Aerosol generating device

An aerosol generating device includes: a hollow casing comprising a path for accommodating a cigarette, an opening open to the outside at one end of the path such that the cigarette is inserted into the opening from the outside, a through hole connected to the other end of the path, and a protrusion protruding from the path to contact a portion of an outer surface of the cigarette; and a heater having one side end portion passing through the through hole and arranged inside the path to be inserted into the cigarette accommodated in the path, the heater being configured to heat the cigarette when electricity is applied.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device in which a protrusion of a path accommodating a cigarette stably supports the cigarette to enhance usability, and which has improved durability and stability.

BACKGROUND ART

Recently, as the demand for a method of generating aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating material in a cigarette has increased, heating-type cigarettes or heating-type aerosol generating devices have been actively studied.

When using an aerosol generating device including a heater for heating a cigarette by using electricity, the cigarette which is heated by the heater to generate a gas for smoking is separated from the aerosol generating device and discharged, and then a new cigarette may be inserted into the aerosol generating device.

KR 10-1667124 discloses an aerosol generating device generating a gas for smoking by heating a cigarette and describes a structure of a holder that assists an operation of inserting a cigarette into the aerosol generating device or an operation of separating the cigarette from the aerosol generating device.

When a user uses an aerosol generating device having a structure as described above for smoking, the user has to perform an operation of inserting a cigarette into a holder extracted out of the aerosol generating device and pushing the holder and the cigarette into the aerosol generating device, and after smoking, the user has to perform an operation of pulling the holder out of the aerosol generating device and removing the cigarette from the holder. Thus, the user who uses the aerosol generating device may be inconvenienced.

Also, according to the related art, a casing accommodating a cigarette is in direct contact with an outer surface of the cigarette, and thus, heat generated in the cigarette is directly transferred to the casing, thereby overheating the casing. Moreover, since there is insufficient space between the cigarette and the casing, while the cigarette is being inserted into the casing, an outer wall of the cigarette expands when a heater is inserted into the cigarette, and this increases friction between the cigarette and the casing, thus making it difficult to insert the cigarette into the casing. In addition, as the cigarette and the casing are in direct contact with each other, the flow of air needed for generation of aerosol is not smooth inside the casing.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Technical Problem

Provided are an aerosol generating device and method that are easy to use.

Also provided is an aerosol generating device having improved durability and stability, the inside of which can be kept clean.

Also provided is a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the method on a computer. Technical problems to be solved are not limited to the above-described technical problems, and there may also be other technical problems.

Solution to Problem

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device includes: a hollow casing comprising a path for accommodating a cigarette, an opening that is open to the outside at one end of the path such that the cigarette is inserted into the opening from the outside, a through hole connected to the other end of the path, and a protrusion protruding from the path to contact a portion of an outer surface of the cigarette; and a heater having one side end portion passing through the through hole and arranged inside the path to be inserted into the cigarette accommodated in the path, the heater being configured to heat the cigarette when electricity is applied.

A plurality of the protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette to face the outer surface of the cigarette and form a flow passage through which air passes between adjacent protrusions.

A plurality of the protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a length direction of the cigarette to face the outer surface of the cigarette and form a flow passage through which air passes between adjacent protrusions.

The protrusion may extend in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette to contact a portion of the outer surface of the cigarette along the circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette to form a flow passage through which the air passes.

The protrusion may extend in a length direction of the path.

The protrusion may protrude inwardly from the other end of the through hole such that the protrusion contacts a portion of an outer surface of an end portion of the cigarette located at the other end of the path when the cigarette is accommodated in the path.

The protrusion may include an inclined surface inclined toward the center of the path in a direction from the one end of the path to the other end of the path to guide movement of the end portion of the cigarette when the cigarette is inserted into the path.

The casing may further include a bottom wall covering the other end of the path, and the bottom wall may contact a bottom surface of the end portion of the cigarette accommodated in the path, and the through hole may be formed to pass through the bottom wall.

The bottom wall may include a connection path connected to the space between the outer surface of the cigarette and the path.

The bottom wall may include a bottom protrusion protruding to support the bottom surface of the end portion of the cigarette.

The protrusion may extend in a length direction of the path from the one end of the path to the other end of the path, and a plurality of the protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette to face the outer surface of the cigarette and form a flow passage through which the air passes between adjacent protrusions.

The protrusions may include a bottom protruding portion protruding toward the center of the path to contact a bottom surface of the end portion of the cigarette accommodated in the path.

A plurality of the protrusions may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other on an inner wall surface of the path, and the aerosol generating device may further include an end protrusion protruding from the path to contact a portion of an outer surface of an end portion of the cigarette located at the other end of the path when the cigarette is accommodated in the path.

The casing may further include a bottom wall covering the other end of the path, and the bottom wall may contact a bottom surface of the end portion of the cigarette accommodated in the path, and the through hole may be formed to pass through the bottom wall, and the bottom wall may include a bottom protrusion protruding to support the bottom surface of the end portion of the cigarette.

The end protrusion and the bottom protrusion may be connected to each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating system includes: a holder configured to generate aerosol by heating a cigarette; and a cradle having an internal space into which the holder is inserted, wherein the holder is inserted into the internal space of the cradle and then is tilted to generate the aerosol.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cigarette inserted into a holder includes: a tobacco rod including a plurality of tobacco strands; a first filter segment that is hollow; a cooling structure configured to cool the generated aerosol; and a second filter segment.

Advantageous Effects of Disclosure

According to an aerosol generating device of the embodiments as described above, a user may mount a cigarette to the aerosol generating device by pushing the cigarette along a path of a casing and separate the cigarette from the aerosol generating device by pulling the cigarette, and thus, the aerosol generating device is easy to use.

In addition, by reducing a contact area between the cigarette and a surface of the casing, a heat conduction area whereby heat is transferred from the cigarette to the casing may be reduced.

In addition, as the cigarette and the inner space of the casing are apart from each other, even when the cigarette expands during insertion of a heater into the cigarette, the cigarette is easily inserted into the casing. When there is no sufficient space between the cigarette and the casing, while the cigarette is being inserted into the casing, an outer wall of the cigarette expands when a heater is inserted into the cigarette and this increases friction between the cigarette and the casing, thus making it difficult to insert the cigarette into the casing.

An air stream of the external air may be introduced into a gap between an outer surface of the cigarette and the casing, and thus, the surface of the casing may be cooled.

According to the structure of the casing having a path and a protrusion, the air introduced into the cigarette may be preheated.

In addition, use of a holder accommodating a cigarette by moving relative to the aerosol generating device is excluded, and thus, the number of components is reduced, simplifying the overall structure of the aerosol generating device and preventing malfunction which frequently occurs in relation to the holder.

Also, the aerosol generating device may be kept clean and maintenance may be easy through exclusion of the use of a holder.

In addition, a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device is stably supported by the protrusion in the path, thus increasing stability of the aerosol generating device.

Also, as the protrusion of the path contacts a portion of the outer surface of the cigarette, a flow passage through which the air may pass is formed, and thus, external air for assisting generation of aerosol may be supplied smoothly and sufficiently into the interior of the aerosol generating device.

BEST MODE

With respect to the terms in the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the general terms which are currently and widely used are selected in consideration of functions of structural elements in the various embodiments of the present disclosure. However, meanings of the terms may be changed according to intention, a judicial precedent, appearance of a new technology, and the like. In addition, in certain cases, a term which is not commonly used may be selected. In such a case, the meaning of the term will be described in detail at the corresponding part in the description of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the descriptions provided herein.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

FIG. 1is a perspective view illustrating, as an example, an operating state of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.FIG. 2is a cross-sectional view of a state in which a cigarette is mounted in the aerosol generating device of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1.FIG. 3is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2, taken along line III-III.

The aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 through 3includes a casing10capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing10to heat the cigarette7.

The casing10constitutes the outer appearance of the aerosol generating device and functions to accommodate and protect various components in a space formed therein. The casing10has an overall hollow cylindrical shape, and a front end portion thereof is opened to the outside such that the cigarette7may be inserted thereinto.

The casing10may be manufactured using a plastic that does not conduct electricity and heat or a metallic material having a surface coated with a plastic material. While the casing10in the illustrated embodiment has a cylindrical shape having a circular cross-section, the embodiments are not limited to the above structure of the casing10. For example, the casing10may have a container having a polygonal cross-section such as a quadrangular cross-section.

