EP4699469A1

EP4699469A1 - Flavor-generating article and smoking system

Info

Publication number: EP4699469A1
Application number: EP23933957.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Manabu Yamada
Original assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc
Current assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc
Priority date: 2023-04-17
Filing date: 2023-04-17
Publication date: 2026-02-25
Also published as: CN120813265A; JPWO2024218810A1; WO2024218810A1; KR20250165380A

Abstract

This flavor-generating article comprises: a flavor source; a container that accommodates the flavor source and has an air inlet and an air outlet; and a nozzle that communicates with the air outlet of the container. The inner diameter of the nozzle is smaller than the inner diameter of the container.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a flavor-generating article and to a smoking system.

BACKGROUND ART

Flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors, etc. without burning of materials are conventionally known. Smoking material heating devices, which heat a smoking material comprising tobacco that contains volatile components to form an aerosol, are known as such flavor inhalers, for example (see PTL 1). In the aerosol-generating system disclosed in PTL 1, an aerosol-forming substrate and a susceptor are accommodated in a capsule, and the susceptor is induction heated by an induction coil arranged around the side of the capsule.

CITATION LIST

PATENT LITERATURE

PTL 1: WO 2017/068095 A1

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

The objective of the present invention lies in providing a flavor-generating article having a novel structure.

SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

According to a first aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided. The flavor-generating article comprises: a flavor source; a container accommodating the flavor source; and a filling member which is positioned upstream and/or downstream of the flavor source and is provided in an air flow path inside the container.
In this case, upstream or downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed by the filling member provided in the air flow path. As a result, upstream or downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while a user is not smoking. Furthermore, when a filling member is provided in a flavor inhaler, there is a risk of the vapor or aerosol agglomerating or condensing in the flavor inhaler. According to the first aspect, the filling member is provided in the flavor-generating article, and it is therefore possible to suppress occurrences of agglomeration or condensation in the flavor inhaler.
The filling member may comprise a particulate filling member.
In this case, gaps in the particulate filling member may function as an air flow path when the user is smoking, while upstream or downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source is suppressed by the particulate filling member during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking. Furthermore, the surface area of the filling member can be increased by virtue of the filling member comprising a particulate filling member, so the vapor or aerosol which comes into contact with the particulate filling member can be effectively cooled.
The particulate filling member may comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, cellulose, tobacco granules, glycerol, propylene glycol, and flavoring additives.
Flavors, etc. may be imparted to the vapor or aerosol when the particulate filling member contains tobacco granules or flavoring additives, for example. Furthermore, an amount of aerosol can be increased when the particulate filling member contains glycerol or propylene glycol. When the particulate filling member contains calcium carbonate or cellulose, the temperature readily rises, thus enabling the amount of aerosol to be increased, because calcium carbonate and cellulose have relatively low specific heat.
The particulate filling member and the flavor source may comprise the abovementioned tobacco granules.
In this case, a common material may be used for the flavor source and the particulate filling member, and the flavor-generating article can therefore be efficiently produced.
The particulate filling member may be positioned downstream of the flavor source. The container may comprise an air inlet positioned upstream of the flavor source, an air outlet positioned downstream of the particulate filling member, and a ventilation port communicating with the particulate filling member.
In this case, air may be supplied through the ventilation port to the particulate filling member positioned downstream of the flavor source, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port.
The particulate filling member may comprise an upstream particulate filling member positioned upstream of the flavor source, and a downstream particulate filling member positioned downstream of the flavor source.
In this case, both upstream and downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed by the filling member provided in the air flow path. As a result, both upstream and downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking.
The upstream particulate filling member may comprise a different material from the downstream particulate filling member.
In this case, it is possible to provide a degree of freedom in the design of the flavor-generating article, such as using a material that imparts a flavor, etc. for the downstream particulate filling member through which the vapor or aerosol passes, while using a different material for the upstream particulate filling member.
The average particle size of the particulate filling member may be 0.1 mm-3 mm.
If the average particle size of the particulate filling member is less than 0.1 mm, then the particle size is excessively small, reducing the size of the gaps in the particulate filling member, and there is a risk of excessively high airflow resistance. Furthermore, in this case, the particulate filling member is more likely to spill out from gaps, etc. in the container of the flavor-generating article. Meanwhile, if the average particle size of the particulate filling member is greater than 3 mm, then the particle size is excessively large, increasing the size of the gaps in the particulate filling member, and the vapor or aerosol is more likely to leak out through the gaps in the particulate filling member. Accordingly, if the average particle size is 0.1 mm-3 mm, then it is possible to suppress an increase in airflow resistance or spillage of the particulate filling member from the container, while it is also possible to suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol through the gaps in the particulate filling member.
The flavor-generating article may comprise, between the particulate filling member and the flavor source, a partition member allowing the passage of air.
In this case, it is possible to suppress mixing of the particulate filling member and the flavor source inside the container.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a susceptor arranged inside the flavor source.
In this case, the flavor source can be heated by induction heating of the susceptor of the flavor-generating article by means of an induction coil provided in the flavor inhaler.
According to a second aspect, a smoking system is provided. The smoking system comprises the abovementioned flavor-generating article, and a flavor inhaler having a heating source for heating the flavor-generating article.
In this case, upstream or downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed by the filling member provided in the air flow path. As a result, it is possible to provide a smoking system in which upstream or downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while a user is not smoking.
The flavor inhaler may comprise a chamber accommodating the flavor-generating article. The heating source may be configured to be inserted into the container of the flavor-generating article when the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber. If the airflow resistance downstream from the flavor source is R1, and the airflow resistance upstream from the flavor source is R2 in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber, then it is possible for R1>R2.
In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler. For this reason, setting the airflow resistance downstream of the flavor source higher than upstream makes it possible to further suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler. In the present description, the airflow resistances R1, R2 are airflow resistances in the smoking system in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber.
The flavor inhaler may comprise a chamber accommodating the flavor-generating article. If the airflow resistance downstream from the susceptor is R3, and the airflow resistance upstream from the susceptor is R4 in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber, then it is possible for R3>R4.
In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler is relatively long on the upstream side of the susceptor, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler. For this reason, setting the airflow resistance downstream of the susceptor higher than upstream makes it possible to further suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler. In the present description, the airflow resistances R3, R4 are airflow resistances in the smoking system in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber.
The flavor inhaler may comprise an air flow path communicating with an air inlet of the container of the flavor-generating article. The air flow path may pass outside a side wall of the container to communicate with the air inlet.
In this case, an air layer (air flow path) is formed outside the side wall of the container, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container to the outside of the flavor inhaler.
According to a third aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided. The flavor-generating article comprises: a flavor source; a container accommodating the flavor source; and a flow path curving portion which is arranged downstream of the flavor source and is configured to curve the air flow path passing through the container.
In this case, it is possible to lengthen the air flow path downstream of the container as compared to when there is no flow path curving portion. Leakage to outside the container of the vapor or aerosol that has passed through the container can therefore be suppressed, and cooling of the vapor or aerosol can be promoted. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler. For this reason, arranging the flow path curving portion downstream of the flavor source makes it possible to effectively suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler. Furthermore, when the flow path curving portion is arranged inside the container, the vapor or aerosol is cooled so as to agglomerate or condense in the flow path curving portion, and agglomeration or condensation of the vapor or aerosol outside the container (e.g., inside the flavor inhaler) can therefore be suppressed.
The flow path curving portion may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a helical flow path element, a spiral flow path element, and a gas-impermeable plate-shaped member.
In this case, the air flow path may be curved in a helical form, a spiral form, or randomly by means of the flow path curving portion.
The spiral flow path element may comprise an upper member, a lower member, and a spiral member positioned therebetween. Air that has flowed in from the lower member may move along the spiral member and flow out from the upper member.
In this case, a spiral-shaped air flow path may be formed by the upper member, the lower member, and the spiral member.
The lower member may comprise a gas-permeable member, and a gas-impermeable member provided on a surface of the gas-permeable member.
In this case, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the part of the gas-permeable member where the gas-impermeable member is not provided, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member, flowing out from the upper member.
The gas-impermeable member may be arranged on at least one face of the gas-permeable member so as not to overlap an outer edge of the gas-permeable member.
In this case, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the outer edge of the gas-permeable member, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member, flowing out from the upper member.
The center of the gas-impermeable member and the center of the gas-permeable member may be substantially aligned.
In this case, inflow of the vapor or aerosol from the center of the gas-permeable member can be suppressed. Furthermore, when the gas-impermeable member is arranged so as not to overlap the outer edge of the gas-permeable member, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the outer edge of the gas-permeable member, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member, flowing out from the upper member.
