HK1239472B - Non-combusting flavor inhaler - Google Patents

Description

Non-burning fragrance inhaler

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, which comprises a second cigarette cartridge and a first cigarette cartridge.

Background Art

A non-combustion type flavor inhaler that atomizes an aerosol source by using power supplied from a battery is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

For example, a non-combustion flavor inhaler includes a first cartridge for atomizing an aerosol source and a second cartridge for containing a flavor source. For example, the second cartridge is replaceable and connected to the first cartridge.

Prior art literature

Patent Literature

Patent Document 1: WO2013/116558

Summary of the Invention

The gist of the first feature is a non-combustion type flavor inhaler comprising: an atomizing section for atomizing an aerosol source without combustion; a first flow path which is an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction and is arranged on the downstream side of the aerosol flow path; a second flow path which is arranged on the downstream side of the first flow path as the aerosol flow path; a flavor source which imparts flavor to the aerosol is accommodated in the second flow path, and an aerosol flow adjustment chamber which adjusts the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the flow of the aerosol in the second flow path is provided between the first flow path and the second flow path.

The summary of the second feature is that, in addition to the first feature, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler includes a storage portion storing the aerosol source, and the storage portion is located around the flow channel forming body in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow channel.

The gist of the third feature is that, in the first feature or the second feature, the second flow path has a size larger than that of the first flow path in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path.

The essence of the fourth feature is that the non-combustion flavor inhaler, in any one of the first to third features, comprises: a first cartridge having at least the atomization portion, and a second cartridge connected to the first cartridge; the first cartridge has a flow path forming body having a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path, the second cartridge has a flavor source storage body, the flavor source storage body stores the flavor source and forms the second flow path, and the aerosol flow adjustment chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the flavor source storage body.

The essence of the fifth feature is that in the fourth feature, the first cigarette cartridge has: an outer frame having a cylindrical shape for accommodating the flow path forming body, an end cover for blocking the gap between the flow path forming body and the outer frame from the downstream side, and the aerosol flow adjustment chamber is formed between the end cover and the upstream end of the flavor source storage body.

The essence of the sixth feature is that, in the fourth feature, the flavor source storage body has a first protrusion as a partition forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber, and the first protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source storage body on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path toward the flow path forming body side.

The essence of the seventh feature is that, in the fifth feature, the flavor source storage body has a first protrusion as a partition forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber, and the first protrusion protrudes toward the end cover side from the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source storage body on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path.

The essence of the eighth feature is that in the fourth feature, the outer frame extends to the downstream side of the flow path forming body and accommodates at least a portion of the flavor source storage body, and the flavor source storage body comprises: a main body portion for accommodating the flavor source, and a flange portion arranged on the side of the main body portion, and the distance from the portion where the outer frame and the flange portion abut against each other to the downstream end of the flow path forming body is longer than the distance from the upstream end of the flange portion to the upstream end of the main body portion.

The essence of the ninth feature is that in the fifth feature, the outer frame extends to the downstream side of the end cover and accommodates at least a portion of the fragrance source storage body, and the fragrance source storage body comprises: a main body portion for accommodating the fragrance source, and a flange portion arranged on the side of the main body portion, and the distance from the portion where the outer frame and the flange portion abut against each other to the downstream end of the end cover is longer than the distance from the upstream end of the flange portion to the upstream end of the main body portion.

The essence of the tenth feature is that, in the fourth feature, the flow path forming body has a second protrusion as a partition of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber, and the second protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path toward the side of the flavor source storage body.

The gist of the eleventh feature is that, in the fifth feature, the end cap has a second protrusion as a partition forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber, and the second protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap on a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path toward the side of the flavor source storage body.

The gist of the twelfth feature is that, in the fifth feature, on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path, the outer edge of the end cap is in contact with the inner wall surface of the outer frame, and the inner edge of the end cap is located between the outer edge of the flow path forming body and the inner edge of the flow path forming body.

The essence of the thirteenth feature is that, in any one of the first to twelfth features, on a cross section perpendicular to the prescribed direction, on a straight line from the center of gravity of the first flow path toward the outside of the first flow path, when the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path to the outer surface of the second flow path is taken as the displacement distance, the length of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber in the prescribed direction is determined according to the maximum displacement distance among the displacement distances.

The summary of the fourteenth feature is that, in the thirteenth feature, the length of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber is 1/10 or more of the maximum displacement distance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a cross-sectional view showing a non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 according to an embodiment.

FIG2 is a cross-sectional view showing the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment.

FIG3 is a cross-sectional view showing the first cigarette cartridge 20 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the first cigarette cartridge 20 according to the embodiment.

FIG5 is a cross-sectional view showing the second cigarette cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cigarette cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 5 ) showing the flavor source storage body 31 according to the embodiment.

FIG8 is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG7 ) showing the flavor source storage body 31 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a CC cross section shown in FIG. 13 .

FIG. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of power ratio control according to the embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of power ratio control according to the embodiment.

FIG18 is a flowchart showing a control method according to the embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the first modification.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the second modification.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to a third modification.

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol in Modification 4. FIG.

FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol in Modification 4. FIG.

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to Modification 4. FIG.

FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol in Modification 4. FIG.

FIG. 26 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to a fifth modification.

FIG27 is a diagram mainly showing the functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the sixth modification.

FIG28 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the seventh modification.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to an eighth modification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes the embodiment. It should be noted that in the following drawings, the same or similar parts are given the same or similar reference numerals. However, the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the ratios of various dimensions and the like differ from those of actual objects.

Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined in consideration of the following description. In addition, of course, the drawings also include portions where the relationship or ratio of the dimensions are different from one another.

[Disclosure Summary]

In the non-combustion flavor inhaler according to the background art, the first cartridge has a first flow path as an aerosol flow path, and the second cartridge has a second flow path as an aerosol flow path. The second flow path is arranged upstream of the first flow path.

After extensive discussions, the inventors discovered that, in this configuration, if the second flow path abuts the first flow path and the cross-section of the first flow path is inconsistent with the cross-section of the second flow path, the aerosol flow within the second cartridge will deviate. For example, the inventors discovered that if the cross-sectional area of the downstream end of the first flow path is discontinuously smaller than the cross-sectional area of the upstream end of the second flow path, the aerosol within the second cartridge will not pass through the flavor source without deviation.

The disclosed, outlined non-combustion flavor inhaler comprises: an atomizing unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; a first flow path extending in a predetermined direction and arranged downstream of the aerosol flow path; and a second flow path, also arranged downstream of the first flow path. The second flow path houses a flavor source that imparts fragrance to the aerosol. An aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided between the first and second flow paths to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to prevent deviations in the flow of the aerosol within the second flow path.

In the disclosed summary, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided between the first and second flow paths to adjust the flow of aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to prevent deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. This facilitates the aerosol supplied from the first flow path to pass through the fragrance source in the second flow path without deviation.

[Implementation Method]

(Non-burning aroma inhaler)

The following is a description of the non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. However, it should be noted that in Figure 4, the storage unit 21 described later is omitted. Figure 5 is a side view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the flavor source storage body 31 according to the embodiment (the A-A cross-sectional view shown in Figure 5). Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the flavor source storage body 31 according to the embodiment (the BB cross-sectional view shown in Figure 7). However, it should be noted that in Figure 6, the flavor source 31A described later is omitted.