Referring toFIG. 2, the casing10includes an inner container11that is hollow and includes a path20to accommodate the cigarette7, a middle container12that is hollow and coupled to the exterior of the inner container11, and an outer container13coupled to the exterior of the middle container12.

The inner container11includes a path20for accommodating the cigarette7, an opening21opened to the outside at one end20fof the path20such that the cigarette7is inserted into the opening21from the outside, and a through hole22connected to the other end20rof the path20. The inner container11includes a protrusion25protruding from an inner wall surface of the path20toward a center of the path20and contacting a portion of an outer surface7sof the cigarette7.

The inner container11is arranged in an innermost portion of the casing10to provide a movement path for the cigarette7such that the cigarette7inserted from the outside is moved along the path20and to accommodate the cigarette7. After the inner container11, the middle container12, and the outer container13are coupled, during use of the aerosol generating device, the inner container11is not moved relative to the middle container12and the outer container13but is maintained in a fixed position.

The path20formed in the inner container11has a cylindrical shape corresponding to a shape of the cigarette7. Embodiments are not limited by the shape of the path20. For example, the path20may also have a container shape having a polygonal cross-section such as a quadrangle.

A diameter of the path20is greater than an outer diameter of the cigarette7, and thus, when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20, space is formed between the path20and the cigarette7. Accordingly, a flow passage25pwhich is connected to the outside via the opening21of the path20and through which the air may pass is formed between the path20and the cigarette7.

The casing10includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 3, the bottom wall29is formed by the middle container12coupled to the exterior of the inner container11. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion7eof the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, the bottom wall29has the through hole22connected to the path20.

When a user of the aerosol generating device inserts the cigarette7into the path20by moving the cigarette7along the path20and the end portion7eof the cigarette7reaches the bottom wall29, a sense of touch due to contact between the bottom wall29and the end portion7eof the cigarette7is delivered to the hand of the user holding the cigarette7. Therefore, the user may easily mount the cigarette7to the aerosol generating device through a simple action of holding the cigarette7in his/her hand and pushing the cigarette7into the opening21of the path20.

The heater30for heating the cigarette7is coupled to the casing10. One side end portion31of the heater30is arranged inside the path20through the through hole22of the bottom wall29, and when the cigarette7is accommodated in the casing10, the one side end portion31of the heater30is inserted into the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

A size of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29may correspond to a thickness of the one side end portion31of the heater30. For example, when the one side end portion31of the heater30has a circular cross-section, the through hole22also has a circular cross-section, and an inner diameter of the through hole22is set to correspond to an outer diameter of the one side end portion31of the heater30.

The embodiments are not limited by the size of the inner diameter of the through hole22, and for example, the inner diameter of the through hole22may be greater than the outer diameter of the one side end portion31of the heater30and an inner surface of the through hole22may be spaced apart from an outer surface of the one side end portion31of the heater.

The other side end portion32of the heater30is electrically connected, via an electrical wire71, to an electricity supplying device72arranged at the rear of the casing10. A base19surrounding the electricity supplying device72is connected to the rear of the casing10. When electricity of the electricity supplying device72is supplied to the heater30while the cigarette7is being inserted into the one side end portion31of the heater30, the heater30is heated, and thus the cigarette7is heated.

Referring toFIG. 3, a plurality of protrusions25are arranged on the inner container11. As the protrusions25are arranged to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the cigarette7, the flow passage25pthrough which the air may pass is formed between adjacent protrusions25.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 3, the cigarette7has a cylindrical shape, and the path20of the inner container11also has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the cigarette7. Thus, the protrusions25are arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7. While four protrusions25are illustrated in the drawing, the embodiments are not limited to the number of the protrusions25, and accordingly, the number of the protrusions25may be modified in various manners. Installation positions of the protrusions25may also be modified.

End portion surfaces of the protrusion25contacting the outer surface7sof the cigarette7may be formed as a curved cylindrical surface to correspond to the shape of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the protrusions25are formed approximately at a middle point between the opening21of the path20and the through hole22. Thus, the path20is connected to the outside via the opening21such that the external air flows into the path20of the casing10through the opening21.

The outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7is not contacted by any component, and thus, the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7is surrounded by the air. When aerosol particles are generated from the cigarette7as the heater30heats the cigarette7and a user inhales the air through his/her mouth by holding the cigarette7between his/her lips, the air around the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7passes through cigarette7, and thus an air flow including the aerosol particles may be delivered to the user.

According to the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 through 3, a user may easily mount the cigarette7in the aerosol generating device through a simple action of inserting the cigarette7into the path20of the casing10and pushing the cigarette7along the path20. Also, after using of the cigarette7, the user may separate the cigarette7from the aerosol generating device through a simple action of holding the upper end of the cigarette7by the hand and pulling the same out of the path20.

In addition, while the cigarette7is being inserted into the path20of the casing10of the aerosol generating device, the protrusions25of the path20contact the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, thereby stably supporting the cigarette7. Therefore, while the aerosol generating device is being used, the cigarette7is not separated from the aerosol generating device and the state in which the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20of the aerosol generating device is stably maintained, and thus a user may safely enjoy the aerosol generating device.

In addition, as the protrusions25of the path20of the casing10contact portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, the flow passage25pthrough which the air may pass is formed between the path20and the cigarette7, and thus, the external air for assisting generation of aerosol may be sufficiently and smoothly supplied into the interior of the aerosol generating device.

MODE OF DISCLOSURE

FIG. 4is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.FIG. 5is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4, taken along line V-V.FIG. 6is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 4.

In the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 through 6, a position of a protrusion125is different from that of the protrusion25of the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 3.

The protrusion125protrudes inwardly from the other end20rof the path20toward a center of the path20. Referring toFIG. 6, when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20of the inner container11of the casing10, the protrusion125contacts a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7located at the other end20rof the path20.

Referring toFIG. 5, a plurality of protrusions125are arranged to be apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7. According to this arrangement structure of the protrusions125, a flow passage through which the air passes is formed between the protrusions125.

Referring toFIG. 6, the protrusions125include a contact surface125dcontacting the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7and an inclined surface125tinclined toward a center of the path20in a direction from the one end20fto the other end20rof the path20.

The inclined surface125tof the protrusion125has a function of guiding movement of the cigarette7such that when the cigarette7is inserted into the path20to move along the path20and the end portion7eof the cigarette7reaches the other end20rof the path20, the end portion7eof the cigarette7is inserted into the protrusion125.

According to the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 through 6, most portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7from one end20fto the other end20rof the path20are not contacted by other components, but the end portion7eof the cigarette7is stably supported by the protrusion125protruding from the other end20rof the path20and the heater30inserted into the cigarette7.

Also, a user may easily mount the cigarette7to the aerosol generating device through a simple action of inserting the cigarette7into the path20of the casing10up to a position of the protrusions125along the path20. After using the cigarette7, the user may easily separate the cigarette7from the aerosol generating device through a simple action of holding the upper end of the cigarette7by hand and pulling the cigarette7out of the path20.

In addition, as the protrusions125of the path20of the casing10contact portions of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7, a flow passage through which the air may pass is formed between the path20and the cigarette7, and thus, external air for assisting generation of aerosol may be sufficiently and smoothly supplied into the interior of the aerosol generating device.

FIG. 7is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

The aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIG. 7includes a casing210including a path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion225protruding from the path20and a heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing210to heat the cigarette7.

In the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIG. 7, the structure of the casing210is different from that of the casings illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 6.

The casing210has a hollow cylindrical shape, and includes the path20to accommodate the cigarette7, an opening21opened from the one end20fof the path20to the outside such that the cigarette7is inserted from the outside into the opening21, a through hole22connected to the other end20rof the path20, and a protrusion225protruding from an inner wall surface of the path20toward a center of the path20to contact a portion of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7.

A diameter of the path20is smaller than an outer diameter of the cigarette7, and thus, when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20, space is formed between the path20and the cigarette7. Accordingly, a flow passage25pwhich is connected to the outside via the opening21of the path20and thus through which the air may pass is formed between the path20and the cigarette7.

The casing210includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion7eof the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, the through hole22is formed to pass through the bottom wall29to be connected to the path20.

The bottom wall29includes a connection path29pconnected to the space (flow path25p) formed between the outer surface7sof the cigarette7and the inner wall surface of the path20. The connection path29phas a function of supplying the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path, to the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7. The connection path29pmay be formed of a concave groove formed in the bottom wall29and extending in a circumferential direction with respect to the through hole22or a plurality of concave grooves formed in an outer portion of the through hole22.