The spiral member may be integrally formed with the upper member or the lower member.
In this case, formation of a gap between the spiral member and the upper member or lower member is suppressed, and leakage of the vapor or aerosol from a gap between the spiral member and the upper member or lower member can therefore be suppressed. Furthermore, the spiral flow path element can be easily formed simply by attaching the separate upper member or lower member to the spiral member.
The spiral flow path element may be arranged so as to close off an opening of the container.
In this case, the upper member can function as a lid of the container. Spillage of the flavor source from the container can therefore be suppressed by providing the spiral flow path element in the container.
The spiral flow path element may comprise a spiral flow path defined by the upper member, the lower member, and the spiral member. The spiral flow path may comprise an air inlet and an air outlet. The spiral flow path element may comprise a ventilation port communicating with the spiral flow path between the air inlet and the air outlet.
In this case, air may be supplied through the ventilation port, and the vapor or aerosol passing through the spiral flow path can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port.
The helical flow path element may comprise at least one helical flow path comprising an air inlet and an air outlet. The helical flow path may extend in a longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article. The air inlet and the air outlet may be positioned so as not to overlap as seen from the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article.
The plate-shaped member may be arranged so as to extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article.
In this case, the vapor or aerosol from the flavor source moving along the longitudinal direction may collide with the plate-shaped member, causing the vapor or aerosol to move in the direction intersecting the longitudinal direction.
The container may have a wall defining an internal space. The flow path curving portion may comprise a groove or a rough surface formed on an inner face of the wall.
In this case, it is possible to curve the flow path of the vapor or aerosol passing through the inside of the container, without providing the flow path curving portion separately from the container.
The flow path curving portion may be arranged outside the container.
In this case, penetration of the flavor source inside the container into the flow path curving portion can be suppressed.
According to a fourth aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided. The flavor-generating article comprises: a flavor source; a container accommodating the flavor source; and a check valve positioned downstream of the flavor source and configured to permit movement of gas from the flavor source to outside of the container.
In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed by the check valve. As a result, downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while a user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler. For this reason, arranging the check valve downstream of the flavor source makes it possible to effectively suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler.
The check valve may comprise a ball check valve or a flap check valve.
In this case, downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol can be suppressed by means of a ball or a flap.
The check valve may comprise a flap check valve. The flap check valve may comprise: a base having an opening or cutout; and a flap portion provided on a downstream side of the base so as to cover the opening or cutout.
In this case, downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol can be suppressed by the flap portion covering the opening or cutout.
The two ends of the flap portion may be respectively fixed to a first part and a second part of the base. A length between the two ends of the flap portion may be greater than a distance between the first part and the second part of the base.
In this case, the flap portion is fixed to the base so as to flex or bend, and a portion of the flap portion is therefore spaced apart from the base, which enables the user to draw the vapor or aerosol from a gap between the flap portion and the base.
The flap portion may comprise a first flap member and a second flap member. One end of each of the first flap member and the second flap member may be fixed to the base. The other ends of each of the first flap member and the second flap member may be fixed to each other.
In this case, the first flap member and the second flap member can be fixed overlapping each other. The weight of this overlap improves opening/closing operations of the flap portion (makes the flap portion less easy to open). A flap portion having a satisfactory opening/closing operation can therefore be easily formed by using the first flap member and the second flap member.
The length of the first flap member and the length of the second flap member may be substantially equal.
In this case, the distances from each of the two ends of the flap portion to the overlap between the first flap member and second flap member are equal, therefore improving opening/closing of the flap, specifically, the function of restricting vapor or aerosol pressure is easier to adjust.
The first flap member and the second flap member may be fixed so as to overlap each other at said other ends. A ratio of the length of the overlap between the first flap member and the second flap member to the length between said one end and said other end of the first flap member or the second flap member may be 0-0.4.
In this case, the weight of the central part of the flap portion can be increased by the overlap between the first flap member and the second flap member while flexibility of the flap portion overall is maintained, therefore enabling better opening/closing of the flap portion. Specifically, the operation when the flap portion opens can be smoothly performed, while vapor or aerosol pressure is restricted.
According to a fifth aspect, a smoking system is provided. The smoking system comprises the abovementioned flavor-generating article and a flavor inhaler. The flavor-generating article comprises an air inlet and an air outlet. The flavor inhaler comprises an intake port communicating with the air inlet, and an exhaust port communicating with the air outlet. The airflow resistance downstream of the flavor source is greater than the airflow resistance upstream of the flavor source.
In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking.
According to a sixth aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided. The flavor-generating article comprises: a flavor source; a container accommodating the flavor source and comprising an air inlet and an air outlet; and a nozzle communicating with the air outlet of the container. The inner diameter of the nozzle is smaller than the inner diameter of the container.
In this case, it is possible to increase a flow velocity of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor-generating article when the user is smoking, as compared to when the flavor-generating article does not comprise a nozzle. As a result, it is possible to suppress agglomeration or condensation of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the flavor-generating article, caused by the vapor or aerosol colliding with a flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler.
The length of the nozzle may be 3 mm-10 mm.
If the length of the nozzle is less than 3 mm, then the nozzle is excessively short, the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle diffuses, and there is a risk of it not being possible to effectively suppress collisions of the vapor or aerosol with the flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler. If the length of the nozzle is greater than 10 mm, then there is a risk of the size of the flavor inhaler becoming excessively large in order to accommodate a flavor-generating article comprising the nozzle. When the length of the nozzle is in the range above, it is therefore possible to suppress an excessively large size of the flavor inhaler while suppressing diffusion of the vapor or aerosol.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a ventilation port communicating with the inside of the container.
In this case, air may be supplied through the ventilation port, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port.
The diameter of the air outlet of the container and the inner diameter of the nozzle may be substantially equal.
In this case, there is essentially no difference between the diameter of the air outlet and the inner diameter of the nozzle, and it is therefore possible to suppress occurrences of pressure loss at a boundary between the air outlet and the nozzle.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a mesh or a filter covering the air outlet of the container.
In this case, discharge of the flavor source from the nozzle can be suppressed.
The container may comprise a plurality of air outlets. All of the plurality of air outlets may communicate with the nozzle.
In this case, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can contact the wall surface of the container which defines the plurality of air outlets, and the vapor or aerosol can therefore be cooled more efficiently.
According to a seventh aspect, a smoking system is provided. The smoking system comprises: the abovementioned flavor-generating article; and a flavor inhaler having a chamber which accommodates the flavor-generating article, and a mouthpiece.
In this case, the flow velocity of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor-generating article can be increased when the user is smoking, and the vapor or aerosol can be supplied through the mouthpiece.
A ratio of the length of the nozzle and a distance from a tip end of the nozzle to an opening of the mouthpiece of the flavor inhaler may be 10:0-3:7.
If the length of the nozzle is relatively shorter than the ratio range above, then the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle diffuses, and there is a risk of it not being possible to effectively suppress collisions of the vapor or aerosol with the flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler. When the ratio is in the range above, it is therefore possible to suppress diffusion of the vapor or aerosol. Moreover, the ratio above being 10:0 means that the distance from the tip end of the nozzle to the opening of the mouthpiece of the flavor inhaler is 0.
The flavor inhaler may comprise an air supply port radially adjacent to the nozzle, for supplying air into a gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
There is a risk of the vapor or aerosol which flows out from the nozzle diffusing and penetrating into the gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle, and forming a swirling flow which agglomerates or solidifies on the mouthpiece or the nozzle. When the flavor inhaler comprises the air supply port, air can be supplied into the gap, and it is therefore possible to suppress penetration into the gap of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle.
A groove portion defining at least part of the air supply port may be formed on at least one of a face of the mouthpiece facing the container and a face of the container facing the mouthpiece.
In this case, the air supply port may be provided upstream of the gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle, radially adjacent to the nozzle, and it is therefore possible to effectively suppress penetration into the gap of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle.
The container may comprise a guide portion which extends in a direction of extension of the nozzle and is positioned between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
In this case, the flavor-generating article can be easily positioned in relation to the mouthpiece by means of the guide portion.
The guide portion may be configured to guide the air supplied from the air supply port toward the opening of the mouthpiece.
In this case, it is possible to suppress accumulation of the vapor or aerosol in the gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle, radially adjacent to the nozzle.
The nozzle may comprise a part where the outer diameter increases from the opening of the nozzle toward the air outlet of the container.
In this case, a tapered surface where the outer diameter decreases toward the opening of the nozzle is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the nozzle. The nozzle itself may therefore demonstrate the function of the guide portion.
