WO2024080175A1

WO2024080175A1 - Aerosol inhalation cartridge, and sealing member and sealing mechanism therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2024080175A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/035830
Authority: WO
Inventors: 凱鵬劉
Original assignee: ＦｕｔｕｒｅＴｅｃｈｎｏｌｏｇｙ株式会社
Priority date: 2022-10-14
Filing date: 2023-10-02
Publication date: 2024-04-18

Abstract

Provided is a sealing member for an aerosol inhalation cartridge that makes it possible to ensure both heating stability and aeration. A sealing member (1) has: a body (11) that is of cylindrical form as a whole; and one or more openings (12) formed perpendicularly in the bottom of the sealing member. The sealing member is characterized in that: a circle forming the bottom is closed off over a portion or the entirety of the body along the height thereof in at least a 0.5-mm radial range from the center of the circle; and the openings are formed so as to surround the closed-off location.

Description

Aerosol suction cartridge and sealing member and sealing mechanism thereof

The present invention relates to an induction heating type aerosol suction cartridge and the sealing member and sealing mechanism used therein.

In recent years, tobacco products that use a method of heating a tobacco cartridge containing tobacco ingredients and inhaling the vaporized tobacco ingredients without using a flame have become widely known. In addition, due to the diversification of tastes, aerosol inhalation cartridges that use cartridge products to enjoy the aroma and flavor of plants that do not contain tobacco ingredients, without using a flame, just like tobacco, are also becoming known.

Such an aerosol suction cartridge generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol-forming substrate on which a filling material is accumulated. As a method for heating an aerosol-forming substrate, (1) a method (blade heating type) in which an aerosol suction cartridge is inserted into a heating blade installed inside a heating device and the filling material is heated by electrically heating the heating blade (see, for example, Patent Document 1), as well as (2) a method (induction heating type) in which an induction heating member, which is a component mainly composed of a ferromagnetic material, is provided inside the aerosol-forming substrate in advance, and an alternating magnetic field generated by an induction heating device D generates hysteresis loss and Joule heat inside the induction heating member, heating it (induction heating), thereby heating the filling material (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Figure 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an induction heating type aerosol suction cartridge 100 that uses a conventional aerosol-forming substrate 101. The aerosol suction cartridge 100 is formed into a cylindrical shape by linearly arranging a sealing member 108, an aerosol-forming substrate 101, a support member 105, and a mouthpiece 106 and wrapping the sealing member 108 with an exterior member 107.

The aerosol suction cartridge 100 has an elongated cylindrical shape overall, and is made up of an aerosol-forming substrate 101 that contains an accumulation of filler 104 that generates an aerosol when heated, a support member 105 that prevents the aerosol-forming substrate 101 from moving and the exterior member 107 from bending, a mouthpiece 106 that allows airflow from the aerosol-forming substrate 101 to pass through and allows the user to inhale the aerosol, and a cylindrical sealing member 108 that is placed at the opposite end of the mouthpiece 106. These are arranged along the longitudinal direction and are integrally formed by being wrapped in a cylindrical shape with the sheet-like exterior member 107. Here, the exterior member 107 is made of a flexible material such as paper, and the sealing member 108 and the support member 105 are made of paper, resin such as plastic, or rubber such as silicone.

The aerosol-forming substrate 101 is a cylindrical container 103 with an opening in the center, and a filler 104 is stored in the container 104. An induction heating member 102 for induction heating is inserted into the filler 104. The induction heating member 102 is arranged along the height of the cylinder, and its length is approximately the same as the longitudinal length of the container 103, i.e., the length of the aerosol-forming substrate 101, and the container 101 is physically close to the support member 105 and the seal member 108.

In the case of the induction heating type, the aerosol-forming substrate 101 of the aerosol suction cartridge 100 is inserted from the sealing member 108 side into the insertion port D1 of the induction heating device D as shown in FIG. 10 and heated. The temperature sensor D2 of the induction heating device D is installed directly below the insertion port D1, which is located directly below the center of the cylinder when the aerosol suction cartridge 100 is inserted. The sealing member 108 appropriately transmits the heat generated by the induction heating member 102, thereby optimizing the operation of the temperature sensor D2. In other words, if the sealing member 108 is not present or the induction heating member 133 and the temperature sensor are close to each other, the heat generated by the induction heating member 102 will be excessively transmitted to the temperature sensor, and the temperature sensor D2 may react and stop the operation of the induction heating device D before sufficient aerosol is generated. On the other hand, if the heat is shielded more than necessary or distanced, the temperature sensor D2 will not react, and the induction heating device D will operate more than necessary, which may lead to an accident or malfunction.

Also, to ensure the breathability of the aerosol suction cartridge 100, a vent hole is formed in the sealing member 108. However, if this hole is too large, the temperature sensor will overreact as mentioned above, and conversely, if there is no hole or the hole is too small, the temperature sensor will not react as much as necessary and breathability will be poor. This problem was particularly noticeable in conventional sealing members 108, where the vent holes were formed exclusively near the center of the bottom surface.

On the other hand, since the sealing member 108 is necessary for the aerosol suction cartridge 100, it is preferable to reduce the production cost per unit as much as possible.

JP 2015-519915 A JP 2021-175399 A

In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a sealing member, a sealing mechanism, and an aerosol suction cartridge using the same, which can improve heat stability, improve breathability, or reduce costs.

In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that it has a main body portion having an overall cylindrical shape and one or more openings formed in a direction perpendicular to a bottom surface of the main body portion, and the circle forming the bottom surface is closed over a portion or the entire height direction of the main body portion within a range of at least a radius of 0.5 mm from its center.
The invention described in claim 2 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, which has a main body having a cylindrical shape with a portion of the outer periphery cut out in the height direction, and when attached to the central hole of the circular tube of the outer casing of the aerosol suction cartridge, it blocks a portion or the entire height of the main body within a range of at least a radius of 0.5 mm from the center of the bottom surface of the cylinder, and the gap between the inner surface of the outer casing and the outer surface of the sealing member forms one or more openings.
The invention described in claim 3 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that the sealing member described in

claim

1 or 2 is provided with a support portion within one bottom surface of the main body portion, which is grounded to the aerosol forming substrate when the main body is provided in the aerosol suction cartridge, and the opening is formed on the bottom surface at a location other than where the support portion is provided.
The invention described in claim 4 is the sealing member described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the aspect ratio of the opening is 24 or less, and the opening rate is 2% or more and 90% or less.
The invention described in claim 5 is a sealing member described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it is made of a material containing natural fibers, synthetic fibers, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastic, synthetic rubber, metal, paper, wood, bamboo, or ceramics.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the sealing member according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the opening is formed so as to surround the blocked portion.
The invention described in claim 7 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that the sealing member is made of a transparent or translucent material and has one or more ventilation openings formed therein.
The invention described in claim 8 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that the sealing member is made of a material including natural fibers, synthetic fibers, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastic, synthetic rubber, metal, paper, wood, bamboo, or ceramics, has a hollow tube shape overall, and the difference in dimensions between the outer diameters of the hollow tube is 1.0 to 3.0 mm.
The invention described in claim 9 is a sealing structure for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that a non-closed notch formed on the side of an outer casing of the aerosol suction cartridge is bent inwardly of the outer casing, with a part connected to the outer casing as a fulcrum, and the non-closed shape supports an aerosol-forming substrate incorporated in the outer casing.
The invention described in claim 10 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that the sealing member has an overall spherical shape, has at least three ventilation through holes formed in the radial direction, and at least three of the through holes pass through the center of the sphere and intersect perpendicularly to each other at the center.
The invention described in claim 11 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that the sealing member has an overall plate-like shape, has one or more bent portions formed therein, and is made of a flexible material.
The invention described in claim 12 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that it is shaped like a cone, a truncated cone, or a cylinder, and has a through hole formed in its lower bottom surface or an air vent groove formed on its side in the height direction of the cone, truncated cone, or cylinder.
The invention described in claim 13 is the sealing member described in claim 12, characterized in that an insert member for fixing the position is provided at the center of the upper bottom surface of the cylinder or the truncated cone.
The invention described in claim 14 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, characterized in that it comprises a main body portion having an overall hollow tubular shape and an airflow adjustment valve at the upstream end of the main body portion in the airflow direction.
The invention described in claim 15 is a sealing member described in claim 14, characterized in that the airflow adjustment valve is formed by one or more notches formed in a bottom surface covering one end of the opening of the main body portion.
The invention described in claim 16 is a sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising a main body portion having an overall cylindrical shape and one or more openings formed in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the main body portion, and characterized in that, when attached to the central hole of a circular tube of an outer casing of the aerosol suction cartridge, the main body portion has a protrusion that protrudes radially from the outer casing in a side view.
The invention described in claim 17 is the sealing member described in claim 16, characterized in that the protrusion is a cylindrical member formed integrally with the main body on the bottom surface of the main body on the upstream side of the air flow, and the outer diameter of the cylindrical member is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the outer member.
In the invention described in claim 18, the protrusion is one or more uneven shapes, groove shapes, and protrusion shapes formed integrally with the main body on a side surface of the main body on the upstream side of the air flow.
17. The sealing member according to claim 16.
The invention described in claim 19 is the sealing member described in claim 16, characterized in that one or more openings of a predetermined size and arrangement are formed on the side of the exterior member, and the protrusions are formed on the side of the main body portion of a size and arrangement corresponding to the openings.

