HK1262979B - Flavor inhaler - Google Patents

Description

Aroma absorber

Technical Field

The invention relates to a fragrance inhaler capable of inhaling fragrance from a mouthpiece.

Background Art

Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-535530 discloses a smoking article with a distilled substrate, specifically a smoking article comprising a combustible heat source, an aerosol-generating substrate located downstream thereof, and a heat-conducting member located around the rear portion of the combustible heat source and the front portion of the aerosol-generating substrate. In this smoking article, heat from the combustible heat source is transferred to the aerosol-generating substrate via the heat-conducting member, generating an aerosol. This document also discloses that one or more flavoring materials can be attached to the rear end surface of the combustible heat source.

Summary of the Invention

Technical problem to be solved by the invention

The inventors have discovered that in heated smoking articles such as those described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-535530, when flavorings are carried on a heatable heat source in order to enhance the flavor, problems arise, depending on the type of flavoring, such as chemical changes in the flavoring during storage or the development of an undesirable flavor due to heating during use.

The present invention aims to provide a fragrance inhaler that includes a combustible heat source that carries a fragrance in addition to a fragrance source held within a main body, and that can produce an enhanced fragrance that is preferred by the user. More specifically, the present invention aims to provide a fragrance inhaler that is less likely to chemically change the fragrance during storage and that does not produce an undesirable fragrance during use.

Means for solving technical problems

A fragrance inhaler according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

a cylindrical retainer extending from the mouthpiece end to the front end;

a combustion-type heat source disposed at the front end, containing activated carbon and carrying a first fragrance;

a fragrance source held in the holder and carrying a second fragrance,

The first fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether, and the second fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

A fragrance inhaler according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises:

a cylindrical retainer extending from the mouthpiece end to the front end;

a combustion-type heat source, which is disposed at the front end and contains activated carbon and carries a first fragrance;

a fragrance source held in the holder;

a filter portion disposed on the mouthpiece end side within the holder and having a fragrance capsule containing a third fragrance;

The first fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether, and the third fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

Effects of the Invention

According to the present invention, there is provided a fragrance inhaler capable of expressing an enhanced fragrance favored by a user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a cross-sectional view showing the flavor inhaler according to the embodiment cut along a plane including a central axis C. ...

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a combustion-type heat source of the flavor inhaler shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a manufacturing process of the combustion-type heat source of the flavor inhaler shown in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a measuring device for measuring the transfer rate into mainstream smoke.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the fragrance inhaler will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description is for the purpose of explaining the present invention in detail and is not intended to limit the present invention.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the fragrance inhaler 11 of the embodiment comprises: a tubular (cylindrical) holder 12 extending from the mouth end 12A to the front end 12B; a combustion-type heat source 13 provided at the front end 12B of the holder 12 and containing activated carbon; a first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13; a fragrance source 16 provided in the holder 12; a second fragrance 16a carried by the fragrance source 16; a cup 17 for accommodating the fragrance source 16 internally; an aluminum foil 18 between the holder 12 and the cup 17 on the inner side of the holder 12; a filter portion 21 provided on the inner side of the holder 12 on the side of the mouth end 12A; and a capsule 22 (fragrance capsule) embedded in the filter portion 21 and containing a third fragrance 22a.

When the flavor inhaler 11 includes the first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 and the second fragrance 16a carried by the fragrance source 16, the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a may not be included. Alternatively, when the flavor inhaler 11 includes the first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 and the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a, the second fragrance 16a carried by the fragrance source 16 may not be included.

The first fragrance 13a includes at least one selected from the group consisting of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether. The first fragrance 13a can be a single fragrance compound or a mixture of fragrance compounds. When using the above-mentioned fragrance compounds as the first fragrance 13a, the fragrance compound is stably maintained within the storage of the fragrance inhaler 11, and no unpleasant fragrance is provided to the user when the fragrance inhaler 11 is in use.

Preferably, the first fragrance 13a contains substantially no menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, or decanol. If menthol is used as the first fragrance 13a, the user may experience an unpleasant, metallic aroma when using the fragrance inhaler 11. Furthermore, if α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, or decanol is used as the first fragrance 13a, these fragrances carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 are likely to disappear while the fragrance inhaler 11 is stored.

In this specification, “substantially containing no fragrance” means that the step of supporting the fragrance on the corresponding supporting site is not performed, but a trace amount of the fragrance transferred from other supporting sites may be contained.

When the fragrance inhaler 11 does not include the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a, and includes the first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 and the second fragrance 16a carried by the fragrance source 16, the second fragrance 16a includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol. Alternatively, when the fragrance inhaler 11 includes the first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13, the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a, and the second fragrance 16a carried by the fragrance source 16, the second fragrance 16a may be any fragrance, but preferably includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

Second fragrance 16a can be a single fragrance compound or a mixture of fragrance compounds. Second fragrance 16a differs from first fragrance 13a. When using the aforementioned fragrance compounds as second fragrance 16a, the fragrance compounds are stably maintained within the storage of fragrance inhaler 11 and do not provide an unpleasant aroma to the user when fragrance inhaler 11 is in use. Second fragrance 16a preferably includes at least one selected from the group consisting of nerol and geraniol. Because nerol and geraniol have low vapor pressures, they are less likely to transfer from fragrance source 16 to combustion-type heat source 13.

Preferably, the second fragrance 16a does not substantially contain any of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether. These fragrance compounds, as described above, can be carried on the combustion type heat source 13 as the first fragrance 13a. The combustion type heat source 13 contains activated carbon and the retention of the fragrance is high. In addition, the combustion type heat source 13 is located at the front end 12B of the retainer 12, and can perceive the carried first fragrance 13a as an external fragrance. Therefore, the first fragrance 13a preferably contains these fragrance compounds, and the second fragrance 16a preferably does not substantially contain these fragrance compounds.

More preferably, the second fragrance 16a contains substantially no menthol. Highly volatile fragrances are unsuitable as the second fragrance 16a. If a highly volatile fragrance such as menthol is used as the second fragrance 16a, the fragrance will easily disappear while the fragrance inhaler 11 is stored. Furthermore, if menthol is used as the second fragrance 16a, the menthol will migrate to the combustion-type heat source 13, potentially imparting an unpleasant metallic aroma to the user when using the fragrance inhaler 11.