The flavor inhaler may comprise an air flow path communicating with the air inlet of the container of the flavor-generating article. The air flow path may pass outside a side wall of the container to communicate with the air inlet.
In this case, an air layer (air flow path) is formed outside the side wall of the container, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container to the outside of the flavor inhaler.
According to an eighth aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided. The flavor-generating article comprises a flavor source and a container accommodating the flavor source. The container comprises a first cylindrical body having a first bottom wall and a first side wall, and a second cylindrical body having a second bottom wall and a second side wall. The first cylindrical body is inserted inside the second cylindrical body so that the first side wall abuts the second bottom wall.
In this case, an air layer can be readily provided between the first side wall and the second side wall, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container to the outside of the flavor-generating article.
An air flow path may be formed between the first side wall and the second side wall.
In this case, an air layer (air flow path) is formed outside the first side wall of the container, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container to the outside of the flavor-generating article.
The first side wall may comprise an opening or cutout enabling communication between the air flow path and the inside of the first cylindrical body.
In this case, the air passing through the air flow path can be supplied into the container through the opening or cutout.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a heating source arranged inside the container. The opening or cutout may be positioned upstream from the heating source.
In this case, air flowing into the container from the opening or cutout passes through the heating source, and the vapor or aerosol generated in the vicinity of the heating source can therefore be efficiently delivered.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a heating source arranged inside the container. The opening or cutout may be positioned downstream from the heating source.
In this case, air may be supplied through the opening or cutout, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the opening or cutout.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a heating source arranged inside the container. The first side wall may comprise an abovementioned opening or cutout upstream and downstream from the heating source. The upstream opening or cutout may be larger than the downstream opening or cutout.
In this case, it is possible to suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the downstream opening or cutout. Furthermore, it is possible to increase the amount of air supplied to the flavor source from the upstream opening or cutout.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a heating source arranged inside the container. The first side wall may comprise an abovementioned opening or cutout upstream and downstream from the heating source. The upstream opening or cutout may be smaller than the downstream opening or cutout.
In this case, it is possible to increase the amount of air supplied from the downstream opening or cutout, thereby further promoting cooling of the vapor or aerosol.
The second side wall may comprise at least one rib on an inner face thereof, and the rib may abut an outer face of the first side wall.
In this case, the rib enables a gap having a fixed width to be formed between the first side wall and the second side wall.
The first bottom wall may comprise a ventilation port.
In this case, the ventilation port may function as an air inflow port or an air outflow port of the container.
The second bottom wall may be configured to be impermeable to air.
As a result, when the first bottom wall comprises the ventilation port, the first side wall comprises the opening or cutout, and an air flow path is formed between the first side wall and the second side wall, the air passing through the air flow path and the opening or cutout and flowing into the container can flow to outside the container from the ventilation port. That is to say, the flavor-generating article may have a "counterflow" flow path.
The second bottom wall may comprise a ventilation port.
In this case, the ventilation port may function as an air inlet or an air outlet of the container.
Non-tobacco particles may be provided upstream of the flavor source inside the container.
In this case, gaps in the non-tobacco particles may function as an air flow path when the user is smoking, while upstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source is suppressed by the non-tobacco particles during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking.
The container may comprise a heating source insertion chamber isolated from a space accommodating the flavor source.
In this case, the flavor source can be heated by inserting the heating source into the heating source insertion chamber, without breaking the container for the flavor source. Furthermore, the heating source does not come into direct contact with the flavor source, and it is therefore possible to suppress soiling of the heating source with the flavor source.
The flavor-generating article may comprise a susceptor accommodated in the container.
In this case, the flavor source can be heated by induction heating of the susceptor of the flavor-generating article by means of an induction coil provided in the flavor inhaler.
According to a ninth aspect, a method for producing a flavor-generating article is provided. The method for producing a flavor-generating article comprises: arranging a flavor source inside a first cylindrical body; and inserting the first cylindrical body inside a second cylindrical body in such a way that a first side wall of the first cylindrical body in which the flavor source is arranged abuts a second bottom wall of the second cylindrical body.
In this case, a flavor-generating article having an air layer between the first side wall and the second side wall can be easily produced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to the embodiment.
Fig. 2 is a schematic side view in cross section of a smoking system according to the embodiment.
Fig. 3 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 4 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 5 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 6 is a schematic exploded oblique view of a spiral flow path element constituting another example of the flow path curving portion.
Fig. 7 is a schematic exploded oblique view of another example of the spiral flow path element 32.
Fig. 8 is a schematic exploded oblique view of a helical flow path element constituting another example of the flow path curving portion.
Fig. 9 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 10 is a plan view showing another example of the check valve used in the flavor-generating article.
Fig. 11 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 12 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.
Fig. 13 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to another embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding components are assigned the same reference numbers and duplicate descriptions will not be given. It should be noted that "longitudinal direction" in the present specification means the direction in which air passes through a flavor source of the flavor-generating article, or a long axis direction of the flavor-generating article. Furthermore, "short-side direction" or "width direction" in the present specification means a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.
Fig. 1 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic side view in cross section of a smoking system according to the embodiment. As shown in fig. 2, a smoking system 200 comprises a flavor-generating article 10 and a flavor inhaler 100. The flavor inhaler 100 is configured to generate a vapor or aerosol containing a flavor by heating a flavor source 20 accommodated in a container 12. The flavor inhaler 100 comprises a heating source 110 for heating the flavor-generating article 10. In the example shown in fig. 2, the flavor inhaler 100 comprises an induction coil as the heating source 110. This is not limiting, and the flavor inhaler 100 may equally comprise, as the heating source 110, a heating element which can be inserted into the flavor-generating article 10, or a heating element for heating the flavor-generating article 10 from the outside. The heating source 110 is configured to heat the flavor-generating article 10 at 200°C-350°C, for example.
The flavor generating article 10 can be removed from the flavor inhaler 100 and discarded after use. A new flavor-generating article 10 can then be used in the flavor inhaler 100. That is to say, the flavor-generating article 10 is a cartridge which is used in the flavor inhaler 100.
As shown in fig. 2, the flavor inhaler 100 comprises a chamber 120 for accommodating flavor-generating article 10, and a mouthpiece 130. The flavor inhaler 100 may further comprise a housing 101, a battery 102, and a control unit 103. The housing 101 internally accommodates the battery 102, the control unit 103, and the heating source 110. The housing 101 may be separable into two or more parts.
The battery 102 is configured to supply electrical power to the heating source 110 and the control unit 103, etc. For example, the battery 102 is a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery, and is a lithium ion battery, for example. The battery 102 may be rechargeable by means of an external power source. The battery 102 is electrically connected to the heating source 110 via the control unit 103. By this means, the battery 102 can supply the heating source 110 with power to appropriately heat the flavor source 20 accommodated in the flavor-generating article 10.
The control unit 103 is configured by a CPU and a memory, etc. and controls operation of the flavor inhaler 100. Specifically, the control unit 103 may control the supply of power from the battery 102 to the heating source 110. For example, the control unit 103 starts heating of the flavor-generating article 10 in response to a user operation on an input device such as a push-button or slide switch (not depicted), and terminates heating of the flavor-generating article 10 once a given time has elapsed. When the number of puffing actions by the user has passed a fixed value, the control unit 103 may terminate heating of the flavor-generating article 10 even if the given time has not yet elapsed from the start of heating of the flavor-generating article 10. Puffing actions are detected by a sensor (not depicted), for example.
Alternatively, the control unit 103 may start heating of the flavor-generating article 10 in response to the start of a puffing action, and may terminate heating of the flavor-generating article 10 in response to the end of the puffing action. When a given time has elapsed from the start of the puffing action, the control unit 103 may terminate heating of the flavor-generating article 10 even if the puffing action has not yet finished. When the heating source 110 is an induction coil, the flavor inhaler 100 may comprise an electromagnetic shield which keeps electromagnetic waves generated by the induction coil from reaching the control unit 103.
When the heating source 110 is an induction coil, the induction coil may be arranged to enclose the periphery of the flavor-generating article 10, as shown in fig. 2. A heat insulating material (not depicted) may be arranged between the induction coil and the flavor-generating article 10. In other words, the flavor inhaler may comprise a heat insulating material which is arranged to enclose the periphery of the flavor-generating article 10. For example, the heat insulating material may be a vacuum insulating material, an aerogel insulating material, or an air insulating material.
The housing 101 comprises, on a mouthpiece-side end portion (mouthpiece 130 side), the chamber 120 for accommodating the flavor-generating article 10. The mouthpiece 130 is connected to one end portion of the housing 101 so as to close off the chamber 120 of the housing 101, as shown in the drawing. The mouthpiece 130 comprises an air flow path 130a enabling communication between the outside of the mouthpiece 130 and the chamber 120 of the housing 101. More specifically, the air flow path 130a in the mouthpiece 130 communicates with an air outlet 14 (to be described later) of the flavor-generating article 10 arranged in the chamber 120.
