a heater projecting into the second insertion space when the support is connected to the tube, and in which the heater and the support are configured to engage with each other in the circumferential direction.

EFFECT: ease of cleaning and servicing.

14 cl, 23 dwg

Description

[Field of technology]

[1] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device. [Background of the invention]

[2] An aerosol generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or substance by forming an aerosol. The medium may contain a multi-component substance. The substance contained in the medium may be a multi-component flavoring substance. For example, the substance contained in the medium may contain a nicotine component, a plant component and/or a coffee component. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol generating devices. Patent CN 214179146 U discloses an electronic cigarette comprising: a main power supply unit comprising an insertion groove, a heat-insulating protective sleeve configured to be inserted into the insertion groove, wherein a groove for an engaging hook is provided at the lower end of the sleeve, and a heater comprising an insulating element, a heating element mounted on the upper end of the insulating element, and an engaging projection configured to be entered into the engaging groove for the engaging hook.

[Essence of the invention]

[Technical task]

[3] The purpose of the present invention is to eliminate the above-mentioned and other disadvantages.

[4] Another object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device that allows for easy attachment/detachment or replacement of the heater.

[5] Another object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device that is easy to clean and maintain.

[6] A further object of the present invention is to prevent separation of the heater from the aerosol generating device when the stick is inserted.

[7] A further object of the present invention is to prevent rotation of the heater in the circumferential direction.

[8] A further object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device with an improved or increased heater replacement period.

[9] A further object of the present invention is to reduce the factors that alter the taste of the stick.

[10] A further object of the present invention is to provide a device for generating an aerosol that makes it easier to remove the stick.

[11] A further object of the present invention is to reduce overheating of the aerosol generating device.

[Technical solution]

[12] According to one aspect of the invention disclosed in the present application, an aerosol generating device comprises: a body comprising a first insertion space with an upper opening; a tube configured to be inserted into the first insertion space and defining a second insertion space with an upper and a lower opening, wherein a hook is provided at the lower end of the tube; and a support configured to close the lower opening of the second insertion space and comprising an engaging portion configured to engage with the hook, wherein the support comprises a heater configured to protrude into the second insertion space in a state in which the support is connected to the tube.

[Beneficial effects of the invention]

[13] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device may be provided that allows for easy attachment/detachment or replacement of the heater.

[14] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device may be provided that is easy to clean and operate.

[15] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, separation of the heater from the aerosol generating device may be prevented after insertion of the stick.

[16] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, rotation of the heater in the circumferential direction may be prevented.

[17] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device with an improved or extended heater replacement period may be provided.

[18] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, factors that alter the taste of the stick can be reduced.

[19] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device may be provided that facilitates the removal of the stick.

[20] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, overheating of the aerosol generating device can be reduced.

[21] Additional applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize the possibility of making various modifications and changes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that the detailed disclosure and specific examples of the invention, such as preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given for illustrative purposes only.

[Description of drawings]

[22] FIGS. 1-23 illustrate examples of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[Best embodiment of the invention]

[23] The following is a detailed description in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. For brevity of description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components have the same or similar reference numerals, the description of which will not be repeated.

[24] In the following description, terms such as "module" and "block" may be used to refer to elements or components. The use of such terms in this document is intended only to facilitate the description of the characteristics, and these terms do not have any special meaning or function.

[25] In the present description, those details that are well known to those skilled in the art are generally omitted for the sake of brevity. The accompanying drawings are used to facilitate the understanding of the technical idea of the present invention, and it should be understood that the idea of the present invention is not limited to the accompanying drawings. The idea of the present invention should be interpreted as covering any changes, equivalents and substitutes other than the accompanying drawings.

[26] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used to describe various elements, the elements described cannot be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element from another.

[27] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected to" or "linked to" another component, it may be directly connected or linked to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly linked to" another component, there are no intermediate components.

[28] In this text, the singular also includes the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[29]

[30] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device may comprise a battery 101 and/or a controller 102 and/or a sensor 103. The battery 101 and/or the controller 102 and/or the sensor 103 may be located in a housing 10 of the aerosol generating device. The housing 10 may comprise an open space at the top for inserting a stick S. The lower end of the stick S may be inserted into the housing 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude beyond the housing 10. The user may inhale air while holding the upper end of the stick 200 protruding outward in the mouth.

[31] The heater 50 may heat the stick S. The heater 50 may be extended upward in the space into which the stick S is inserted, forming an elongated structure. The heater 50 may be inserted into the lower portion of the stick S. The heater 50 may be a resistive heater.

[32] The battery 101 may supply power necessary for the operation of the components of the aerosol generating device. The battery 101 may supply power to the controller 102 and/or the sensor 103 and/or the induction coil 15 and/or the heater 50. The battery 101 may supply power necessary for the operation of the display, the motor and other similar components installed in the aerosol generating device.

[33] The controller 102 may control the operation of the aerosol generating device as a whole. The controller 102 may control the operation of the battery 101 and/or the induction coil 15 and/or the sensor 103. The controller 102 may control the operation of the display, the motor, and other similar components installed in the aerosol generating device. The controller 102 may check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operating state.

[34] The sensor 103 may measure the temperature of the heater 50. The controller 102 may control the temperature of the heater 50 based on the temperature of the heater 50 measured by the sensor 103. The controller 102 may provide the user with information about the temperature of the heater 50 measured by the sensor 103 through a user interface.

[35] The aerosol generating device may comprise an induction coil 15 surrounding a heater 50. The induction coil 15 may initiate the generation of heat by the heater 50. The heater 50, which serves as a current collector, may generate heat under the action of a magnetic field created by an alternating current passing through the induction coil 15. The magnetic field may pass through the heater 50 and generate an eddy current in the heater 50. Under the action of the current, heat may be generated in the heater 50. Unlike FIG. 1, the heater 50 may be electrically connected to the battery 101. The heater 50 may generate heat directly using the current supplied from the battery 101, without the need for the induction coil 15.

[36]

[37] As shown in FIG. 2-4, the housing 10 may have a vertically elongated shape. A first space 14 for insertion may be provided in the housing 10. The first space 14 for insertion may be open at the top. The first space 14 for insertion may have a cylindrical, vertically elongated shape. The first space 14 for insertion may be defined by a housing tube 11 located in the housing 10. The housing tube 11 may include a side wall 111 surrounding the first space 14 for insertion along the circumference and a lower wall 112 covering the lower part of the first space 14 for insertion. The lower wall 112 may be formed at the lower part of the housing tube 11. The side wall 111 of the housing tube 11 may be called the inner side wall 111 of the housing 10. [38] The heater holder 20 may be detachably inserted into the first space 14 for insertion. The heater holder 20 may comprise a second space 24 for insertion. The second space 24 for insertion may be open at the top. The second space 24 for insertion may have a cylindrical shape. The second space 24 for insertion may be defined by a tube 20' of the heater holder 20. The tube 20' may comprise a side wall 21 surrounding the second space 24 for insertion along the circumference and a lower wall 22 closing the lower part of the second space 24 for insertion. The lower wall 22 of the tube 20' may be called the lower part 22 or the support 22. The lower wall 22 of the tube 20' may define the lower part 22 of the heater holder 20. The heater 50 may be connected or secured to the heater holder 20. The tube 20' may be called the tube of the heater holder 20'.