When the fragrance inhaler 11 includes the first fragrance 13a, the second fragrance 16a, and the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a, the third fragrance 22a may be any fragrance, but preferably includes at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol. Alternatively, when the fragrance inhaler 11 does not include the second fragrance 16a but includes the first fragrance 13a and the capsule 22 containing the third fragrance 22a, the third fragrance 22a includes at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

The third fragrance 22a can be a single fragrance compound or a mixture of fragrance compounds. The fragrance compound contained in the third fragrance 22a can be the same as the fragrance compound contained in the first fragrance 13a or the second fragrance 16a, or it can be different from the fragrance compound contained in both the first fragrance 13a and the second fragrance 16a. In the former case, the third fragrance 22a can supplement the fragrance compound contained in the first fragrance 13a and the second fragrance 16a. In the latter case, after the capsule 22 is squeezed, the third fragrance 22a can change the fragrance of the fragrance inhaler.

Since the third fragrance 22a is contained in the capsule 22, it is difficult to volatilize during storage and is stably maintained. Therefore, the third fragrance 22a can be the above-mentioned fragrance that is not preferred as the first fragrance 13a.

More preferably, the third fragrance 22a contains menthol. Alternatively, more preferably, the third fragrance 22a contains at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, or decanol, and is different from the second fragrance 16a. Even more preferably, the third fragrance 22a contains at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene and γ-terpinene, and is different from the second fragrance 16a. Due to their high vapor pressures, α-terpinene and γ-terpinene are preferably encapsulated in the capsule 22.

The first fragrance 13a is carried on the combustion heat source 13 in an amount of, for example, 0.5 to 40 mg. The second fragrance 16a is carried on the flavor source 16 in an amount of, for example, 0.5 to 40 mg. The third fragrance 22a is contained in the capsule 22 in an amount of, for example, 2 to 80 mg.

In this specification, the expressions "the second fragrance is different from the first fragrance" and "the third fragrance is different from the second fragrance" mean that a fragrance comprising at least one fragrance compound is not completely identical to another fragrance comprising at least one fragrance compound. For example, a second fragrance composed of fragrance compounds A and C is different from a first fragrance composed of fragrance compounds A and B.

As described above, in the present invention, in addition to the fragrance source 16, the combustion type heat source 13 is used as a carrier for the fragrance. The combustion type heat source 13 has the advantage of containing activated carbon and having a high retention force for the first fragrance 13a. In addition, the combustion type heat source 13 is located at the front end 12B of the retainer 12, and when the fragrance inhaler 11 is held by the user's lips, the combustion type heat source 13 is arranged at a position close to the user's nose. Therefore, the combustion type heat source 13 has the advantage of being able to effectively deliver the fragrance (external fragrance) to the user's nose even if the amount of the first fragrance 13a is small. Therefore, according to the present invention, by adding the fragrance at the optimal addition position of the fragrance inhaler according to the characteristics of the fragrance, a fragrance inhaler that exhibits an enhanced fragrance that is loved by the user can be provided.

In the aroma inhaler 11, by utilizing the combustion-type heat source 13 carrying the first fragrance 13a to heat the fragrance source 16 carrying the second fragrance 16a and inhaling the fragrance from the mouthpiece, the user can enjoy the aroma originating from the first fragrance 13a, the second fragrance 16a, and the fragrance source 16. Furthermore, in the aroma inhaler 11, by crushing the capsule 22 with the fingers to release the third fragrance 22a contained therein, the aroma can be enhanced or altered. Furthermore, when the aroma inhaler 11 is removed from its packaging, the user can sense the aroma (external aroma) emanating from the first fragrance 13a. Furthermore, even before and after the user ignites the combustion-type heat source 13 while holding the aroma inhaler 11 between their lips, the user can sense the aroma (external aroma) emanating from the first fragrance 13a.

Hereinafter, each component of the flavor inhaler 11 will be described.

The retainer 12 includes: a first portion 23 for retaining the combustion-type heat source 13 and the cup member 17, and a second portion 24 connecting the first portion 23 to the filter portion 21 located on the side of the mouthpiece 12A. The first portion 23 is a paper tube formed by rolling paper into a cylindrical shape. The second portion 24 is made of recycled tipping paper, which is generally used as paper to wrap the filter portion of cigarettes with filters (paper-rolled tobacco). The aluminum-laminated paper 18 is formed by laminating aluminum to paper, and has improved heat resistance and thermal conductivity compared to ordinary paper. Utilizing this aluminum-laminated paper 18, the first portion 23 (paper tube) of the retainer 12 will not burn even when the combustion-type heat source 13 is ignited. The central axis C of the retainer 12 is consistent with the central axis C of the combustion-type heat source 13.

Flavor source 16 is located adjacent to combustion-type heat source 13, downstream of combustion-type heat source 13. Flavor source 16 is composed of particles formed from, for example, tobacco extract. Flavor source 16 is not limited to particles; tobacco leaves themselves can be used. Specifically, flavor source 16 can be tobacco raw materials such as conventional cut tobacco used in cigarettes, granulated tobacco used in snuff, rolled tobacco, or formed tobacco. Flavor source 16 can also be constructed by carrying the flavor on a porous or non-porous carrier. Rolled tobacco is formed by shaping sheet-like regenerated tobacco into a roll and has internal channels. Formed tobacco is formed by shaping granulated tobacco using a mold. The second flavoring 16a is carried on the tobacco raw material or carrier used as flavor source 16. The second flavoring 16a can be carried on flavor source 16 by spraying or applying a solution containing the second flavoring 16a onto flavor source 16, or by immersing the flavor source 16 in a solution containing the second flavoring 16a. The aroma source 16 generally has an acidic pH, for example, pH 4-7.

For example, the following method can be used to perform pH analysis of the aroma source 16. First, take 400 mg of the aroma source 16, add 4 mL of pure water, shake for 60 minutes, and then extract. Place the extract in a sealed container in a laboratory controlled at a room temperature of 22°C and adjust its temperature until it reaches room temperature. After adjustment, open the lid, immerse the glass electrode of the pH meter (manufactured by METTLER TOLEDO: セブンイージー S20) in the collected liquid, and start measuring. The pH meter is calibrated in advance with pH meter calibration solutions of pH 4.01, 6.87, and 9.21. The point where the output change from the sensor stabilizes within 0.1 mV for 5 seconds is taken as the pH of the extract solution (aroma source 16). It should be noted that the pH measurement method of the aroma source 16 is just an example, and other methods can of course be used.

The cup member 17 is formed of a metal material into a cylindrical shape with a bottom. A plurality of openings 25A are formed at the bottom 25 of the cup member 17. When the user inhales, the tobacco aroma passes through the opening 25A together with the air and is sucked toward the downstream side of the retainer 12. The edge 26 of the cup member 17 is bent toward the outside in the radial direction of the retainer 12 and can be hung on the retainer 12 and the front end of the aluminum foil 18. A step portion 17A is provided on the inner circumference of the cup member 17, which abuts against the base end face 29 of the combustion-type heat source 13. The inner circumference of the cup member 17 can accommodate the main body 27 of the combustion-type heat source 13 together with the step portion 17A and hold it so that the combustion-type heat source 13 will not fall off.