As shown in fig. 1, the flavor-generating article 10 comprises the flavor source 20 and the container 12 accommodating the flavor source 20. The flavor-generating article 10 preferably further comprises a susceptor 23 arranged inside the flavor source 20. In this case, the flavor source 20 can be heated by induction heating of the susceptor 23 of the flavor-generating article 10 by means of the induction coil provided in the flavor inhaler 100. The susceptor 23 may have any shape that allows it to be placed inside the container. Specifically, the susceptor 23 is plate-shaped in the example shown in fig. 1. The thickness of the susceptor 23 is 10 µm-200 µm, and preferably 10 µm-100 µm, for example. The susceptor 23 may be formed by any material that is capable of being induction heated.
The susceptor 23 may be configured to divide the flavor source 20 into a first part and a second part. In other words, the susceptor 23 may be configured to divide a space in which the flavor source 20 is arranged in two. In this case, the first part and the second part may accommodate different types of flavor source 20.
The susceptor 23 shown in fig. 1 is a flat plate-shaped element, but this is not limiting, and the susceptor 23 may equally be a curved plate-shaped element. Specifically, the susceptor 23 may be a plate-shaped element having an S-shaped cross section as seen from the longitudinal direction, for example. A curved susceptor 23 makes it possible to increase the surface area of the susceptor 23 which can be arranged inside the container 12, as compared to a flat susceptor 23, therefore enabling efficient heating of the flavor source 20.
The susceptor 23 may be provided in the flavor inhaler 100. In this case, the susceptor 23 may be configured to be insertable into the flavor-generating article 10. It should be noted that when the heating source 110 of the flavor inhaler 100 is not an induction coil, but rather is a heating element insertable into the flavor-generating article 10, such as a microwave-generating antenna or a heating blade, or comprises a heating element for heating the flavor-generating article article 10 from the outside, for example, then there is no need for the susceptor 23 in the flavor-generating article 10.
The container 12 can comprise, for example: a substantially cylindrical side wall 12a; a bottom wall 12b provided at an end portion of the side wall 12a; and a top wall 12c provided on the opposite side of the side wall 12a to the bottom wall 12b. The side wall 12a has a circular cylindrical shape in this embodiment. The side wall 12a may have a cylindrical shape with another cross-sectional shape, such as a square shape or a rectangular shape, for example. The container 12 is preferably formed by a dielectric in this embodiment. For example, the container 12 may be formed by paper. This enables the container 12 to be easily and inexpensively produced. More specifically, the container 12 may be formed by molded pulp. The container 12 may be formed by an air-impermeable material. Here, an air-impermeable material means a material having air permeability of 0 CU when measured in accordance with ISO 2965-1997. Specifically, the container 12 may be formed by air-impermeable paper. In this case, it is possible to suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 from unintended parts of the container 12.
The length of the container 12 in the longitudinal direction is 5 mm-25 mm, and preferably 8 mm-20 mm, for example. It should be noted that the longitudinal length of the container 12 in this case is the distance from the bottom wall 12b to the top wall 12c, and does not include the length of a nozzle 28 which will be described later. Furthermore, the diameter of the container 12 (i.e., the width of the side wall 12a) is 5 mm-15 mm, preferably 6 mm-12 mm, and more preferably 6 mm-10 mm, for example. Furthermore, the thickness of the container 12 (the thickness of the side wall 12a, the bottom wall 12b, or the top wall 12c) may be 0.2 mm-1 mm, for example. The thicknesses of each of the side wall 12a, bottom wall 12b, and top wall 12c may be different. A ratio of the longitudinal length of the container 12 to the diameter of the container 12 (the width of the side wall 12a) is preferably 0.5-2.5.
The container 12 may be configured to hold the susceptor 23. Specifically, the side wall 12a of the container 12 may have slits for supporting the plate-shaped susceptor 23 with end portions of the susceptor 23 inserted in the slits, for example. In this case, widthwise end portions of the susceptor 23 may be supported by the container 12. The container 12 may be formed by a material comprising tobacco-derived fibers.
The flavor source 20 comprises tobacco, for example. Specific examples of tobacco which may be cited include shredded dried tobacco leaves, leaf tobacco powder, or tobacco extracts (extracts obtained with water, organic solvents, or mixed solutions thereof). The ground leaf tobacco constitutes particles obtained by grinding leaf tobacco. The ground leaf tobacco has an average particle size of 0.2 mm-1.2 mm, and preferably 0.5 mm-0.7 mm, for example. The grinding may be carried out using a well-known grinding machine, and may be dry grinding or wet grinding. Ground leaf tobacco is therefore also referred to as leaf tobacco particles. In this embodiment, the average particle size is determined by means of laser diffraction/scattering, and the average particle size is specifically measured by using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measurement apparatus (e.g., LA-950 available from HORIBA Ltd.). This is not limiting, and the flavor source 20 may have any form such as block-shaped, sheet-shaped, particulate or pasty. In this case the flavor source 20 may be a porous body. When the flavor source 20 is sheet-shaped, the thickness of the flavor source is 0.1 mm-2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm-1.5 mm, and more preferably 0.2 mm-0.6 mm, for example. Furthermore, when the flavor source 20 is sheet-shaped, the flavor source 20 may be creased, folded, or cut into strips. When the sheet-shaped flavor source 20 is cut into strips, the width of the strips may be 0.1 mm-2 mm, for example. When the flavor source 20 is particulate, the average particle size of the flavor source may be 0.1 mm-3 mm, preferably 0.212 mm-2.0 mm, and more preferably 0.4 mm-1.18 mm, for example. When the average particle size of the flavor source 20 is 0.1 mm-3 mm, then the particles may have a size that passes through a mesh with 3 mm openings, or may have a size that does not pass through a mesh with 0.1 mm openings. If the average particle size of the flavor source 20 is excessively large, then there is a risk of a drop in the amount of delivery of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20, or of a reduction in heating efficiency because of the smaller surface area. Meanwhile, if the average particle size of the flavor source 20 is excessively small, then the particles are more likely to drop out from the air outlet 14 or the air inlet 13 of the container 12. There is also a risk of the particles of the flavor source 20 clogging the inside of the container 12, which would increase drawing resistance and make it difficult for the user to draw. There is no limitation as to the type of tobacco, and it is possible to use yellow, Burley, orient or native type, and other Nicotiana tabacum varieties and Nicotiana rustica varieties, etc.
A filling rate of the flavor source 20 accommodated in the container 12 is 0.15-0.7, preferably 0.2-0.6, and more preferably 0.25-0.5, for example. It should be noted that the filling rate of the flavor source 20 in this case is a volume ratio occupied by the flavor source 20 to a volume of void inside the container 12. Furthermore, the weight of the flavor source 20 accommodated in the container 12 is 100 mg-500 mg, preferably 150 mg-400 mg, and more preferably 200 mg-360 mg, for example.
The flavor source 20 may further comprise an aerosol source. There is no particular limitation as to the type of aerosol source, and extracts from various types of natural products and/or components thereof may be selected depending on the purpose of use. The aerosol source is preferably a polyhydric alcohol, and may be, for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof.
The flavor source 20 may comprise tobacco particles, and non-stick particles which adhere to surfaces of the tobacco particles and have a smaller particle size than the tobacco particles. This makes it possible to suppress adhesion of the tobacco particles to each other. The non-stick particles may comprise particles of calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, magnesium oxide, or carbon black, etc. The average particle size of the non-stick particles may be 0.1 mm-3 mm, for example.
The flavor-generating article 10 of this embodiment preferably comprises a filling member which is positioned upstream and/or downstream of the flavor source 20 and is provided in the air flow path inside the container 12. In this case, upstream or downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed by the filling member 22. As a result, upstream or downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while a user is not smoking. Furthermore, if the filling member 22 were provided in the flavor inhaler 100, there would be a risk of the vapor or aerosol agglomerating or condensing in the flavor inhaler 100. According to this embodiment, the filling member 22 is provided in the flavor-generating article 10, and it is therefore possible to suppress occurrences of agglomeration or condensation in the flavor inhaler 100. Here, the filling member 22 may be formed by any material. The filling member 22 may be a member that is permeable to air, or a member that is impermeable to air. When the filling member 22 is a member which is impermeable to air, the filling member 22 is arranged upstream or downstream of the flavor source 20 in such a way that the air flow path is not completely blocked. In the example shown in fig. 1, a filling member 22a and a filling member 22b are respectively arranged upstream and downstream of the flavor source 20. This is not limiting, and the filling member 22 may be arranged only either upstream or downstream of the flavor source 20. For example, the filling member 22 may be a porous member, and specifically it may be a filter such as a paper filter or an acetate filter, for example.