[39] The extraction device 30 can be detachably inserted into the second space 24 for insertion. The extraction device 30 can be provided with a third space 34 for insertion. The third space 34 for insertion can be open on one side. The third space 34 for insertion can have a cylindrical shape. The third space 34 for insertion can be defined by a side wall 31 and a bottom wall 32 of the extraction device 30. The outer circumferential surface of the extraction device 30 can have a cylindrical shape.

[40] The lower end of the stick S may be inserted into the third space 34 for insertion, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude outward from the aerosol generating device. The heater 50 may heat the first space 14 for insertion, the second space 24 for insertion, and the third space 34 for insertion. The heater 50 may heat the stick S inserted into the third space 34 for insertion.

[41] Accordingly, the heater 50 can be easily replaced. Replacing the space 14, 24, 34 for insertion and the heater 50 located in the space 14, 24, 34 for insertion may be difficult due to the small size of these components. However, the user can easily replace the heater 50 by removing the heater holder 20 from the aerosol generating device and placing a new heater holder 20 in the aerosol generating device.

[42] In addition, the foreign material (or impurity) generated from the stick S can be extracted by the extraction device 30 so that no foreign material remains near the heater 50 and on the heater holder 20. Accordingly, it is possible to simplify the cleaning of the aerosol generating device, namely the area near the heater 50, and improve the operability. In addition, the interval between replacements of the heater 50 can be increased by reducing the factors that reduce the performance of the heater 50 and increasing the durability of the heater 50. In addition, it is possible to reduce the factors that change the taste of the stick S.

[43] The lower end of the heater 50 may be fixed to the support 22. The heater 50 may be extended toward the opening of the second space 24 for insertion. The heater 50 may have a cylindrical shape and a pointed upper end tapering toward the top. In another example, the heater 50 may have a shape extended in the circumferential direction and may be connected to the side wall 21 of the heater holder 20. However, this is only an example. The shape of the heater 50 is not limited to the shape disclosed above or shown in the drawings; any other shape is allowed, provided that the heater 50 can be connected to the heater holder 20 and is capable of heating the stick S inserted into the third space 34 for insertion.

[44] The heater holder 20 may be molded with an insert into the heater 50. The heater holder 20 may have high heat resistance and high rigidity. For example, the heater holder 20 may be made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). However, the material of the heater holder 20 is not limited to this embodiment.

[45] The bottom wall 32 of the extraction device 30 may be open, forming a through hole 35. The through hole 35 may be open at the top and bottom. When the extraction device 30 is inserted into the second insertion space 24, the heater 50 may protrude into the third insertion space 34, passing through the through hole 35. When the stick S is inserted into the third insertion space 34, the heater 50 may be inserted into the lower part of the stick S.

[46] The induction coil 15 may surround the first space 14 for insertion. The induction coil 15 may be wound around the side wall 111 of the tube 11 of the housing. The induction coil 15 may surround the heater 50. The induction coil 15 may initiate the generation of heat by the heater 50. In another example, the heater 50 may generate heat using energy supplied from a power supply directly electrically connected to it through a terminal located on the heater holder 20.

[47] Accordingly, the stick S can be easily removed from the heater 50. The user can easily remove the stick S from the heater 50 by separating the removal device 30 and the heater holder 20 from each other. When the stick S inserted into the removal device 30 is removed from the heater 50, the stick S can be more easily separated from the removal device 30. The stick S can be removed without separating the removal device 30 and the heater holder 20 from each other.

[48] In addition, the foreign material generated from the stick S can be extracted by the extracting device 30 so that no foreign material remains near the heater 50 and on the heater holder 20. Accordingly, it is possible to simplify the cleaning of the aerosol generating device, namely the area near the heater 50, and improve the operability. In addition, the interval between replacements of the heater 50 can be increased by reducing the factors that reduce the performance of the heater 50 and increasing the durability of the heater 50. In addition, it is possible to reduce the factors that change the taste of the stick S.

[49] The heater holder 20 may be located between the housing 10 and the extraction device 30. The side wall 111 of the housing tube 11 may surround the side wall 21 of the heater holder 20. The lower wall 112 of the housing tube 11 may face the lower wall 22 of the heater holder 20. The side wall 21 of the heater holder 20 may surround the side wall 31 of the extraction device 30. The lower wall 22 of the heater holder 20 may face the lower wall 32 of the extraction device 30.

[50] The side wall 31 of the extraction device 30 may be located at a distance inward from the side wall 21 of the heater holder 20. The bottom wall 32 of the extraction device 30 may be located at a distance upward from the bottom wall 22 of the heater holder 20. Air may pass between the extraction device 30 and the heater holder 20, then pass through the through hole 35 and enter the stick S inserted into the third space 34 for insertion.

[51] The upper wall 12 of the housing 10 may project outward from the upper end of the housing tube 11 in a horizontal direction. The upper wall 12 of the housing 10 may cover the upper end of the induction coil 15. The outer side wall 13 of the housing 10 may extend downward from the outer end of the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The outer side wall 13 of the housing 10 may face the side wall 111 of the housing tube 11. The outer side wall 13 of the housing 10 may be located at an outward distance from the housing tube 11. The induction coil 15 may be located between the housing tube 11 and the outer side wall 13 of the housing 10.

[52] The top cover 40 may be detachably connected to the housing 10. The top cover 40 may be connected to the upper side of the housing 10. The top cover 40 may cover the area around the first space 14 for insertion and the area around the upper part of the housing 10. The top cover 40 may comprise an opening 44 for insertion. The stick S may be inserted into the opening 44 for insertion. The top cover 40 may comprise a cap 45 that opens and closes the opening 44 for insertion. The cap 45 may slide in the transverse direction, opening and closing the opening 44 for insertion. The heater holder 20 may be located between the housing 10 and the top cover 40.

[53] The top cover 40 may comprise a top cover body 41. The top cover body 41 may be open at the top and bottom to form an insertion opening 44. The insertion opening 44 may be formed at a position offset to one side from the center of the top cover body 41. The lower surface of the top cover body 41 may have a shape corresponding to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The lower surface of the top cover body 41 may be extended in the horizontal direction and extend parallel to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The cap 45 may be slidably mounted on the top cover body 41.

[54] The top cover 40 may comprise a top cover projection 42. The top cover projection 42 may extend downwardly from each of the two sides of the top cover housing 41. A portion of the side portion of the top cover housing 41 may be open between a pair of top cover projections 42 (see FIG. 7). The top cover projection 42 may be referred to as a top cover catch 42.

[55] The extraction device 30 may be connected to the top cover 40. The upper end of the extraction device 30 may be connected to the top cover 40, and the lower end of the extraction device 30 may protrude downwardly from the top cover 40. The extraction device 30 may be connected at a position corresponding to the insertion opening 44. The insertion opening 44 may be located above the third insertion space 34. The insertion opening 44 may provide communication between the third insertion space 34 and the environment around the aerosol generating device.