1 , the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 has a shape extending from the non-inhalation end toward the inhalation end, that is, in a predetermined direction A. The non-burning flavor inhaler 1 is an instrument for inhaling flavor without combustion.

Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 includes a power supply unit 10, a first cartridge 20, and a second cartridge 30. The first cartridge 20 is removable from the power supply unit 10, and the second cartridge 30 is removable from the first cartridge 20. In other words, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

As shown in FIG2 , power supply unit 10 has a shape extending in a predetermined direction A and includes at least a battery 11. Battery 11 can be either a disposable battery or a rechargeable battery. The default value of the output voltage of battery 11 is preferably in the range of 1.2V to 4.2V. Furthermore, the battery capacity of battery 11 is preferably in the range of 100mAh to 1000mAh.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first cigarette cartridge 20 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A. The first cigarette cartridge 20 includes a storage portion 21, an atomizing portion 22, a flow path forming body 23, an outer frame 24, and an end cap 25. The first cigarette cartridge 20 includes a first flow path 20X, which is arranged downstream of the atomizing portion 22 and serves as an aerosol flow path extending along the predetermined direction A. It should be noted that, in the aerosol flow path, the side closer to the atomizing portion 22 is called the upstream side, and the side farther from the atomizing portion 22 is called the downstream side.

The storage unit 21 stores an aerosol source 21A. The storage unit 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A). In the embodiment, the storage unit 21 is located in the gap between the flow path forming body 23 and the outer frame 24. The storage unit 21 is composed of a porous body such as a resin mesh or cotton. However, the storage unit 21 can also be composed of a box that stores the liquid aerosol source 21A. The aerosol source 21A contains a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

The atomizing section 22 atomizes the aerosol source 21A by the power supplied from the battery 11 without combustion. In an embodiment, it is preferred that the atomizing section 22 is composed of a heating wire (coil) wound at a prescribed pitch, and the atomizing section 22 is composed of a heating wire having a resistance value in the range of 1.0Ω to 3.0Ω. The prescribed pitch is preferably a smaller value than the value at which the heating wires do not touch. The prescribed pitch is preferably, for example, less than 0.40 mm. In order to stably atomize the aerosol source 21A, the prescribed pitch is preferably a constant value. It should be noted that the prescribed pitch refers to the interval between the centers of adjacent heating wires.

The flow channel forming body 23 has a shape extending in the predetermined direction A. The flow channel forming body 23 has a cylindrical shape in which the first flow channel 20X extending in the predetermined direction A is formed.

The outer frame 24 has a shape extending in a predetermined direction A. The outer frame 24 has a cylindrical shape that accommodates the flow path forming body 23. In the embodiment, the outer frame 24 extends downstream of the end cap 25 and accommodates a portion of the second cartridge 30.

The end cap 25 is a cap that blocks the gap between the flow channel forming body 23 and the outer frame 24 from the downstream side. The end cap 25 prevents the aerosol source 21A stored in the storage unit 21 from leaking toward the second cartridge 30 .

As shown in Figures 5 and 6 , the second cartridge 30 includes at least a flavor source 31A. The second cartridge 30 is mounted on the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. In this embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is connected to the first cartridge 20. Specifically, a portion of the second cartridge 30 is housed within the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20 as described above.

The second cartridge 30 has a shape extending in a predetermined direction A. The second cartridge 30 includes a flavor source container 31, a mesh 32, a filter 33, and a cover 34. The second cartridge 30 includes a second flow path 30X as an aerosol flow path disposed downstream of the first flow path 20X.

The second cigarette cartridge 30 imparts aerosol flavor by passing through the aerosol, which is atomized by the atomizing unit 22. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the aerosol flavor can be imparted without heating the flavor source 31A. Furthermore, it should be noted that substantially no aerosol is generated from the flavor source 31A.

In the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably less than 40 mm. More preferably, in the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is less than 25 mm. On the other hand, in the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is more than 5 mm. More preferably, in the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is more than 1 mm. In the direction orthogonal to the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably less than 20 mm. More preferably, in the direction orthogonal to the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is 10 mm. On the other hand, in the direction orthogonal to the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably more than 3 mm. More preferably, in the direction orthogonal to the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is more than 1 mm.

The flavor source storage body 31 has a cylindrical shape and forms a second flow path 30X extending along the prescribed direction A. The flavor source storage body 31 stores a flavor source 31A. The flavor source 31A that imparts flavor to the aerosol is stored in the second flow path 30X. Here, on a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), in order to ensure the volume of the storage portion 21 for storing the aerosol source 21A, it is preferred that the size of the first flow path 20X is small. Therefore, when the second cigarette cartridge 30 is stored in an outer frame 24 having a certain cross-sectional area on the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), as a result, the size of the second flow path 30X is likely to be larger than the size of the above-mentioned first flow path 20X.

The flavor source 31A is composed of a raw material sheet that imparts flavor to the aerosol generated by the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. The lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less. The lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet is more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. Since the smaller the size of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A, the larger the specific surface area, it is easy to release aromatic odor components from the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A. As the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A, shredded tobacco or a granular formed body made by shaping the cigarette raw material can be used. The flavor source 31A can also be composed of plants other than cigarettes (for example, mint, vanilla, etc.). The flavor source 31A can also be given a flavoring such as menthol.

Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are obtained by, for example, sieving the raw material pieces using a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801 and conforming to JIS Z 8815. For example, the raw material pieces are sieved using a stainless steel sieve with a mesh size of 0.71 mm using a dry and mechanically vibrating method for 20 minutes, yielding raw material pieces that can pass through the 0.71 mm mesh. Next, the raw material pieces are sieved using a stainless steel sieve with a mesh size of 0.212 mm using a dry and mechanically vibrating method for 20 minutes, removing raw material pieces that can pass through the 0.212 mm mesh. In other words, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are those that can pass through a stainless steel sieve with a predetermined upper limit (mesh size = 0.71 mm) but cannot pass through a stainless steel sieve with a predetermined lower limit (mesh size = 0.212 mm). Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve with a predetermined lower limit. Note that the upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve that specifies the upper limit.

In an embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7 , the flavor source container 31 preferably has a protrusion 31E that protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A) toward the upstream side (in an embodiment, the flow path forming body 23 or the end cap 25). The protrusion 31E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh 32) of the flavor source container 31, or it may be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the flavor source container 31. It should be noted that if there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, the protrusion 31E is preferably provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh 32) of the flavor source container 31. This prevents aerosol from stagnating in the space formed upstream of the conical portion 31T.

In the embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7 , the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 preferably includes a tapered portion 31T that expands from upstream to downstream. The tapered portion 31T only needs to be included in a portion of the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31. The tapered angle α of the tapered portion 31T is, for example, approximately 5 degrees.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG7 , a rib 31R extending from upstream to downstream along a predetermined direction A is preferably provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source storage body 31. Although not particularly limited, the number of ribs 31R is preferably two or more. The downstream end of the rib 31R preferably does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source storage body 31. For example, in the predetermined direction A, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source storage body 31. In other words, when the filter 33 is inserted into the flavor source storage body 31, the downstream end of the rib 31R preferably does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source storage body 31 and is in contact with the filter 33.