The filling member 22 may comprise a flavoring material. A flavoring material is a substance providing an aroma or taste. The flavoring material may be a natural flavoring material or may be a synthetic flavoring material. One type of flavoring material may be used, or a mixture of multiple types of flavoring materials may be used as the flavoring material. Any type of flavoring material may be used provided that it is a flavoring material which is normally used as such, and examples include essential oils, natural flavoring materials, and synthetic flavoring materials, etc. Furthermore, the properties of the flavoring material are not an issue, and it may be a liquid or solid. Flavoring materials selected from among: tobacco extracts and tobacco components, sugary and sugar-based flavors, licorice (glycyrrhiza), cocoa, chocolate, fruit juice and fruits, spices, liquors, herbs, vanilla, and flower-based flavors, etc., or combinations thereof, may be cited as suitable flavors. Flavoring materials which may be specifically cited include those selected from among: isothiocyanates, indole and derivatives thereof, ethers, esters, ketones, fatty acids, aliphatic higher alcohols, aliphatic higher aldehydes, aliphatic higher hydrocarbons, thioethers, thiols, terpene hydrocarbons, phenol ethers, phenols, furfural and derivatives thereof, aromatic alcohols, aromatic aldehydes, and lactones, etc., or combinations thereof.
A wide range of types of flavoring components may be used, such as disclosed, for example, in "Published Collection of Well-Known Prior Arts (Flavor and Fragrance)" (March 14, 2007, published by the JPO), "Saishin Koryo no Jiten [Encyclopedia of Scents - Latest Edition] (popular edition)" (February 25, 2012, edited by Soichi ARAI, Akio KOBAYASHI, Izumi YAJIMA, Michiaki KAWASAKI, Asakura Publishing Co., Ltd.), and "Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products" (June 1972, R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY).
From the perspective of imparting a pleasant taste, examples of flavoring materials which may be contained in the filling member 22 that may be cited include: acetanisole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, amyl alcohol, amyl butyrate, trans-anethole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru Balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resinoid, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, β-carotene, carrot juice, L-carvone, β-caryophyllene, cassia bark oil, cedar wood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronella oil, DL-citronellol, clary sage extract, cocoa, coffee, cognac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, davana oil, δ-decalactone, γ-decalactone, decanoic acid, dill herb oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, 2-ethyl methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl levulinate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek absolute, genet absolute, gentian root infusion, geraniol, geranyl acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, γ-heptalactone, γ-hexalactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexyl alcohol, hexyl phenylacetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(parahydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, 4-hydroxyundecanoic acid sodium, immortelle absolute, β-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyl acetate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute, kola nut tincture, labdanum oil, lemon terpeneless oil, glycyrrhiza extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, lovage root oil, maltol, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, acetic acid L-menthyl, paramethoxybenzaldehyde, methyl-2-pyrrolyl ketone, methyl anthranilate, methyl phenylacetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute, molasses, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, γ-nonalactone, nutmeg oil, δ-octalactone, octanal, octanoic acid, orange flower oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, ω-pentadecalactone, peppermint oil, petitgrain Paraguay oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl phenylacetate, phenylacetic acid, piperonal, plum extract, propenyl guaethol, propyl acetate, 3-propylidene phthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, α-terpineol, terpinyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxacyclo(8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tridecanone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecalactone, γ-valerolactone, vanilla extract, vanillin, veratraldehyde, violet leaf absolute, citral, mandarin oil, 4-(acetoxymethyl)toluene, 2-methyl-1-butanol, ethyl 10-undecenoate, isoamyl hexanoate, 1-phenylethyl acetate, lauric acid, 8-mercaptomenthone, sinensal, hexyl butyrate, with menthol being especially preferred. These flavoring materials may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination.
There is no particular limitation as to the type of solid flavoring, and from the perspective of imparting a pleasant taste, examples which may be cited include flavoring materials selected from cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, herb powder, flower powder, spice powder, and tea powder, etc., and combinations thereof.
Furthermore, the filling member 22 may comprise a cooling agent or flavoring. There is no particular limitation as to the type of cooling agent, and from the perspective of imparting a pleasant taste, examples of cooling agents which may be cited include: menthol, camphor, isopulegol, cineole, mentha oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, 2-1-menthoxy ethanol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 5), 3-1-menthoxypropane-1,2-diol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 10), 1-menthyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (COOLACT (registered trademark) 20), p-menthane-3,8-diol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 38D), N-(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)-2-isopropyl-5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1-carboxamide (COOLACT (registered trademark) 370), N-(4-(cyanomethyl)phenyl)-2-isopropyl-5, 5-dimethylcyclohexanecarboxamide (COOLACT (registered trademark) 400), N-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-isopropyl-5,5-dimethylcyclohexanecarboxamide, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carboxamide)acetate (WS-5), N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-p-menthane carboxamide (WS-12), 2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide (WS-23), 3-1-menthoxy-2-methylpropan-1,2-diol, 2-1-menthoxyethan-1-ol, 3-1-menthoxypropan-1-ol, 4-1-menthoxybutan-1-ol, menthyl lactate (FEMA 3748), menthone glycerin acetal (Frescolat MGA, FEMA 3807, FEMA 3808), 2-(2-1-menthyloxyethyl)ethanol, menthyl glyoxylate, menthyl 2-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylate, menthyl succinate (FEMA 3810), N-(2-(pyridin-2-yl)-ethyl)-3-p-menthane carboxamide (FEMA 4549), N-(ethoxycarbonylmethyl)-p-menthane-3-carboxamide, N-(4-cyanomethylphenyl)-p-menthane carboxamide, and N-(4-aminocarbonylphenyl)-p-menthane, etc. These cooling agents may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination.
There is no particular limitation as to the type of flavoring, and from the perspective of imparting a pleasant taste, examples which may be cited include: sweeteners (sugars such as glucose, fructose, isomerized sugars, and caramel), acidifiers (organic acids, etc.), and other gustatory materials (ingredients exhibiting an umami taste, bitterness, saltiness, etc.), among others. Lipids (refined waxes, natural waxes, and fatty acids (short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain fatty acids, etc.)) may also be optionally added.
The filling member 22 preferably comprises a particulate filling member. In this case, gaps in the particulate filling member may function as an air flow path when the user is smoking, while upstream or downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 is suppressed by the particulate filling member during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking. Furthermore, the surface area of the filling member 22 can be increased by virtue of the filling member 22 comprising a particulate filling member, so the vapor or aerosol which comes into contact with the particulate filling member can be effectively cooled.
The particulate filling member preferably comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, cellulose, tobacco granules, glycerol, propylene glycol, and flavoring additives. Flavors, etc. may be imparted to the vapor or aerosol when the particulate filling member contains tobacco granules or flavoring additives, for example. Furthermore, an amount of aerosol can be increased when the particulate filling member contains glycerol or propylene glycol. When the particulate filling member contains calcium carbonate or cellulose, it is possible to further suppress agglomeration or condensation of the vapor or aerosol to some extent, and also leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the container, because calcium carbonate and cellulose have relatively low specific heat. The particulate filling member and the flavor source 20 may comprise tobacco granules. In this case, a common material may be used for the flavor source 20 and the particulate filling member, and the flavor-generating article 10 can therefore be efficiently produced.
There is no particular limitation as to the type of flavoring additive contained in the particulate filling member, and, from the point of view of imparting a favorable flavoring sensation, the flavoring additive may be at least one selected from the group consisting of: acetanisole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, amyl alcohol, amyl butyrate, trans-anethole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru Balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resinoid, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, β-carotene, carrot juice, L-carvone, β-caryophyllene, cassia bark oil, cedar wood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronella oil, DL-citronellol, clary sage extract, cocoa, coffee, cognac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, davana oil, δ-decalactone, γ-decalactone, decanoic acid, dill herb oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, 2-ethyl methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl levulinate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek absolute, genet absolute, gentian root infusion, geraniol, geranyl acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, γ-heptalactone, γ-hexalactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexene-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexyl alcohol, hexyl phenylacetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(para-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, 4-hydroxyundecanoic acid sodium, immortelle absolute, β-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyl acetate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute, kola nut tincture, labdanum oil, lemon terpeneless oil, glycyrrhiza extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, lovage root oil, maltol, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, L-menthyl acetate, paramethoxybenzaldehyde, methyl-2-pyrrolyl ketone, methyl anthranilate, methyl phenylacetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute, molasses, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, γ-nonalactone, nutmeg oil, δ-octalactone, octanal, octanoic acid, orange flower oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, ω-pentadecalactone, peppermint oil, petitgrain Paraguay oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl phenylacetate, phenylacetic acid, piperonal, plum extract, propenyl guaethol, propyl acetate, 3-propylidene phthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, α-terpineol, terpinyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxacyclo(8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tridecanone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecalactone, γ-valerolactone, vanilla extract, vanillin, veratraldehyde, violet leaf absolute, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carboxamide) acetate (WS-5), sugar (sucrose, fructose, etc.), cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, rose pip powder, chamomile flower powder, lemon verbena powder, peppermint powder, leaf powder, spearmint powder, tea powder, natural plant flavorings (e.g., jasmine oil, lemon oil, vetivar oil, lovage oil), and esters.