The heater30for heating the cigarette7is coupled to the casing210. One side end portion31of the heater30is arranged inside the path20through the through hole22of the bottom wall29, and when the cigarette7is accommodated in the casing210, the one side end portion31of the heater30is inserted into the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

The other side end portion32of the heater30is electrically connected, via an electrical wire71, to an electricity supplying device72arranged at the rear of the casing210. A base19surrounding the electricity supplying device72is connected to the rear of the casing210. When electricity of the electricity supplying device72is supplied to the heater30while the cigarette7is being inserted into the one side end portion31of the heater30, the heater30is heated, thereby heating the cigarette7.

A plurality of protrusions225are arranged in the path20of the casing210. The protrusions225are arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7. The structure in which the plurality of protrusions225are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7is the same as the arrangement structure of the protrusions of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1 through 6. Also, inFIG. 7, the protrusions225are arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a length direction of the cigarette7. The protrusions225have an approximately hemispherical shape.

As described above, as some of the plurality of protrusions225are arranged to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7and the other protrusions225are arranged to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a length direction of the cigarette7, a flow passage25pthrough which the air passes is formed between adjacent protrusions225.

In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 7, since the protrusions225of the path20of the casing210contact portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, the flow passage25pthrough which the air may pass is formed between the path20and the cigarette7, and the air in the flow passage25pis supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7through the connection path29p, sufficient air for assisting generation of aerosol may be supplied smoothly to the cigarette7.

FIG. 8is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.FIG. 9is a schematic perspective view illustrating a coupling relationship between components of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 8.

The aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 8 and 9includes the casing210including the path20capable of accommodating the cigarette7and the protrusions225protruding from the path20and the heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing210to heat the cigarette7.

The casing210includes the bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts the bottom surface7dof an end portion of the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, the through hole22connected to the path20is formed in the bottom wall29to pass through the bottom wall29.

The bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20of the casing210includes a bottom protrusion226. The bottom protrusion226protrudes from the bottom wall29toward the inner space of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7. The bottom protrusion226has an approximately hemispherical shape.

A plurality of bottom protrusions226are arranged on the bottom wall29and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29. Thus, as the air may pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions226, the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path20is supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions226.

The heater30for heating the cigarette7is coupled to the casing210. One side end portion31of the heater30is arranged inside the path20through the through hole22of the bottom wall29, and when the cigarette7is accommodated in the casing210, the one side end portion31of the heater30is inserted into the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

The other side end portion32of the heater30is electrically connected, via the electrical wire71, to the electricity supplying device72arranged at the rear of the casing210. The base19surrounding the electricity supplying device72is connected to the rear of the casing210. When electricity of the electricity supplying device72is supplied to the heater30while the cigarette7is being inserted into the one side end portion31of the heater30, the heater30is heated, thereby heating the cigarette7.

A plurality of protrusions225are arranged in the path20of the casing210. The protrusions225are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7. The structure in which the plurality of protrusions225are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7is the same as the arrangement structure of the protrusions of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1 through 6. Also, inFIGS. 8 and 9, the protrusions225are arranged apart from each other in a length direction of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7.

In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 8 and 9, since the protrusions225of the path20of the casing210contact portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, the flow passage25pthrough which the air may pass formed between the path20and the cigarette7and the air in the flow passage25pis supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions226of the bottom wall29, sufficient air for assisting generation of aerosol may be supplied smoothly to the cigarette7.

FIG. 10is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.FIG. 11is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 10.

The aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 10 and 11includes a casing310including a path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion325protruding from the path20, and a heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing310to heat the cigarette7.

The casing310includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion of the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, a through hole22connected to the path20is formed in the bottom wall29to pass through the bottom wall29.

The bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20of the casing310includes a bottom protrusion326. The bottom wall29protrudes from the bottom wall29toward the inner space of the path20and extends in a radial direction toward a center of the through hole22to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7. The bottom protrusion326has an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape.

A plurality of bottom protrusions326are arranged on the bottom wall29and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29. Thus, as the air may pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions326, the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path20is supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions326.

A plurality of protrusions325are arranged in the path20of the casing310. The protrusions325are arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the cigarette7. The structure in which the plurality of protrusions325are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7is the same as the arrangement structure of the protrusions of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1 through 6. Also, inFIGS. 10 and 11, the plurality of protrusions325extend in a length direction of the cigarette7and are also arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a length direction of the cigarette7.

In the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, external air may be smoothly introduced to the through hole22of the casing310through the space between the plurality of protrusions325arranged apart from each other. In addition, as the protrusions325extend in the length direction of the cigarette7, the protrusions325may smoothly guide movement of the cigarette7inserted along the through hole22. In addition, surfaces of the protrusions325contacting portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7have a curved cylindrical shape to correspond to the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, and thus, the protrusions325may stably support the cigarette7accommodated in the through hole22.

FIG. 12is a schematic perspective view illustrating a coupling relationship between some components of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.FIG. 13is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 12.

The aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 12 and 13includes a casing410including a path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion425protruding from the path20, and a heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing410to heat the cigarette7.

A plurality of protrusions425are arranged in the path20of the casing410. As the protrusions425are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, a flow passage through which the air passes is formed between adjacent protrusions425.

Also, the plurality of protrusions425extend in a length direction of the cigarette7, that is, in an extension direction of the path20in a straight line from one end20fof the path20to the other end20rof the path20.

While the plurality of protrusions425inFIGS. 12 and 13extend in a straight line while crossing a horizontal cross-section of the path20, the embodiment is not limited to this structure of the protrusions425. For example, the protrusions425may extend linearly to be inclined with respect to a cross-section of the path20or may extend in a curved manner.

In addition, each of the protrusions425includes a bottom protruding portion426that is bent and protrudes toward a center of the path20to contact the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. The through hole22connected to the path20via the inner side surface of each of the bottom protruding portions426of the plurality of protrusions425is formed in the other end20rof the path20.

One side end portion31of the heater30is arranged inside the path20through the through hole22formed by the bottom protruding portions426, and when the cigarette7is accommodated in the casing410, the one side end portion31of the heater30is inserted into the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

In the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, external air may be smoothly introduced to the through hole22of the casing410through the space between the plurality of protrusions425arranged apart from each other. In addition, as the protrusions425extend in the length direction of the cigarette7, the protrusions425may smoothly guide movement of the cigarette7inserted along the through hole22. In addition, surfaces of the protrusions425contacting portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7have a curved cylindrical shape to correspond to the outer surface7sof the cigarette7, and thus, the protrusions425may stably support the cigarette7accommodated in the through hole22. Also, the bottom protruding portions426of the protrusions425may stably support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7accommodated in the through hole22.

FIG. 14is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

The aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIG. 14includes a casing510including a path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion525protruding from the path20, and a heater30having one side end portion31inserted into the casing510to heat the cigarette7.

The casing510includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion7eof the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, a through hole22connected to the path20is formed in the bottom wall29to pass through the bottom wall29.

The bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20of the casing510includes a bottom protrusion526. The bottom protrusion526protrudes from the bottom wall29toward the inner space of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7. The bottom protrusion526has an approximately hemispherical shape.

A plurality of bottom protrusions526are arranged on the bottom wall29and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29. Thus, as the air may pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions526, the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path20is supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions526.

A plurality of protrusions525are arranged in the path20of the casing510. The protrusions525are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7. The protrusions525have an approximately hemispherical shape.

The casing510includes an end protrusion528protruding from the other end20rof the path20. The end protrusion528protrudes from the path20to contact a portion of an outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7located at the other end20rof the path20when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20. The end protrusion528has an approximately hemispherical shape.

In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 14, the cigarette7may be stably supported inside the path20via the protrusion525supporting portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7approximately at a middle point between one end20fand the other end20rof the path20, the end protrusion528supporting a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7at the other end20rof the path20, and the bottom protrusion526protruding from the bottom wall29of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

Also, after external air has been smoothly introduced to the through hole22of the casing510through the space between the plurality of protrusions525arranged apart from each other, the air may be smoothly supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7through the space between the end protrusions528of the other end20rof the path20and the space between the bottom protrusions526.

FIG. 15is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating some components of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

A casing610of the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIG. 15includes the path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion625protruding from the path20.