[56] The upper end of the extraction device 30 may be connected to the upper cover body 41. The extraction device 30 may project downward from the upper cover body 41. The extraction device 30 may be located between a pair of projections 42 of the upper cover.

[57] The housing 10 may comprise a housing projection 16. The housing projection 16 may extend upward from the edge of the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. A pair of housing projections 16 may be located opposite each other relative to the upper part of the housing 10 (see FIG. 7). The housing projection 16 may be formed in a position that does not overlap the projection 42 of the upper cover.

[58] When the top cover 40 is connected to the housing 10, the top cover 40 may define an appearance (or external appearance) of the upper part of the aerosol generating device. When the top cover 40 is connected to the housing 10, the housing projection 16 may cover the side part of the housing 41 of the top cover, open between the pair of projections 42 of the top cover. When the top cover 40 is connected to the housing 10, the projection 42 of the top cover may cover the outer side wall 13 of the housing 10.

[59] Accordingly, the user can more easily remove the removal device 30 from the housing 10. Without experiencing the inconvenience associated with gripping the removal device 30 inserted into the second space 24 for insertion, the user can remove the removal device 30 by separating the top cover 40 from the housing 10 while holding the outer part of the top cover 40. For example, the user can easily remove the top cover 40 and the removal device 30 from the housing 10 by holding and pulling the pair of protrusions 42 of the top cover from the housing 10.

[60] The extraction device 30 may include an engaging projection 37. The engaging projection 37 may project outward from the upper outer circumferential surface of the extraction device 30 in a horizontal direction. A plurality of engaging projections 37 may be provided. The plurality of engaging projections 37 may be arranged at a distance from each other in a circumferential direction. The engaging projection 37 may be inserted into a recess formed in the upper cover body 41 near the insertion hole 44, which allows the extraction device 30 to be fixed on the upper cover 40. The engaging projection 37 may engage with the upper cover body 41 in a circumferential direction.

[61] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the extraction device 30 from rotating in the circumferential direction relative to the top cover 40 during the insertion and extraction of the stick S.

[62] The heater holder 20 may include a protruding portion 23. The protruding portion 23 may be formed at the upper end of the heater holder 20. The protruding portion 23 may project outward from the upper end of the tube 20' in the horizontal direction. The protruding portion 23 may have the shape of a plate. One side of the protruding portion 23 may be longer relative to the tube 20'. The protruding portion 23 may be called a protruding portion 23 of the heater holder.

[63] The projecting portion 23 may have a shape corresponding to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The projecting portion 23 may be formed horizontally with respect to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. When the tube 20' is inserted into the first space 14 for insertion, the projecting portion 23 may rest or be seated on the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The upper wall 12 of the housing 10 may support the projecting portion 23, and the projecting portion 23 may support the tube 20'. The tube 20', when it hangs on the projecting portion 23, may be located at an upward distance from the lower wall 112 of the tube 11 of the housing, thereby forming an air gap. The outer circumferential surface of the tube 20' may be located at an inward distance from the side wall 111 of the tube 11 of the housing to form an air gap.

[64] The projecting portion 23 may have a shape corresponding to the lower surface of the upper cover body 41. The projecting portion 23 may be formed horizontally with respect to the lower surface of the upper cover body 41. When the upper cover 40 is connected to the body 10, the extracting device 30 may be inserted into the tube 20', ensuring that the projecting portion 23 contacts the lower surface of the upper cover body 41.

[65] The first connecting element 27 may be attached to the heater holder 20. For example, the first connecting element 27 may be attached to the protruding portion 23. The first connecting element 27 may be attached to the inner or outer surface of the protruding portion 23. The heater holder 20 may be molded with an insert into the first connecting element 27 and the heater 50.

[66] The protruding portion 23 may comprise a first protruding portion 231 and a second protruding portion 232. The first protruding portion 231 may extend from the tube 20' on one side, and the second protruding portion 232 may extend from the tube 20' on the other side. The first protruding portion 231 may be longer than the second protruding portion 232. The circumference of the first protruding portion 231 may be larger than the circumference of the second protruding portion 232. The first protruding portion 231 may be wider in the horizontal direction than the second protruding portion 232. With regard to the tube 20' extending downwardly from the plate-shaped protruding portion 23, one side may be defined as the first protruding portion 231, and the other side as the second protruding portion 232. The tube 20' may extend downwardly from a portion located on one side offset from the center of the protruding portion 23.

[67] Of all the parts of the protruding part 23, the first connecting member 27 may be attached to the first protruding part 231, one side of which is longer than the tube 20'. The first connecting member 27 may have the shape of a plate. The first connecting member 27 may be located in the width on the first protruding part 23 in the horizontal direction. The location of the first connecting member 27 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the first connecting member 27 may be attached to the tube 20'.

[68] The first connecting element 27 may be made of a magnetic material. The first connecting element 27 may be ferromagnetic. For example, the first connecting element 27 may be made of stainless steel. However, the material of the first connecting element 27 is not limited to this embodiment.

[69] The second connecting member 47 may be attached to the top cover 40. The second connecting member 47 may be attached inside the top cover body 41. The second connecting member 47 may be adjacent to the lower surface of the top cover body 41. However, the location of the second connecting member 47 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the second connecting member 47 may be attached to the projection 42 of the top cover. In another example, the second connecting member 47 may be attached to the extraction device 30. The second connecting member 47 may be located in a position corresponding to the first connecting member 27.

[70] An attractive force may act between the second connecting member 47 and the first connecting member 27. For example, the first connecting member 27 may be a ferromagnetic material and the second connecting member 47 may be a magnet. However, the material of the first connecting member 27 and the material of the second connecting member 47 are not limited to this embodiment.

[71] The third connecting element 17 may be attached inside the housing 10. The third connecting element 17 may be adjacent to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The third connecting element 17 may be located in a position corresponding to the first connecting element 27. However, the location of the third connecting element 17 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the third connecting element 17 may be adjacent to the side wall 111 of the tube 11 of the housing. An attractive force may act between the third connecting element 17 and the first connecting element 27. For example, the first connecting element 27 may be a ferromagnetic material and the third connecting element 17 may be a magnet. However, the material of the first connecting element 27 and the material of the third connecting element 17 are not limited to this embodiment.

[72]

[73] As shown in FIG. 5, the outer circumferential surface of the side wall 21 of the tube 20' may form multiple angles in the circumferential direction. A transverse plane or a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the side wall 21 of the tube 20' may have a polygonal shape. The outer circumferential surface of the side wall 21 of the tube 20' may be elongated in the vertical direction and include multiple surfaces located at an angle to each other in the circumferential direction. The outer circumferential surface of the tube 20' may be located at a distance inward from the side wall 111 of the tube 11 of the housing, forming an air gap (see FIG. 3). The heater 50 may be surrounded by the extraction device 30 and the tube 20'. The extraction device 30 and the tube 20' may be located at a distance from each other, forming an air gap.

[74] Accordingly, the amount of heat generated by the heater 50 and transmitted to the housing tube 11 (see FIG. 3) through the tube 20' can be reduced, which reduces the possibility of overheating of the aerosol generating device.