The particulate filling member preferably comprises an upstream particulate filling member positioned upstream of the flavor source 20, and a downstream particulate filling member positioned downstream of the flavor source. Specifically, the filling member 22a preferably comprises the upstream particulate filling member, and the filling member 22b preferably comprises the downstream particulate filling member. In this case, both upstream and downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed by the particulate filling member provided in the air flow path. As a result, both upstream and downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking.
The filling member 22a (upstream particulate filling member) may comprise a different material from the filling member 22b (downstream particulate filling member). In this case, it is possible to provide a degree of freedom in the design of the flavor-generating article 10, such as using a material that imparts a flavor, etc. for the filling member 22b (downstream particulate filling member) through which the vapor or aerosol passes, while using a different material for the filling member 22a (upstream particulate filling member).
Furthermore, the average particle size of the particulate filling member is preferably 0.1 mm-3 mm. If the average particle size of the particulate filling member is less than 0.1 mm, then the particle size is excessively small, reducing the size of the gaps in the particulate filling member, and there is a risk of excessively high airflow resistance. Furthermore, in this case, the particulate filling member is more likely to spill out from gaps, etc. in the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10. Meanwhile, if the average particle size of the particulate filling member is greater than 3 mm, then the particle size is excessively large, increasing the size of the gaps in the particulate filling member, and the vapor or aerosol is more likely to leak out through the gaps in the particulate filling member. Accordingly, if the average particle size is 0.1 mm-3 mm, then it is possible to suppress an increase in airflow resistance or spillage of the particulate filling member from the container 12, while it is also possible to suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol through the gaps in the particulate filling member.
At least one of the filling member 22a and the filling member 22b may comprise multiple layers. Specifically, different types of particulate filling members may be stacked in the longitudinal direction in order to form the filling member 22a or the filling member 22b, for example. The hardness of the filling member 22 comprising a particulate filling member is preferably higher than the hardness of the flavor source 20 or the container 12. This makes it possible to suppress an outflow of the filling member 22a and the filling member 22b due to breakage (crushing). The filling member 22 comprising a particulate filling member may be coated with a buffer component such as polylactic acid or a cushioning material.
The container 12 comprises: an air inlet 13 positioned upstream of the flavor source 20, and an air outlet 14 positioned downstream of the flavor source 20. As shown in fig. 1, when the filling member 22b (particulate filling member) is positioned downstream of the flavor source 20, the air outlet 14 is positioned downstream of the filling member 22b. The flavor-generating article 10 preferably comprises a ventilation port 15 communicating with the inside of the container 12. In this case, air may be supplied through the ventilation port 15, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port 15. More specifically, the container 12 preferably comprises the ventilation port 15 communicating with the filling member 22b. By this means, air may be supplied through the ventilation port 15 to the filling member 22b (particulate filling member) positioned downstream of the flavor source 20, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port 15. In the example shown in fig. 1, the ventilation port 15 is provided in the side wall 12a of the container 12, but this is not limiting and it may equally be provided in the top wall 12c. Furthermore, ventilation ports 15 may also be respectively provided in both the side wall 12a and the top wall 12c of the container 12.
The ventilation port 15 is preferably provided closer to the flavor source 20 than to an upper end of the container 12 (that is, an outside end portion of the top wall 12c). In this case, it is possible to lengthen the air flow path for the air that has passed through the ventilation port 15, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port 15. Meanwhile, the ventilation port 15 may equally be provided closer to the upper end of the container 12 than to the flavor source 20. In this case, leakage of the vapor or aerosol through the ventilation port 15 can be suppressed to a greater extent than when the ventilation port 15 is provided close to the flavor source 20. The ventilation port 15 is preferably directed toward the bottom wall 12b of the container 12. Here again, it is possible to lengthen the air flow path for the air that has passed through the ventilation port 15, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port 15.
The flavor-generating article 10 preferably comprises, between the filling member 22 and the flavor source 20, a partition member allowing the passage of air. Specifically, in the example shown in fig. 1, the flavor-generating article 10 comprises a partition member 26a between the filling member 22a and the flavor source 20, and comprises a partition member 26b between the filling member 22b and the flavor source 20. In this case, it is possible to suppress mixing of the filling member 22 (particulate filling member) and the flavor source 20 inside the container 12.
As shown in fig. 2, the flavor inhaler 100 comprises an intake port 110a communicating with the chamber 120. The flavor inhaler 100 may comprise an air flow path F1 communicating with the air inlet 13 of the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10. Specifically, the air flow path F1 enables communication between the intake port 110a and the air inlet 13 of the container 12. That is to say, the intake port 110a communicates with the air inlet 13 of the flavor-generating article 10. The air flow path F1 preferably passes outside the side wall 12a of the container 12 to communicate with the air inlet 13. In this case, an air layer (air flow path F1) is formed outside the side wall 12a of the container 12, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container 12 to the outside of the flavor inhaler 100. Furthermore, the flavor inhaler 100 comprises an exhaust port 130b communicating with the air outlet 14 of the flavor-generating article 10.
Specifically, as shown in fig. 2, if the airflow resistance downstream from the susceptor 23 is R3, and the airflow resistance upstream from the susceptor 23 is R4 in a state in which the flavor-generating article 10 is accommodated in the chamber 120, then preferably R3>R4. In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler 100 is relatively long on the upstream side of the susceptor 23, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler 100. For this reason, setting the airflow resistance downstream of the susceptor 23 higher than upstream makes it possible to further suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler 100.
As described above, the heating source 110 of the flavor inhaler 100 may comprise a heating element insertable in the flavor-generating article 10, rather than comprising an induction coil. That is to say, the heating source 110 may be configured to be inserted into the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10 when the flavor-generating article 10 is accommodated in the chamber 120. In this case, if the airflow resistance downstream from the flavor source 20 is R1, and the airflow resistance upstream from the flavor source 20 is R2 in a state in which the flavor-generating article 10 is accommodated in the chamber 120, then preferably R1>R2. As a result, in this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler 100 is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source 20, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler 100. For this reason, setting the airflow resistance downstream of the flavor source 20 higher than upstream makes it possible to further suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler 100.
As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the flavor-generating article 10 may further comprise a nozzle 28 communicating with the air outlet 14 of the container 12. As shown in fig. 1, an inner diameter D1 of the nozzle 28 is preferably smaller than an inner diameter D2 of the container 12. In this case, it is possible to increase a flow velocity of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor-generating article 10 when the user is smoking, as compared to when the flavor-generating article 10 does not comprise the nozzle 28. As a result, it is possible to suppress agglomeration or condensation of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the flavor-generating article 10, caused by the vapor or aerosol colliding with a flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler 100 (a wall surface of the mouthpiece 130 defining the air flow path 130a). It should be noted that the inner diameter D1 of the nozzle and the inner diameter D2 of the container 12 refer to the maximum inner diameter in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.
A length L1 (see fig. 2) of the nozzle 28 is preferably 3 mm-10 mm. If the length L1 of the nozzle 28 is less than 3 mm, then the nozzle 28 is excessively short, the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle 28 diffuses, and there is a risk of it not being possible to effectively suppress collisions of the vapor or aerosol with the flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler 100. If the length L1 of the nozzle 28 is greater than 10 mm, then there is a risk of the size of the flavor inhaler 100 becoming excessively large in order to accommodate the flavor-generating article 10 comprising the nozzle 28. When the length L1 of the nozzle 28 is in the range above, it is therefore possible to suppress an excessively large size of the flavor inhaler 100 while suppressing diffusion of the vapor or aerosol. It should be noted that the length of the nozzle 28 in this embodiment refers to the length of the nozzle 28 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the length of the nozzle 28 is preferably the same as or less than the length of the mouthpiece 130. Specifically, the length of the nozzle 28 is preferably no greater than half of the length of the mouthpiece 130. In this case, the air taken in from the intake port 110a readily mixes with the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20.