The mesh 32 is arranged upstream (non-inhalation side) of the fragrance source 31A. In an embodiment, the mesh 32 is arranged at the upstream end of the fragrance source storage body 31. In the case where the mesh 32 is provided in a very small fragrance source storage body 31, from the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the mesh 32, the fragrance source storage body 31 and the mesh 32 are preferably formed by integral molding. That is, in an embodiment, the mesh 32 is a part of the fragrance source storage body 31. In such a case, the fragrance source storage body 31 and the mesh 32 are preferably made of resin. As the resin, for example, one or more resins selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene resin and ABS resin can be used. From the viewpoint of formability and texture, the resin is preferably polypropylene. The fragrance source storage body 31 and the mesh 32 are formed by mold molding or injection molding.

In an embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the mesh 32 has a plurality of openings 32A. Each of the openings 32A has a polygonal shape with an internal angle of 180° or less. Each of the openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin and a maximum width Wmax. The minimum width Wmin is the smallest width, and the maximum width Wmax is the largest width, as measured through the center of gravity of each of the openings 32A. The minimum width Wmin is smaller than the lower limit of the dimensions of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A. Specifically, since the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A is actually non-spherical, to prevent the raw material sheet from falling out, the minimum width Wmin is preferably smaller than half the lower limit of the dimensions of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A. The maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin. For example, the maximum width Wmax is preferably larger than the lower limit of the dimensions of the raw material sheet. Alternatively, the maximum width Wmax is preferably greater than times and less than six times the minimum width Wmin. In other words, each of the openings 32A has a shape other than a circle. More preferably, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a quadrilateral shape, as this makes it difficult for the raw material sheet to fit within the openings 32A. It should be noted that the sides of the quadrilateral shape of the openings 32A may include nonlinear portions generated during the manufacture of the openings 32A. Furthermore, the vertices of the quadrilateral shape of the openings 32A may also include curved portions generated during the manufacture of the openings 32A.

Here, as shown in Figures 9 to 12, it is preferred that each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, and an octagon. The plurality of openings 32A may each have a single shape as shown in Figures 9 to 11, or may have two shapes as shown in Figure 12. The plurality of openings 32A may each have three or more shapes. It should be noted that, from the perspectives of arrangement efficiency and ease of manufacturing of the plurality of openings 32A, it is preferred that each of the plurality of openings 32A has a quadrilateral shape.

In the examples shown in Figures 9 to 12, the plurality of openings 32A are preferably arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is preferably 0.15 mm to 0.30 mm. In such a case, the thickness of the mesh 32 is preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

Filter 33 is made of a predetermined fiber and has a coarseness that prevents the raw material sheet from passing through. Filter 33 is positioned downstream of fragrance source 31A. Filter 33 is, for example, an acetate filter. Cap 34 is positioned downstream of filter 33 (on the inhalation port side).

It should be noted that the flavor source container 31 (including the mesh 32 in this example), the filter 33 and the cover 34 are preferably bonded or welded to each other.

In the embodiment, it is preferred that all openings of the mesh 32 are the openings 32A described above, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The openings of the mesh 32 may include openings other than the openings 32A described above.

(Connection Status)

The following describes the connection between the first and second cigarette cartridges 20, 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 13 shows the connection between the first and second cigarette cartridges 20, 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 14 shows a cross-section taken along line C-C in Figure 13. However, it should be noted that Figure 13 omits the storage unit 21, atomizing unit 22, flavor source 31A, filter 33, and cap 34.

As shown in Figure 13, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X in order to prevent deviation of the aerosol flow within the second flow path 30X. In the embodiment, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source storage body 31. Specifically, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the end cap 25 and the mesh body 32.

Here, the filling rate of the flavor source 31A stored in the flavor source container 31 relative to the volume of the flavor source container 31 may not be 100%. In other words, it is conceivable that voids may be generated within the flavor source container 31. However, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is clearly different from the voids generated by the non-100% filling rate of the flavor source 31A.

In an embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X toward the outside of the first flow path 20X, when the displacement distance is the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A can also be determined by taking into account the maximum displacement distance among the displacement distances. In other words, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can also be determined based on the maximum displacement distance. From the perspective of suppressing deviation of the flow of the aerosol flowing within the flavor source storage body 31, the longer the maximum displacement distance, the longer the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. The length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is preferably at least 1/10 of the maximum displacement distance.

For example, as shown in Figure 14, on a cross section orthogonal to the prescribed direction A, when the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X are coaxial circles, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the prescribed direction A is determined according to the difference between the radius R1 of the first flow path 20X and the radius R2 of the second flow path 30X (i.e., the displacement distance).

In the embodiment, as described above, the flavor source container 31 includes a protrusion 31E. This protrusion 31E protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (here, the mesh 32) toward the upstream side (in the embodiment, the flow path forming body 23 or the end cap 25 side). In other words, the flavor source container 31 includes the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a partition that forms the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G.

In the embodiment, it is preferred that the entire downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) is exposed to the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. It is preferred that the entire upstream end of the flavor source storage body 31 (second flow path 30X) is exposed to the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. Thus, the flow of the aerosol guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X can be efficiently adjusted by the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G.

The aerosol flow adjustment chamber G preferably does not include any portion extending upstream from the downstream end of the flow channel forming member 23 (first flow channel 20X). The aerosol flow adjustment chamber G preferably does not include any portion extending downstream from the upstream end of the flavor source storage member 31 (second flow channel 30X). This prevents unnecessary stagnation of aerosol in the space.

Preferably, the inner wall surface constituting the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is continuous without a step from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) to the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source storage body 31 (second flow path 30X).

As shown in Figures 13 and 14 , in an embodiment, it is preferred that, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 contacts the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame 24, and the inner edge 25in of the end cap 25 is positioned between the outer edge 25out and the inner edge 25in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult for the end cap 25 to fall off from the downstream side. Furthermore, when the end cap 25 is positioned within the outer frame 24, it is less likely to interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

(Control Circuit)

Hereinafter, the control circuit of the embodiment will be mainly described. Fig. 15 is a diagram mainly showing the functional blocks of the control circuit 50 of the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 includes a notification unit 40 and a control circuit 50 .

The notification unit 40 provides various notifications. The notification unit 40 can be comprised of a light-emitting element, a vibration element, or a sound output element. Alternatively, the notification unit 40 can be a combination of two or more of these elements. The notification unit 40 is preferably located in the power supply unit 10, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The notification unit 40 can be located in either the first or second cartridge 20, 30.

The control circuit 50 includes a detection unit 51 , a notification control unit 52 , and a power control unit 53 .

The detection unit 51 detects puffing. In this case, the detection unit 51 is connected to a suction sensor and detects puffing based on the output of the suction sensor. Furthermore, the detection unit 51 detects the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. In this case, the detection unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on the wire connecting the battery 11 and the atomizing unit 22 and detects the power supply based on the output of the voltage sensor.

The notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify various information. For example, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. As described above, the notification unit 40 can notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 by emitting light from a light emitting element, by vibrating a vibration element, or by outputting sound from a sound output element.

Here, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. It should be noted that the number of puffs can be determined by the puffs detected by the detection unit 51. Similarly, the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 can be determined by the power supply detected by the detection unit 51.