[75]

[76] As shown in FIG. 6, the guide portion 25 may be formed on the upper inner circumferential surface of the tube 20'. The guide portion 25 may be located between the tube 20' and the protruding portion 23. The guide portion 25 may contact the opening of the second insertion space 24. The guide portion 25 may be inclined downward. The guide portion 25 may extend in the circumferential direction and surround the opening of the second insertion space 24.

[77] Accordingly, the guide portion 25 may contact the lower portion of the extraction device 30, thereby guiding the extraction device 30 to facilitate insertion into the second insertion space 24.

[78] The lower end of the heater 50 can be inserted into the support 22 and fixed thereto. The heater 50 can comprise a heating rod 51. The heating rod 51 can define an outer side of the heater 50. The heating rod 51 can have a vertical elongated shape. The heating rod 51 can have a cylindrical shape. The heating rod 51 can comprise an open cavity in the lower part. The cavity can be elongated in the vertical direction. The cavity of the heating rod 51 can have a cylindrical shape. The heating rod 51 can have a pointed upper end tapering toward the top. The heating rod 51 can have a high coefficient of thermal expansion, excellent thermal insulation and low thermal conductivity. The heating rod 51 can have high rigidity. For example, the heating rod 51 may be made of zirconium dioxide. However, the material of the heating rod 51 is not limited to this embodiment.

[79] The heater 50 may comprise a heating portion 52. The heating portion 52 may be inserted into a cavity of the heating rod 51. The heating portion 52 may have a vertical elongated shape. The heating portion 52 may have a cylindrical shape. The heating portion 52 may be made of a metal with a high electrical resistivity. The heat generated by the heating portion 52 may be transferred to the environment around the heater 50 through the heating rod 51. The heating portion 52 may be located at a height corresponding to the third insertion space 34 (see FIG. 3). The lower end of the heating portion 52 may be adjacent to the lower end of the through hole 35.

[80] The heater 50 may comprise a support 53. The support 53 may be inserted into a cavity of the heating rod 51. The support 53 may be located under the heating portion 52. The support 53 may be fixed to the heating rod 51 in the cavity. The support 53 may support the lower portion of the heating portion 52. The lower end of the support 53 may rest on the lower portion 22a of the support 22. An opening 22c located in the center of the support 22 may be formed in the process of melting the heater holder 20. The width of the opening 22c may be smaller than the width of the support 53 in order to prevent the support 53 from separating. The structure may not comprise an opening 22c. The support 53 may have high heat resistance. The support 53 may not be subject to thermal deformation under the influence of heat generated by the heating part 52. The support 53 may be made of polyamide. However, the material of the support 53 is not limited to this embodiment.

[81] The heater 50 may include a flange 55. The flange 55 may be formed on the lower end of the heating rod 51. The flange 55 may protrude outward from the outer circumferential surface of the lower end of the heating rod 51 in a horizontal direction. The flange 55 may extend in the circumferential direction of the heating rod 51. The lower end of the heating rod 51 and the flange 55 may be inserted into the support 22. When the heater holder 20 is fused into the heater 50, the support 22 may be integral with the flange 55.

[82] The cross-section of the outer circumferential surface of the flange 55 may have a shape other than circular. The inner circumferential surface of the support 22 may have a shape corresponding to the outer circumferential surface of the flange 55. The inner circumferential surface of the support 22 and the outer circumferential surface of the flange 55 may engage with each other in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the heater 50 from rotating in the circumferential direction relative to the heater holder 20 when the stick S is inserted into or removed from the heater 50.

[83] The flange 55 may comprise a first engaging portion 55a. The first engaging portion 55a may project outward from the circumference of the flange 55. The first engaging portion 55a may be formed on the lower portion of the flange 55. The first engaging portion 55a may extend along the circumference of the flange 55.

[84] The support 22 may include a second engaging portion 22b. The second engaging portion 22b may project inward in the direction of the recess of the support 22. The second engaging portion 22b may have a shape corresponding to the first engaging portion 55a. The first engaging portion 55a may be located below the second engaging portion 22b. The first engaging portion 55a and the second engaging portion 22b may overlap each other vertically. The second engaging portion 22b may support the first engaging portion 55a, thereby preventing the flange 55 from separating from the support 22 in the upward direction.

[85] The protruding part 23 may be longer on one side relative to the tube 20' or the second space 24 for insertion. In one horizontal direction, the length L1 of the first protruding part 231 may be greater than the length L2 of the second protruding part 232. The length L1 of the first protruding part 231 may be greater than the diameter L0 of the second space 24 for insertion. Alternatively, the length L1 of the first protruding part 231 may be closer to the diameter L0 of the second space 24 for insertion than the length L2 of the second protruding part 232. The first connecting element 27 may be in the form of a plate. The first connecting element 27 may be horizontally fixed on the first protruding part 231.

[86]

[87] As shown in FIG. 7-9, the top cover 40 can be detached from the housing 10. The heater holder 20 can be detachably connected to the top cover 40. When the top cover 40 is detached from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 can be removed together with the top cover 40 from the housing 10 while remaining connected to the top cover 40. In a state in which the top cover 40, to which the heater holder 20 is connected, is separated from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 can be detached from the top cover 40.

[88] In another example, the heater holder 20 may be detachably connected to the extraction device 30. When the extraction device 30 is detached from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 can be removed together with the extraction device 30 from the housing 10 while being connected to the extraction device 30. In a state in which the extraction device 30, to which the heater holder 20 is connected, is separated from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 can be detached from the extraction device 30.

[89] An attractive force may act between the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47. The first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47 may provide a releasable connection of the heater holder 20 with the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30. In one example, the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47 may be magnets that are attracted to each other. In another example, one of the pair of the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47 may be a ferromagnetic material, and the other is a magnet. However, the invention is not limited to the above-disclosed embodiment and allows for the use of any other configuration, provided that the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47 are attracted to each other under the action of an electric or magnetic force.

[90] The protruding portion 23 may define a horizontal surface corresponding to the lower surface of the top cover body 41. The first protruding portion 231 may define a horizontal surface corresponding to the lower surface of the top cover body 41. The upper surface of the protruding portion 23 may rest horizontally on the top cover body 41. The area supported by the top cover body 41 may be larger in the first protruding portion 231 than in the second protruding portion 232.

[91] The first connecting member 27 may have the shape of a plate. The first connecting member 27 may be horizontally fixed to the first protruding portion 231. The second connecting member 47 may be adjacent to the lower surface of the upper cover body 41. The second connecting member 47 may be formed in a position corresponding to the first connecting member 27. Under the action of the attractive force acting between the first connecting member 27 and the second connecting member 47, the first protruding portion 231 may come into contact with the lower surface of the upper cover body 41.

[92] In another example, the heater holder 20 may be removably connected to the top cover 40 by a screw connection. In this case, the heater holder 20 may be rotated in a circumferential direction such that the heater holder 20 is detached from the top cover 40 or attached to it by a screw connection. Alternatively, the heater holder 20 and the top cover 40 may be removably connected to each other by a fastening screw. In another example, the heater holder 20 may be removably connected to the top cover 40 by a snap connection. In this case, one of the members of the pair in the heater holder 20 and the top cover 40 may comprise a connecting hook, and the other may comprise a recess into which the hook is engaged. However, only an example is disclosed above, and the method of removably connecting the heater holder 20 to the top cover 40 is not limited to the above disclosure. The heater holder 20 can be detachably connected to the top cover 40 in various known ways.