The casing610includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion7eof the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, a through hole22connected to the path20is formed in the bottom wall29to pass through the bottom wall29.

The bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20of the casing610includes a bottom protrusion626. The bottom protrusion626protrudes from the bottom wall29toward the inner space of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7. The bottom protrusion626has an approximately hemispherical shape.

A plurality of bottom protrusions626are arranged on a surface of the bottom wall29and apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29. Thus, as the air may pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions626, the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path20is supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions626.

A plurality of protrusions625are arranged in the path20of the casing610. The protrusions625are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7. Also, the protrusions625are arranged apart from each other to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7in a length direction of the cigarette7.

Also, a cross-sectional shape of each of the plurality of protrusions625in a length direction of the cigarette7may be an oval or a streamline shape vertically extending in the length direction of the cigarette7. As the protrusions625have an oval cross-sectional shape or a streamline cross-sectional shape, an air flow passing through the space between adjacent protrusions625may be easily formed.

The casing610includes an end protrusion628protruding from the other end20rof the path20. The end protrusion628protrudes from the path20to contact a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7located at the other end20rof the path20when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20. A cross-sectional shape of the end protrusion628in a length direction of the cigarette7may be an oval or a streamlined shape vertically extending in the length direction of the cigarette7.

In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 15, the cigarette7may be stably supported inside the path20via the plurality of protrusions625supporting portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7between one end20fand the other end20rof the path20, the end protrusion628supporting a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7at the other end20rof the path20, and the bottom protrusion626protruding from the bottom wall29of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

FIG. 16is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating some components of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.FIG. 17is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 16.

A casing710of the aerosol generating device of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 16 and 17includes a path20capable of accommodating a cigarette7and a protrusion725protruding from the path20.

The casing710includes a bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20. The bottom wall29contacts a bottom surface7dof an end portion7eof the cigarette7accommodated in the path20. Also, a through hole22connected to the path20is formed in the bottom wall29to pass through the bottom wall29.

The bottom wall29covering the other end20rof the path20of the casing710includes a bottom protrusion726. The bottom protrusion726protrudes from the bottom wall29toward the inner space of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7.

A plurality of bottom protrusions726are arranged on a surface of the bottom wall29and arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to a center of the through hole22formed in the bottom wall29. Thus, as the air may pass through the space between adjacent bottom protrusions726, the air introduced from the outside into the path20through the opening21of the path20is supplied to the bottom surface7dof the end portion of the cigarette7through the space between the bottom protrusions726.

A plurality of protrusions725are arranged in the path20of the casing710. The protrusions725are arranged apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7. Also, the protrusions725are arranged apart from each other in a length direction of the cigarette7to face the outer surface7sof the cigarette7.

Also, each of the plurality of protrusions725is inclined with respect to the length direction of the cigarette7and extends in a circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7. The embodiment is not limited by the direction in which each of the plurality of protrusions725extends, and for example, each of the plurality of protrusions725may not be inclined with respect to the length direction of the cigarette7but may extend only horizontally in the circumferential direction with respect to the center of the cigarette7.

The casing710includes an end protrusion728protruding from the other end20rof the path20. The end protrusion728protrudes from the path20to contact a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7located at the other end20rof the path20when the cigarette7is accommodated in the path20. Also, the end protrusion728and the bottom protrusion726may be connected to each other at an edge of the other end20rof the path20.

In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, the cigarette7may be stably supported inside the path20via the plurality of protrusions725supporting portions of the outer surface7sof the cigarette7between one end20fand the other end20rof the path20, the end protrusion728supporting a portion of the outer surface7rof the end portion7eof the cigarette7at the other end20rof the path20, and the bottom protrusion726protruding from the bottom wall29of the path20to support the bottom surface7dof the end portion7eof the cigarette7.

In the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 18 through 30Fbelow, a modified aerosol generating device and a method of generating aerosol, which may be applied to the aerosol generating devices of the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 17and described above, are illustrated.

The reference numerals denoting the components inFIGS. 18 through 30Fare used independently without being associated with the reference numerals used inFIGS. 1 to 17. Therefore, it should be understood that the reference numerals denoting the components inFIGS. 1 to 17and the reference numerals denoting the components inFIGS. 18 through 30Fare used to denote different components independent from each other.

FIG. 18is a block diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 18, aerosol generating device1, hereinafter, referred to as “holder”, includes battery110, control unit120, and heater130. The holder1also includes an inner space formed by a casing140. A cigarette may be inserted into the inner space of the holder1.

FIG. 18shows holder1with some elements related to the embodiment. Therefore, It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the holder1may further include additional conventional elements.

When a cigarette is inserted into the holder1, the holder1heats the heater130. The temperature of an aerosol generating material in the cigarette is raised by the heated heater130, and thus aerosol is generated. The generated aerosol is delivered to a user through a cigarette filter. However, even when a cigarette is not inserted into the holder1, the holder1may heat the heater130.

The casing140may be detached from the holder1. For example, when a user rotates the casing140clockwise or counterclockwise, the casing140may be detached from the holder1.

The diameter of a hole formed by a terminal end141of the casing140may be smaller than the diameter of a space formed by the casing140and the heater130. In this case, the hole may serve as a guide for a cigarette inserted into the holder1.

The battery110supplies power used for the holder1to operate. For example, the battery110may supply power for heating the heater130and supply power for operating the control unit120. In addition, the battery110may supply power for operating a display, a sensor, a motor, and the like installed in the holder1.

The battery110may be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited to the example described above. For example, the battery110may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, etc.

Also, the battery110may have a cylindrical shape having a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 37 mm, but is not limited thereto. The capacity of the battery110may be 120 mAh or more, and the battery110may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, when the battery110is rechargeable, the charging rate (C-rate) of the battery110may be 10 C and the discharging rate (C-rate) may be 16 C to 20 C. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Also, for stable use, the battery110may be manufactured, such that 80% or more of the total capacity may be ensured even when charging/discharging are performed 8000 times.

Here, it may be determined whether the battery110is fully charged or completely discharged based on a level of power stored in the battery110as compared to the entire capacity of the battery110. For example, when power stored in the battery110is equal to or more than 95% of the total capacity, it may be determined that the battery110is fully charged. Furthermore, when power stored in the battery110is 10% or less of the total capacity, it may be determined that the battery110is completely discharged. However, the criteria for determining whether the battery110is fully charged or completely discharged are not limited to the above examples.

The heater130is heated by power supplied from the battery110. When a cigarette is inserted into the holder1, the heater130is located inside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater130may raise the temperature of an aerosol generating material in the cigarette.

The shape of the heater130may be a combination of a cylindrical shape and a conical shape. For example, the heater130may have a diameter of 2 mm, a length of 23 mm, and a cylindrical shape. Also, end131of heater130may be processed to have an acute angle edge. But, the embodiments are not limited to these features. In other words, the heater130may have any shape as long as the heater130may be inserted into the cigarette. In addition, only a portion of the heater130may be heated. For example, if the heater130has a length of 23 mm, only a part of the heater130, 12 mm distanced from the end131, is heated, while other part of the heater130is not heated.

The heater130may be an electrical resistive heater. For example, the heater130includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater130may be heated as a current flows through the electrically conductive track.

For stable use, the heater130may be supplied with power according to the specifications of 3.2 V, 2.4 A, and 8 W, but is not limited thereto. For example, when power is supplied to the heater130, the surface temperature of the heater130may rise to 400° C. or higher. The surface temperature of the heater130may rise to about 350° C. before 15 seconds after the power supply to the heater130starts.

The holder1may have a special temperature sensor. Alternatively, the holder1may not be provided with a temperature sensing sensor, and the heater130may serve as a temperature sensing sensor. For example, the heater130may further include a second electrically conductive track for sensing temperature in addition to a first electrically conductive track for sensing heating temperature.

For example, when a voltage applied to the second electrically conductive track and a current flowing through the second electrically conductive track are measured, a resistance R may be determined. At this time, a temperature T of the second electrically conductive track may be determined by Equation 1 below.
R=R0{1+α(T−T0)}  [Equation 1]

In Equation 1, R denotes a current resistance value of the second electrically conductive track, R0denotes a resistance value at a temperature T0(e.g., 0° C.), and α denotes a resistance temperature coefficient of the second electrically conductive track. Since conductive materials (e.g., metals) have inherent resistance temperature coefficients, α may be determined in advance according to a conductive material constituting the second electrically conductive track. Therefore, when the resistance R of the second electrically conductive track is determined, the temperature T of the second electrically conductive track may be calculated according to Equation 1.