According to this invention, the sealing member is closed near the center of its bottom surface, which blocks some of the heat generated by the induction heating member and reduces the heat transmitted to the temperature sensor of the induction heating device, ensuring heating stability.

In addition, by setting the shape of the sealing member and the size and number of openings relative to its base and height within a certain range, it is possible to ensure breathability while maintaining appropriate heat shielding properties.

Furthermore, it will be possible to reduce production costs per product.

1A is a schematic front view and FIG. 1B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a sealing member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; 1 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge using a sealing member according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing member according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 1A and 1B are a schematic front view and a side cross-sectional view (YY)(b) of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing member according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge using a sealing member according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge using a conventional sealing member. FIG. 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view showing a state in which an aerosol suction cartridge using a conventional sealing member is in use. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing member according to a third embodiment of the present invention. 13A and 13B are a schematic front view and a side cross-sectional view (XX)(b) of a sealing member according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing member according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. 13 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing mechanism according to embodiment 5 of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 13 is a schematic side view of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing mechanism according to embodiment 5 of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic side view of a sealing member according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. 13 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing member according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13A and 13B are schematic front and side views of a sealing member according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. 13A and 13B are a schematic front view and a side cross-sectional view (XX)(b) of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing member according to embodiment 7 of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing member according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge equipped with a sealing member according to embodiment 8 of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. 5A and 5B are schematic front and side views of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge provided with a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a modified example of a sealing member according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 13A and 13B are a schematic front view and a side cross-sectional view (XX)(b) of a modified example of a sealing member according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of another modified example of the sealing member according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 13A and 13B are a schematic perspective view and a schematic side cross-sectional view of a modified example of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic front view of a modified example of a seal member according to another embodiment of the present invention. 13A and 13B are a schematic perspective view and a schematic side cross-sectional view of a modified example of a sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of a modified example of an exterior member according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the size, spacing, number and other details of each component in the drawings have been greatly simplified and exaggerated compared to the actual objects in order to aid in visibility and understanding.

First embodiment
A first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 3 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol suction cartridge 10 using a seal member 1 according to the first embodiment. The aerosol suction cartridge 10 has a seal member 1, an aerosol-forming substrate 13, a support member 14, and a mouthpiece 15 linearly arranged and wrapped with an exterior member 16 to form an elongated cylindrical shape.

The aerosol suction cartridge 10 has an elongated cylindrical shape as a whole, and includes an elongated cylindrical aerosol-forming substrate 13 including an accumulation of filler 132 that generates an aerosol when heated, a support member 14 for preventing the aerosol-forming substrate 13 from moving or the exterior member 16 from bending, and a mouthpiece 15 through which the airflow from the aerosol-forming substrate 13 passes and the user can inhale the aerosol. These are arranged along the longitudinal direction and integrally formed by wrapping the sheet-like exterior member 16 in a cylindrical shape. Here, the exterior member 16 is formed of a flexible material such as paper. In this specification, "elongated" means that one direction is longer than the other direction in a three-dimensional shape. In the first embodiment, "elongated cylindrical shape (circular tube shape)" means that the height of the cylinder (circular tube) (i.e., the component perpendicular to the bottom surface) is longer than the diameter of the circle that is the bottom surface of the cylinder (circular tube). This also applies to the following embodiments.

The aerosol suction cartridge 10 in the first embodiment is preferably formed with a diameter of 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm, more preferably 5.0 mm to 7.0 mm, and a length of 40 mm to 80 mm. If the diameter of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 is set in the range of 6.5 to 7.5 mm, it is more preferable because it can be fitted with a moderate force into the insertion port D1 provided in the induction heating device D for inserting the aerosol suction cartridge 10, making it possible to hold the aerosol suction cartridge 1 in the induction heating device D suitably while making it easy to attach and detach the aerosol suction cartridge 10. If the length of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 is set to 40 mm or more, it will be longer than the length of the insertion port D1 provided in the induction heating device D for receiving the aerosol suction cartridge 10, so even if the aerosol suction cartridge 10 is inserted into the induction heating device D, the mouth can be exposed from the induction heating device, and the length required for the user to inhale the aerosol can be secured, which is preferable.

Next, the sealing member 1 has a function of passing air from the outside of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 toward the aerosol-forming substrate 13, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, and a function of fixing the aerosol-forming substrate 13 so that it does not move. Therefore, in the first embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the main body 11 has a cylindrical shape as a whole, and one or more openings 12 formed by penetrating in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface (i.e., the height direction of the cylinder). The circle forming the bottom surface is blocked over a part or the entire height direction of the main body 11 within a predetermined range from its center (i.e., the sealing member 1 blocks the central hole within a predetermined range from its center when stored in the central hole of the exterior member 16). The blocked area (blocked area) is at least within a radius of 0.5 mm from the center of the bottom surface, and the wider it is, the more stable the induction heating will be, but if it is too wide, the breathability will be poor, so it is determined to be appropriate after considering the aspect ratio and opening rate described later. In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a single opening 12 is formed to surround a blocked area at the center of the circle that forms the bottom surface, and the blocked area is within a range of 0.5 mm from the center of the bottom surface. In this specification, the term "blocked" is not limited to completely covering or sealing, but also includes a state in which even a part is hidden or blocked. In other words, the sealing member 1 of the first embodiment has a shape in which the opening 12, which is a C-shaped through hole, is formed in the height direction of the cylinder that is the main body 11.

Here, it is preferable that the cylinder forming the sealing member 1 has a diameter of 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm and a length along the height direction of 3.0 to 7.0 mm, for example.

In order for the sealing member 1 to allow air to pass through smoothly, the size and number of the openings 12 relative to the bottom surface and height of the sealing member 1 are important factors. Considering the aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the area of the opening side to the area of the openings 12 (opening side area/opening area), and the opening rate, which is the ratio of the area of the openings 12 to the total area of the bottom surface (the area of the circle that constitutes the bottom surface when no openings 12 are formed) (opening area/bottom surface area), it is desirable for the aspect ratio to be 24 or less and the opening rate to be 2% or more, and it is even more desirable for the opening rate to be 20% or more and the aspect ratio to be 12 or less. Furthermore, taking into account blocked areas, it is preferable for the opening rate to be a maximum of 90% or less.

The materials used for the seal member 1 include natural fibers such as cotton and silk, synthetic fibers such as nylon (registered trademark), polyester, acrylic, and polyurethane, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastics such as polyacetal, polyethylene, polycarbonate, vinyl chloride, PTFE, and polyamide, synthetic rubbers such as silicone, metals such as stainless steel, iron, nickel, aluminum, and copper, paper, glass, carbon fiber, wood, bamboo, and ceramics. In the first embodiment, silicone is used. In the case of metals, from the viewpoint of preventing excessive heating, it is preferable to use metals that are not ferromagnetic, for example, paramagnetic metals such as aluminum, and non-magnetic metals such as copper. In addition, when using plastics or rubber, it is preferable to use materials with high heat resistance, considering that they are close to the induction heating member 133. Specifically, it is preferable for plastics to have a heat resistance temperature (temperature at which the material does not deform when no force is applied) of 100°C or higher. For example, polycarbonate, polyacetal, polyamide, PET, ABS, glass epoxy resin, PTFE, PVDF, and PEEK are preferable, and for rubber, silicone rubber is preferable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the aerosol-forming substrate 13 is a cylindrical packaging member 131 with an opening in the center, and a filler 132, which is the source of aerosol generation, is stored inside the central hole of the packaging member 131. Furthermore, an induction heating member 133 that generates heat in response to an alternating magnetic field is disposed inside the filler 132. The length along the height direction is preferably set to, for example, 10 to 30 mm.