[93] The heater holder 20 connected to the top cover 40 may protrude downward from the top cover 40. The heater holder 20 may be located between a pair of projections 42 of the top cover. The tube 20' may protrude downward from the body 41 of the top cover so that it protrudes downward further than the projection 42 of the top cover. This may facilitate holding the heater holder 20.

[94] Accordingly, the heater holder 20 can not only be easily detached from the top cover 40, but also reliably connected to the top cover 40. In addition, the heater 50 can be easily replaced.

[95] In addition, the stick S can be easily removed from the heater 50. The user can easily remove the stick S from the heater 50 by separating the removal device 30 and the heater holder 20 from each other. When the stick S inserted into the removal device 30 is separated from the heater 50, the stick S can be more easily separated from the removal device 30.

[96]

[97] As shown in FIG. 10 and 11, the heater holder 20 may be detachably connected to the housing 10. In the state in which the heater holder 20 is connected to the housing 10, the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 may be detached from the housing 10 and the heater holder 20. The heater holder 20 may be detached from the housing 10, and the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 may be separated from the housing 10 and the heater holder 20.

[98] An attractive force may act between the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17. The first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17 may provide a detachable connection of the heater holder 20 to the housing 10. In one example, the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17 may be magnets that are attracted to each other. In another example, one of the pair of the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17 may be a ferromagnetic material, and the other is a magnet. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiment disclosed above and allows the use of any other configuration, provided that the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17 are attracted to each other under the action of an electric or magnetic force.

[99] The projecting portion 23 may cover the upper wall 12 of the housing 10, and the tube 20' may be inserted into the first space 14 for insertion. The projecting portion 23 may define a horizontal surface corresponding to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The first projecting portion 231 may correspond to the upper wall 12 of one side of the housing 10, and the second projecting portion 232 may correspond to the upper wall 12 of the other side of the housing 10. The lower surface of the projecting portion 23 may rest horizontally on the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The area supported by the housing 10 may be larger in the first projecting portion 231 than in the second projecting portion 232.

[100] The first connecting element 27 may have the form of a plate. The first connecting element 27 may be horizontally fixed on the first protruding portion 231. The third connecting element 17 may be adjacent to the upper wall 12 of the housing 10. The third connecting element 17 may be formed in a position corresponding to the first connecting element 27. The first connecting element 27 may be located on the first protruding portion 231, and the third connecting element 17 may be located near the upper wall 12 of one side of the housing 10 covered by the first protruding portion 231. Under the action of the attractive force acting between the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 47, the first protruding portion 231 may come into contact with the upper wall 12 of the housing 10.

[101] In another example, the heater holder 20 may be removably connected to the housing 10 by a screw connection. In this case, the heater holder 20 may be rotated in a circumferential direction such that the heater holder 20 is detached from the housing 10 or attached to it by a screw connection. Alternatively, the heater holder 20 and the housing 10 may be removably connected to each other by a fastening screw. In another example, the heater holder 20 may be removably connected to the housing 10 by a snap connection. In this case, one of the members of the pair in the heater holder 20 and the housing 10 may comprise a connecting hook, and the other may comprise a recess into which the hook is engaged. However, only an example is disclosed above, and the method for removably connecting the heater holder 20 to the housing 10 is not limited to that disclosed above. The heater holder 20 can be detachably connected to the housing 10 in various known ways.

[102] The projecting portion 23, connected to the housing 10, may project upward from the housing 10. The projecting portion 23 may be located between the pair of projections 16 of the housing. The projecting portion 23 may be located near the outer side wall 13 of the housing 10 or in a position vertically parallel to the outer side wall 13, between the pair of projections 16 of the housing. This may facilitate holding the heater holder 20.

[103] Accordingly, the heater holder 20 can not only be easily detached from the housing 10, but also reliably connected to the housing 10. In addition, the heater 50 can be easily replaced.

[104] In addition, the stick S can be easily removed from the heater 50. The user can easily remove the stick S from the heater 50 by separating the removal device 30 and the heater holder 20 from each other. When the stick S inserted into the removal device 30 is separated from the heater 50, the stick S can be more easily separated from the removal device 30.

[105] The first connecting element 27 may be located between the second connecting element 47 and the third connecting element 17. An attractive force may act between the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47, and an attractive force may act between the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17. For example, both the second connecting element 47 and the third connecting element 17 may be a magnet, and the first connecting element 27 may be a magnet, the attractive force of which acts on both the second connecting element 47 and the third connecting element 17 between the second connecting element 47 and the third connecting element 17. In another example, the first connecting element 27 may be a ferromagnetic material, and both the second connecting element 47 and the third connecting element 17 may be a magnet. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiment disclosed above and allows the use of any other configuration, provided that the first connecting element 27 and the second connecting element 47 are attracted to each other, and the first connecting element 27 and the third connecting element 17 are attracted to each other under the action of an electric or magnetic force.

[106] Accordingly, the user can selectively connect the heater holder 20 with the housing 10 or the extraction device 30, wherein the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 can be removed from the housing 10. In addition, the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 can be more easily and reliably connected to the housing 10.

[107] The attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the second connecting member 47, and the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the third connecting member 17 may differ from each other. For example, the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the second connecting member 47 may be greater than the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the third connecting member 17.

[108] Accordingly, when the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 are separated from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 can be removed from the housing 10 together with it. In addition, when the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 is connected to the housing 10, when the heater holder 20 is connected to the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30, it is possible to facilitate the connection of the top cover 40 to the housing 10 and to increase the stability of the connection due to the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the third connecting member 17.

[109] In another example, the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the third connecting member 17 may be greater than the attractive force between the first connecting member 27 and the second connecting member 47. Accordingly, when the top cover 40 and/or the extraction device 30 are separated from the housing 10, the heater holder 20 may remain connected to the housing 10, and the stick S can be more easily removed from the extraction device 30 in the event of separation from the heater 50. [110]

[111] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the heater holder 200 may further comprise a heater holder projection 260. The heater holder projection 260 may be formed on the upper portion of the heater holder 200. The heater holder projection 260 may extend upward from the protruding portion 23. The heater holder projection 260 may be formed on each of the two sides of the protruding portion 23. A pair of heater holder projections 260 may be formed at a corresponding position between the pair of projections 42 of the top cover. The first connecting member 27 may be located on the protruding portion 23 and/or the heater holder projection 260.

[112] The side portion of the top cover body 41 may be recessed downward between the pair of projections 42 of the top cover, forming a recess 415 for introducing a projection. The pair of recesses 415 for introducing projections may be provided at positions corresponding to the pair of projections 260 of the heater holder, respectively. The recess 415 for introducing a projection may have a shape corresponding to the projection 260 of the heater holder. The projection 260 of the heater holder may be called a grip 260 of the heater holder. The recess 415 for introducing a projection may be called a recess 415 for introducing a grip or a recess 415 for gripping.