The heater130may include at least one electrically conductive track (a first electrically conductive track and a second electrically conductive track). For example, the heater130may include, but is not limited to, two first electrically conductive tracks and one or two second electrically conductive tracks.

An electrically conductive track includes an electro-resistive material. For example, an electrically conductive track may include a metal. In another example, an electrically conductive track may include an electrically conductive ceramic material, a carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

In addition, the holder1may include both an electrically conductive track, which serves as temperature sensing sensors, and a temperature sensing sensor.

The control unit120controls the overall operation of the holder1. Specifically, the control unit120controls not only operations of the battery110and the heater130, but also operations of other components included in the holder1. The control unit120may also check the status of each of the components of the holder1and determine whether the holder1is in an operable state.

The control unit120includes at least one processor. A processor may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates or may be implemented as a combination of a general purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable in the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

For example, the control unit120may control the operation of the heater130. The control unit120may control an amount of power supplied to the heater130and a time for supplying the power, such that the heater130may be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a proper temperature. The control unit120may also check the status of the battery110(e.g., the remaining amount of the battery110) and generate a notification signal as occasions demand.

Also, the control unit120may check the presence or absence of a user's puff, check the strength of the puff, and count the number of puffs. Also, the control unit120may continuously check the time during which the holder1is operating. The control unit120may also check whether a cradle2to be described below is coupled with the holder1and control the operation of the holder1based on whether the cradle2is coupled with or separated from and the holder1.

Meanwhile, the holder1may further include general-purpose components other than the battery110, the control unit120, and the heater130.

For example, the holder1may include a display capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information. For example, when a display is included in the holder1, the control unit120may provide a user information about the state of the holder1(e.g., availability of the holder, etc.), information about the heater130(e.g., start of preheating, progress of preheating, completion of preheating, etc.), information about the battery110(e.g., remaining power of the battery110, availability, etc.), information about resetting of the holder1(e.g., reset timing, reset progress, reset completion, etc.), information about cleaning of the holder1(e.g., cleaning timing, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), information about charging of the holder1(e.g., need of charging, charging progress, charging completed, etc.), information about puff (e.g., the number of puffs, notification of expected completion of puffs, etc.), or information about safety (e.g., time of use, etc.) via the display. In another example, when a motor is included in the holder1, the control unit120may transmit the above-described information to a user by generating a vibration signal by using the motor.

The holder1may also include a terminal coupled with at least one input device (e.g., a button) and/or the cradle2through which a user may control the function of the holder1. For example, a user may perform various functions by using the input device of the holder1. By adjusting the number of times a user presses the input device (e.g., once, twice, etc.) or the time during which the input device is being pressed (e.g., 0.1 second, 0.2 second, etc.), a desired function from among a plurality of functions of the holder1may be executed. As a user manipulates the input device, the holder1may perform a function of preheating the heater130, a function of regulating the temperature of the heater130, a function of cleaning the space in which a cigarette is inserted, a function of checking whether the battery110is in an operable state, a function of displaying the remaining power (available power) of the battery110, a function of resetting the holder1, etc. However, the functions of the holder1are not limited to the examples described above.

The holder1may also include a puff detecting sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, and/or a cigarette insertion detecting sensor. For example, the puff detecting sensor may be implemented by a conventional pressure sensor, and cigarette insertion detecting sensor may be implemented by a general capacitance sensor or electric resistive sensor. Also, the holder1may be fabricated to have a structure in which the outside air may flow in/out even in the state where the cigarette is inserted.

FIGS. 19A and 19Bare diagrams showing various views of an example of a holder.

FIG. 19Ais a diagram showing an example of holder1seen from a first direction. As shown inFIG. 19A, holder1may be fabricated to have a cylindrical shape, but not limited thereto. The casing140of the holder1may be separated by an action of a user and a cigarette may be inserted into an terminal end141of the casing140. The holder1may also include a button150for a user to control the holder1and a display160for outputting an image.

FIG. 19Bis a diagram showing other example of holder1seen from a second direction. The holder1may include a terminal170coupled with the cradle2. As the terminal170of the holder1is coupled with a terminal260of the cradle2, the battery110of the holder1may be charged by power supplied by a battery210of the cradle2. Also, the holder1may be operated by power supplied from the battery210of the cradle2through the terminal170and the terminal260and a communication (transmission/reception of signals) may be performed between the holder1and the cradle2through the terminal170and the terminal260. For example, the terminal170may include four micro pins, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

FIG. 20is a diagram showing an example configuration of a cradle.

InFIG. 20, the cradle2includes a battery210and a control unit220. The cradle2also includes an inner space230into which the holder1may be inserted. For example, the inner space230may be formed on one side of the cradle2. Therefore, the holder1may be inserted and fixed in the cradle2even when the cradle2does not include a separate lid.

FIG. 20shows the cradle2having some elements related to the embodiments. Therefore, It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the cradle2may further include additional conventional elements in addition to the elements shown inFIG. 20.

The battery210provides power used to operate the cradle2. In addition, the battery210may supply power for charging the battery110of the holder1. For example, when the holder1is inserted into the cradle2and the terminal170of the holder1is coupled with the terminal260of the cradle2, the battery210of the cradle2may supply power to the battery110of the holder1.

Also, when the holder1is coupled with the cradle2, the battery210may supply power used for the holder1to operate. For example, when the terminal170of the holder1is coupled with the terminal260of the cradle2, the holder1may operate by using power supplied by the battery210of the cradle2regardless of whether the battery110of the holder1is discharged or not.

The examples of type of battery210may be the same as the battery110shown inFIG. 18. The battery210may have capacity bigger than the capacity of battery110. For example, the battery may have capacity over 3000 mAh. But, the capacity of the battery210should not be limited to the above example.

The control unit220generally controls the overall operation of the cradle2. The control unit220may control the overall operation of all the configurations of the cradle2. The control unit220may also determine whether the holder1is coupled with the cradle2and control the operation of the cradle2according to coupling or separation of the cradle2and the holder1.

For example, when the holder1is coupled with the cradle2, the control unit220may supply power of the battery210to the holder1, thereby charging the battery110or heating the heater130. Therefore, even when remaining power of the battery110is low, a user may continuously smoke by coupling the holder1with the cradle2.

The control unit120includes at least one processor. A processor may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates or may be implemented as a combination of a general purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable in the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

Meanwhile, the cradle2may further include general-purpose components other than the battery210and the control unit220. For example, cradle2may include a display capable of outputting visual information. For example, when the cradle2includes a display, the control unit220generates a signal to be displayed on the display, thereby informing a user information regarding the battery210(e.g., the remaining power of the battery210, availability of the battery210, etc.), information regarding resetting of the cradle2(e.g., reset timing, reset progress, reset completion, etc.), information regarding cleaning of the holder1(e.g., cleaning timing, cleaning necessity, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), information regarding charging of the cradle2(e.g., charging necessity, charging progress, charging completion, etc.).

The cradle2may also include at least one input device (e.g., a button) for a user to control the function of the cradle2, a terminal260to be coupled with the holder1, and/or an interface for charging the battery210(e.g., an USB port, etc.).

For example, a user may perform various functions by using the input device of the cradle2. By controlling the number of times that a user presses the input device or a period of time for which the input device is pressed, a desired function from among the plurality of functions of the cradle2may be executed. As a user manipulates the input device, the cradle2may perform a function of preheating the heater130, a function of regulating the temperature of the heater130, a function of cleaning the space in which a cigarette is inserted, a function of checking whether the cradle2is in an operable state, a function of displaying the remaining power (available power) of the battery210of the cradle2, a function of resetting the cradle2, etc. However, the functions of the cradle2are not limited to the examples described above.

FIGS. 21A and 21Bare diagrams showing various views of an example of a cradle.

FIG. 21Ais a diagram showing an example of the cradle2seen from a first direction. The inner space230into which the holder1may be inserted may be formed on one side of the cradle2. Also, the holder1may be inserted and fixed in the cradle2even when the cradle2does not include a separate fixing unit like a lid. The cradle2may also include a button240for a user to control the cradle2and a display250for outputting an image.