The cup 17 can be a paper cup. The paper cup has, for example, the same structure as the above-mentioned metal cup. The paper cup can be manufactured using the well-known technology of wood pulp injection molding. Specifically, the paper cup can be manufactured by mixing raw materials containing wood pulp, adhesive and water, injecting them into a heated mold, and drying and curing them. As an adhesive, from the perspective of fragrance, it is preferred to use CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose) or CMC-Na (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose). Compared with metal cups, paper cups have the characteristic of slower heat conduction toward the fragrance source 16. In addition, paper cups can achieve lightweighting of the fragrance absorber and reduce manufacturing costs.

The filter portion 21 is composed of a filter commonly used for cigarettes. The capsule 22 is also a flavor capsule commonly used for cigarettes, and stores a solution containing a third flavor 22a inside. The third flavor 22a, for example, contains at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol. As mentioned above, menthol has the possibility of producing an unpleasant cigarette smell if it is carried on the combustion-type heat source 13, or volatilizing and transferring to the combustion-type heat source 13 if it is carried on the flavor source 16, thereby producing an unpleasant cigarette smell. Therefore, menthol is preferably encapsulated in the capsule 22. As a solvent for the third flavor 22a, a solvent that can dissolve the flavor can be used, for example, medium-chain fatty acid triglycerides (MCT) can be used.

The filter portion 21 can be formed of various filling materials. In the present embodiment, the filter portion 21 is composed of a filling material of a cellulose-based semi-synthetic fiber such as cellulose acetate, but the filling material is not limited thereto. Filling materials can use plant fibers such as cotton, hemp, Manila hemp, coconut, rush, animal fibers such as wool, cashmere, cellulose-based regenerated fibers such as rayon, synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyethylene, acrylic, polyester, polypropylene, or a filling material obtained by combining them. In addition to the filler composed of the above-mentioned cellulose acetate fiber, the constituent elements of the filter portion 21 can be a charcoal filter containing charcoal or a filter filled with granular materials other than charcoal. In addition, the filter portion 21 can also be a multi-segment structure in which two or more segments of different types are connected axially.

By crushing the capsules 22 contained in the filter 21, the flavor of the mainstream smoke can be enhanced or modified. This allows for a more appealing product that aligns with user preferences. Furthermore, fragrances that decompose or volatilize due to heat when carried by the combustion-type heat source 13, or that volatilize when carried by the flavor source 16, can be retained within the flavor capsules. This allows for fragrances to be carried by the combustion-type heat source 13, carried by the flavor source 16, or encapsulated within the flavor capsules, depending on their characteristics. This further increases the degree of freedom in product flavor design (increasing the number of flavor options).

As shown in Figure 2, the combustion-type heat source 13 (carbon heat source) is formed by integrally molding a combustible material using methods such as tableting and die casting. The combustible material is a mixture of plant-derived activated carbon, a non-combustible additive (such as calcium carbonate), a binder (organic or inorganic, such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose), and water. The combustion-type heat source 13 is a briquette-like mixture of the activated carbon and the binder. Preferably, the combustion-type heat source 13 contains what is known as highly activated carbon. Highly activated carbon refers to activated carbon having a specific surface area of, for example, 1300 ^m² /g or greater, as measured using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method standardized in accordance with ISO 9277:2010 and JIS Z 8830:2013. The activated carbon used in the combustion-type heat source 13 has a porous structure comprising a plurality of large and small pores.

The BET specific surface area of the activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is, for example, 1300 m ² /g or more. A more preferred BET specific surface area of the activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is, for example, 2000 ^{m 2} /g or more and 2500 ^m 2 /g or less. The most preferred BET specific surface area of the activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is, for example, 2050 ^{m 2} /g or more and 2300 ^{m 2} /g or less. Therefore, the activated carbon used in the combustion-type heat source 13 is classified as highly activated carbon, and the number of large and small pores is greater than that of ordinary activated carbon. In other words, the activation degree of the activated carbon used in the combustion-type heat source 13 is also higher than that of ordinary activated carbon. That is, the activated carbon used in the combustion-type heat source 13 can be obtained by subjecting a carbon material to a heat treatment, etc., to remove volatile impurities and increase the activation degree to a level higher than that of ordinary activated carbon.

The BET specific surface area of the activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is substantially the same as the BET specific surface area of the activated carbon used as the material for manufacturing the combustion-type heat source 13. Unlike the flavor source 16, the combustion-type heat source 13 generally has an alkaline pH, for example, pH 8-11.

The combustion-type heat source 13 utilizes a porous structure of highly activated carbon containing a plurality of large and small pores, which can ensure that there are a large number of sites for adsorbing the first fragrance 13a and stably maintaining the first fragrance 13a for a long time. As a result, even after storage, a combustion-type heat source 13 with fragrances having a high residual rate of the first fragrance 13a and a fragrance inhaler 11 equipped with the combustion-type heat source 13 can be achieved. Therefore, an attractive product that is consistent with the user's preferences can be provided. In addition, according to the above-mentioned structure, the ignition performance can be improved by utilizing the porous structure of the highly activated carbon, and a fragrance inhaler 11 that is easy to ignite can be realized. In addition, the ignition performance of the combustion-type heat source 13 can be improved by utilizing the porous structure of the highly activated carbon, and the combustion of the combustion-type heat source 13 can be sustained and stably achieved.

The combustion-type heat source 13 may contain activated carbon in a range of 10% to 99% by weight. From the perspective of combustion characteristics such as sufficient heat supply and prevention of ash fall, the concentration of activated carbon in the combustion-type heat source 13 is preferably, for example, 30% to 60% by weight. More preferably, the concentration of activated carbon in the combustion-type heat source 13 is 30% to 45% by weight.

If the combustion-type heat source 13 contains too much carbon, there is a tendency for excessive heat to be generated. If the combustion-type heat source 13 contains too little carbon, there is a tendency for insufficient heat to be generated. As in the above-described structure, when the concentration of activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is 30% by weight or greater, sufficient heat can be supplied to the flavor source 16. This allows the flavor source 16 to be heated at an appropriate temperature, effectively extracting the components from the flavor source 16 and delivering them to the user's mouth. Furthermore, when the concentration of activated carbon contained in the combustion-type heat source 13 is 60% by weight or less, the scattering of ash accompanying combustion can be reduced, and the amount of carbon monoxide contained in mainstream smoke can be reduced.