[113] When the heater holder 200 is connected to the top cover 40, the projection 260 of the heater holder may cover the side portion of the top cover body 41 between the pair of projections 42 of the top cover. The projection 260 of the heater holder may be inserted into the recess 415 for inserting the projection. The projection 42 of the top cover may protrude outward from the top cover 40 between the pair of projections 42 of the top cover.

[114] Accordingly, the detachment of the heater holder 200 from the top cover 40 can be facilitated. The user can easily remove the top cover 40 and the heater holder 200 by holding and pulling the pair of projections 260 of the heater holder downward from the top cover 40. The projection 260 of the heater holder may have a portion protruding outward or a concave-convex shape for ease of grip.

[115]

[116] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, the tube 210 may be open at the top and bottom. The side wall 211 of the tube 210 may surround the second space 24 for insertion. The lower part 212 of the tube 210 may protrude radially inward from the lower end of the side wall 211 of the tube 210. The lower part 212 of the tube 210 may be open.

[117] The support 220 may be connected to the lower end of the tube 210. The support 220 may cover the opening in the lower part 212 of the tube 210. The flange 55 formed on the lower end of the heater 50 may be attached to the support 220. The heater 50 may protrude from the support 220 into the second space 24 for insertion.

[118] The support 220 may be detachably connected to the lower end of the tube 210. The tube 210 may comprise a hook 270. The hook 270 may protrude downwardly from the lower portion 212 of the tube 210. A pair of hooks 270 may be located opposite each other relative to the tube 210. The support 220 may comprise a hooking portion 227. The pair of hooking portions 227 may be formed in positions corresponding to the pair of hooks 270, respectively. The hooking portion 227 may be attached to the hook 270, which allows the support 220 to be detachably connected to the tube 210. When the support 220 is connected to the tube 210, the hook 270 can be located inside the support 220. For example, the support 220 can be connected to the tube 210 by means of a snap-in connection with the possibility of detachment.

[119] The tube 210 may comprise a tube rim 213. The tube rim 213 may be formed at the lower end of the tube 210. The tube rim 213 may project downwardly from the bottom 212 of the tube 210, extending inwardly from the side wall 211 of the tube 210. The tube rim 213 may be recessed inwardly from the circumference of the tube 210. The tube rim 213 may define a circumference.

[120] The support 220 may comprise a recess 224a open at the top for inserting the rim. The support 220 may be recessed downward to form the recess 224a for inserting the rim. The recess 224a for inserting the rim may define a circumference.

[121] The support 220 may comprise a lower portion 22a, an inner peripheral wall 222 and an outer peripheral wall 223. The lower portion 22a may have the shape of a disk. The outer peripheral wall 223 may extend upward from the edge of the lower portion 22a. The outer peripheral wall 223 may extend along the circumference of the lower portion 22a. The inner peripheral wall 222 may extend upward from the lower portion 22a. The inner peripheral wall 222 may be located at an inward distance from the outer peripheral wall 223. A recess 224a for inserting a rim may be formed between the outer peripheral wall 223 and the inner peripheral wall 222.

[122] The recess 224a for inserting the rim may have a shape corresponding to the rim 213 of the tube. The rim 213 of the tube may be inserted or pressed into the recess 224a for inserting the rim. The support 220 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the support 220 may be made of a plastic material. In another example, the support 220 may be made of a rubber material. However, the material of the support 220 is not limited to this embodiment.

[123] The engaging portion 227 may project inward from the outer peripheral wall 223 in a horizontal direction. The engaging portion 227 may project from the outer peripheral wall 223 into the rim insertion recess 224a. The hook 270 may project outward from the tube rim 213 in a horizontal direction. When the tube rim 213 is inserted into the rim insertion recess 224a, the hook 270 may be attached to the engaging portion 227. The lower portion 22a of the support 220 may be opened in a position corresponding to the engaging portion 227 and the hook 270, forming a hook opening 224b. The hook opening 224b may be located under the rim insertion recess 224a. The hole 224b for the hook can communicate with the recess 224a for inserting the rim. The hook 270 can be inserted into the hole 224b for the hook to fix it on the hooking portion 227. When the hook 270 is fixed on the hooking portion 227, the hole 224b for the hook and the recess 224a for inserting the rim can be expanded or stretched by elastic deformation. The hole 224b for the hook can be called a deformable hole 224b.

[124] The tube rim 213 and the rim insertion recess 224a may be configured to engage with each other in a circumferential direction. The circumference of the tube rim 213 and the circumference of the rim insertion recess 224a may have a cross-section with a shape different from a circle. For example, the circumference of the tube rim 213 and the circumference of the rim insertion recess 224a may include a curved portion and a linear portion. However, the shape of the tube rim 213 and the shape of the rim insertion recess 224a are not limited to this embodiment.

[125] The outer circumferential surface 223 of the outer peripheral wall of the support 220 may correspond to or be similar to the circumference of the outer circumferential surface of the tube 210. The outer circumferential surface of the outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220 may be smaller than the circumference of the first insertion space 14.

[126] The support 220 may extend outward from the tube 210. The outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220 may surround the lower end of the tube 210. The support claw 225 may project outward from the outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220. The outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220 may be recessed to form a support gripping recess 225a. The support claw 225 may project under the support gripping recess 225a in a horizontal direction. The support claw 225 and the support gripping recess 225a may be formed in a position that does not overlap the engaging portion 227 and the hook 270. A pair of support claws 225 may be provided on both sides of the support 220.

[127] Accordingly, the user can hold and remove the support 220 from the tube 210 to clean or replace the heater 50 or the heater holder 200. For example, the user can disconnect the support 220 and the tube 210 from each other by bending the support 220 and holding it by the support grip 225 to release the connection with the hook.

[128] In addition, it is possible to prevent the support 220 from rotating in the circumferential direction relative to the tube 210 when the stick S is inserted into or removed from the heater 50.

[129]

[130] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, a pair of support grips 225 may be provided on both sides of the support 220 and located opposite each other. A pair of engaging portions 227 may be formed on both sides of the support 220 opposite each other.

[131] The direction in which the pair of engaging portions 227 are formed may be called the axial direction DS or the fixed end direction DS. The direction in which the pair of support claws 225 are formed may be called the gripping direction DG. The axial direction DS and the gripping direction DG may intersect with each other. The axial direction DS and the gripping direction DG may be perpendicular to each other.

[132]

[133] As shown in FIG. 18, the engaging portion 227 may include a first inclined surface 2271 and a first flat surface 2272. The first inclined surface 2271 may define an upper surface of the engaging portion 227. The first inclined surface 2271 may be inclined inward from an upper end of the engaging portion 227 toward a lower portion. The first flat surface 2272 may define a lower surface of the engaging portion 227. The first flat surface 2272 may define a surface in a horizontal direction.

[134] The first flat surface 2272 may project inward from the inner circumferential surface of the outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220 along the axial direction DS. Unlike that shown in FIG. 18, the first flat surface 2272 may project inward in a convex manner along the axial direction DS, forming a portion gradually tapering in the projection direction.