FIG. 21Bis a diagram showing other example of the cradle2seen from a second direction. The cradle2may include a terminal260to be coupled with the inserted holder1. The battery110of the holder1may be charged by power supplied by the battery210of the cradle2as the terminal260is coupled with the terminal170of the holder1. Also, the holder1may be operated by power supplied from the battery210of the cradle2through the terminal170and the terminal260and transmission/reception of signals may be performed between the holder1and the cradle2through the terminal170and the terminal260. For example, the terminal260may include four micro pins, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As above explained along withFIGS. 21A and 21B, holder1may be inserted into internal space230. The holder1may be completely inserted into the cradle2or may be tilted while being inserted into the cradle2. Hereinafter, referring toFIGS. 22 to 24B, examples of inserting holder1into cradle2will be explained.

FIG. 22is a diagram showing an example in which a holder is inserted into a cradle.

FIG. 22shows an example where the holder1is inserted into the cradle2. Since the space230into which the holder1is to be inserted is present on one side surface of the cradle2, the inserted holder1may not be exposed to the outside by the other side surfaces of the cradle2. Therefore, the cradle2may not include another component (e.g., a lid) for not exposing the holder1to the outside.

The cradle2may include at least one attaching member271and/or272to increase attachment strength with the holder1. Also, at least one attaching member181may be included in the holder1as well. Here, attaching members181,271, and272may be magnets, but are not limited thereto. InFIG. 22, for a purpose of a simple explanation, it is shown that the holder1includes only one attaching member181and the cradle2includes two the attaching members271and272. But, the number of the attaching members181,271and272are not limited.

The holder1may include the attaching member181at a first position and the cradle2may include the attaching members271and272at a second position and a third position, respectively. In this case, the first position and the third position may be positions facing each other when the holder1is inserted into the cradle2.

Since the attaching members181,271, and272are included in the holder1and the cradle2, the holder1and the cradle2may be attached to each other more strongly even when the holder1is inserted into one side surface of the cradle2. In other words, as the holder1and the cradle2further include the attaching members181,271, and272in addition to the terminals170and260, the holder1and the cradle2may be attached to each other more strongly. Therefore, even when there is no separate component (e.g., a lid) in the cradle2, the inserted holder1may not be easily separated from the cradle2.

Also, if it is determined that the holder2is fully inserted into the cradle2through the terminals170,260and/or the attaching members271and272, the control unit220may charge the battery110of the holder1using electrical power of the battery210.

FIG. 23is a diagram showing an example in which a holder is tilted while being inserted into a cradle.

FIG. 23shows that the holder1is tilted inside the cradle2. Here, the term ‘tilting’ indicates that the holder1is inclined at a certain angle in a state while the holder1is being inserted into the cradle2.

If the holder1is fully tilted inside the cradle2as shown inFIG. 22, the user may not smoke. In other words, once the holder1is completely inserted into the cradle2, a cigarette may not be inserted into the holder1. Therefore, when the holder1is completely inserted into the cradle2, a user may not smoke.

If the holder1is tilted as shown inFIG. 23, end141of the holder1is exposed to outside. Therefore, the user may insert a cigarette into the terminal end141and smoke generated aerosol. A sufficient tilting angle θ may be secured to prevent a cigarette from being bent or damaged when the cigarette is inserted into the terminal end141of the holder1. For example, the holder1may be tilted so that a whole part of cigarette insertion opening included in the end141may be exposed to the outside. For example, tilting angle θ may range between 0 to 180 degrees, preferably between 10 degrees and 90 degrees. More preferably, tilting angle θ may range between 10 to 20 degrees, between 10 to 30 degrees, between 10 to 40 degrees, between 10 to 50 degrees, or between 10 to 60 degrees.

Also, even in the state that the holder1is tilted, the terminal170of the holder and the terminal260of the cradle2are coupled to each other. Therefore, the heater130of the holder1may be heated by power supplied by the battery210of the cradle2. Therefore, the holder1may generate aerosol by using the battery210of the cradle2even when the remaining power of the battery110of the holder1is low or the battery110of the holder1is completely discharged.

FIG. 23shows an example where the holder includes one attaching member182and the cradle2includes two attaching member273,274. For example, each position of the attaching members182,273,274is as shown inFIG. 22. Assuming that the attaching members182,273, and274are magnets, the magnetic strength of the attaching member274may be greater than the magnetic strength of the attaching member273. Therefore, the holder1may not be completely separated from the cradle2due to the attaching member182and the attaching member274even when the holder1is tilted.

Also, when it is determined that the holder1titled through the terminals170and260and/or the attaching members181,271, and272, the control unit220may heat the heater130of the holder1or charge the battery110by using power of the battery210.

FIGS. 24A to 24Bare diagrams showing examples in which a holder is inserted into a cradle.

FIG. 24Ashows an example where the holder1is fully inserted into the cradle2. The cradle2may be fabricated to provide the sufficient inner space230of the cradle2to minimize the contact of a user with the holder1when the holder1is completely inserted into the cradle2. When the holder1is completely inserted into the cradle2, the control unit220supplies power of the battery210to the holder1, such that the battery110of the holder1is charged.

FIG. 24Bshows other example where the holder1is tilted while in the state of being inserted into the cradle2. When the holder1is tilted, the control unit220supplies power of the battery210to the holder1, such that the battery110of the holder1is charged or the heater130of the holder1is heated.

FIG. 25is a flowchart for describing an example in which a holder and a cradle operate.

A method for generating aerosols shown inFIG. 25includes operations that are performed in a time-series manner by the holder1shown inFIG. 18or the cradle2shown inFIG. 20. Therefore, it will be understood that the descriptions given above with respect to the holder1shown inFIG. 18and the cradle2shown inFIG. 20also apply to the method ofFIG. 25, even when the descriptions are omitted below.

In operation810, the holder1determines whether it is inserted in the cradle2. For example, the control unit120may determine whether the holder1is inserted into the cradle2based on whether the terminals170and260of the holder1and the cradle2are connected to each other and/or whether the attaching members181,271, and272are operating.

When the holder1is inserted into the cradle2, the method proceeds to operation820. When the holder1is separated from the cradle2, the method proceeds to operation830.

In operation820, the cradle2determines whether the holder1is tilted. For example, the control unit220may determine whether the holder1is inserted into the cradle2based on whether the terminals170and260of the holder1and the cradle2are connected to each other and/or whether attaching members182,273, and274are operating.

Although it is described that the cradle2determines whether the holder1is tilted in operation820, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, the control unit120of the holder1may determine whether the holder1is tilted.

When the holder1is tilted, the method proceeds to operation840. When the holder1is not tilted (i.e., the holder1is completely inserted into the cradle2), the method proceeds to operation870.

In operation830, the holder1determines whether conditions of using the holder1are satisfied. For example, the control unit120may determine whether the conditions for using the holder1are satisfied by checking whether the remaining power of the battery110and whether other components of the holder1may be normally operated.

When the conditions for using the holder1are satisfied, the method proceeds to operation840. Otherwise, the method is terminated.

In operation840, the holder1informs a user that the holder1is ready to be used. For example, the control unit120may output an image indicating that the holder1is ready to be used on the display of the holder1or may control the motor of the holder1to generate a vibration signal.

In operation850, the heater130is heated. For example, when the holder1is separated from the cradle2, the heater130may be heated by power of the battery110of the holder1. In another example, when the holder1is tilted, the heater130may be heated by power of the battery210of the cradle2.

The control unit120of the holder1or the control unit220of the cradle2may check the temperature of the heater130in real time and control an amount of power supplied to the heater130and a time for supplying the power to the heater130. For example, the control unit120or220may check the temperature of the heater130in real time through a temperature sensor included in the holder1or an electrically conductive track of the heater130.

In operation860, the holder1performs an aerosol generation mechanism. For example, the control unit120,220may check the temperature of the heater130, which changes as a user performs puffs, and adjust an amount of power supplied to the heater130or stop supplying power to the heater130. Also, the control unit120or220may count the number of puffs of the user and output information indicating that the holder1needs to be cleaned when the number of puffs reaches a certain number of times (e.g., 1500).

In operation870, the cradle2performs charging of the holder1. For example, the control unit220may charge the holder1by supplying power of the battery210of the cradle2to the battery110of the holder1.

Meanwhile, the control unit120or220may stop the operation of the holder1according to the number of puffs of the user or the operation time of the holder1. Hereinafter, an example in which the control unit120or220stops the operation of the holder1will be described with reference toFIG. 26.