Specifically, the notification control unit 52 includes a counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power to the atomizer 22. When the count value of counter 52X reaches a specified value, the notification control unit 52 detects when the second cartridge 30 should be replaced and resets the count value of counter 52X. It should be noted that the notification control unit 52 preferably resets the count value of counter 52X after the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Alternatively, when the count value of counter 52X reaches a specified value, the notification control unit 52 notifies the user of the replacement time for the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of counter 52X through a specified user operation. If a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for turning the power of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 on and off, or a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for controlling the power supply to the atomizer 22, is provided on the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1, the specified user operation may also be an operation of the hardware interface. Alternatively, if the detection unit 51 is capable of detecting puffs, the specified user operation may also be blowing air from the mouthpiece of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Alternatively, if the detection unit 51 is capable of detecting a puff action and can distinguish it from a normal puff action, the user's predetermined operation may be an inhalation action (e.g., two inhalations in a short period of time). The counter 52X may be a count-up counter or a count-down counter.

In an embodiment, the notification control unit 52 preferably controls the notification unit 40 so as to notify the user of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. In this case, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 reaches a predetermined number.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 preferably controls the notification unit 40 so as to notify the user of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 based on the detection of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11. In this case, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 based on the output voltage of the battery 11. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 when the output voltage of the battery 11 falls below a predetermined threshold.

However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the notification control unit 52 may also detect the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 may also detect the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 when the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

It should be noted that, similar to the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30, the notification unit 40 notifies the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20, the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 through the light emission of the light emitting element, the vibration of the vibration element or the output sound of the sound output element.

As an instruction to the battery 11, the power control unit 53 outputs a prescribed instruction to the battery 11, which is a prescribed instruction to the battery 11 in a manner that ensures that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range. The prescribed instruction can be output once for each puff. It should be noted that the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the puff period when a puff is being taken, and does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the non-puff period when a puff is not being taken. It should be noted that the puff period and the non-puff period can be identified by the puff detected by the detection unit 51 described above.

Here, the power control unit 53 controls the prescribed instruction so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 remains within a desired range. For example, the power control unit 53 changes the prescribed instruction as the battery 11's stored charge decreases. Furthermore, if a prescribed period of time has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In other words, even if the user is actually taking a puff, if the puff period exceeds the prescribed period, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22.

Furthermore, even before a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the puff, if the puff ends, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Thus, since aerosol is not generated during the period when no puff is being taken (the non-puff period), the generation of droplets due to aerosol stagnation and condensation in the aerosol flow path during the non-puff period can be suppressed. Furthermore, the aerosol generated by continued puffing during the non-puff period can be suppressed from accumulating as droplets. This can reduce the risk of preventing the supply of aerosol within the desired range and the deterioration of the inhaled flavor due to droplets.

Here, the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods. More preferably, the predetermined period is shorter than the average puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods. The average puff period is obviously shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period.

Because the prescribed period is determined to suppress variations in user puff durations, a certain number of users must have puff durations longer than the prescribed period. From this perspective, the prescribed period is preferably derived from statistics. Furthermore, by making the prescribed period shorter than the statistically derived average of puff durations, the energization time of the atomizing unit 22 for more than half of the puffs can be kept constant at the prescribed period, thereby suppressing fluctuations in the aerosol amount caused by variations in user puff durations.

For example, the prescribed period is between 1 second and 3 seconds. By setting the prescribed period to 1 second or longer, the energizing time of the atomizing unit 22 does not become too short compared to the puff period, thereby reducing the discomfort felt by the user. On the other hand, by setting the prescribed period to 3 seconds or shorter, the number of puffs during which the energizing time of the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the prescribed period can be maintained at a certain number or more.

Furthermore, the predetermined period may be between 1.5 seconds and 2.5 seconds, thereby further reducing the discomfort felt by the user and increasing the number of inhalation actions in which the energization time of the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period.

In the embodiment, the predetermined period is preferably determined in advance. In such a case, the predetermined period is preferably determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of a plurality of users.

It should be noted that the standard puff period can be derived from statistics of a user's puff periods and is the period between a lower limit value and an upper limit value among multiple users' puff periods. The lower and upper limits are based on the distribution of the user's puff period data. For example, they can be derived as the lower and upper limits of the 95% confidence interval of the mean value, or as m±nσ (where m is the mean value, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number).

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably controls the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 through pulse control. In this case, as a change in the prescribed instruction, the power control unit 53 preferably outputs an instruction to increase the power ratio output to the battery 11 during a single puff as the amount of power stored in the battery 11 decreases.

For example, as shown in FIG16 , the power control unit 53 controls the interval (pulse interval) of the closing time during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the power ratio output to the battery 11 during a single puff by changing the pulse interval P1 to the pulse interval P2.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG17 , the power control unit 53 controls the length of the closing time (pulse width) during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the power ratio output to the battery 11 during a single puff by changing the pulse width W1 to the pulse width W2.

Note that, as the change in the predetermined instruction, the power control unit 53 may increase the power ratio in stages or continuously as the amount of power stored in the battery 11 decreases.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the voltage output from the battery 11. Alternatively, the power control unit 53 may estimate the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. It should be noted that the number of puffs can be determined by the puffs detected by the detection unit 51. Similarly, the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 can be determined by the power supply detected by the detection unit 51.

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 after the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. In other words, the power control unit 53 preferably stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 after the notification of the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is received until the count value is reset. In other words, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is stopped until the second cigarette cartridge 30 is replaced. This prevents the use of the second cigarette cartridge 30, which can only deliver a small amount of flavor in aerosol.

(Control Method)

The following describes the control method of the embodiment. Figure 18 is a flow chart illustrating the control method of the embodiment. Figure 18 is a flow chart illustrating the method for controlling the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 during a single puff. It should be noted that the process shown in Figure 18 begins upon detection of the start of a puff.

It should be noted that, as a premise of the process shown in FIG. 18 , the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the puffing period in which the puffing action is performed, but does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the non-puffing period in which the puffing action is not performed.

18 , in step S10, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (ie, the power control unit 53) estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11. The non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 preferably estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the voltage value output from the battery 11 as described above.

In step S20, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines a predetermined instruction (e.g., a power ratio) to be output to the battery 11. Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 determines the power ratio to be output to the battery 11 so that the power ratio increases as the amount of power stored in the battery 11 decreases. In other words, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 outputs an instruction to increase the power ratio as a change to the predetermined instruction.

In step S30, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. In other words, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 determines whether the puffing period has exceeded the predetermined period. If the determination result is YES, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S50; if the determination result is NO, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S40.

In step S40, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether the puffing action has ended. If the determination result is NO, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 returns to step S30. If the determination result is YES, the power supply to the atomization unit 22 is stopped, thus ending the series of steps. It should be noted that, as described above, if the detection unit 51 is capable of detecting the puffing action, the end of the puffing action can also be detected by the detection unit 51. Alternatively, the end of the puffing action can be detected by operating a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) that switches the power supply to the atomization unit 22.

In step S50 , even during the puff period when the user is actually taking a puff, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (ie, the power control unit 53 ) stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 .

(Function and effect)

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. The predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of user puff periods. Therefore, even if a user uses the non-combustion flavor inhaler with a puff period longer than the predetermined period, an extreme decrease in the battery 11's charge level can be suppressed, making it easier to control the predetermined indication so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 remains within a desired range.