The diameter of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 is approximately equal to the diameter of the mouthpiece 15, and is generally constant along the central axis. The size of this diameter is preferably in the range of 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm, for example, and more preferably in the range of 5.0 mm to 7.0 mm.

The packaging member 131 is a cylindrical member made of a flexible and combustible material such as paper, and the size of the cylindrical tube is preferably set to the same as that of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, i.e., the outer diameter is preferably set to 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm, more preferably 5.0 mm to 7.0 mm, and the length along the height direction is preferably set to 10 mm to 30 mm.

<Regarding the Filler 132>
The filler 132 is formed by mixing aerosol formers that generate aerosols, microcrystalline cellulose, additives that add flavor, preservatives, adhesives or thickeners, etc. with dried and ground tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants, forming the mixture into a sheet, and then cutting the sheet into a predetermined width and length. The filler 132 may have various shapes. For example, the filler 132 may be formed into a strip or paste, or into granules.

When the filler 132 is configured in a strip shape, the cross section perpendicular to the central axis is approximately rectangular, and the ratio of the long side to the short side of the cross section is preferably in the range of, for example, 1:1 to 30:1. The length of the long side is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 7.5 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm. The length of the short side is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The length of the filler 132 is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 25 mm, and more preferably in the range of 10 mm to 20 mm. An example of the dimensions of such a filler 132 is a long side of 1.5 mm, a short side of 0.3 mm, and a length of 12 mm.

Next, specific examples of ingredients used as the filler 132 will be described. The filler 132 is composed of any one or a combination of the ingredients listed below.

The filler 132 is made from tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants. Examples of tobacco plants include tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, etc. Examples of non-tobacco plants include plants other than tobacco plants. Preferred parts of non-tobacco plants include leaves, flesh, seeds, roots (root bulbs, root tubers, etc.), stems, tubers, skin (stem skin, bark, etc.), flowers (petals, stamens, pistils, etc.), trunks, branches, etc.

In this specification, "plants" refers to a group of organisms, as opposed to animals, and includes not only organisms that have roots and live in a fixed location, such as grass and trees, but also algae such as microalgae and seaweed, and fungi such as mushrooms.

The filler 132 is made, for example, by mixing aerosol formers that generate aerosols, microcrystalline cellulose, flavor additives that add flavor, preservatives, binders or thickeners, etc., appropriately with dried and crushed non-tobacco plants, and then crushing or classifying the mixture into powder or granules, or forming it into a paste. The filler 132 is also formed into a sheet, which is then cut to a predetermined width and length into strips or rods.

For example, if the raw material is a non-tobacco plant, tea leaves can be used. Not only do tea leaves come from different plants, but even the same plant can become different tea leaves depending on the processing method. Specific examples include Japanese tea, black tea, and oolong tea.

As an aerosol former, for example, glycerin, propylene glycol, etc. are preferably used.

Next, microcrystalline cellulose is obtained, for example, by partially depolymerizing α-cellulose obtained from the pulp of fibrous plants with an acid, and is obtained by removing the soluble parts from the cellulose and, where appropriate, crystallizing the insoluble parts.

Microcrystalline cellulose may be in powder form or may be dispersed in a solvent such as water to form a suspension. In this case, a high-speed stirrer or high-pressure homogenizer can be used to disperse it in the solvent.

Furthermore, flavor additives that add flavor may be used as ingredients of the filling 132 as needed. Flavor additives include mint, cocoa, coffee, black tea extract, and tea extract catechin powder. Preservatives that are used in food are preferred, such as sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, benzoic acid, and sodium benzoate.

Binding or thickening agents include gums such as guar gum, cellulose binders such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, polysaccharides such as conjugate base salts of organic acids such as starch, and combinations thereof.

<Regarding induction heating member 133>
The induction heating member 133 is a processed flat-plate material. This flat plate has a thickness of 0.05 to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.1 to 0.3 mm. The length is approximately the same as the length in the height direction of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, but may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 13 by, for example, about ±1 to 3 mm, to the extent that the formation of the aerosol is not hindered. The induction heating member 13 does not necessarily have to be flat, and may be polygonal, rod-shaped, columnar, cylindrical, particulate, spherical, porous, sheet-shaped, L-shaped, V-shaped, U-shaped, U-shaped, or other various shapes and combinations thereof.

The induction heating member 133 is made of a metal material containing a ferromagnetic substance. A ferromagnetic substance is a material that, when an external magnetic field is applied, takes on strong magnetism in the same direction as the external magnetic field, and has the property of being particularly attracted to a magnet. Examples of ferromagnetic substances include iron, ferrite iron, ferrite powder, ferrite particles, ferritic stainless steel (e.g. SUS430), nickel, nickel-iron alloys (e.g. 42 alloy, 36 invar), and cobalt. The relative permeability of ferromagnetic substances is significantly greater than 1, for example, about 5000 for iron, about 600 for nickel, about 250 for cobalt, and about 1000 to 1800 for ferritic stainless steel.

Among magnetic materials, paramagnetic materials are materials that become weakly magnetized in the same direction as the external magnetic field when an external magnetic field is applied, and lose their magnetism when the external magnetic field is reduced to zero; examples of such materials include aluminum, platinum, and manganese. The relative permeability of paramagnetic materials is slightly greater than 1; for example, aluminum is approximately 1.000021, platinum is approximately 1.000265, and manganese is approximately 1.000830.

Among magnetic materials, diamagnetic materials are materials that become magnetized in the opposite direction to the external magnetic field when an external magnetic field is applied, and lose their magnetism when the external magnetic field is reduced to zero; examples of such materials include copper, graphite, and bismuth. The relative permeability of diamagnetic materials is slightly smaller than 1; for example, copper is about 0.999990, graphite is about 0.99980, and bismuth is about 0.999834.

When a ferromagnetic material is placed in a magnetic field (alternating magnetic field) whose direction and magnitude change over time, not only does it generate Joule heat due to eddy currents that flow due to electromagnetic induction, but it also generates heat due to energy loss (hysteresis loss) that occurs when the direction of magnetization inside the ferromagnetic material changes. This means that induction heating is easier than with paramagnetic or diamagnetic materials, and the filler 132 can be heated sufficiently.

The Curie temperature, which is the temperature at which a ferromagnetic material loses its magnetic order and transitions to a paramagnetic material, is, for example, about 358°C for nickel. Therefore, even when the filler 132 is heated to a high temperature of, for example, 200°C, the heating temperature does not reach the Curie temperature, and the ferromagnetic properties are maintained, allowing the filler 132 to be heated stably.

The material of the induction heating member 133 may be a ferromagnetic material such as iron, ferritic iron, ferrite powder, ferrite particles, ferritic stainless steel, ferromagnetic steel, stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, or a combination of these metal materials. For example, a combination of ferritic stainless steel and nickel is included, and more preferably, an alloy of iron, chromium, and aluminum (iron-chromium-aluminum alloy).

Here, we will explain the relationship between temperature and magnetic properties of iron and chromium. The Curie temperature of iron is approximately 770°C, and the Neel temperature of chromium, the temperature at which it changes from an antiferromagnetic material to a paramagnetic material, is approximately 35°C.

Furthermore, the induction heating member 133 may be made of a metal material containing a ferromagnetic material as a main component, for example a ferromagnetic alloy that is an alloy containing preferably 60% or more, and more preferably 80% or more, of a ferromagnetic material may be used. Examples include nickel alloys and nickel-iron alloys. Even in this case, the ferromagnetic material is induced to heat the filler 132 sufficiently. Note that instead of the ferromagnetic material, a metal material containing a paramagnetic material and a diamagnetic material may be used. In this case, induction heating itself is possible. However, from the viewpoint of shortening the heating time and reducing power consumption, it is preferable to use a metal material containing a ferromagnetic material.

The support member 14 prevents the aerosol-forming substrate 13 from moving toward the support member 14 side and the exterior member 16 from bending, and allows the airflow containing the aerosol generated in the aerosol-forming substrate 13 to flow toward the mouthpiece 15 side. The support member 14 is, for example, cylindrical with a through hole in the height direction, and is disposed between the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and the mouthpiece 15 so that its axis in the height direction is aligned with the central axis of the aerosol suction cartridge 10. The support member 14 is formed, for example, with a diameter of 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm and a length along the central axis of 50 mm or less. Note that the support member 14 may have dimensions different from those described above depending on the appropriate function and configuration. In the first embodiment, an insertion hole that serves as an air flow path is formed in the support member body formed of a resin material. Examples of materials that form the support member 14 include polypropylene, polylactic acid, silicone, and paper.