As the organic binder, for example, a mixture containing at least one of CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose), CMC-Na (carboxymethyl cellulose sodium), alginate, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), and sugars can be used.

In addition, as the inorganic binder, for example, a mineral binder such as purified bentonite, or a silica binder such as colloidal silica, water glass, or calcium silicate can be used.

For example, from the viewpoint of flavor, the adhesive preferably contains 1 to 10 wt % of CMC or CMC-Na, and more preferably contains 1 to 8 wt % of CMC or CMC-Na.

In addition, as the non-combustible additive, there can be used carbon salts or oxides composed of, for example, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, silicon, etc. The combustion-type heat source 13 may contain 40% to 89% by weight of the non-combustible additive.

Here, calcium carbonate is used as the non-combustible additive, and the combustion-type heat source 13 preferably contains 40% to 60% by weight of the non-combustible additive.

In order to improve combustion characteristics, the combustion heat source 13 may contain an alkali metal salt such as sodium chloride in a proportion of 1% by weight or less.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the combustion-type heat source 13 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The combustion-type heat source 13 comprises a main body 27 held within the retainer 12, a protrusion 14 (exposed portion) protruding from the front end 12B of the retainer 12, a front end face 28 provided on the protrusion 14, a base end face 29 opposing the front end face 28, an air passage 31 for supplying air into the retainer 12, an outer peripheral surface 32 adjacent to the front end face 28, and a groove 33 provided in the protrusion 14. The air passage 31 is provided along the central axis C of the combustion-type heat source 13 and extends through the combustion-type heat source 13. The air passage 31 connects the front end face 28 with the base end face 29. The air passage 31 spans both the main body 27 and the protrusion 14. The portion of the air passage 31 on the front end face 28 side is integrated with the groove 33. The outer peripheral surface 32 is formed around the combustion-type heat source 13 at a position corresponding to the protrusion 14. A protrusion 14 (exposed portion) also protrudes from the front end of the cup member 17 .

The combustion-type heat source 13 includes a first chamfered portion 34 formed between the front end surface 28 and the outer peripheral surface 32, and a second chamfered portion 35 formed between the base end surface 29 and the outer peripheral surface 32. The first chamfered portion 34 and the second chamfered portion 35 prevent cracks or chips from occurring at the corners of the combustion-type heat source 13.

When viewed from the front end face 28 side, the groove portion 33 is formed in a "cross" shape as a whole. The shape of the groove portion 33 is not limited to the "cross" shape. The number of groove portions 33 is arbitrary. In addition, the shape formed by the groove portion 33 as a whole can be any shape. For example, a plurality of groove portions 33 may extend radially toward the outer peripheral surface 32 with the air vent 31 as the center. In this case, the angle formed between adjacent groove portions 33 can be appropriately set, for example, within a range of greater than 5° and less than 95°. In addition, in the present embodiment, the groove portion 33 is formed by being recessed from the front end face 28 and the outer peripheral surface 32 in a manner spanning the front end face 28 and the outer peripheral surface 32. The groove portion 33 is configured to communicate with the air vent 31. The depth (length) of the groove portion 33 in the direction of the central axis C of the combustion-type heat source 13 is preferably, for example, 1/3 to 1/5 of the total length in the direction of the central axis C.

The combustion-type heat source 13 is preferably formed into the following dimensions. The total length of the combustion-type heat source 13 (the length of the combustion-type heat source 13 in the direction of the central axis C) is appropriately set, for example, within the range of 5 mm to 30 mm, more preferably within the range of 10 mm to 20 mm. Among them, the length of the protrusion 14 in the direction of the central axis C is appropriately set, for example, within the range of 5 mm to 15 mm, more preferably within the range of 5 mm to 10 mm. Therefore, the length of the protrusion 14 is set, for example, within the range of 2/3 to 4/5 of the total length of the combustion-type heat source 13. In addition, the length of the portion of the combustion-type heat source 13 inserted relative to the cup 17 (the length of the main body 27 in the direction of the central axis C, the insertion length) is appropriately set within the range of 2 mm to 10 mm, more preferably within the range of 2 mm to 5 mm.

The diameter of the combustion-type heat source 13 (the length of the combustion-type heat source 13 in a direction intersecting the central axis C) is appropriately set, for example, within a range of 3 mm to 15 mm. The depth (length) of the groove 33 in the direction of the central axis C is appropriately set, for example, within a range of 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably within a range of 2 mm to 4 mm. The width (inner diameter) W of the groove 33 is appropriately set, for example, within a range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

The groove portion 33 may be recessed from at least one of the front end surface 28 and the outer peripheral surface 32. For example, the groove portion 33 may be recessed from the front end surface 28 and communicate with the vent 31, while remaining closed on the outer peripheral surface 32. Similarly, for example, the groove portion 33 may be recessed from the outer peripheral surface 32 and communicate with the vent 31, while remaining closed on the front end surface 28. In the latter example, it is preferred that the vent 31 extend to the front end surface 28 and open to the outside on the front end surface 28.

It should be noted that the combustion type heat source 13 may not have the vent 31. In this case, it is preferred that a plurality of small holes for ventilation are formed in the retainer 12 (first portion 23). When the user inhales, air is supplied to the retainer 12 and the fragrance source 16 in the retainer 12 through the small holes.

In this embodiment, the first fragrance 13 a is carried on the combustion-type heat source 13 .

The combustion-type heat source 13 includes a protrusion 14 extending from the front end 12B of the retainer 12. The first fragrance 13a is preferably carried on the protrusion 14. This structure not only facilitates the absorption of the fragrance carried by the protrusion 14 into the mainstream smoke as an internal aroma, but also facilitates direct delivery of the fragrance as an external aroma to the user's nose without being absorbed into the mainstream smoke. In particular, since the protrusion 14 of the combustion-type heat source 13 is positioned close to the user's nose when the flavor inhaler 11 is held between the lips, even a small amount of the first fragrance 13a can effectively deliver the fragrance (external aroma) to the user's nose.

More specifically, the first fragrance 13a is carried on at least one of the front end face 28, the first chamfered portion 34, the inner circumferential surface and outer circumferential surface 32 of the groove 33, and the air passage 31 (the inner circumferential surface of the air passage 31) of the combustion-type heat source 13. It should be noted that the first fragrance 13a is preferably not substantially carried on the base end face 29 and the second chamfered portion 35 of the combustion-type heat source 13. However, the first fragrance 13a emitted or diffused from the front end face 28 and the first chamfered portion 34 may be attracted to and retained by the base end face 29 and the second chamfered portion 35.