In this way, the amount of aerosol supplied to each puff action can be kept within the desired range through the puff action from the start of smoking (the initial stage when the battery 11 has sufficient power) to the end of smoking (i.e., the final stage when the battery 11 has reduced power). This is independent of the length of the user's puff period and the power storage level of the battery 11.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 changes the specified instruction output to the battery 11 during a single puff as the battery 11's charge level decreases. This can suppress the difference in the amount of power actually supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 between the initial stage, when the battery 11's charge level is sufficient, and the final stage, when the battery 11's charge level is insufficient. This allows the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 to be kept within a desired range, regardless of the length of the user's puff or the battery 11's charge level.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Therefore, it is easy to detect the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. Furthermore, the possibility of the lifespan of the first cartridge 20 being exhausted during use of the second cartridge 30 can be reduced. It should be noted that the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 obviously corresponds to the number of second cartridges 30 that can be used relative to one first cartridge 20 (the number of replacements).

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 so as to notify the user of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 based on the detection of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11.

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 after the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. Therefore, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is stopped until the second cigarette cartridge 30 is replaced. This prevents the use of the second cigarette cartridge 30, which can only deliver a small amount of flavor in the aerosol.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the prescribed indication so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range, and stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 after a prescribed period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. Therefore, because the variation in the amount of power consumed per puff is reduced, the accuracy of detecting the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 can be improved when detecting the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the number of puffs.

In the embodiment, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X in order to prevent deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path 30X. This facilitates the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X to pass through the flavor source in the second flow path 30X without deviation.

In the embodiment, the storage portion 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A). This allows the full length of the first cigarette cartridge 20 to be reduced along the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A) while ensuring the volume of the storage portion 21 for storing the aerosol source 21A.

In this embodiment, the second flow path 30X is larger than the first flow path 20X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A). In other words, because the first flow path 20X is smaller in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the volume of the reservoir 21 surrounding the flow path forming member 23 can be maintained. The larger size of the second flow path 30X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) allows for efficient extraction of aromatic components from the fragrance source 31A.

In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 contacts the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame 24, while the inner edge 25in of the end cap 25 is positioned between the outer edge 25out and the inner edge 25in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult for the end cap 25 to fall off from the downstream side. Furthermore, when the end cap 25 is positioned within the outer frame 24, it is less likely to interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

In this embodiment, on a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X toward the outside of the first flow path 20X, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A is determined based on the maximum displacement distance among the displacement distances, with the displacement distance being the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X. Thus, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can be used to appropriately adjust the flow of the aerosol guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X, thereby facilitating the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X to pass through the flavor source 31A within the second cartridge 30 without deviation.

In this embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A provided in the mesh 32 has a polygonal shape with an internal angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin, which is the width passing through the center of gravity of each opening 32A, and a maximum width Wmax, which is the maximum width. Since the minimum width Wmin is smaller than the size of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A, the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A can be prevented from falling off. Furthermore, since the maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin, the overall open area ratio of the mesh can be increased.

As described above, in the second cartridge 30 for the non-combustion type flavor inhaler, it is possible to ensure the overall opening rate of the mesh body 32 while suppressing the falling of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source.

In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the openings 32A is larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A. Therefore, the overall opening ratio of the mesh 32 is increased.

In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the opening 32A is greater than or equal to 10 times and less than or equal to 6 times the minimum width Wmin of the opening 32A. Therefore, by making the maximum width Wmax greater than or equal to 10 times the minimum width Wmin, the overall opening ratio of the mesh 32 can be increased, and by making the maximum width Wmax less than or equal to 6 times the minimum width Wmin, the strength of the mesh 32 can be maintained.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, and an octagon. The plurality of openings 32A are arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is not less than 0.15 mm and not more than 0.30 mm. This allows for efficient arrangement of the plurality of openings 32A, increasing the overall porosity of the mesh 32 while maintaining the strength of the mesh 32.

In the embodiment, ribs 31R are provided on the inner wall surface of the fragrance source storage body 31, extending from upstream to downstream in a predetermined direction A. Thus, while the ribs 31R reinforce the fragrance source storage body 31, the flow of aerosol in the predetermined direction A within the fragrance source storage body 31 is not hindered by the ribs 31R, thereby facilitating extraction of aromatic components from the fragrance source 31A.

In this embodiment, the outer wall of the flavor source container 31 includes a conical portion 31T that expands from upstream to downstream. Therefore, the second pod 30 is easily fitted into the outer frame 24 of the first pod 20, while allowing for manufacturing errors in the outer shape of the flavor source container 31 and preventing the second pod 30 from falling out.

In the embodiment, the length L2 from the mesh 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R in the predetermined direction A is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, the downstream end of the rib 31R contacts the filter 33 without reaching the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. Therefore, the rib 31R reinforces the flavor source container 31 while also serving to position the filter 33.

[Variation 1]

Hereinafter, a first modification of the embodiment will be described, with the following mainly describing points different from the embodiment.

Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 includes the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a partition forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. In contrast, in Modification 1, the flavor source container 31 does not include the protrusion 31E.

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing the connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 of Modification 1. However, it should be noted that the storage unit 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted in Fig. 19 .

As shown in Figure 19 , the flavor source storage body 31 includes a main body 31P that houses a flavor source 31A, and a flange 31Q disposed on a side surface of the main body 31P. It should be noted that, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the flange 31Q extends outward from the main body 31P and extends outward to the same extent as the inner surface of the outer frame 24. In Figure 19 , the flange 31Q is disposed on the side surface of the downstream end of the main body 31P, but this is not limiting. In embodiments where the flange 31Q engages with the inner surface of the outer frame 24, it may be disposed anywhere on the side surface of the main body 31P.

Here, the distance L3 from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the end cap 25 (i.e., the distance from the portion of the outer frame 24 where the flange 31Q contacts the downstream end of the end cap 25) is longer than the length L4 of the main body 31P (i.e., the distance from the upstream end of the flange 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P). Therefore, by having the flange 31Q engage the downstream end of the outer frame 24, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed, even if the flavor source storage body 31 does not have the protrusion 31E. This aerosol flow adjustment chamber G adjusts the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X.

It should be noted that when the first cigarette cartridge 20 does not have an end cap 25, the distance from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (i.e., the distance from the part where the outer frame 24 abuts the flange portion 31Q to the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23) is longer than the length of the main body 31P (i.e., the distance from the upstream end of the flange portion 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P).

[Variation 2]

A second modification of the embodiment will be described below, with the main differences from the embodiment being described below.

Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 includes the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a partition forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. In contrast, in Modification 2, the flavor source container 31 does not include the protrusion 31E.

Figure 20 shows the connected state of the first and second cigarette cartridges 20 and 30 in Modification 2. However, it should be noted that Figure 20 omits the storage unit 21, atomizing unit 22, flavor source 31A, filter 33, and cap 34. The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end (preferably the outer edge) of the flavor source container 31.

As shown in Figure 20, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (the flavor source storage body 31 side). The protrusion 25E can be provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25, or it can be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the end cap 25. It should be noted that when there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source storage body 31, the protrusion 25E is preferably provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25. This can prevent aerosol from stagnating in the space formed in the upstream portion of the conical portion 31T.

By providing the protrusion 25E in place of the protrusion 31E, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G that adjusts the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is formed even if the flavor source storage body 31 does not include the protrusion 31E.

It should be noted that when the first cigarette cartridge 20 does not have an end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 has a protrusion that is the same as the protrusion 25E, which protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 on a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (flavor source storage body 31 side).

[Variation 3]

A third modification of the embodiment will be described below, with the following mainly focusing on differences from the embodiment.

Specifically, in the embodiment, the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X completely overlap when viewed from the predetermined direction A. In addition, the second flow path 30X is preferably larger than the first flow path 20X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (the predetermined direction A).