The mouthpiece 15 is a member that is placed in the mouth of the user, and is formed in a cylindrical shape, with a length along the central axis set to 10 to 50 mm. The diameter is, for example, approximately the same as that of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and the support member 14. The material of the mouthpiece 15 is, for example, paper. It may also be formed in a cylindrical shape by rolling up a sheet-like member made of paper, or may include a cellulose acetate filter that removes fine particles. It may also be formed of a porous material containing silicone. In the first embodiment, the mouthpiece 15 is a white filter that has the function of filtering out water vapor generated by the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and some of the fine particles in the aerosol. Note that, if the filler 132 is made from a non-tobacco plant, the mouthpiece 15 does not need to be a filter. In this case, the mouthpiece may be formed from a part of the exterior member 16, or a hollow member may be attached.

Next, the manufacturing process for the filler 132 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

The manufacturing process for the filler 132 further includes internal processes, such as a drying and crushing process in which the main raw material, tobacco or non-tobacco plants, is dried and crushed and weighed, a preparation process in which other raw materials are pretreated and weighed, a mixing process in which the raw materials are mixed to form a composition, and a filler molding process in which the composition is molded.

In the drying and grinding process, the parts of the tobacco plant or non-tobacco plant that serve as the main raw material (e.g., leaves, seeds, dried fruit, stems, bark, roots, etc.) that will be used are processed into a specified ground material to create a composition. In this case, it is preferable to adjust the moisture content to a level that is convenient for absorbing or carrying the aerosol former, water, and other components that will be added later. In drying, the temperature is preferably between 60°C and 80°C. By keeping it in this range, it is easy to reach the desired moisture content while avoiding the loss of the necessary flavor components. Furthermore, the drying and grinding process can also be provided with a sieving process to sieve the ground material, and it can be adjusted to the desired particle size before being fed into the mixing process.

In the preparation process, the raw materials required to produce the filling 132 can be prepared. The aforementioned microcrystalline cellulose is weighed in the preparation process and then fed into the mixing process.

In the mixing process, a normal mixer can be used. For example, a preferred method is to use a mixing blade to mix the raw materials in a mixing tank while applying shear force.

In the filling molding process, when strips or rods are to be formed, the composition in which the various raw materials are mixed is formed into a thin sheet using a multiple roll mill, which is then cut to form the filling 132. Using multiple roll mills is preferable because it is possible to compress the material by forcing it between the narrow rolls, and shear the material due to the difference in roll speeds, while kneading and dispersing the material, and then use a doctor blade to create a sheet of the desired thickness. It can also be produced using a press roller or press machine.

In this case, the thickness of the sheet is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The obtained sheet is cut to a predetermined width by a cutter, a rotary cutter using a rotary blade, etc.

When the powdered or granular filler 132 is used, it is preferable to crush or classify the composition as appropriate. The average particle diameter of the powdered or granular filler 132 is preferably, for example, 0.1 to 3.0 mm, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less. The average particle diameter is determined, for example, by the sieving method described in JIS K 0069:1992. In other words, this average particle diameter is the diameter equivalent to 50% of the mass of the larger mesh size sieves that are integrated in the test results using multiple sieves. The particle diameter at 50% of the integrated value in the particle size distribution obtained by the laser diffraction/scattering method may also be used as the average particle diameter. The filler 132 may be formed into a paste having fluidity by adding an appropriate amount of a thickener, water, etc. to the powdered or granular composition and kneading it.

In the filling forming step, other means may be used, such as passing the composition through an orifice under pressure to form the composition. In addition, in the filling forming step, non-tobacco plants, aerosol formers, binders or thickeners, flavor additives, preservatives, or water may be added as necessary.

Here, when imparting adhesiveness to the surface of the filler 132, there are no particular limitations as long as the means for imparting adhesiveness can be used, but it is sufficient to attach the aforementioned binder to at least a portion of the surface. By imparting adhesiveness, when a strip- or rod-shaped filler 132 is combined with a powder-, granular, or paste-like filler 132, the powder-, granular, or paste-like filler 132 can be stably held on the surface of the strip- or rod-shaped filler 132.

<Production process of aerosol-forming substrate>
The aerosol-forming substrate 13 is formed by enclosing the filler 132 and the induction heating member 133 in a cylindrical shape with the packaging member 131 and converging them to fit the diameter of the aerosol-forming substrate 13. In addition to the above-mentioned filling forming process, the internal processes include a converging process in which the sheet-like filler 132, which is the aerosol generation source, and the material of the elongated ribbon-like induction heating member 133 are caused to flow linearly in the same direction at a predetermined speed and converge, an enclosing process in which this is packaged in elongated tape-like wrapping paper into a cylindrical shape, and a cutting process in which this is cut at predetermined intervals with a cutter.

<Assembly process>
In the assembly process, the sealing member 1, the aerosol-forming substrate 13, the support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 are arranged in a line in this order, and then wrapped in the exterior member 16 to complete the aerosol suction cartridge 10. Here, it is preferable to form the sealing member 1 from a transparent or semi-transparent material, since this makes it possible to check whether the induction heating member 133 is properly disposed after the assembly process.

Embodiment 2
The seal member 2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 6. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, when referring to a corresponding configuration across multiple embodiments, it will be expressed as "seal member 1, etc." The same applies to other configurations.

As shown in FIG. 4, the sealing member 2 of the second embodiment has a main body 21 shaped like a cylinder with a portion of the outer periphery cut out in the height direction. In the second embodiment, the outer periphery of the main body 21 is cut out in four places in the height direction, forming an X-shape. Here, the sealing member 1 of the first embodiment has a cylindrical outline, whereas the sealing member 2 of the second embodiment is different in that at least one place on the outer periphery is missing. Also, the sealing member 1 of the first embodiment has an opening 12 that is itself a through hole, whereas the sealing member 2 of the second embodiment is different in that this is not necessarily the case.

5A and 5B are a schematic front view and a side cross-sectional view near the tip of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 equipped with the sealing member 2, respectively. As shown here, when attached to the central hole of the exterior member 16, the central hole is blocked within a predetermined range from the center of the bottom surface of the cylinder. The gap between the inner surface of the central hole of the exterior member 16 and the outer surface of the sealing member 1 forms one or more openings 22. Here, four openings 22 are formed. The circle forming the bottom surface is blocked over a part or the entire height direction of the main body 21 within a predetermined range from its center. The blocked area is within a radius of at least 0.5 mm from the center of the bottom surface, and is determined taking into consideration the aspect ratio and opening rate described later. In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, four openings 22 are formed to surround the blocked area, and the blocked area is within a radius of about 1 mm from the center of the bottom surface.

Also, in the sealing member 2 of the second embodiment, the size of the opening 22 relative to the bottom surface and height of the sealing member 2 is an important factor in allowing air to pass through smoothly. Here, considering the aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the area of the opening side (the outer surface of the main body 21 forming the opening 22 and the inner surface of the central hole of the exterior member 16) to the area of the opening 22 (opening side area/opening area), and the opening ratio, which is the ratio of the area of the opening 22 to the total area of the bottom surface (the area of the circle constituting the bottom surface when no notch is formed) (opening area/bottom surface area), it is desirable that the aspect ratio is 24 or less and the opening ratio is 2% or more, and it is even more desirable that the opening ratio is 20% or more and the aspect ratio is 12 or less. In addition, considering the installation of a blocking portion, it is preferable that the opening ratio is 90% or less at most. In addition, when considering the opening side in the second embodiment, only the area corresponding to the height of the sealing member 2 is considered for the inner surface of the central hole of the exterior member 16, and the area where the sealing member 2 does not exist (for example, the area where the aerosol-forming substrate 13 in FIG. 5(b) exists) is not considered.

According to this invention, the sealing member 1, etc., is closed near the center of its bottom surface, which blocks some of the heat generated by the induction heating member 133 and reduces the heat transmitted to the temperature sensor D2 of the induction heating device D, ensuring heating stability.

In addition, by setting the size and number of the openings 12 (22) relative to the bottom surface and height of the sealing member 1, etc. within a certain range, it is possible to ensure breathability while maintaining appropriate heat shielding properties.