As shown in fig. 1, a diameter D3 of the air outlet 14 of the container 12 and the inner diameter D1 of the nozzle 28 may be substantially equal. In this case, there is essentially no difference between the diameter D3 of the air outlet and the inner diameter D1 of the nozzle, and it is therefore possible to suppress occurrences of pressure loss at a boundary between the air outlet 14 and the nozzle 28. The inner diameter D1 of the nozzle 28 and the diameter D3 of the air outlet 14 are preferably 1 mm-4 mm. The inner diameter D1 of the nozzle 28 and the diameter D3 of the air outlet 14 may be the same or may be different.
The flavor-generating article 10 may comprise a mesh or a filter covering the air outlet 14 of the container 12. In this case, discharge of the flavor source 20 from the nozzle 28 can be suppressed. In the example shown in fig. 1 and 2, the container 12 comprises a single air outlet 14, but this is not limiting, and the container 12 may equally comprise a plurality of air outlets 14. In this case, all of the plurality of air outlets 14 preferably communicate with the (single) nozzle 28. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can contact the wall surface of the container 12 which defines the plurality of air outlets 14, and the vapor or aerosol can therefore be cooled more efficiently. Furthermore, the diameter D3 of each of the plurality of air outlets 14 is preferably smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the nozzle 28. That is to say, providing a plurality of small-diameter air outlets 14 makes it possible to suppress an external outflow of the contents of the container 12 through the plurality of air outlets 14. Moreover, a plurality of nozzles 28 may also be respectively provided for the plurality of air outlets 14.
As shown in fig. 2, a ratio of the length L1 of the nozzle 28 and a distance d1 from a tip end of the nozzle 28 to an opening of the mouthpiece 130 of the flavor inhaler 100 is preferably 10:0-3:7. If the length of the nozzle is relatively shorter than the ratio range above, then the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle 28 diffuses, and there is a risk of it not being possible to effectively suppress collisions of the vapor or aerosol with the flow path wall surface of the flavor inhaler 100. When the ratio is in the range above, it is therefore possible to suppress diffusion of the vapor or aerosol.
As shown in fig. 2, the flavor inhaler 100 comprises a gap G1 radially adjacent to the nozzle 28, between the mouthpiece 130 and the nozzle 28. The intake port 110a of the flavor inhaler 100 is preferably configured to supply air into this gap G1. There is a risk of the vapor or aerosol which flows out from the nozzle 28 diffusing and penetrating into the gap G1 between the mouthpiece 130 and the nozzle 28, and forming a swirling flow which agglomerates or solidifies on the mouthpiece 130 or the nozzle 28. When the flavor inhaler 100 comprises the intake port 110a, air can be supplied into the gap G1, and it is therefore possible to suppress penetration into the gap G1 of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle 28. In the example depicted, the mouthpiece 130 has a constant inner diameter, but the inner diameter of the mouthpiece 130 may equally become larger toward the exhaust port 130b.
In the example shown in fig. 2, the intake port 110a may be formed at the boundary between the mouthpiece 130 and the housing 101 That is to say, the intake port 110a may be provided between the face of the mouthpiece 130 facing the container 12 and the face of the container 12 facing the mouthpiece 130. A groove portion defining at least part of the intake port 110a may be formed on at least one of the face of the mouthpiece 130 facing the container 12 and the face of the container 12 facing the mouthpiece 130. In this case, the intake port 110a may be provided upstream of the gap G1, and it is therefore possible to effectively suppress penetration into the gap G1 of the vapor or aerosol flowing out from the nozzle 28.
A flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment which may be used in the flavor inhaler 100 shown in fig. 2 will be described next. Fig. 3 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 3 comprises a guide portion 29 which extends in a direction of extension of the nozzle 28 and is positioned between the mouthpiece 130 and the nozzle. In this case, the guide portion 29 can guide the mouthpiece 130 when the mouthpiece 130 is fitted to the housing, and the flavor-generating article 10 can therefore be easily positioned in relation to the mouthpiece 130 by means of the guide portion 29. The guide portion 29 may be formed on the container 12. Specifically, the guide portion 29 is formed on the top wall 12c of the container 12 in the example depicted. The guide portion 29 is preferably formed in an annular shape (continuously), as seen from the longitudinal direction. The guide portion 29 may equally be formed intermittently along an annular shape, when seen from the longitudinal direction.
As shown in fig. 2, an air flow path F2 communicating with the intake port 110a extends between the mouthpiece 130 and the top wall 12c of the container 12. That is to say, a portion of the air flowing in from the intake port 110a flows into the gap G1 through the air flow path F2. In the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 3, the guide portion 29 may be configured to guide the air supplied from the intake port 110a toward the opening of the mouthpiece 130. That is to say, the air flowing into the gap G1 from the intake port 110a may be guided to the opening of the mouthpiece 130 by means of the guide portion. As a result, it is possible to suppress accumulation of the vapor or aerosol in the gap G1.
Fig. 4 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 4 differs from the flavor-generating articles 10 shown in fig. 1-3 in regard to the shape of the nozzle 28. Specifically, as shown in fig. 4, the nozzle 28 comprises a part 28a where the outer diameter increases from the opening of the nozzle 28 toward the air outlet 14 of the container 12. In this case, a tapered surface where the outer diameter decreases toward the opening of the nozzle 28 is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the nozzle 28. The nozzle 28 itself may therefore demonstrate the function of the guide portion 29 shown in fig. 4.
Fig. 5 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 5 differs from the flavor-generating articles 10 shown in fig. 1-4 in regard to having a flow path curving portion. Specifically, the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 5 comprises a flow path curving portion which is arranged downstream of the flavor source 20 and is configured to curve the air flow path passing through the container. By this means, it is possible to lengthen the air flow path downstream of the container 12 as compared to when there is no flow path curving portion. Leakage to outside the container 12 of the vapor or aerosol that has passed through the container 12 can therefore be suppressed, and cooling of the vapor or aerosol can be promoted. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler 100 is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source 20, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler 100. For this reason, arranging the flow path curving portion downstream of the flavor source 20 makes it possible to effectively suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler 100. Furthermore, as shown in fig. 5, when the flow path curving portion is arranged inside the container 12, the vapor or aerosol is cooled so as to agglomerate or condense in the flow path curving portion, and agglomeration or condensation of the vapor or aerosol outside the container 12 (e.g., inside the flavor inhaler 100) can therefore be suppressed. It should be noted that the flow path curving portion may equally be arranged upstream of the flavor source 20.
The flow path curving portion may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a helical flow path element, a spiral flow path element, and a gas-impermeable plate-shaped member. In this case, the air flow path may be curved in a helical form, a spiral form, or randomly by means of the flow path curving portion. In the example shown in fig. 5, a gas-impermeable plate-shaped member 31 is arranged inside the container 12 as the flow path curving portion. The plate-shaped member 31 is preferably arranged so as to extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 10. In this case, the vapor or aerosol from the flavor source 20 moving along the longitudinal direction may collide with the plate-shaped member 31, causing the vapor or aerosol to move in the direction intersecting the longitudinal direction. In the example shown in fig. 5, the plate-shaped member 31 is arranged so as to extend in the direction intersecting the longitudinal direction. The plate-shaped member 31 may have any shape, such as a disc or a polygonal plate. Furthermore, the plate-shaped member 31 is preferably arranged so as to lie over the air outlet 14 when seen from the longitudinal direction. In this case, it is possible to prevent the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 from flowing directly into the air outlet 14 without being caused to curve. Furthermore, an external shape of the plate-shaped member 31 when seen from the longitudinal direction may be similar to an external shape of the container 12. Specifically, when the container 12 (side wall 12a) is cylindrical, the plate-shaped member 31 may be disc-shaped, for example. The length of the plate-shaped member 31 (that is, the length in the short-side direction of the container 12 shown in fig. 5) is preferably no greater than 90% of the inner diameter of the container 12, and more preferably no greater than 80%. Furthermore, the length of the plate-shaped member 31 is at least 40% of the inner diameter of the container 12, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 60%, for example. When the length of the plate-shaped member 31 is in the range above, it is possible to achieve advantageous airflow resistance while causing the air flow path to curve.
Fig. 6 is a schematic exploded oblique view of a spiral flow path element constituting another example of the flow path curving portion. As shown in the drawing, the spiral flow path element 32 may comprise an upper member 33, a lower member 34, and a spiral member 35 positioned therebetween. Air that has flowed in from the lower member 34 may move along the spiral member 35 and flow out from the upper member 33. That is to say, the spiral flow path element 32 may comprise a spiral flow path 36 defined by the upper member 33, the lower member 34, and the spiral member 35. The spiral flow path 36 may comprise a flow path start point 36a and a flow path end point 36b. The spiral flow path element 32 may cause the flow path of air that has flowed in to curve in a spiral shape.