FIG. 26is a flowchart for describing another example in which a holder operates.

A method for generating aerosols shown inFIG. 26includes operations that are performed in a time-series manner by the holder1shown inFIG. 18and the cradle2shown inFIG. 20. Therefore, it will be understood that the descriptions given above with respect to the holder1shown inFIG. 18or the cradle2shown inFIG. 20also apply to the method ofFIG. 26, even when the descriptions are omitted below.

In operation910, the control unit120or220determines whether a user puffed. For example, the control unit120or220may determine whether the user puffed through the puff detecting sensor included in the holder1.

In operation920, aerosol is generated according to the puff of the user. The control unit120or220may adjust power supplied to the heater130according to the puff of the user and the temperature of the heater130, as described above with reference toFIG. 25. Also, the control unit120or220counts the number of puffs of the user.

In operation930, the control unit120or220determines whether the number of puffs of the user is equal to or greater than a puff limit number. For example, assuming that the puff limit number is set to 14, the control unit120or220determines whether the number of counted puffs is 14 or more.

On the other hand, when the number of puffs of the user is close to the puff limit number (e.g., when the number of puffs of the user is 12), the control unit120or220may output a warning signal through a display or a vibration motor.

When the number of puffs of the user is equal to or greater than the puff limit number, the method proceeds to operation950. When the number of puffs of the user is less than the puff limit number, the method proceeds to operation940.

In operation940, the control unit120or220determines whether the operation time of the holder1is equal to or greater than an operation limit time. Here, the operation time of the holder1refers to accumulated time from a time point at which the holder1started its operation to a current time point. For example, assuming that the operation limit time is set to 10 minutes, the control unit120or220determines whether the holder1is operating for 10 minutes or longer.

On the other hand, when the operation time of the holder1is close to the operation limit time (e.g., when the holder1is operating for 8 minutes), the control unit120or220may output a warning signal through a display or a vibration motor.

When the holder1is operating for the operation limit time or longer, the method proceeds to operation950. When the operation time of the holder1is less than the operation limit time, the method proceeds to operation920.

In operation950, the control unit120or220forcibly terminates the operation of the holder1. In other words, the control unit120or220terminates the aerosol generation mechanism of the holder1. For example, the control unit120or220may forcibly terminate the operation of the holder1by interrupting the power supplied to the heater130.

FIG. 27is a flowchart for describing an example in which a cradle operates.

The flowchart shown inFIG. 27includes operations that are performed in a time-series manner by the cradle2shown inFIG. 20. Therefore, it will be understood that the descriptions given above with respect to the cradle2shown inFIG. 20also apply to the method ofFIG. 27, even when the descriptions are omitted below.

Although not shown inFIG. 27, the operation of the cradle2to be described below may be performed regardless of whether the holder1is inserted into the cradle2.

In operation1010, the control unit220of the cradle2determines whether the button240is pressed. When the button240is pressed, the method proceeds to operation1020. When the button240is not pressed, the method proceeds to operation1030.

In operation1020, the cradle2indicates the status of the battery210. For example, the control unit220may output information regarding the current state of the battery210(e.g., remaining power, etc.) on the display250.

In operation1030, the control unit220of the cradle2determines whether a cable is connected to the cradle2. For example, the control unit220determines whether a cable is connected to an interface (e.g., a USB port, etc.) included in the cradle2. When a cable is connected to the cradle2, the method proceeds to operation1040. Otherwise, the method is terminated.

In operation1040, the cradle2performs a charging operation. For example, the cradle2charges the battery210by using power supplied through a connected cable.

As described above with reference toFIG. 18, a cigarette may be inserted into the holder1. The cigarette includes an aerosol generating material and aerosol is generated by the heated heater130.

Hereinafter, an example of a cigarette that may be inserted into the holder1will be described with reference toFIGS. 28 to 30f

FIG. 28is a diagram showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into a holder.

Referring toFIG. 28, the cigarette3may be inserted into the holder1through the terminal end141of the casing140. When the cigarette3is inserted into the holder1, the heater130is located inside the cigarette3. Therefore, the heated heater130heats the aerosol generating material of the cigarette3, thereby generating aerosol.

The cigarette3may be similar to a typical burning cigarette. For example, the cigarette3may include a first portion310containing an aerosol generating material and a second portion320including a filter and the like. Meanwhile, the cigarette3according to one embodiment may also include an aerosol generating material in the second portion320. For example, an aerosol generating material in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion320.

The entire first portion310may be inserted into the holder1and the second portion320may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first portion310may be inserted into the holder1or the entire first portion310and a portion the second portion320may be inserted into the holder1.

A user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second portion320by his/her lips. At this time, the aerosol is mixed with the outside air and is delivered to a user's mouth. As shown inFIG. 28, the outside air may be introduced (1110) through at least one hole formed in a surface of the cigarette3, or introduced (1120) through at least one air passage formed in the holder1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the holder1may be adjusted by a user.

FIGS. 29A and 29Bare block diagrams showing examples of a cigarette.

Referring toFIGS. 29A and 29B, the cigarette3includes a tobacco rod310, a first filter segment321, a cooling structure322, and a second filter segment323. The first portion310described above with reference toFIG. 28includes the tobacco rod310and the second portion320includes the first filter segment321, the cooling structure322, and the second filter segment323.

But, the features of cigarette3shown inFIGS. 29a, 29bare examples with some elements omitted. For example, the cigarette3may not include one or more of the first filter segment321, the cooling structure322, and the second filter segment323.

The tobacco rod310includes an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod310may have a length ranged between 7 mm to 15 mm, preferably about 12 mm. Also, the tobacco rod310may have a diameter ranged between 7 mm to 9 mm, preferably about 7.9 mm. The length and diameter of tobacco rod310are not limited to the above range.

For example, the tobacco rod310may be filled with cut tobacco leaves. Here, cut tobacco leaves may be formed by fine-cutting a tobacco sheet.

For a large wide tobacco sheet to be filled within the tobacco rod310having a narrow space, a special operation for facilitating folding of the tobacco sheet is further needed. Therefore, it is easier to fill the tobacco rod310with cut tobacco leaves compared to filling the tobacco rod310with a tobacco sheet, and thus the productivity and the efficiency of the process for producing the tobacco rod310may be improved.

In another example, the tobacco rod310may be filled with a plurality of cigarette strands formed by fine-cutting a tobacco sheet. For example, the tobacco rod310may be formed by combining a plurality of tobacco strands in the same direction (parallel to one another) or randomly. One tobacco strand may be formed into a cuboid shape with 1 mm width, 12 mm depth, and 0.1 mm height, but not limited thereto.

The tobacco rod310filled with tobacco strands may generate much more aerosol than tobacco rod310filled with tobacco sheet. By filling the tobacco rod with tobacco strands, wider surface area can be secured compared to using tobacco sheet. A wider surface area indicates that an aerosol generating material has a greater chance of contacting the outside air. Therefore, when the tobacco rod310is filled with tobacco strands, the tobacco rod can generate much more aerosol compared to when being filled with tobacco sheet.

Also, when the cigarette3is being disengaged from the holder1, the tobacco rod310filled with tobacco strands can be easily pulled out compared to when being filled with tobacco sheet. Compared to tobacco sheet, the tobacco strands experience weaker friction when in contact with the heater130. Therefore, when the tobacco rod310is filled with tobacco strands, the tobacco rod can be more easily removed from the holder1compared to when being filled with tobacco sheet.

The tobacco sheet can be formed by pulverizing raw tobacco material into a slurry and drying the slurry. For example, the slurry may contain 15% to 30% aerosol generating material. The raw tobacco material may be tobacco leaf fragments, tobacco stems, and/or fine tobacco powders formed during treatment of tobacco. The tobacco sheet may also include other additives like wood cellulose fibers.

The first filter segment321may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first filter segment321may have a tubular structure including a hollowness therein. The length of the first filter segment321may be any suitable length within the range from 7 mm to 15 mm, preferably about 7 mm, but is not limited thereto. The length of the first filter segment321may be smaller than about 7 mm, but the first filter segment preferably should have enough length so that function of at least one of components (such as, cooling element, capsule, acetate filter) may not be damaged. The length of the first filter segment321is not limited to the above ranges. Meanwhile, the length of the first filter segment321may extended so that whole length of the cigarette3can be adjusted based on the length of the first filter segment321.