In one embodiment, the first fragrance 13a is carried on, for example, the front end surface 28. This structure allows the first fragrance 13a to be carried on the front end surface 28, which is less likely to be grasped by the user. Even if the user grasps the outer peripheral surface 32 of the combustion-type heat source 13 before inhaling the fragrance inhaler 11, the first fragrance 13a can be prevented from being transferred by the user's fingers or the like.

When the first fragrance 13a is carried not only on the front end surface 28 but also on the first chamfered portion 34 and the inner circumferential surface of the groove portion 33, the amount of the carried first fragrance 13a may vary along the central axis C. That is, in this embodiment, the amount of the first fragrance 13a carried is greatest on the front end surface 28 and the first chamfered portion 34. In this case, the amount of the carried first fragrance 13a may be uneven within the combustion-type heat source 13. The first fragrance 13a may be carried within the combustion-type heat source 13 in such a manner that the amount of the first fragrance 13a gradually decreases as it moves from the front end surface 28 toward the base end surface 29.

Various methods can be used to carry the first fragrance 13a onto the front end face 28 of the combustion-type heat source 13. For example, as shown in FIG3 , a nozzle can be positioned opposite the front end face 28. As indicated by the arrows in FIG3 , droplets of a solution containing the first fragrance 13a can be ejected (dribbled) from the nozzle toward the front end face 28 and the first chamfered portion 34, thereby causing the solution containing the first fragrance 13a to adhere to the front end face 28 and the first chamfered portion 34. The solution containing the first fragrance 13a can be ejected onto the entire front end face 28 or onto a portion of the front end face 28. For example, to prevent the first fragrance 13a from adhering to the portion corresponding to the vent 31 (the wall defining the vent 31 and the outer edge of the vent 31), it is preferable to eject the droplets containing the first fragrance 13a toward a position offset from the portion corresponding to the vent 31. The solution then permeates from the front end face 28 into the interior of the combustion-type heat source 13, thereby causing the first fragrance 13a to adhere near the front end face 28. Alternatively, by holding the outer peripheral surface 32 of the combustion-type heat source 13 near the base end surface 29 and immersing the tip end surface 28, first chamfered portion 34, and groove 33 of the combustion-type heat source 13 in a solution containing the first fragrance 13a for a predetermined period of time, the first fragrance 13a can be supported on the tip end surface 28, first chamfered portion 34, and groove 33. Furthermore, by pressing the tip end surface 28 against an elastic porous body (e.g., a sponge) containing the first fragrance 13a, the first fragrance 13a can be supported near the tip end surface 28 and first chamfered portion 31. Furthermore, an inkjet method can be used to eject droplets of the solution containing the first fragrance 13a.

In other embodiments, the first fragrance 13a is carried on the outer peripheral surface 32, for example. As shown in Figure 2, the first fragrance 13a is carried on a plurality of annular carrying portions 42 formed on the outer peripheral surface 32 at fixed intervals in the direction of the central axis C. The plurality of carrying portions 42 are formed into a strip having a prescribed width in the direction of the central axis C. The shape of the carrying portion 42 is not limited to a plurality of annular shapes. The carrying portion 42 may also be formed into a strip (annular) with a wider width. In addition, the shape of the carrying portion 42 is not limited to an annular shape. For example, a plurality of strip-shaped carrying portions 42 extending linearly parallel to the central axis C may be provided. In this case, it is preferred that the carrying portion 42 is arranged with a constant interval between it and other adjacent carrying portions 42. At this time, the plurality of carrying portions 42 are arranged with a constant interval around the central axis C.

Preferably, the plurality of carriers 42 are provided on the side of the base end face 29 (the side of the mouth end 12A) closer to the front end face 28 and the groove portion 33. Furthermore, the plurality of carriers 42 are preferably provided on the side of the base end face 29 (the side of the mouth end 12A) more than 3 mm away from the front end face 28. More preferably, the plurality of carriers 42 are preferably provided on the side of the base end face 29 (the side of the mouth end 12A) more than 5 mm away from the front end face 28. By configuring the carriers 42 as described above, even when the user ignites near the front end face 28, the first fragrance 13a can be configured at a position where it can be ignited but not ignited. Such a configuration is particularly effective when the first fragrance 13a, which is easily lost due to ignition, is supported on the carrier 42. It should be noted that the shape of the carrier 42 is not limited to multiple rings. The carrier 42 can be formed into a wide belt (ring).

The amount of first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 may vary along the radial direction of the combustion-type heat source 13. Specifically, in this embodiment, the amount of first fragrance 13a carried is greatest on the outer peripheral surface 32. In this case, the amount of first fragrance 13a carried may be uneven within the combustion-type heat source 13. The first fragrance 13a may be carried within the combustion-type heat source 13 such that the amount of first fragrance 13a gradually decreases as it moves from the outer peripheral surface 32 toward the central axis C.

Various methods can be used to carry the first fragrance 13a on the outer peripheral surface 32 of the combustion-type heat source 13. For example, a device is prepared in advance in which a plurality of small rollers are arranged in series, and a portion of the plurality of small rollers is immersed in a solution containing the first fragrance 13a. The direction of rotation of each roller is a direction that intersects the direction in which the plurality of rollers are arranged in series. The combustion-type heat source 13 is arranged so as to span from the upper side relative to the plurality of rollers thus configured, and the combustion-type heat source 13 is rotated on these rollers. In this way, the first fragrance 13a can be transferred (applied) in such a manner that a plurality of belt-shaped (annular) carrying portions 42 are formed relative to the outer peripheral surface 32. Alternatively, the first fragrance 13 can be carried on the outer peripheral surface 32 by continuously applying a solution containing the first fragrance 13a with a relatively high viscosity to the rotating combustion-type heat source 13 from a nozzle close to the outer peripheral surface 32. In addition, various methods such as an inkjet method can be used to apply the first fragrance 13a to the outer peripheral surface 32 and carry the first fragrance 13a on the outer peripheral surface 32.

In another embodiment, the first fragrance 13a is carried on the air passage 31, for example. The first fragrance 13a is carried on the air passage 31, for example, by the following method. Specifically, a nozzle is positioned opposite the air passage 31, and droplets of a solution containing the first fragrance 13a are ejected (dropped) from the nozzle, as indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG3 . In this manner, the solution containing the first fragrance 13a adheres to the inner circumferential surface of the air passage 31 and permeates the interior of the combustion-type heat source 13, thereby carrying the first fragrance 13a near the inner circumferential surface of the air passage 31.

In addition, as described above, the ejection (application) of droplets of the solution containing the first fragrance 13a is mainly described as being deposited independently according to the application position, but the fragrance may be applied all at once using an inkjet method.