In contrast, as shown in FIG21 , in Modification 3, when viewed from the predetermined direction A, the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X do not completely overlap, but are displaced from the second flow path 30X. In this case, the size of the second flow path 30X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (the predetermined direction A) is not particularly limited and may be approximately the same as or smaller than the size of the first flow path 20X. However, the size of the second flow path 30X may also be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

[Variation 4]

The following describes a fourth variation of the embodiment with reference to Figures 22 to 25 . The following primarily describes differences from the embodiment. In Figures 22 to 25 , the vertical axis represents the amount of aerosol (in Figures 22 to 25 , this is TPM (Total Particulate Matter)) (mg/puff), and the horizontal axis represents the number of puffs (Puff number). The farther away from the intersection of the two axes, the larger the values represented by the vertical and horizontal axes.

In the fourth modification, similar to the embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. The predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods.

It should be noted that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 depends on the puff duration of the user's actual puff and the output voltage to the battery 11. For this description, it can be assumed that the standard puff duration, derived from the statistics of the user's puff duration, follows a normal distribution with a mean of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second. In this case, the upper limit of the standard puff duration is derived as m + nσ (where m is the mean, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number) as described above, and is, for example, approximately 3 to 4 seconds.

In sample E, the default value of the output voltage of the battery 11 is 4.2V, and the battery capacity of the battery 11 is 220mAh. In addition, the atomization section 22 is composed of a wound heating wire, and the resistance value of the heating wire is 3.5Ω. In Figure 22, sample E1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds per puff action, and sample E2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds per puff action. It should be noted here that, when the standard puff period is normally distributed with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second, the probability of inhaling with a puff period of more than 3 seconds per puff action as shown in sample E2 is approximately 27%, which is a very likely phenomenon.

In sample F, the structure of the battery 11 and the atomization unit 22 is the same as that of sample E. In Figure 23, sample F1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample F is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds per puff action, and sample F2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample F is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds per puff action. However, in samples F1 and F2, when a prescribed period (here, 2.2 seconds) has passed after the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. It should be noted here that the prescribed period of 2.2 seconds is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period, and is also shorter than the average value of the puff period.

In sample G, the structure of the battery 11 is the same as that of samples E and F. On the other hand, the atomization section 22 is composed of a heating wire wound at a predetermined pitch, and is different from samples E and F in that the resistance value of the heating wire is 2.9Ω. In Figure 24, sample G1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample G is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds per puff action, and sample G2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample G is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds per puff action. However, in samples G1 and G2, when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization section 22, the power control section 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization section 22.

In Sample H, the structure of the battery 11 and atomizing section 22 is identical to that of Sample G. However, the prescribed pitch of the heating wire constituting the atomizing section 22 is uniformly wound within a range of 0.35 mm to 0.40 mm, narrower than that of Sample G. In Figure 25 , Sample H1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol produced when Sample H is inhaled with a puff duration of 2 seconds per puff, while Sample H2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol produced when Sample H is inhaled with a puff duration of 3 seconds per puff. Furthermore, in Samples H1 and H2, as in Sample G, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 after a prescribed period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing section 22. However, in Samples H1 and H2, the power ratio for the power supply to the atomizing section 22 is modified based on the output voltage of the battery 11 detected by the detection unit 51. Specifically, as described above, the output voltage of the battery 11 decreases as the amount of electricity stored in the battery 11 decreases. Therefore, the power ratio of the electric power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 increases in accordance with the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11.

As shown in Figure 22, under these conditions, for Sample E, where the puff period and the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 are consistent regardless of the puff period, the aerosol amount fluctuates significantly between the 3-second and 2-second puff periods. Furthermore, a comparison of the slopes of Samples E1 and E2 reveals that the longer the puff period, i.e., the power supply time, the more pronounced the change in aerosol amount from the first to the last puff.

In light of these results, the inventors set a prescribed duration shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff duration derived from statistics of user puff durations. When the prescribed duration has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 during a single puff, the inventors stopped the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. As shown in FIG23 , the inventors discovered that this approach could suppress fluctuations in the aerosol amount from the first puff to the last puff for sample F2, which had a puff duration of 3 seconds. This suppressed fluctuations in the aerosol amount caused by variations in the user's puff duration.

Furthermore, the inventors, focusing on these results, modified the structure of the atomizing section 22 so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 remains within a desired range when the atomizing section 22 is powered for a predetermined period. As shown in FIG24 , they discovered that this approach allowed the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 to remain within the desired range over a longer period of puffs, from the first to the last puff. Comparing sample G2, shown in FIG24 , with sample F2, shown in FIG23 , sample G2 maintained the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 within the desired range over a longer period of puffs than sample F2. Meanwhile, the variation in the aerosol amount from the first to the last puff was greater than that of sample F2. This is because the modified structure of the atomizing section 22 increased the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 during a single puff.

Furthermore, the inventors, focusing on these results, discovered that the rate of aerosol reduction could be reduced by making the following changes. Specifically, by increasing the power ratio of the electricity supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in response to a decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11, the rate of aerosol reduction could be reduced. Furthermore, by narrowing the prescribed pitch of the heating wire, the rate of aerosol reduction could also be reduced. As shown in Figure 25, it was discovered that these changes allowed both H1, with a puff period of 2 seconds, and H2, with a puff period of 3 seconds, to keep the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 within the desired range throughout the entire period from the first puff to the last puff.

Based on these results, the inventors have obtained a new finding that the following control is effective for the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 .

(1) When a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. Here, the predetermined period of time is preferably shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods and shorter than the average value of the puff periods.

(2) The resistance value of the heating wire of the atomizing section 22 is determined so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 is within a desired range when the atomizing section 22 is energized for a predetermined period of time. Here, the resistance value of the heating wire is preferably determined so that the voltage supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 is the voltage at the end of the period when the battery 11 has insufficient power, and so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 is within a desired range when the atomizing section 22 is energized for a predetermined period of time.

(3) Furthermore, the power control unit 53 increases the power ratio of the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in accordance with the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11 so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 is within a desired range throughout the period from the first puff to the last puff.

The above-described control makes it easy to keep the aerosol amount within a desired range from the initial stage when the battery 11 has sufficient charge to the final stage when the battery 11 has insufficient charge, regardless of the length of the user's puff period.

That is, in variant example four, by adjusting the prescribed pitch and resistance value of the heating wire constituting the atomization section 22, the atomization section 22 is configured so that, at least when the atomization section 22 starts to be used (in other words, when the battery 11 is fully charged), an amount of aerosol greater than the expected range of aerosol supply in one inhalation action can be atomized.

Under this premise, the prescribed instruction (here, the power ratio) output from the power control unit 53 is determined based on the length of the prescribed period so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 within the prescribed period remains within a desired range. In other words, by determining the prescribed period, the prescribed instruction is determined based on the length of the prescribed period while suppressing fluctuations in the amount of aerosol caused by variations in the length of the user's puff period. Therefore, the aerosol amount can be easily maintained within the desired range from the initial stage (start of puff) when the battery 11 has sufficient charge to the final stage (end of puff) when the battery 11 has insufficient charge, regardless of the length of the user's puff period.

In the fourth variation, the upper limit of the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 (desired range) is preferably 4.0 mg/puff. More preferably, the upper limit is 3.0 mg/puff. By setting the upper limit to this value, degradation of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A housed in the second cartridge 30 is suppressed.