The second filter segment323may also be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the second filter segment323may be fabricated as a recess filter with a hollow cavity, but is not limited thereto. The length of the second filter segment323may be within the range from 5 mm to 15 mm, preferably about 12 mm. The length of the second filter segment323is not limited to above range.

Also, the second filter segment323may include at least one capsule324. Here, the capsule324may have a structure in which a content liquid containing a flavoring material is wrapped with a film. For example, the capsule324may have a spherical or cylindrical shape. The capsule324may have a diameter equal to or greater than 2 mm, preferably ranged between 2˜4 mm.

A material forming a surface of the capsule324may be starch and/or gellant. For example, the gallant may include gelatin, or a gum. Also, a gelling agent may be further used as a material for forming the film of the capsule324. Here, gelling agent may include, for example, a calcium chloride. Furthermore, a plasticizer may be further used as a material for forming the film of the capsule324. As the plasticizer, glycerin and/or sorbitol may be used. Furthermore, a coloring agent may be further used as a material for forming the film of the capsule324.

For example, as a flavoring material included in the content liquid of the capsule324, menthol, plant essential oil, and the like may be used. As a solvent of the flavoring material included in the content liquid, for example, a medium chain fatty acid triglyceride (MCT) may be used. Also, the content liquid may include other additives like a figment, an emulsifying agent, a thickening agent, etc.

The cooling structure322cools aerosol generated as the heater130heats the tobacco rod310. Therefore, a user may inhale aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature. The length of the cooling structure322may be ranged between about 10 mm to 20 mm, preferably about 14 mm. The length of the cooling structure322is not limited to the above range.

For example, the cooling structure322may be formed by polylactic acid. The cooling structure322may be fabricated into various shapes in order to increase a surface area per unit area, namely, a surface area contacting with aerosol. Hereinafter, Various examples of the cooling structure322will be explained referring toFIGS. 30ato30f.

The tobacco rod310and the first filter segment321are packed by a first wrapper331. For example, the first wrapper331may be made of an oil-resistant paper sheet.

The cooling structure322and the second filter segment323are packed by a second wrapper332. Also, a whole part of cigarette3is packaged again by a third wrapper333. For example, the second wrapper332and the third wrapper333may be fabricated using a general filter wrapping paper. Alternatively, the second wrapper332may be a hard wrapping paper or PLA scented paper. Also, the second wrapper332may package a part of the second filter segment323, and additionally package other part of the second filter segment323and the cooling structure322.

Referring toFIG. 29B, the cigarette3may include a fourth wrapper334. At least one of the cigarette rod310, the first filter segment321may be packaged by the fourth wrapper334. In other words, only the cigarette rod310may be packaged by the fourth wrapper334, or the cigarette rod310and the first filter segment321are packaged together by the fourth wrapper334. For example, the fourth wrapper334may be made of wrapping paper.

The fourth wrapper334may be formed by depositing or coating a predetermined material on one surface or both surfaces of wrapping paper. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. Silicon exhibits characteristics like heat resistance with little change due to the temperature, oxidation resistance, resistances to various chemicals, water repellency, electrical insulation, etc. However, any material other than silicon may be applied to (or coated on) the fourth wrapper334.

Meanwhile, althoughFIG. 29Bshows that the cigarette3includes both the first wrapper331and the fourth wrapper334, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other words, the cigarette3may include only one of the first wrapper331and the fourth wrapper334.

The fourth wrapper334may prevent the cigarette3from being burned. For example, when the tobacco rod310is heated by the heater130, there is a possibility that the cigarette3is burned. In detail, when the temperature is raised to a temperature above the ignition point of any one of materials included in the tobacco rod310, the cigarette3may be burned. Even in this case, since the fourth wrapper334includes a non-combustible material, the burning of the cigarette3may be prevented.

Furthermore, the fourth wrapper334may prevent the holder1from being contaminated by substances formed by the cigarette3. Through puffs of a user, liquid substances may be formed in the cigarette3. For example, as the aerosol formed by the cigarette3is cooled by the outside air, liquid materials (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be formed. As the fourth wrapper334wraps the tobacco rod310and/or the first filter segment321, the liquid materials formed in the cigarette3may be prevented from being leaked out of the cigarette3. Accordingly, the casing140of the holder1and the like may be prevented from being contaminated by the liquid materials formed by the cigarette3.

FIGS. 30A through 30Fare views illustrating cooling structures of a cigarette.

For example, the cooling structure of any ofFIGS. 30A through 30Fmay be manufactured by using fibers made of pure polylactic acid (PLA).

For example, when the cooling structure is manufactured by charging a film (sheet), the film (sheet) may be crushed by an external impact. In this case, an aerosol cooling effect of the cooling structure is reduced.

Alternatively, when the cooling structure is manufactured by using extrusion molding or the like, process efficiency is reduced due to the addition of processes such as cutting of a structure. Also, there are limitations in manufacturing the cooling structure in various shapes.

As the cooling structure according to an embodiment is manufactured by using polylactic acid fibers (e.g., weaving), the risk that the cooling structure is deformed or loses its function by an external impact may be reduced. Also, the cooling structure having various shapes may be manufactured by changing a method of combining fibers.

Also, when the cooling structure is manufactured by using fibers, a surface area contacting aerosol is increased. Accordingly, an aerosol cooling effect of the cooling structure may be further improved.

Referring toFIG. 30A, a cooling structure1310may have a cylindrical shape, and may be formed so that at least one air passage1311is formed in a cross-section of the cooling structure1310.

Referring toFIG. 30B, a cooling structure1320may be manufactured so that a plurality of fibers are tangled with one another. In this case, aerosol may flow between the fibers, and a vortex may be formed according to a type of the cooling structure1320. The vortex increases a contact area of the aerosol in the cooling structure1320and increases a time during which the aerosol stays in the cooling structure1320. Accordingly, heated aerosol may be effectively cooled.

Referring toFIG. 30C, a cooling structure1330may be manufactured in a shape in which a plurality of bundles1331are gathered.

Referring toFIG. 30D, a cooling structure1340may be filled with granules formed of PLA, cut leaves, or charcoal. Also, the granules may be fabricated by using a mixture of polylactic acid, cut leaves, and charcoal. On the other hand, the granules may further include an element capable of increasing the aerosol cooling effect other than polylactic acid, the cut leaves, and/or charcoal.

Referring toFIG. 30E, a cooling structure1350may include a first cross-section1351and a second cross-section1352.

The first cross-section1351may border on the first filter segment321, and may include a gap through which aerosol is introduced. The second cross-section1352may border on the second filter segment323, and may include a gap through which the aerosol may be discharged. For example, although each of the first cross-section1351and the second cross-section1352may include a single gap having the same diameter, diameters and numbers of gaps included in the first cross-section1351and the second cross-section1352are not limited thereto.

In addition, the cooling structure1350may include a third cross-section1353including a plurality of gaps between the first cross-section1351and the second cross-section1352. For example, diameters of the plurality of gaps included in the third cross-section1353may be less than diameters of the gaps included in the first cross-section1351and the second cross-section1352. Also, the number of the gaps included in the third cross-section1353may be greater than the number of the gaps included in the first cross-section1351and the second cross-section1352.

Referring toFIG. 30F, a cooling structure1360may include a first cross-section1361that borders on the first filter segment321and a second cross-section1362that borders on the second filter segment323. Also, the cooling structure1360may include one or more tubular elements1363. For example, each of the tubular elements1363may pass through the first cross-section1361and the second cross-section1362. Also, the tubular element1363may be packaged with a microporous packaging material, and may be filled with a filling material (e.g., the granules ofFIG. 30D) that may increase an aerosol cooling effect.

As described above, the holder may generate aerosol by heating the cigarette. Also, aerosol may be generated independently by the holder or even when the holder is inserted into the cradle and is tilted. Particularly, when the holder is tilted, the heater may be heated by power of a battery of the cradle.

The method described above may be written as computer programs executable on a computer and can be implemented in general-use digital computers that execute the programs using a computer-readable recording medium. In addition, the structure of the data used in the above-described method may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium through various means. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic storage media (e.g., ROM, RAM, USB drives, floppy disks, hard disks, etc.), optical recording media (e.g., CD-ROMs, or DVDs), etc.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered from an illustrative point of view, not from a restrictive point of view. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all differences within the scope of equivalents thereof should be construed as being included in the present disclosure.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The embodiments are applicable to a heating-type cigarette or a heating-type aerosol generating device that generate aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating material in a cigarette.