The function of the aroma inhaler 11 of this embodiment will now be described. As described above, before inhaling from the aroma inhaler 11, when the user removes the aroma inhaler 11 from their pocket, they can sense the aroma (external aroma) emanating from the first fragrance 13a carried by the combustion-type heat source 13. Furthermore, before and after the user ignites the combustion-type heat source 13 with their lips around the mouthpiece 36 of the holder 12, they can also sense the aroma (external aroma) emanating from the first fragrance 13a.

When a user ignites a cigarette near the front end 28 of the combustion-type heat source 13 and begins to inhale, the combustion-type heat source 13 generates heat to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 250°C to 900°C). This heat from the combustion-type heat source 13 warms the flavor source 16. This releases the second flavoring 16a contained in the flavor source 16 and reaches the user's mouth through the filter 21. This allows the user to enjoy the tobacco flavor from the second flavoring 16a. At this point, the first flavoring 13a carried on the front end 28 is drawn into the interior of the holder 12 along with the surrounding air via the air passage 31. Within the cup 17, it mixes with the components released from the second flavoring 16a before passing through the filter 21 and reaching the user's mouth. Therefore, the user can experience the first flavoring 13a carried on the front end 28 as an internal aroma within the mainstream smoke. Furthermore, if desired, the user can squeeze the capsule 22 with their fingers to release the third flavoring 22a contained within, thereby enhancing or modifying the tobacco flavor of the mainstream smoke. It should be noted that the internal aroma referred to here refers to the aroma perceived by the fragrance components that pass through the mouth (oral cavity) and then reach the nose (nasal cavity). In addition, the external aroma refers to the aroma perceived by the fragrance components that do not pass through the mouth (oral cavity) and reach the nose (nasal cavity).

The user inhales for a predetermined time, ending their inhalation when the combustion-type heat source 13 burns out or the cigarette smell from the flavor source 16 disappears. At this point, since the ash from the combustion-type heat source 13 does not fall to the ground but remains at the front end of the holder 12, the burden on the surrounding environment is minimal. Furthermore, since the smoke produced by the flavor inhaler 11 is significantly less than that of conventional paper-rolled tobacco (cigarettes), the burden on the surrounding environment is also minimal.

The fragrance inhaler 11 is not limited to the above-described embodiment. During implementation, the components may be modified and refined without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the shape of the holder 12 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, it may be a square cylinder, a cylinder with an elliptical cross-section, or a cylinder with another polygonal cross-section (hexagonal, octagonal, etc.).

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the aroma absorption are summarized and shown.

[1] A fragrance inhaler comprising:

a cylindrical retainer extending from the mouthpiece end to the front end;

a combustion-type heat source disposed at the front end, containing activated carbon and carrying a first fragrance;

a fragrance source held in the holder and carrying a second fragrance,

The first fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether, and the second fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[2] In the fragrance absorber described in [1],

The first fragrance does not substantially contain any of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[3] In the fragrance absorber described in [1] or [2],

The second fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of nerol and geraniol.

[4] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [3],

The second fragrance does not substantially contain any of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether.

[5] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [3],

The second flavorant is substantially free of menthol.

[6] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [5],

The flavor inhaler further includes a filter portion that is provided on the mouthpiece end side in the holder and has a flavor capsule containing a third flavor.

[7] In the fragrance absorber described in [6],

The third fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[8] In the fragrance absorber described in [7],

The third flavor comprises menthol.

[9] In the fragrance absorber described in [7],

The third fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol, and is different from the second fragrance.

[10] In the fragrance absorber described in [9],

The third fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene and γ-terpinene, and is different from the second fragrance.

[11] A fragrance inhaler comprising:

a cylindrical retainer extending from the mouthpiece end to the front end;

a combustion-type heat source disposed at the front end, containing activated carbon and carrying a first fragrance;

a fragrance source held in the holder;

a filter portion provided on the mouthpiece end side in the holder and having a fragrance capsule containing a third fragrance,

The first fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether, and the third fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[12] In the fragrance absorber described in [11],

The third flavor comprises menthol.

[13] In the fragrance absorber described in [11],

The third fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[14] In the fragrance absorber described in [13],

The third fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene and γ-terpinene.

[15] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [11] to [14],

The first fragrance does not substantially contain any of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[16] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [11] to [15],

The fragrance inhaler further includes a fragrance source held in the holder and carrying a second fragrance.

[17] In the fragrance absorber described in [16],

The second fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol.

[18] In the fragrance absorber described in [16] or [17],

The second fragrance includes at least one selected from the group consisting of nerol and geraniol.

[19] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [16] to [18],

The second fragrance does not substantially contain any of anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether.

[20] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [16] to [18],

The second flavorant is substantially free of menthol.

[21] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [20],

The retainer is a paper tube.

[22] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [21],

Aluminum is further provided that is bonded to the inner side of the retainer.

[23] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [22],

The flavor source is tobacco raw material.

[24] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [23],

A cup member is further provided, which accommodates the flavor source therein, is inserted into the holder in a direction in which the cup member is opened toward the front end, and has an opening at the bottom.

[25] In the fragrance absorber described in [24],

The cup is made of metal or paper.

[26] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [25],

The activated carbon has a BET specific surface area of 1300 m ² /g or more.

[27] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [26],

The activated carbon has a BET specific surface area of 1300 ^{m 2} /g or more and 2500 ^{m 2} /g or less.

[28] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [27],

The activated carbon has a BET specific surface area of 2000 ^{m 2} /g or more and 2500 ^{m 2} /g or less.

[29] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [28],

The activated carbon has a BET specific surface area of 2050 ^{m 2} /g or more and 2300 ^{m 2} /g or less.

[30] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [29],

The combustion heat source contains the activated carbon in an amount of 30% by weight or more and 60% by weight or less.

[31] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [30],

The combustion-type heat source contains the activated carbon in an amount of 30% by weight or more and 45% by weight or less.

[32] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [31],

The combustion-type heat source includes a protrusion protruding from the front end, and the first fragrance is carried on the protrusion.

[33] In the fragrance absorber described in [32],

The protrusion has a front end surface,

The first fragrance is carried on the front end surface.

[34] In the fragrance absorber described in [33],

The protrusion has an outer peripheral surface adjacent to the front end surface, and the first fragrance is carried on the outer peripheral surface.

[35] In the fragrance absorber described in [34],

The outer peripheral surface has an annular supporting portion for supporting the first fragrance.

[36] In the fragrance absorber described in [32],

The protrusion has an outer peripheral surface, and the first fragrance is carried on the outer peripheral surface.

[37] In the fragrance absorber described in [32],

The protrusion has a front end surface and an outer peripheral surface adjacent to the front end surface.