Embodiment 3
The sealing members 1-2 and 2-2 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first and second embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

The sealing member 1-2 comprises a cylindrical main body 11-2 and a support 13-2 that is grounded to the aerosol-forming substrate 13 when attached to the aerosol suction cartridge 10 within one of the bottom surfaces of the main body 11-2. The main body 11-2 also has one or more openings 12-2 that penetrate the cylinder in the height direction. Here, the main body 11-2 may be a thinner version of the sealing member 1 of embodiment 1 (with a shorter height). Here, if the height of the main body 11-2 is too long, the space of the exchange space S described below becomes too narrow and sufficient effect cannot be obtained, and if it is too short, the main body 11-2 becomes too thin, resulting in poor stability when inserted into the central hole of the exterior member 16. Therefore, it is preferable that the height of the sealing member 1-2 is in the range of 20 to 90%, and more preferably 30 to 80%, of the total height of the sealing member 1-2.

The opening 12-2 is formed at a location on the bottom surface of the main body 11-2 other than where the support 13-2 is provided. In other words, the support 13-2 is placed at or near the center of the circle that forms the bottom surface of the sealing member 1 so as not to cover or block the entire opening 12-2.

Figure 12 shows (a) a front view of the sealing member 1-2 and (b) a cross-sectional side view of the tip when attached to the aerosol suction cartridge 10. In this state, the sealing member 1-2 forms an exchange space S of a certain range surrounded by the inner wall of the exterior member 16, the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, and the support portion 13-2. It is preferable that the exchange space S is formed as a single unit, without being divided into multiple parts.

In this configuration, the outside air that enters through the opening 12-2 is mixed in the exchange space S and enters the filler 132 from the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 other than the area where the support 13-2 is grounded, which is effective in improving breathability. In addition, it reduces heat buildup at the tip and suppresses heat transfer to the temperature sensor D2 of the induction heating device D, making it possible to ensure heating stability.

The same effect can be obtained by shortening the height of the sealing member 2 of embodiment 2 as the main body 2-2. Furthermore, the main bodies 1-2 and 2-2 do not necessarily need to be formed according to the same design rules as the sealing

members

1 and 2, and any shape can be used as long as the support columns 13-2 and 23-2 do not completely block the opening 12-2.

Fourth embodiment
A seal member 4 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first to third embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

The sealing member 4 has a thin hollow tube shape, and its outer diameter is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the exterior member 16, and is set to a degree that it fits and is fixed when inserted inside the exterior member 16. Here, "thin" means that the difference in dimension between the inner diameter and the outer diameter (i.e., equivalent to twice the dimension of the wall thickness) is equal to or less than the dimension of the inner diameter. The inner diameter is set as large as possible while still ensuring a wall thickness that does not impair the overall structural strength and is still capable of supporting the aerosol-forming substrate 13. Specifically, the difference in dimension between the outer diameter and the inner diameter is preferably 1 to 3 mm, and more preferably 1.2 to 1.5 mm.

In addition, taking into consideration structural strength, materials containing natural fibers, synthetic fibers, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastic, synthetic rubber, metal, paper, wood, bamboo, or ceramics are preferably used.

25, 26, and 27 are schematic diagrams of modified examples of the seal member 4 according to the fourth embodiment (the dotted lines in FIG. 25 represent the internal openings). First, the seal member 4b in FIG. 25 and 26 includes a main body 4b1 having a hollow tube shape as a whole, one or more openings 4b2 formed in the height direction of the hollow tube of the main body, and an airflow adjustment valve 4b3 at the upstream end of the aerosol airflow of the main body 4b1 in a state where the main body 4b1 is attached to the central hole of the circular tube of the exterior member 16 of the aerosol suction cartridge 10. Here, the hollow tube of the main body 4b1 has a bottom surface covering one end of the opening, and the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 is formed by a cut 4b4 formed on the bottom surface.

25 and 26, four airflow adjustment valves 4b3 are formed by X-shaped cuts 4b4 formed on the bottom surface. Here, it is preferable that the point where the X-shaped lines intersect is located at the center of the diameter of the hollow tube. When the user inhales the aerosol, the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 deforms toward the downstream side of the aerosol (the inside of the opening of the main body part 4b1) to adjust the flow rate of the aerosol. Therefore, it is preferable that the bottom surface of the main body part 4b1 uses an elastic material that can be elastically deformed by suction force, such as an elastomer material containing silicone rubber. Furthermore, it may be molded integrally with the main body part 4b1, or it may be molded as a separate part and then joined.

The thickness of the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 is not particularly limited as long as it can be elastically deformed by suction force, but a thickness of 0.05 to 1.0 mm is preferably used. In addition, the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 can be appropriately shaped so that it is thinner on the center side so that it can be elastically deformed by suction force.

Furthermore, it is preferable that the length of the notch 4b4 is such that the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 can be elastically deformed by the suction force. Specifically, it is preferable that the distance from the intersection point of the X-shaped line to the end point of the line is 20% or more of the inner diameter of the hollow tube, and more preferably 40% or more.

Other shapes are shown in Fig. 27. In Fig. 27(a), four U-shaped notches 4c4 are formed, in Fig. 27(b), four V-shaped notches 4d4 are formed, in Fig. 27(c), four W-shaped notches 4e4 are formed, and in Fig. 27(d), four L-shaped notches 4f4 are formed. In addition to these, any shape such as U-shaped or Ω-shaped notches is possible as long as the notches are non-closed. Here again, the length of the notches 4c4 and the like is preferably such that the airflow adjustment valve 4b3 can be elastically deformed by suction force. Specifically, the distance from one end point of the non-closed shape to its intersection or bending point is preferably 20% or more of the inner diameter of the hollow tube, and more preferably 40% or more.
The non-closed shape is described in the fifth embodiment.

This allows the sealing member 4 to be formed with a simple structure, which is effective in reducing manufacturing costs, and the large inner diameter makes it possible to improve breathability. Furthermore, if a sufficient distance is provided between the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and the bottom surface of the exterior member 16, the heat transmitted to the temperature sensor D2 can be reduced, ensuring heating stability.

Fifth embodiment
A seal structure according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

In the aerosol suction cartridge 20 according to the fifth embodiment, a non-closed cut 16-1 is formed on the side of the exterior member 16. Here, a non-closed shape refers to a shape that, when drawn with a single continuous line, including curves and bent lines (so-called one-stroke drawing), does not have any intersections and does not have a partially closed shape, or a shape that, when drawn with two or more lines, does not include a closed shape in any part or in whole. Examples of non-closed shapes include V-, U-, W-, U-, Ω-, and X-shapes, while a closed shape refers to a shape that includes a partially or fully closed figure, such as an O-, Q-, or R-shape.

The part connected to the exterior member 16 (dotted line in FIG. 15) is used as a fulcrum, and the part formed by the non-closed cut 16-1 is bent inwardly of the exterior member 16 to support the aerosol-forming substrate 13 inside the exterior member 16, thereby obtaining a sealed structure. At this time, an opening 16-2 is formed in the non-closed cut.

The size of the non-closed cuts 16-1 is set to an appropriate size because if it is too small, it will not be able to adequately support the aerosol-forming substrate 13, but if it is too large, it will block the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and impair breathability. Specifically, when bent inside the exterior member 16, it is preferable that the length of the fold line is 2 to 3 mm, and the length of the part supporting the aerosol-forming substrate 13 (the length parallel to the radial direction of the exterior member 16) is a maximum of 2 to 3 mm, or 30 to 50% of the inner diameter of the exterior member 16. In addition, it is preferable that there are 2 to 4 fold lines, and that the fold lines are formed so as to be located on the same circumference in the height direction of the exterior member 16.

By processing the exterior member 16 and using a portion of it, a sealing structure that can replace a sealing member can be obtained with a simple configuration without the need for other members, which is effective in reducing manufacturing costs. Also, since outside air can be taken in not only from the cylindrical tip of the exterior member 16 but also from the opening 16-2, it is also effective in improving breathability. Furthermore, the sealing structure of this embodiment can also replace the support member 14. Also, since the portion formed by the non-closed notch 16-1 etc. absorbs heat, it is possible to ensure heating stability.

Sixth embodiment
A seal member 6 according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first to fifth embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

As shown in Figure 16, the sealing member 6 has an overall spherical shape, with at least three ventilation through holes 61 formed in the radial direction. It is preferable that the diameter of the sphere is approximately the same as or slightly larger than the inner diameter so that it can fit into the central hole of the exterior member 16. Specifically, it is preferable that it is 0.01 to 0.5 mm larger, and more preferably 0.05 to 0.2 mm larger. The dotted lines in Figure 16 indicate that through holes 61 are formed inside.