On the other hand, the lower limit of the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 (desirable range) is preferably 0.1 mg per puff. By setting the lower limit to this value, an amount of aerosol can be supplied without causing the user to feel insufficient, and aromatic components can be extracted from the flavor source 31A housed in the second cartridge 30 through the aerosol.

[Variant 5]

A fifth modification of the embodiment will be described below, with the following mainly describing points different from the embodiment.

In the above embodiment, the predetermined period is determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of a plurality of users. In contrast, in a fifth modification, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of puff periods of users who actually use the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

Fig. 26 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to Modification 5. In Fig. 26 , the same components as those in Fig. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description of the same components as those in Fig. 15 will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 26 , the control circuit 50 includes a memory 54 and a calculation unit 55 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 15 .

The memory 54 stores the puff period, which is the period during which the user performs the puff action.

The calculation unit 55 calculates the predetermined period from the statistics of the puff periods stored in the memory 54. That is, the predetermined period is derived from the statistics of the puff periods stored in the memory 54. However, it should be noted that the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period.

For example, the calculation unit 55 calculates the predetermined period in the following procedure.

First, in the initial setting, similarly to the above-described embodiment, a predetermined period (1 second) is determined in advance based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of a plurality of users.

Second, for example, an average value is derived from statistics of puff periods detected within a certain period (for example, from the start of use of the first cartridge 20 to replacement of the first cartridge 20).

Third, the predetermined period is changed to an average value (X seconds).

Fourth, the power ratio is changed so that the amount of power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 after X seconds of aspiration is equal to the amount of power supplied during the initial setting (after 1 second of aspiration). Specifically, if the average value (X) is less than the initial setting (I), the power ratio corresponding to each battery voltage is relatively increased. On the other hand, if the average value (X) is greater than the initial setting (I), the power ratio is reduced.

It should be noted that the predetermined period is preferably calculated again after every certain period (for example, when the first cigarette cartridge 20 is replaced).

(Function and effect)

In the fifth variation, the prescribed period is derived from statistics of puff periods by users who actually use the non-combustion-type flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the prescribed period used as a reference when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, by setting a prescribed time tailored to the user's actual puff period, compared to using a prescribed period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users, users with long puff periods can experience less discomfort by supplying aerosol throughout their entire puff period. Users with short puff periods can also increase the number of puffs required to deliver a desired range of aerosol.

[Variation 6]

A sixth modification of the embodiment will be described below, with the main differences from the embodiment being described below.

In the above embodiment, the predetermined period is determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users. In contrast, in a sixth modification, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of puff periods of users who actually use the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

Fig. 27 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to Modification 6. In Fig. 27 , the same components as those in Fig. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions of the same components as those in Fig. 15 are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 27 , the control circuit 50 includes a memory 54 and an interface 56 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 15 .

The memory 54 stores the puff period, which is the period during which the user performs the puff action.

The interface 56 is provided separately from the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 and is used to communicate with the external device 200. The interface 56 may be a USB port, a wired LAN module, a wireless LAN module, or a short-range communication module (e.g., Bluetooth or Felica). The external device 200 may be a personal computer or a smartphone.

Specifically, the interface 56 transmits the puff period stored in the memory 54 to the external device 200. The interface 56 receives the predetermined period calculated based on the statistics of the puff period from the external device 200 via the external device 200.

Note that the external device 200 calculates the predetermined period in the same manner as the calculation unit 55 of the fifth modification.

(Function and effect)

In the sixth variation, the prescribed period is derived from statistics of puff periods by users who actually use the non-combustion-type flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the prescribed period used as a reference when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, by setting a prescribed time tailored to the user's actual puff period, compared to using a prescribed period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users, users with long puff periods can experience a less uncomfortable feeling by supplying aerosol throughout their entire puff period. Users with short puff periods can also increase the number of puffs that deliver a desired aerosol range.

[Variant Example 7]

A seventh modification of the embodiment will be described below, with the differences from the embodiment being mainly described below.

In the above-described embodiment, the notification control unit 52 includes a counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power supplied to the atomizing unit 22. In contrast, in a seventh modification, as shown in FIG28 , the notification control unit 52 includes a first counter 52A and a second counter 52B as the counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power supplied to the atomizing unit 22.

It should be noted that in the seventh modification, the life of the first cartridge 20 is the life of the second cartridge 30 × T (T is an integer) + β. It should be noted that β is a value smaller than the life of the second cartridge 30, but is not particularly limited thereto.

When the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30. When the count value of the second counter 52B reaches a second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value.

Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing of replacing the second cartridge 30 and increments the count value of the second counter 52B. Thus, when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches a predetermined value Q, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing of replacing the first cartridge 20. That is, similar to the above embodiment, when the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 reaches a predetermined number (predetermined value Q), the notification control unit 52 detects the timing of replacing the first cartridge 20.

It should be noted that, by making the second predetermined value an integral multiple of the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 .

In the seventh variation, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing of replacing the second cartridge 30 and reset the count value of the first counter 52A. Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing of replacing the second cartridge 30 and reset the count value of the first counter 52A through a predetermined user operation. In such a case, preferably, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 after the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value until the count value is reset.

In the seventh variation, when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing of replacing the first cartridge 20 and reset the count value of the second counter 52B. Alternatively, when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing of replacing the first cartridge 20 and reset the count value of the second counter 52B through a predetermined user operation. In such a case, preferably, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 after the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value until the count value is reset.

(Function and effect)

In the seventh modification, since the second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value, even when the second cartridge 30 is replaced repeatedly, the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 is notified at the same time, thereby improving user convenience.

[Variant 8]

Hereinafter, an eighth modification of the embodiment will be described, with the following mainly describing the differences from the embodiment.

In the eighth modification, a package including a first cartridge and a second cartridge will be described. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to the eighth modification.

As shown in FIG29 , a package 300 includes a first cigarette cartridge 20 and a second cigarette cartridge 30. The number of second cigarette cartridges 30 is determined based on the lifespan of the first cigarette cartridge 20. For example, the package 300 shown in FIG29 includes one first cigarette cartridge 20 and five second cigarette cartridges 30. In other words, the number of second cigarette cartridges 30 is determined so that, once all five second cigarette cartridges 30 are used up, the lifespan of one first cigarette cartridge 20 is fully utilized.

Specifically, the number of puffs allowed by the first cartridge 20, i.e., the allowed number of puffs, or the allowed power-on time, i.e., the allowed power-on time, is determined in the first cartridge 20. The allowed number of puffs and the allowed power-on time are values for suppressing the depletion of the aerosol source 21A. In other words, the allowed number of puffs and the allowed power-on time are upper limits for stably supplying the aerosol source 21A to the atomization unit 22 and for atomizing appropriate aerosols. The timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 is determined to be the time when the number of puffs or the power-on time of the atomization unit 22 reaches a specified value. The number of second cartridges 30 is the integer part of the quotient obtained by dividing the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time by the specified value. Here, the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time may not be divisible by the specified value. In other words, the life of the first cartridge 20 may be a life that is surplus to the number of second cartridges 30.

Alternatively, the second cigarette cartridge 30 may be replaced when the number of puffs or the duration of power to the atomizer 22 reaches a first predetermined value. The first cigarette cartridge 20 may be replaced when the number of puffs or the duration of power to the atomizer 22 reaches a second predetermined value. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple T of the first predetermined value. The integer multiple T is the number of second cigarette cartridges 30 contained in the package 300.