The combustion type heat source has:

an air passage for supplying air to the interior of the retainer,

and a groove portion provided in the protrusion so as to be recessed from at least one of the front end surface and the outer peripheral surface and communicating with the air passage,

The first fragrance is carried in the groove portion.

[38] In the fragrance absorber described in [37],

The first fragrance is carried on the front end surface.

[39] In the fragrance absorber described in [37] or [38],

The first fragrance is carried on the outer peripheral surface.

[40] In the fragrance absorber described in [39],

The outer peripheral surface has an annular supporting portion for supporting the first fragrance.

[41] In the fragrance absorber described in any one of [37] to [40],

The first fragrance is carried on the ventilation passage.

[42] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [41],

The combustion-type heat source has a cylindrical shape.

[43] In the fragrance absorber described in any one of [1] to [42],

The combustion-type heat source includes a front end surface, a base end surface facing the front end surface, and an outer peripheral surface connecting the front end surface and the base end surface, wherein the front end surface has a chamfered portion at a position adjacent to the outer peripheral surface.

[44] In the fragrance inhaler according to any one of [1] to [43],

The combustion-type heat source includes a protrusion protruding from the front end of the holder, and the first fragrance is not carried on a base end surface of the protrusion facing the front end surface of the protrusion.

[Example]

Example 1: Storage test of the first fragrance

[Method for manufacturing a combustion-type heat source]

235.5 g of highly activated carbon (BET surface area: 2050 ^m² /g), 323.8 g of calcium carbonate, and 28.1 g of sodium carboxymethylcellulose were mixed. 745.3 g of water containing 5.4 g of sodium chloride was added and further mixed. The mixture was thoroughly mixed and then extruded into a cylindrical shape with an outer diameter of 6.5 mm. The resulting extrusion molded product was dried and cut into 13 mm lengths to obtain a primary molded body.

A through hole with an inner diameter of 1.0 mm was formed in the center of the primary molded body using a 1.0 mm diameter drill. A cross groove was machined on one end surface of the primary molded body using a diamond cutting disc.

Thus, a combustion-type heat source 13 having the form shown in FIG. 2 , containing activated carbon having a BET specific surface area of 2050 ^{m 2} /g and having an activated carbon concentration of 39.7 wt % was produced.

(Storage test results)

The manufactured combustion-type heat source 13 was loaded with various flavors listed in the following Table 1. A storage test was conducted using the combustion-type heat source 13 loaded with each flavor.

The fragrance is loaded as follows: a solution containing the fragrance is sprayed (dribbled) onto the front end face 28 of the combustion-type heat source 13 , the first chamfered portion 34 , and the inner circumferential surface of the groove 33 , thereby loading the fragrance onto the front end face 28 , the first chamfered portion 34 , and the inner circumferential surface of the groove 33 .

The storage test was conducted as follows: The combustion-type heat source 13 carrying a fragrance was placed in an open system at a temperature of 40°C for four weeks.

After four weeks, the residual rate of the fragrance remaining in the combustion heat source 13 was investigated.

The amount of flavor remaining in the combustion row heat source 13 was measured as follows.

The combustion-type heat source 13 was placed in ethanol containing an internal standard solution, shaken for 20 minutes, and filtered to obtain a sample solution. This sample solution was analyzed using GC/MS to obtain a quantitative value for the fragrance remaining in the combustion-type heat source 13.

The residual rate (weight %) is determined based on the amount of the fragrance remaining in the combustion-type heat source 13 and the amount of the fragrance supported on the combustion-type heat source 13 .

Table 1 shows the results of the residual rate of the fragrance.

[Table 1]

spices Residual rate (after four weeks) Anethole 97% 2-Pinene 83% β-Citronellol 80% Linalyl acetate 111% Limonene 91% Anisaldehyde 94% 4-Terpineol 100% 2-β-pinene 80% Jasmone 105% Hinane 79% Linalool 101% 1,8-cineole 95% Phenylethyl alcohol 75% Myristyl ether 76% α-terpinene 0% γ-terpinene 0% Nerolidol 52% Geraniol 38% Decyl alcohol 63%

Anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenylethyl alcohol, and myristyl ether are stably maintained in a state supported on the combustion-type heat source 13. In particular, anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, sabinane, linalool, and 1,8-cineole exhibit a residual rate of 80% or more.

The residual rates of α-terpinene and γ-terpinene were 0%. In addition, nerol, geraniol, and decanol showed relatively low residual rates. It is believed that these fragrances underwent chemical changes during storage.

Example 2: Transfer rate of the first flavor to mainstream smoke

[Manufacturing of combustion-type heat sources]

Combustion-type heat source 13 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1. Thus, combustion-type heat source 13 having the form shown in FIG2 and containing activated carbon having a BET specific surface area of 2050 ^m2 /g and an activated carbon concentration of 39.7 wt% was produced.

[Measurement results of the rate of transition to mainstream smoke]

Anethole was loaded onto the manufactured combustion-type heat source 13 in the same manner as described in Example 1. The combustion-type heat source 13 loaded with anethole was used to manufacture the flavor inhaler 11 shown in FIG1 . Geraniol was used as the second flavoring and menthol was used as the third flavoring.

The transfer rate of the flavoring (anethole) carried on the combustion-type heat source 13 into the mainstream smoke was measured using a measuring device 61 shown in FIG4 . The measuring device 61 comprises a holder 62 (cigarette holder) that holds the mouthpiece 12A of the flavor inhaler 11, a Cambridge filter 63 positioned downstream of the holder 62, a dust collector 65 positioned downstream of the Cambridge filter 63, a tube 66 connecting an automatic smoking device 64 to the dust collector 65, and the automatic smoking device 64 positioned downstream of the dust collector 65. Methanol containing an internal standard solution is held within the dust collector 65.

The transfer rate of flavorings into mainstream smoke was measured according to the following procedure.

The flavor inhaler 11 was smoked using the automatic smoking machine 64 under the following conditions.

[Table 2]

Curved shape Time interval volume Smoking time bell-shaped 30 55.0 2.0

As shown in the table above, the smoking conditions of the automatic smoking device 64 are set. For example, when the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents pressure drop, the curve of the pressure drop within the holder 12 of the flavor inhaler 11 during a single puff is made so as to have a so-called bell-shaped shape (the pressure drop is greatest at the midpoint of the puff time). As shown in the table above, the time interval between the start of a puff is 30 seconds. The smoking duration is 2 seconds. Therefore, under these smoking conditions, the smoking and non-smoking times are repeated alternately in the following order: smoking time 2 seconds → non-smoking time 28 seconds → smoking time 2 seconds → non-smoking time 28 seconds. Furthermore, the volume of smoke inhaled during a single puff is 55 mL. The number of puffs is 15 (12 times when the red heat of the combustion-type heat source is confirmed + 3 times).