The material of the sealing member 6 can be the same as that of the sealing member 1 in the first embodiment, but considering that it will be fitted into the central hole of the exterior member 16, it is preferable to use an elastic body such as an elastomer resin containing plastic or rubber (natural or synthetic).

If the size of the through holes 61 is too small, it will impair breathability, so a diameter of 0.2 mm or more is preferable. In addition, it is preferable that at least three of the through holes 61 pass through the center of the sphere and intersect perpendicularly with each other at the center.

17 is a side cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the tip when the sealing member 6 is attached to the aerosol suction cartridge 10. When the sealing member 6 is made of an elastic material as described above, it is fixed to the inside of the exterior member 16 by its elastic force and the rigidity of the exterior member 16. In FIG. 17(a), one of the through holes 61 is arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10, and in FIG. 17(b), it is arranged diagonally. In either case, at least one of the through holes 61 connects the outside and inside of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 so that air can flow, and serves as an air channel for taking in outside air, so that breathability can be ensured. Furthermore, in the manufacturing process, in the case of a cylindrical shape such as the sealing member 1, it must be arranged in the appropriate direction (the height shape of the cylinder faces the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10) on the exterior member 16, but if it is inserted sideways, for example, it will cause a problem. On the other hand, the sealing member 6 of embodiment 6 may be arranged in any direction, and there is no need to pay attention to its direction, which is also effective in reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the sealing member 6 blocks some of the heat generated by the induction heating member 133, ensuring heating stability.

Seventh embodiment
A seal member 7 according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 18 and 19. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first to sixth embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

The sealing member 7 is characterized by having a plate-like shape as a whole, as shown in FIG. 18, with one or more bent portions 71 formed therein, and being made of a flexible material. In the seventh embodiment, the sealing member 7 is U-shaped, but it may also be V-, U-, W-, or L-shaped. The bent portion may be bent like a U- or W-shape, or may be curved like a U-shape. If the plate material is too thick, it becomes difficult to process or elastically deform, while if it is too thin, it loses strength and shape stability, so it is preferable for it to be of a moderate thickness. The preferred thickness depends on the material, but for metal it is 0.05 to 0.2 mm, and for plastic it is 0.5 to 1.5 mm.

As mentioned above, it is preferable to use a flexible material that can elastically deform in response to an external force. Specifically, plastic, rubber, and metal are preferable. As with the previous embodiments, in the case of plastic and rubber, it is preferable to use a material with high heat resistance.

The sealing member 7 may be made by processing a flat material to form a bent section, or it may be molded into a predetermined shape from the beginning.

Figure 19 shows (a) a schematic front view of an aerosol suction cartridge 10 equipped with a sealing member 7, and (b) a schematic side cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the tip. Here, a U-shaped central portion 72 is disposed inside the exterior member 16 facing toward the aerosol-forming substrate 13. At this time, it is preferable that the dimensions of the central portion 72 are set so that it can be stored in a slightly bent state. In this case, the elasticity of the material of the central portion 72 causes the two adjacent portions to press against the inner wall of the exterior member 16, thereby fixing the sealing member 7 inside the exterior member 16. For the same reason, the sealing member 7 can be fixed inside the exterior member 16 even if the sealing member 7 has another shape, such as a W-shape, V-shape, or U-shape.

Furthermore, by bending the central portion 72, it becomes partially separated from the aerosol-forming substrate 13, which makes it possible to suppress the temperature rise of the sealing member 7 and improve breathability. In addition, the central portion 72 blocks some of the heat generated by the induction heating member 133, making it possible to ensure heating stability.

Embodiment 8
A seal member 8 according to the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20 and 21. Here, illustrations and descriptions of parts common to the first to seventh embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 20, the sealing member 8 has a truncated cone shape 8a (FIG. 20(a)), a cylindrical shape 8b (FIG. 20(b)), and a cone shape 8c (FIG. 20(c)). In the height direction of the truncated cone 8a-1, the cylinder 8b-1, and the cone 8c-1, ventilation grooves 8a-2, 8b-2, and 8c-2 are formed on the side surfaces, and through holes 8a-3, 8b-3, and 8c-3 are formed on the lower base surface.

Furthermore, in the truncated cone shape 8a and the cylindrical shape 8b, insert members 8a-4 and 8b-4 are provided on the upper bottom surface of the truncated cone 8a-1 and the cylindrical shape 8b-1, respectively, for fixing the position of the sealing member 8 by inserting them into the aerosol-forming substrate 13. It is preferable that the insert members 8a-4 and 8b-4 are formed near the center of the upper bottom surface of the truncated cone 8a-1 and the cylindrical shape 8b-1.

When the sealing member 8 is in a truncated cone shape 8a, the ventilation groove 8a-2 is formed by cutting out a part of the side surface, extending from the upper bottom surface to the lower bottom surface. The same is true for the cylindrical shape 8b. Also, when the sealing member 8 is in a conical shape 8c, it is preferable that the ventilation groove 8a-2 is formed from the bottom surface toward the apex.

When the sealing member 8 is in the shape of a truncated cone 8a, the through hole 8a-3 is preferably formed from the lower bottom surface toward the side surface, and the same goes for the through hole 8c-3 in the cone shape 8c. On the other hand, when the sealing member 8 is in the shape of a cylinder 8b, the through hole 8b-3 is preferably formed from the upper bottom surface to the lower bottom surface.

Moreover, the insert members 8a-4, 8b-4 are preferably provided in the case where the insert members 8a-4 are in the truncated cone shape 8a or the cylindrical shape 8b, so that the position of the seal member 8 can be fixed.
Here, in the case of the conical shape 8c, the tip shape itself has the function of the insert members 8a-4 and 8b-4.

In addition, in FIG. 20, the insert members 8a-4 and 8b-4 are shown as having a conical shape with a sharp tip, but this is not limited thereto, and any shape such as a rod, plate, pyramid, or column may be used as long as the tip can be inserted into the filler 132 of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, but it is preferable to form the tip into a sharp shape.

Figure 21 shows (a) a schematic front view of an aerosol suction cartridge 10 equipped with a sealing member 8, and (b) a schematic side cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the tip. In the case of a truncated cone shape 8a, the diameter of the lower base surface, and in the case of a cylindrical shape 8b and a cone shape 8c, the diameter of the base surface is preferably approximately the same as the inner diameter of the exterior member 16, in other words, a size that can be fitted into the central hole of the exterior member 16.

In the case of the truncated cone shape 8a, it is preferable to insert the insert member 8a-4 until the upper bottom surface contacts the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, as shown in FIG. 1(a). At this time, it is preferable that the lower bottom surface is located on the same plane as the bottom surface of the exterior member 16 without any step, that is, the height of the truncated cone 8a-1 is the same length as the distance from the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 to the bottom surface of the exterior member 16. In this state, a certain space is formed in the gap between the inner surface of the exterior member 16 and the side surface of the truncated cone 8a-1, and the air taken in from the ventilation groove 8a-2 and the through hole 8a-3 spreads throughout the entire space and is sucked into the inside of the aerosol-forming substrate 13. This has the effect of improving breathability. In addition, the truncated cone 8a-1 shields the heat generated by the induction heating member 133 to some extent, so that heating stability can be ensured.

In the case of the cylindrical shape 8b, as shown in FIG. 1B, it is preferable that the bottom surface of the side facing the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 does not contact the bottom surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 13, forming a gap. Also, it is preferable that the other bottom surface of the cylindrical shape 8b-2 is located on the same plane as the bottom surface of the exterior member 16, as in the previous case. In this state, the air taken in from the ventilation groove 8b-2 and the through hole 8b-3 permeates the entire space of the gap and is sucked into the inside of the aerosol-forming substrate 13. This has the effect of improving breathability. The truncated cone 8b-1 blocks the heat generated by the induction heating member 133 to some extent, making it possible to ensure heating stability.

Furthermore, in the case of the conical shape 8c, it is preferable to insert the insert member 8c-4 until the bottom surface of the cone 8c-1 is flush with the bottom surface of the exterior member 16 without any step, as shown in FIG. 1C. In this state, a certain space is formed in the gap between the inner surface of the exterior member 16 and the side surface of the cone 8c-1, and the air taken in from the ventilation groove 8c-2 and the through hole 8c-3 permeates the entire space and is sucked into the inside of the aerosol-forming substrate 13. This has the effect of improving breathability. In addition, the cone 8c-1 blocks the heat generated by the induction heating member 133 to some extent, making it possible to ensure heating stability.

In addition, in the eighth embodiment, the induction heating member 133 is positioned away from the radial center of the aerosol-forming substrate 13 due to the influence of the insert member 8a-4, etc.