[135]

[136] As shown in FIG. 19, the hook 270 may comprise a second inclined surface 271 and a second flat surface 272. The second inclined surface 271 may define a lower surface of the hook 270. The second inclined surface 271 may be inclined outward from the lower end of the hook 270 upward. The second flat surface 272 may define an upper surface of the hook 270. The second flat surface 272 may define a surface in a horizontal direction. The second flat surface 272 may be formed parallel to the first flat surface 2272.

[137] The second flat surface 272 may project outward from the rim 213 of the tube in a convex manner along the axial direction DS. The second flat surface 272 may comprise a portion gradually tapering in the direction of the projection. The second flat surface 272 may have an edge defining a curved line and may gradually taper in the direction of the projection. The second flat surface 272 may gradually taper toward both its ends in the gripping direction DG.

[138]

[139] As shown in FIG. 20 and 21, the hook 270 can be fixed on the engaging portion 227. The hook 270 and/or the engaging portion 227 can comprise an inclined surface guiding the outer peripheral wall 223 to expand or be pulled outward when the hook 270 is fixed on the engaging portion 227. When the hook 270 is fixed on the engaging portion 227, the first inclined surface 2271 and the second inclined surface 271 can come into contact with each other, pulling the outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220 outward and thereby guiding the hook 270 into the hole 224b for the hook and fixing it on the engaging portion 227. The deformed outer peripheral wall 223 can be restored to its original state.

[140] The hook 270 and the engaging portion 227 may be connected to each other by a snap-fit connection that does not open under the action of a vertical external force. The first flat surface 2272 and the second flat surface 272 may protrude toward each other in a horizontal direction. When the hook 270 is fixed on the engaging portion 227, the first flat surface 2272 and the second flat surface 272 may be in surface contact with each other in a horizontal direction. The surface on which the first flat surface 2272 and the second flat surface 272 are in contact with each other may be defined as the contact surface A. When a downward external force is applied, the first flat surface 2272 may rest on the second flat surface 272 on the contact surface A.

[141] Accordingly, when the heater 50 is inserted into the stick S, the support 220 can be prevented from separating from the tube 210 even though the stick S applies a downward external force to the support 220.

[142] The first sliding edge 2273 may be defined as a portion forming an edge at the end of the engaging portion 227 relative to the direction in which the engaging portion 227 protrudes. The second sliding edge 273 may be defined as a portion forming an edge at the end of the hook 270 relative to the direction in which the second flat surface 272 protrudes. The first sliding edge 2273 and the second sliding edge 273 may define an edge of the contact surface A. The first sliding edge 2273 may be called the edge 2273 of the engaging portion. The second sliding edge 273 may be called the edge 273 of the hook.

[143] Any of the first sliding edges 2273 and any of the second sliding edges 273 may intersect at two contact points B. The area of the contact surface A may gradually decrease toward both contact points B in the gripping direction DG. The first sliding edge 2273 may extend from the contact point B to the outer side of the contact surface A. The portion in which the first sliding edge 2273 extends from the contact point B to the outer side of the contact surface A may be called the bending portion 2273a. The second sliding edge 273 may extend from the contact point B to the outer side of the contact surface A.

[144] Accordingly, when the heater 50 is installed in or removed from the stick S, the support 220 and the heater 50 can be securely fixed without being separated from the heating module 200, and the support 220 can be easily detached from the tube 210 by bending the support 220 (see FIG. 22). The above is explained in detail below.

[145]

[146] As shown in FIG. 21-23, a pair of support grips 225 may be formed at both ends of the support 220 with respect to the gripping direction DG. The support grip 225 and the support gripping recess 225a may be opened downward from the tube 210. The support gripping recess 225a may be located between the lower portion 212 of the tube 210 and the support grip 225. The user can hold and pull downward from the tube 210 at least one of the pair of support grips 225. In this case, the support 220 can be bent downward by a pair of hooks 270 and a pair of engaging portions 227 provided in the axial direction DS as fixed ends.

[147] FIG. 23 shows that the angle of bending of the support 220 from the fixed ends increases successively from (a) and (b) to (c). The area of the contact surface A may gradually decrease toward both contact points B in the direction DG of the grip. When the support 220 is bent, the bending portion 2273a of the first sliding edge 2273, which extends from the contact point B to the outer side of the contact surface A, may not experience resistance from the hook 270. Accordingly, when the support 220 is bent, the bending portion 2273a may also be bent in the direction of the bending of the support 220. The bending portion 2273a may come into sliding contact with the second sliding edge 273 and extend outward from the outer peripheral wall 223 of the support 220. The length of the first sliding edge 2273, which extends from the contact point B to the outer side of the contact surface A, may increase as the bending angle of the support 220 increases. The distance between the two contact points B may decrease as the bending angle of the support 220 increases.

[148] Accordingly, as the bending angle of the support 220 increases, the contact surface A between the hook 270 and the engaging portion 227 may decrease, which will lead to a gradual decrease in the fixing force between the hook 270 and the engaging portion 227 until they separate from each other.

[149] Thus, when the heater 50 is installed in the stick S or removed from it, the support 220 and the heater 50 can be securely fixed without being separated from the heating module 200, and the support 220 can be easily detached from the tube 210 by bending the support 220.

[150]

[151] As shown in FIG. 1-23, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present invention may comprise: a body comprising a first insertion space with an upper opening; a tube configured to be inserted into the first insertion space and defining a second insertion space with an upper and a lower opening, and a hook provided at a lower end of the tube; and a support configured to cover the lower opening of the second insertion space and comprising an engaging portion configured to engage with the hook. The support may comprise a heater configured to protrude into the second insertion space when the support is connected to the tube.

[152] According to another aspect of the present invention, the hook and the engaging portion may contact each other along respective horizontal surfaces.

[153] According to another aspect of the present invention, the hook may be one of a pair of hooks respectively located on both sides of the lower end of the tube, and wherein the engaging portion may be one of a pair of engaging portions respectively located on both sides of the support in accordance with the pair of hooks.

[154] According to another aspect of the present invention, the support may be configured to be folded downwardly by a pair of engaging portions to detach the support from the tube.

[155] According to another aspect of the present invention, the contact area between the hook and the engaging portion may decrease as the bending angle of the support increases.

[156] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a first sliding edge defined on the edge of the end of the engaging portion; and a second sliding edge defined on the edge of the end of the hook.

[157] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first sliding edge and the second sliding edge contact each other along a contact area when the hook and the engaging portion are connected. The contact area gradually narrows toward the contact point where the first sliding edge intersects with the second sliding edge. The first sliding edge comprises a bending portion extended outward from the contact point and configured to bend when the support is bent.

[158] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first sliding edge can slide relative to the second sliding edge when the support is bent to reduce the contact area.

[159] According to another aspect of the present invention, the support may comprise a support grip protruding from the outer peripheral wall of the support in a position not overlapping the engaging portion.

[160] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: the tube may comprise a tube rim formed at a lower end of the tube; and the support may comprise a recess for inserting the rim formed between the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of the support and having an upper opening for inserting the tube rim therein.

[161] According to another aspect of the present invention, the hook may protrude outward from the rim of the tube, and the hook portion may protrude inward from the outer peripheral wall.

[162] According to another aspect of the present invention, the hook and/or the engaging portion may comprise an inclined surface that causes the engaging portion and the outer peripheral wall to extend outward when the hook is connected to the engaging portion.