(Function and effect)

In the eighth variation, the number of second cartridges 30 is determined based on the lifespan of the first cartridge 20. Therefore, even when the second cartridge 30 is repeatedly replaced, the replacement timing of the first and second cartridges 20, 30 is consistent, thereby improving user convenience. In other words, by using up the second cartridges 30 contained in the package 300, the user can easily determine when to replace the first cartridge 20.

[Other embodiments]

The present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, but the description and drawings forming part of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operational techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

In the embodiment, the first cigarette cartridge 20 has an end cap 25, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, if the storage portion 21 has a structure (e.g., a box) that can suppress leakage of the aerosol source 21A, the first cigarette cartridge 20 may not have the end cap 25. In such a case, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source storage body 31.

In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is housed in the first cartridge 20 (protrusion 25E), but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the power supply unit 10 may be housed in both the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30. Alternatively, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 may be connected via opposing end surfaces. In this case, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are connected, for example, by threaded engagement.

Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the end cap 25 is preferably joined to the storage portion 21 in order to suppress refilling of the storage portion 21 by the aerosol source 21A.

In the embodiment, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (toward the flavor source container 31). However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In the absence of the end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 may also have a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (toward the flavor source container 31). The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end (e.g., the outer edge of the upstream end) of the flavor source container 31.

In the embodiment, the atomizing section 22 is exemplified as a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The shape of the heating wire constituting the atomizing section 22 is arbitrary.

In the embodiment, the atomizing unit 22 is described as being composed of a heating wire. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The atomizing unit 22 may atomize the aerosol source 21A using ultrasound.

In the embodiment, the first cigarette cartridge 20 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, an atomization unit having a storage portion 21 and an atomization portion 22 may be provided in the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 in place of the first cigarette cartridge 20, and the atomization unit may not be replaced.

In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Specifically, a flavor source unit including the flavor source 31A may be provided in the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 in place of the second cartridge 30, and the flavor source unit may not be replaced. However, if the second cartridge 30 is an essential feature, this is not the case.

In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, the structure of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 can also be provided in the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

In the embodiment, the package 300 includes one first cigarette cartridge 20 . However, the embodiment is not limited thereto and the package 300 may include two or more first cigarette cartridges 20 .

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the pulse control based on the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may also control the output voltage of the battery 11. In such a case, as a change in the prescribed instruction, the power control unit 53 may output an instruction to increase the indicated voltage output to the battery 11 as the amount of power stored in the battery 11 decreases.

In the embodiment, as a change to the prescribed instruction, the power control unit 53 outputs an instruction to increase the power ratio output to the battery 11 during a single puff as the battery 11's stored charge decreases. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. As a change to the prescribed instruction, the power control unit 53 may also output an instruction to extend the prescribed period for stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 as the battery 11's stored charge decreases.

In the embodiment, the detection unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on the wire connecting the battery 11 and the atomization unit 22, and detects the power supply based on the output of the voltage sensor. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the detection unit 51 may also be connected to a current sensor provided on the wire connecting the battery 11 and the atomization unit 22, and detect the power supply based on the output of the current sensor.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the puffing period, and does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the non-puffing period, when puffing is not taking place. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may also switch the power output to the atomizing unit 22 based on the operation of a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for outputting power to the atomizing unit 22. In other words, the puffing action and the non-puffing action may be switched based on the operation of the hardware interface.

Industrial applicability

According to the present invention, a non-combustion type flavor inhaler can be provided in which aerosol supplied from the first flow path easily passes through the flavor source in the second cigarette cartridge without being deviated.

Claims (11)

1. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The fragrance source receiver has a first protrusion as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber. The first protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end of the fragrance source receiver on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path towards the flow path forming body side. 2. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The first cartridge has: a cylindrical outer frame housing the flow path forming body, and an end cap that blocks the gap between the flow path forming body and the outer frame body from the downstream side. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the end cap and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiver. The fragrance source receiver has a first protrusion as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber. The first protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end of the fragrance source receiver on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path toward the end cap side. 3. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The first cartridge has an outer frame, which has a cylindrical shape for receiving the flow path forming body. The outer frame extends downstream of the flow path form and houses at least a portion of the fragrance source receiver. The fragrance source receiver includes: a main body portion for receiving the fragrance source and a flange portion disposed on the side of the main body portion. The distance from the portion where the outer frame abuts the flange to the downstream end of the flow path forming body is longer than the distance from the upstream end of the flange to the upstream end of the body. 4. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The first cartridge has: a cylindrical outer frame housing the flow path forming body, and an end cap that blocks the gap between the flow path forming body and the outer frame body from the downstream side. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the end cap and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiver. The outer frame extends downstream of the end cap and houses at least a portion of the fragrance source receiver. The fragrance source receiver includes: a main body portion for receiving the fragrance source and a flange portion disposed on the side of the main body portion. The distance from the portion of the outer frame that abuts against the flange to the downstream end of the end cap is longer than the distance from the upstream end of the flange to the upstream end of the body. 5. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The flow path forming body has a second protrusion as a spacer for the aerosol flow adjustment chamber. The second protrusion protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path toward the fragrance source receiving body. 6. A non-combustible aroma extractor, characterized in that it comprises: An atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; It is configured as an aerosol flow path extending in a predetermined direction in a first flow path that is downstream of the atomizing section; As the aerosol flow path, it is configured in a second flow path that is downstream of the first flow path; A first smoke cartridge having at least the aforementioned atomizing section; The second cartridge is connected to the first cartridge; The second flow path contains a fragrance source for imparting fragrance to the aerosol. Between the first flow path and the second flow path, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber is provided to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path in order to suppress deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path. The first cartridge has a flow path forming body, which has a cylindrical shape forming the first flow path. The second e-cigarette cartridge has a flavor source receiver that houses the flavor source and forms the second flow path. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiving body. The first and second e-cigarette cartridges are each replaceable. The first cartridge has: a cylindrical outer frame housing the flow path forming body, and an end cap that blocks the gap between the flow path forming body and the outer frame body from the downstream side. The aerosol flow conditioning chamber is formed between the end cap and the upstream end of the fragrance source receiver. The end cap has a second protrusion as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber, the second protrusion protruding from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap on a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path toward the fragrance source receiver. 7. The non-combustible aroma extractor as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Equipped with a storage unit for storing the aerosol source, The storage section is located around the flow path forming body in a cross section orthogonal to the first flow path. 8. The non-combustible aroma extractor as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, In a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path, the size of the second flow path is larger than the size of the first flow path. 9. The non-combustible aroma extractor as described in any one of claims 2, 4, and 6, characterized in that, In a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path, the outer edge of the end cap is in contact with the inner wall surface of the outer frame, and the inner edge of the end cap is located between the outer edge of the flow path forming body and the inner edge of the flow path forming body. 10. The non-combustible aroma extractor as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, On a cross section orthogonal to the specified direction, on a straight line from the center of gravity of the first flow path toward the outside of the first flow path, when the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path to the outer surface of the second flow path is taken as the displacement distance, the length of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber in the specified direction is determined based on the maximum displacement distance among the displacement distances. 11. The non-combustible aroma extractor as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The length of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber is more than 1/10 of the maximum displacement distance.