Furthermore, if the truncated cone 8a-1, the cylinder 8b-1, and the cone 8c-1 are securely fitted into the central hole of the exterior member 16, the insert member 8a-4 etc. is not necessarily required. Conversely, if the insert member 8a-4 etc. is provided, the truncated cone 8a-1 etc. does not necessarily have to be securely fitted into the central hole of the exterior member 16, and for example, the diameter of the lower base surface may be smaller than the inner diameter of the central hole of the exterior member 16.

Furthermore, it is not necessary to form both the ventilation groove 8a-2 etc. and the through hole 8a-3 etc., and either one will suffice as long as it is possible to take in outside air. Also, if a screw thread is formed on the side of the insert member 8a-4 etc., it is more preferable since this makes it easier to insert it into the aerosol-forming substrate 13.

　Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but extends to other forms that can be regarded as equivalent to these, and combinations thereof.

First, by making the sealing member 1 etc. a different color (e.g., black) from the mouthpiece 15, it becomes possible to easily distinguish between the upstream and downstream sides of the aerosol suction cartridge 10.

Furthermore, the sealing member 1 etc. does not necessarily have to be inserted inside the central hole of the exterior member 16, but may be attached to the tip of the exterior member 16 or only a portion of it may be inserted into the central hole. In this case, a shape such as that of the sealing member 2 in embodiment 2 in particular can further improve breathability.

Also, the exterior member 16 does not necessarily have to be integral, and two or more exterior elements may be joined together. For example, the sealing member 1, etc., the aerosol-forming base material 13, and the support member 14 may be stored in a cylindrical exterior element, and the mouthpiece 15 may be wrapped around the cylindrical exterior element with a sheet-like exterior element to form a cylindrical shape. In this case, the cylindrical exterior element and the sheet-like exterior element form the exterior member 16. On the other hand, it is not necessarily necessary to have the packaging member 131 and the exterior member 16 as separate structures, and it is also possible to form the aerosol suction cartridge 10 by storing the filler 132 and the induction heating member 133 in the central hole of the exterior member 16 and storing the sealing member 1, etc., the support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 as the aerosol-forming base material 13. This makes it possible to further simplify the manufacturing process and reduce manufacturing costs. In this case, the support member 14 and mouthpiece 15 may be inserted into the central hole of the exterior member 16, the filler 132 may be filled, the induction heating member 133 may be inserted, and the sealing member 1, etc. may be attached, or the support member 14 and mouthpiece 15 may be inserted after the filler 132 has been filled.

Furthermore, the shape of the sealing member 1 and the opening 12 (22) can be various shapes as long as the size of the opening 12 (22) is appropriate relative to the bottom surface and height of the sealing member 1 and the like, and the circle forming the bottom surface is blocked within a predetermined range from the center. For example, in the first embodiment, the sealing member 1 has a single opening 12, but this is not limited to this, and the opening 12 may be multiple. Figure 7 shows an example of another shape of the sealing member 1, and as shown in (a), four openings 32 may be arranged inside the main body 31 so as to surround the blocked area to form an X-shape, or as shown in (b), multiple small openings 32 may be arranged to surround the blocked area. Furthermore, the opening 12 (22) does not necessarily have to surround the blocked area. For example, the sealing member 4 in Figure 8 (a) is an example of another shape of the sealing member 2, but two opposing side surfaces of the cylinder may be cut out to form a straight line shape like this. In this case, the opening formed when the seal member 4 is attached to the central hole of the exterior member 16 does not surround the blocked area, but the same effect as in

embodiments

1 and 2 can be obtained.

Also, as in the sealing member 5 in FIG. 8(b), it may have both an opening 52 like the sealing member 1 in embodiment 1 and a notch like the sealing member 2 in embodiment 2.

Furthermore, the support member 14 does not necessarily need to be installed if the aerosol-forming substrate 13 does not move toward the support member 14 side or the exterior member 16 does not bend. For example, the mouthpiece 15 may be adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 13, or the location where the support member 14 was located may be left as a space. In this case, the space between the aerosol-forming substrate 13 and the mouthpiece 15 is in a state where the inner surface of the exterior member 16 is exposed inside the circular tube, which reduces the number of parts and is effective in reducing costs. Providing a space is particularly effective in improving breathability.

Also, a cooling member for cooling the aerosol may be provided between the support member 14 and the mouthpiece 15. This effectively cools the heat of the aerosol, allowing the user to inhale it without hindrance. Here, the cooling member is preferably made of a material with a large surface area, such as a porous material or a crimped material, using paper, resin, metal, etc. as a material. Also, the support member 14 may serve as a cooling member.

Also, as shown in FIG. 22, the sealing member may be formed into a cylindrical shape by forming a thin sheet-like member such as paper into a roll shape 9a (FIG. 22(a)), a folded shape 9b (FIG. 22(b)), or a random shape 9c (FIG. 22(c)). In this case, it is preferable that the diameter of the roll-up in the case of the roll-up shape 9a, and the width of the folded or bent sheet in the case of the folded shape 9b and the random shape 9c, are smaller than the inner diameter of the exterior member 16. It is also preferable that the axis of the roll-up in the case of the roll-up shape 9a, and the folding line in the case of the folded shape 9b and the random shape 9c, are generally oriented in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10, since this makes it easier to form an air channel. Furthermore, forming multiple holes in the sheet is also effective in ensuring breathability. The roll-up shape 9a, the folded shape 9b, and the random shape 9c may be mixed.

In addition, in the sixth embodiment, the sealing member 6 need not be spherical, but may be a cylinder laid on its side, as in the sealing member 6b in FIG. 23. The sealing member 6b has two or more through holes 6b1 formed in the cylindrical side surface, and it is preferable that these holes intersect at the center when viewed from the bottom of the cylinder. In FIG. 23, three sets of six holes are formed, with two intersecting holes forming one set.

The length of the height direction of the sealing member 6b is preferably set to a size that can fit into the center hole of the exterior member 16 when it is attached to the center hole of the exterior member 16 so that it is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10. In addition, by setting the diameter of the bottom surface of the cylinder smaller than the inner diameter of the exterior member 16, it is preferable to prevent malfunctions because the cylinder will fall out when the height direction of the cylinder is arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10. On the other hand, if a through hole 6b1 is formed in the height direction through the bottom surface (i.e., three holes form a set and intersect as in embodiment 6), it is more preferable because it can be used even when it is arranged in a direction that exposes the bottom surface. In this case, it is preferable that the diameter of the bottom surface is set to a size that can fit into the center hole of the exterior member 16, as in the sealing member 6 of embodiment 6.

Figure 24 is a side cross-sectional view of the tip of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 with the sealing member 6b attached. When the sealing member 6b is made of an elastic material as described above, it is fixed to the inside of the exterior member 16 by its elastic force and the rigidity of the exterior member 16. This figure shows a case where one of the through holes 6b1 is arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol suction cartridge 10. However, even if it is oblique, as in Figure 17(b) described in embodiment 6, at least one of the through holes 6b1 connects the outside and inside of the aerosol suction cartridge 10 so that air can flow, and serves as an air channel for taking in outside air, ensuring breathability. This makes it possible to obtain the same effect as embodiment 6.

In another embodiment, the sealing member 9d shown in FIG. 28 has a cylindrical main body 9d1 as a whole and one or more openings 9d2 formed in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface. Here, the main body 9d1 has a protrusion 9d3 that protrudes radially from the exterior member 16 in a side view when attached to the central hole of the circular tube of the exterior member 16 of the aerosol suction cartridge 10.

Here, the protrusion 9d3 is a cylindrical member formed integrally with the main body 9d1 on the bottom surface upstream of the aerosol airflow of the main body 9d1 when the main body 9d1 is attached to the central hole of the circular tube of the exterior member 16 of the aerosol suction cartridge 10, and its outer diameter is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the exterior member 16. In addition, the protrusion 9d3 may be molded as a separate part from the main body 9d1 and then joined.

Furthermore, to prevent the aerosol suction cartridge 10 from falling out during use, it is preferable that the outer diameter of the protrusion 9d3 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the insertion port D1 of the induction heating device D, and it is even more preferable that it is 0.05 to 0.5 mm larger. Furthermore, it is preferable that the material of the protrusion 9d3 is an elastically deformable material, such as an elastomer containing silicone rubber, so that it can elastically deform inside the insertion port D1.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 29, the protrusion may be one or more uneven shapes formed integrally with the main body 9e1 on the side of the main body 9e1 upstream of the airflow (protrusion 9e3 in FIG. 29(a)), one or more groove shapes (protrusion 9f3 in FIG. 29(b)), or one or more protrusion shapes (protrusion 9g3 in FIG. 29(c)).