[163] According to another aspect of the present invention, the support may further comprise a deformable opening in the lower portion of the support under the engaging portion, communicating with the recess for inserting the rim.

[164] According to another aspect of the present invention, the rim of the tube may be pressed between the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall.

[165] According to another aspect of the present invention, the tube rim and the support may be configured to engage with each other in a circumferential direction.

[166] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater and the support may be configured to engage each other in a circumferential direction.

[167] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise an extraction device configured to be inserted into the second insertion space and defining a third insertion space comprising an upper opening. A through opening configured to receive a heater may be provided at the lower portion of the extraction device, and an induction coil surrounding the first insertion space and configured to initiate heat generation by the heater.

[168]

[169] As shown in FIG. 1-23, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present invention may comprise: a housing defining a first insertion space open at the top; a heater holder removably inserted into the first insertion space and defining a second insertion space that is open at the top and to which the heater is connected; and a removal device removably inserted into the second insertion space and defining a third insertion space open at the top.

[170] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a top cover that is detachably connected to the body and is intended to cover the space around the upper portion of the body to which the extraction device is connected and that comprises an insertion opening through which the opening of the third insertion space and the external environment communicate with each other.

[171] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may be detachably connected to the top cover.

[172] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a first connecting element located on the heater holder; and a second connecting element located on the top cover and acting with an attractive force on the first connecting element.

[173] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may project downwardly from the top cover so as to be exposed on the outside of the top cover.

[174] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may comprise a heater holder projection that covers the outer portion of the top cover.

[175] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may be detachably connected to the housing.

[176] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a first connecting element attached to the heater holder; and a third connecting element attached to the body and acting with an attractive force on the first connecting element.

[177] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may be detachably connected to the top cover and the body.

[178] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a first connecting member attached to the heater holder; a second connecting member attached to the top cover and acting with an attractive force on the first connecting member; and a third connecting member attached to the body and acting with an attractive force on the first connecting member.

[179] According to another aspect of the present invention, the attractive force between the first connecting element and the second connecting element and the attractive force between the first connecting element and the third connecting element may be different from each other.

[180] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may comprise: a tube defining a second insertion space; and a projecting portion projecting outward from the tube in a horizontal direction near the opening of the second insertion space and resting on the body near the opening of the first insertion space.

[181] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a first connecting member attached to the protruding portion; and a third connecting member attached to the body and acting with an attractive force on the first connecting member.

[182] According to another aspect of the present invention, when the protruding portion rests on the housing, the tube may be located at a distance inward from the housing, defining a first insertion space for forming an air gap.

[183] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise: a top cover that is detachably connected to the body and is designed to close the space around the upper portion of the body to which the extraction device is connected and which comprises an insertion opening through which the opening of the third insertion space and the external environment communicate with each other and to which the protruding portion is removably connected; a first connecting member attached to the protruding portion; and a second connecting member attached to the top cover and acting by an attractive force on the first connecting member.

[184] According to another aspect of the present invention, a through hole may be provided in the lower part of the extraction device, communicating with the third insertion space. The heater may protrude from the lower part of the heater holder toward the opening of the second insertion space and pass through the through hole, as a result of which its upper part is located in the third insertion space.

[185] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a top cover that is detachably connected to the body and is designed to close a space around the upper portion of the body to which an extraction device is connected, which comprises an insertion opening through which the opening of the third insertion space and the external environment communicate with each other, and to which a heater holder is detachably connected. The extraction device may be located at a distance inward from the heater holder, defining a second insertion space to form an air gap.

[186] According to another aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may further comprise an induction coil surrounding the first insertion space and providing heat generation by the heater.

[187] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heater holder may be removably connected to the extraction device.

[188] According to another aspect of the present invention, the top cover may comprise a cap that opens and closes the insertion opening.

[189]

[190] Some embodiments or other embodiments of the invention disclosed above are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the invention disclosed above may be combined with others or combined with each other in configuration or function.

[191] For example, configuration "A" disclosed in one embodiment of the invention and the drawings and configuration "B" disclosed in another embodiment of the invention and the drawings may be combined with each other. Namely, although the combination between the configurations is not explicitly disclosed, the combination is possible, except for the case where it is disclosed that the combination is impossible.

[192] Although embodiments of the invention have been disclosed with reference to a number of illustrative examples of the invention, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can develop many other modifications and embodiments of the invention that will fall within the scope of the principles of the present invention. In particular, various variations and changes in the components and/or arrangements of the subject combination are possible within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and changes in the components and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be obvious to those skilled in the art.

Claims (29)

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a body comprising a first insertion space with an upper opening; a tube adapted to be inserted into a first insertion space and defining a second insertion space with an upper and lower opening, in which a hook is provided at the lower end of the tube; and a support configured to close the lower opening of the second insertion space and comprising a hooking portion configured to engage with the hook, wherein the support comprises a heater configured to project into the second insertion space when the support is connected to the tube; and wherein the heater and the support are configured to engage with each other in a circumferential direction. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the hook and the engaging portion are in contact with each other along corresponding horizontal surfaces. 3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the hook is one of a pair of hooks respectively located on both sides of the lower end of the tube, and wherein the engaging portion is one of a pair of engaging portions respectively located on both sides of the support in positions corresponding to a pair of hooks. 4. An aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the support is configured to bend downwards using a pair of engaging parts in order to detach the support from the tube. 5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the contact area between the hook and the engaging portion decreases as the bending angle of the support increases. 6. An aerosol generating device according to paragraph 5, further comprising: a first sliding edge defined on the edge of the end of the engaging portion; and a second sliding edge defined on the edge of the end of the hook, wherein the first sliding edge and the second sliding edge contact each other along the contact area when the hook and the engaging portion are connected, in which the contact area gradually narrows towards the contact point where the first sliding edge intersects the second sliding edge, wherein the first sliding edge comprises a bending section projecting outward from the contact point and configured to bend when the support is bent, and in which the first sliding edge slides relative to the second sliding edge when the support is bent to reduce the contact area. 7. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the support comprises a support grip protruding from the outer peripheral wall of the support in a position that does not overlap the engaging portion. 8. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: the tube further comprises a tube rim formed at the lower end of the tube; and the support comprises a recess for inserting a rim formed between the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of the support and having an upper opening for inserting the rim of the tube into it. 9. An aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the hook projects outward from the rim of the tube, and in which the engaging portion projects inward from the outer peripheral wall. 10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the hook and/or the engaging portion comprises an inclined surface that causes the engaging portion and the outer peripheral wall to extend outward when the hook is connected to the engaging portion. 11. An aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein the support additionally comprises a deformable opening in the lower part of the support under the engaging part, communicating with the recess for inserting the rim. 12. An aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the rim of the tube is designed to be pressed between the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall. 13. An aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the rim of the tube and the support are designed to engage with each other in a circumferential direction. 14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising an extraction device configured to be inserted into the second insertion space and defining a third insertion space comprising an upper opening in which a through opening is provided in the lower part of the extraction device configured to receive a heater, and an induction coil surrounding the first insertion space and configured to initiate heat generation by the heater.