Under these smoking conditions, smoke was collected using a Cambridge filter 63. The Cambridge filter 63 was placed in methanol containing an internal standard solution. The Cambridge filter 63 was then crushed, shaken, and filtered to obtain a sample solution. This sample solution was analyzed using GC/MS. This yielded a quantitative value for the flavoring collected by the Cambridge filter 63.

Similarly, smoke passing through the Cambridge filter 63 was collected in a dust collector 65 placed in methanol containing an internal standard solution. The sample solution obtained from the dust collector 65 was analyzed by GC/MS. Thus, the quantitative value of the fragrance collected in the dust collector 65 was obtained.

Smoke adhering to the inner wall of tube 66 was also recovered using the following procedure. First, tube 66 was finely cut and placed in methanol containing an internal standard solution. This solution was shaken and filtered to obtain a sample solution. This sample solution was analyzed using GC/MS. This yielded a quantitative value for the fragrance adhering to the inner wall of tube 66. GC/MS analysis was performed under the conditions shown in Table 3.

[Table 3]

The weight of the flavor transferred into the mainstream smoke is calculated by summing the quantitative value of the flavor collected by Cambridge filter 63, the quantitative value of the flavor collected by dust collector 65, and the quantitative value of the flavor adhering to the inner wall of tube 66. The transfer rate of the flavor into the mainstream smoke can be calculated using the following formula.

(Transfer rate) (%) = {(quantitative value of fragrance collected by Cambridge filter 63) + (quantitative value of fragrance collected by dust collector 65) + (quantitative value of fragrance adhering to the inner wall of tube 66)} / (total weight of fragrance in combustion-type heat source 13) ... formula (1)

As an example, the results of the transfer rate calculated by such a method are shown when anethole is used as a flavoring.

The total weight of the flavoring material carried by combustion-type heat source 13 is 3075 μg (corresponding to the denominator of formula (1)). Meanwhile, the total weight of the flavoring material transferred into the mainstream smoke is 42.77 μg (corresponding to the numerator of formula (1)). Therefore, when anethole is used as the flavoring material, the transfer rate of anethole into the mainstream smoke is 1.39% according to formula (1).

This result confirms that the first flavor carried solely on the combustion-type heat source is transferred to the mainstream smoke, indicating that it can combine with the second flavor carried on the flavor source and the third flavor contained in the flavor capsule to benefit the user's flavor.

Example 3: An example using menthol as the first flavoring.

Combustion-type heat source 13 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1. Thus, combustion-type heat source 13 having the form shown in FIG2 and containing activated carbon having a BET specific surface area of 2050 ^m2 /g and an activated carbon concentration of 39.7 wt% was produced.

Menthol was loaded onto the manufactured combustion-type heat source 13 in the same manner as described in Example 1. The combustion-type heat source 13 loaded with menthol was used to manufacture the flavor inhaler 11 (comparative example) shown in FIG.

When the present inventors inhaled the fragrance inhaler 11 (comparative example), they felt an unpleasant metallic fragrance.

Example 4: Sensory Evaluation of the First Spice

[Manufacturing of combustion-type heat sources]

Combustion-type heat source 13 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1. Thus, combustion-type heat source 13 having the form shown in FIG2 and containing activated carbon having a BET specific surface area of 2050 ^m2 /g and an activated carbon concentration of 39.7 wt% was produced.

Anethole was loaded onto the manufactured combustion-type heat source 13 in the same manner as described in Example 1. The fragrance-loaded combustion-type heat source 13 was used to manufacture the flavor inhaler 11 shown in FIG1 . Geraniol was used as the second fragrance, and menthol was used as the third fragrance.

The present inventors were able to sense the aroma (external aroma) emitted from the fragrance carried by the combustion-type heat source 13 before inhalation. In addition, the present inventors were able to sense the aroma (external aroma) emitted from the fragrance before and after the combustion-type heat source 13 was ignited while holding the fragrance inhaler 11 between their lips.

When inhaling the flavor inhaler 11, the first flavor carried by the combustion-type heat source 13, the second flavor carried by the flavor source 16, and the flavor originating from the flavor source 16 can be tasted without any undesirable aroma. By squeezing the capsule 22 with a finger, the third flavor contained in the capsule 22 is released, thereby changing the flavor of the mainstream smoke.

Claims (12)

1. A fragrance extractor, comprising: A cylindrical retainer that extends from the suction port to the front end; A combustion-type heat source, located at the front end, contains activated carbon and carries a first fragrance; The fragrance source is held within the retainer and carries a second fragrance. The first flavoring is selected from at least one of the following groups: anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, juniperane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenethyl alcohol, and myristole. The second flavoring comprises at least one of the following groups: α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol. 2. The fragrance extractor as described in claim 1, wherein, The second flavoring contains at least one selected from the group consisting of nerol and geraniol. 3. The fragrance extractor as described in claim 1, wherein, The second flavoring does not substantially contain any of the following: anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, junipane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenethyl alcohol, and myristole. 4. The fragrance extractor as described in claim 1, wherein, The second spice does not actually contain menthol. 5. The fragrance extractor as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The fragrance extractor also includes a filter section located on the inlet end side within the retainer and has a fragrance capsule containing a third fragrance. 6. The fragrance extractor as described in claim 5, wherein, The third flavoring comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol and decanol. 7. The fragrance extractor as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The third spice contains menthol. 8. The fragrance extractor as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The third fragrance comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol and decanol, and is different from the second fragrance. 9. A fragrance extractor, comprising: A cylindrical retainer that extends from the suction port to the front end; A combustion-type heat source, located at the front end, contains activated carbon and carries a first fragrance; The fragrance source is retained within the retainer; A filter section is provided on the inlet end side within the retainer and has a fragrance capsule containing a third fragrance. The first flavoring is selected from at least one of the following groups: anethole, 2-pinene, β-citronellol, linalyl acetate, limonene, anisaldehyde, 4-terpineol, 2-β-pinene, jasmone, juniperane, linalool, 1,8-cineole, phenethyl alcohol, and myristole. The third flavoring comprises at least one of the following groups: menthol, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, nerol, geraniol, and decanol. 10. The fragrance extractor as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The third spice contains menthol. 11. The fragrance extractor according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The activated carbon has a BET specific surface area of over 1300 ^m² /g. 12. The fragrance extractor according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The combustion-type heat source has a protrusion extending from the front end, and the first fragrance is carried in the protrusion.