Furthermore, as shown in Figures 30 and 31, one or more openings 16a1 may be formed in a predetermined size and arrangement on the side of the exterior member 16, and the protrusions 9h3 may be formed in a size and arrangement corresponding to the openings 16a1 on the side of the main body 9h1. In Figure 30, the protrusions 9h3 are semi-cylindrical and installed on the side of the main body 9h1 slightly downstream (preferably 0.5 to 2 mm) from the upstream end of the aerosol. Here, the protrusions 9h3 are preferably installed at equal intervals on the side of the main body 9h1.

When the sealing member 9h is attached to the central hole of the circular tube of the exterior member 16 of the aerosol suction cartridge 10, in a side view, the protrusion 9h3 penetrates the opening 16a1 and is exposed to the outside, protruding radially from the exterior member 16.

Furthermore, the opening is not limited to a window shape like opening 16a1, and may be a notch shape like opening 16b1.

In this configuration, the protrusions 9d3 and the like are in close contact with the insertion port D1, preventing the aerosol suction cartridge 10 from coming loose during use.

The filler 132 used here is in the form of a sheet formed into strips, but is not limited to this and may be formed into a powder or granules, a paste, or a mixture of these.

The tea leaves that are the raw material for the filling 132 can be any commonly used tea leaves, in addition to those mentioned in the embodiment. In addition, tea leaves left over after drinking can also be used. Using tea leaves allows expensive tea leaves to be reused and put to good use.

In addition, extracts of non-tobacco plants such as those listed above, so-called extracts and processed products, can also be used. The extracts can be in the form of liquid, starch syrup, powder, granules, solution, etc.

In addition to those mentioned in the embodiment, the aerosol formers used as the raw materials for the filler 132 may also include sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerin diacetate), triacetin (glycerin triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedione, and dimethyl tetradecanedione.

Furthermore, menthol and a water-insoluble cross-linked polymer (preferably polyvinylpolypyrrolidone) may be contained as flavor additives. By combining menthol with a water-insoluble cross-linked polymer, sublimation of menthol can be effectively suppressed, and the menthol flavor can be maintained for a long period of time. Here, menthol is not limited to that obtained from natural products, but may also be a synthetic product. Also, peppermint, mint, peppermint oil, and other substances containing menthol may be used.

Furthermore, the flavor additive is provided in the mouthpiece 15, for example, by impregnating the wall of the mouthpiece 15. The manner in which the flavor additive is provided in the mouthpiece 15 is not limited to this manner, and for example, the flavor additive may be provided in the mouthpiece 15 by embedding a capsule containing the flavor additive in the wall of the mouthpiece 15. Alternatively, a capsule containing the flavor additive may be disposed between the mouthpiece 15 and the aerosol suction cartridge 10. When the flavor additive is enclosed in a capsule, the user can break the capsule by pressing it with a finger, and the aromatic components of the flavor additive can be volatilized at the desired timing.

Furthermore, if the flavor additive is, for example, encapsulated in a microcapsule, the encapsulated microcapsule may be provided in the aerosol suction cartridge 10. Of course, the microcapsule may also be provided in the support member 14.

In addition to those mentioned in the embodiment, examples of binders or thickeners as raw materials for the filling 132 include gums such as xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum, cellulose binders such as carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, and ethylcellulose, organic acids such as alginic acid, polysaccharides such as sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, caranagin, agar, and pectin, and combinations thereof.

In addition, when using raw materials that do not contain nicotine, such as non-tobacco plants, substances that provide a similar sensation to nicotine, i.e., a kick, may be added. For example, plants of the genus Piperaceae (pepper, long pepper, pseudo-piper, amplexicaule, etc.), black pepper, white pepper, piperine, lobeline, cavicin, capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, glucosinolate, allyl isothiocyanate, etc. are preferred.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the sealing member 1 has a shape in which the opening 12, which is a C-shaped through hole, is formed in the height direction of the cylindrical main body 11, but this is not limited to this, and the through hole may be formed in an unclosed shape, such as a V-shape, U-shape, or C-shape.

Reference Signs List

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Sealing member

11, 21, 31

Main body

12, 22, 32 Opening 13 Aerosol-forming substrate 131 Packaging member 132 Filler 133 Induction heating member 14 Support member 15 Mouthpiece 16 Exterior member

Claims

A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
A main body having an overall cylindrical shape;
one or more openings formed in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the body;
The circle forming the bottom surface is closed over a part or the whole of the height direction of the main body within a range of at least a radius of 0.5 mm from the center thereof.
A sealing member comprising:
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
The device has a main body having a cylindrical shape with a part of the outer periphery cut out in the height direction,
When the sealing member is attached to the central hole of the cylindrical exterior member of the aerosol suction cartridge, the sealing member closes a part or the whole of the main body in the height direction within a range of at least a radius of 0.5 mm from the center of the bottom surface of the cylinder, and a gap between the inner surface of the exterior member and the outer surface of the sealing member forms one or more openings.
A sealing member comprising:
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
a support part that is grounded on the aerosol-forming substrate when provided in the aerosol suction cartridge is provided within one bottom surface of the main body part,
The opening is formed in the bottom surface at a location other than where the support column is provided.
The sealing member according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that
The aspect ratio of the opening is 24 or less, and the opening ratio is 2% or more and 90% or less.
The seal member according to claim 1 , wherein the seal member is a tubular member.
Made of materials including natural fibers, synthetic fibers, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastic, synthetic rubber, metal, paper, wood, bamboo, or ceramics,
The seal member according to claim 1 , wherein the seal member is a tubular member.
The opening is formed to surround the blocked portion.
The seal member according to claim 1 , wherein the seal member is a tubular member.
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
Made of transparent or translucent material,
One or more ventilation openings are formed.
A sealing member characterized by:
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
Made of materials including natural fibers, synthetic fibers, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural resin, natural rubber, plastic, synthetic rubber, metal, paper, wood, bamboo, or ceramics,
The overall shape is a hollow tube.
The difference between the outer diameter and the outer diameter of the hollow tube is 1.0 to 3.0 mm;
A sealing member characterized by:
A seal structure for an aerosol suction cartridge,
The non-closed notch formed on the side surface of the exterior member of the aerosol suction cartridge is bent toward the inside of the exterior member with the part connected to the exterior member as a fulcrum,
The non-closed shape supports an aerosol-forming substrate housed within the exterior member.
A sealing structure for an aerosol suction cartridge.
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
The device has a spherical shape as a whole, and at least three ventilation holes are formed in the radial direction of the device.
At least three of the through holes pass through the center of the sphere and intersect perpendicularly to each other at the center.
A sealing member characterized by:
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
The plate-like shape as a whole has one or more bent portions formed therein,
The material is a flexible material.
A sealing member characterized by:
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
The cone, truncated cone or cylinder has a through hole on its lower bottom surface or a ventilation groove on its side in the height direction of the cone, truncated cone or cylinder.
A sealing member characterized by:
At the center of the upper bottom surface of the cylinder or the truncated cone,
The insert member is provided for fixing the position.
The seal member according to claim 12 .
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
A main body having an overall hollow tube shape;
an airflow adjustment valve at an end portion of the main body on the upstream side of the airflow;
A seal member comprising:
The airflow adjustment valve is formed by one or more cuts formed on a bottom surface covering one end of the opening of the main body.
The seal member according to claim 14 .
A sealing member for an aerosol suction cartridge, comprising:
A main body having an overall cylindrical shape;
one or more openings formed in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the main body;
The main body has a protruding portion that protrudes from the exterior member in a radial direction of the exterior member in a side view when attached to a central hole of a circular tube of the exterior member of the aerosol suction cartridge.
A sealing member comprising:
the protrusion is a cylindrical member formed integrally with the main body on a bottom surface of the main body on an upstream side of the air flow,
The outer diameter of the cylindrical member is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the exterior member.
The seal member according to claim 16 .
The protrusion is one or more uneven shapes, groove shapes, and protrusion shapes formed integrally with the main body on the side surface of the main body on the upstream side of the air flow.
The seal member according to claim 16 .
One or more openings are formed in a side surface of the exterior member with a predetermined size and arrangement,
The protrusion is formed on a side surface of the main body with a size and arrangement corresponding to the opening.
The seal member according to claim 16 .