The upper member 33 is preferably substantially plate-shaped overall, for example, and is preferably formed by any gas-impermeable material. Specifically, the upper member 33 is preferably formed by gas-impermeable paper, for example. The upper member 33 may be formed in a block shape having greater thickness. The upper member 33 comprises an air outlet 33a for allowing air that has moved along the spiral member 35 to flow to the outside of the spiral flow path element 32. In the example depicted, the air outlet 33a is formed substantially in a central portion of the upper member 33, aligned with the center of the spiral of the spiral member 35.
The spiral member 35 is a spiral-shaped member, that is, a member having a shape describing a line that becomes more distant from the center as it turns within one plane. In the example shown in fig. 6, the spiral member 35 has a curved spiral shape, but this is not limiting, and a portion of the spiral member 35 may equally be linear, or the spiral member 35 may have corners. The spiral member 35 is preferably formed by any gas-impermeable material. Specifically, the spiral member 35 is preferably formed by gas-impermeable paper, for example.
The lower member 34 is preferably substantially plate-shaped overall, for example, and is preferably formed by any gas-impermeable material. Specifically, the lower member 34 is preferably formed by gas-impermeable paper, for example. The lower member 34 may be formed in a block shape having greater thickness. The lower member 34 comprises an air inlet 34a for supplying air to the spiral flow path. In the example depicted, the air inlet 34a is formed close to an outer edge of the lower member 34, aligned with an outer side of the spiral of the spiral member 35.
The spiral member 35 may be integrally formed with the upper member 33 or the lower member 34. In this case, formation of a gap between the spiral member 35 and the upper member 33 or lower member 34 is suppressed, and leakage of the vapor or aerosol from a gap between the spiral member 35 and the upper member 33 or lower member 34 can therefore be suppressed. Furthermore, the spiral flow path element 32 can be easily formed simply by attaching the separate upper member 33 or lower member 34 to the spiral member. Furthermore, as shown in fig. 6, the upper member 33, lower member 34, and spiral member 35 may each be formed as separate elements which may be joined together.
The spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged in the manner of the plate-shaped member 31 shown in fig. 5, in such a way as to cover a portion of a cross section of the flavor-generating article 10 orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the container 12. That is to say, the spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged in the flavor-generating article 10 so as to lie at an interval from the side wall 12a of the container 12. Meanwhile, the spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged in such a way as to cover the whole of the cross section of the flavor-generating article 10 orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the container 12. That is to say, the spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged so as to be essentially stuck to the side wall 12a of the container 12. That is to say, the outer shape of the spiral flow path element 32 may be essentially consistent with an inner surface shape of the container 12, when seen from the longitudinal direction of the container 12. The spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged so as to close off the opening of the container 12. In this case, the spiral flow path element 32 may function as a lid (top wall 12c) of the container 12. Spillage of the flavor source 20 from the container 12 can therefore be suppressed by providing the spiral flow path element 32 in the container 12. Furthermore, the spiral flow path element 32 may be arranged in an upper portion of the container 12 and bonded to the container 12. In this case, the outer shape of the spiral flow path element 32 as seen from the longitudinal direction of the container 12 is preferably essentially consistent with the inner surface shape of the container 12.
The spiral flow path element 32 preferably comprises a ventilation port communicating with the spiral flow path 36 between the flow path start point 36a and the flow path end point 36b. In this case, air may be supplied through the ventilation port, and the vapor or aerosol passing through the spiral flow path 36 can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the ventilation port. The ventilation port 15 may be formed in at least one of the upper member 33, the lower member 34, and the spiral member 35. It should be noted that the flow path start point 36a communicates with the air inlet 34a of the lower member 34, and the flow path end point 36b communicates with the air outlet 33a of the spiral flow path element 32.
Fig. 7 is a schematic exploded oblique view of another example of the spiral flow path element 32. The lower member 34 of the spiral flow path element 32 shown in fig. 7 has a different configuration from that of the spiral flow path element 32 shown in fig. 6. Specifically, the lower member 34 shown in fig. 7 comprises a gas-permeable member 34b, and a gas-impermeable member 34c provided on a surface of the gas-permeable member 34b. In this case, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the part of the gas-permeable member 34b where the gas-impermeable member 34c is not provided, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member 35, flowing out from the upper member 33.
The gas-permeable member 34b is substantially plate-shaped overall, for example, and is formed by any gas-permeable material. Specifically, the gas-permeable member 34b is preferably formed by a nonwoven fabric, for example. The gas-impermeable member 34c is substantially plate-shaped overall, for example, and is formed by any gas-impermeable material. Specifically, the gas-impermeable member 34c is preferably formed by paper, for example. As described above, the part of the gas-permeable member 34b where the gas-impermeable member 34c is not provided can function as an air inlet for supplying air to the spiral flow path 36.
As shown in fig. 7, the gas-impermeable member 34c is preferably arranged on at least one face of the gas-permeable member 34b so as not to overlap an outer edge of the gas-permeable member 34b. In this case, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the outer edge of the gas-permeable member 34b, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member 35, flowing out from the upper member 33.
Furthermore, as shown in fig. 7, the center of the gas-impermeable member 34c and the center of the gas-permeable member 34b may be substantially aligned. In this case, inflow of the vapor or aerosol from the center of the gas-permeable member 34b can be suppressed. Furthermore, when the gas-impermeable member 34c is arranged so as not to overlap the outer edge of the gas-permeable member 34b, the vapor or aerosol can flow in from the outer edge of the gas-permeable member 34b, and can move in a spiral form along the spiral member 35, flowing out from the upper member 33. The center of the gas-impermeable member 34c or the gas-permeable member 34b as referred to here means the center in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, that is, the center in a direction orthogonal to a direction of adjacency of the upper member 33, the lower member 34, and the spiral member 35.
Fig. 8 is a schematic exploded oblique view of a helical flow path element constituting another example of the flow path curving portion. A helical flow path element 40 comprises at least one helical flow path 42 comprising an air inlet 42a and an air outlet 42b. More specifically, in this embodiment, the helical flow path element 40 has a flow path main body 41 arranged inside the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10, a plurality of annular walls 44 are formed on an outer circumferential surface of the flow path main body 41, and annular flow paths 45 are formed between adjacent annular walls 44. Furthermore, as shown in fig. 8, one or more parallel flow paths 43 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 10 and connecting adjacent annular flow paths 45 may be formed in the annular walls 44. In other words, cutout portions defining the one or more parallel flow paths 43 may be formed in the annular walls 44. In this embodiment the helical flow path 42 may be formed by the plurality of annular flow paths 45 and the one or more parallel flow paths 43. If we assume that a first annular wall 44 and a second annular wall 44 constitute adjacent annular walls 44, then the one or more parallel flow paths 43 formed in the first annular wall 44 are preferably positioned so as not to overlap the one or more parallel flow paths 43 formed in the second annular wall 44, as seen from the longitudinal direction. In this case, it is possible to increase the length of the helical flow path 42, and cooling of the vapor or aerosol can therefore be promoted. Specifically, the parallel flow path(s) formed in the first annular wall 44 and the parallel flow path(s) provided in the second annular wall 44 are preferably provided at positions offset by 180°.
The helical flow path 42 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 10. In other words, the helical flow path 42 may have a flow path following a curve moving in a longitudinal direction while turning. The air inlet 42a and the air outlet 42b are preferably positioned so as not to overlap as seen from the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 10.
The helical flow path element 40 is preferably arranged so as to mate with the side wall 12a of the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10. In this case, the helical flow path 42 may be defined by the side wall 12a of the container 12 and the flow path main body 41, and the majority of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can pass through the helical flow path 42.
The plate-shaped member 31, the spiral flow path element 32, and the helical flow path element 40 were illustrated as flow path curving portions in fig. 5-8. This is not limiting, and the flow path curving portion may equally comprise a groove or a rough surface formed on the inner face of a wall (top wall 12c or side wall 12a) of the container 12. In this case, it is possible to curve the flow path of the vapor or aerosol passing through the inside of the container 12, without providing the flow path curving portion separately from the container 12. Furthermore, the flow path curving portion was illustrated as being arranged inside the container in fig. 5-8, but the flow path curving portion may equally be arranged outside the container 12. In this case, penetration of the flavor source 20 inside the container 12 into the flow path curving portion can be suppressed.
Fig. 9 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 9 differs from the flavor-generating articles 10 shown in fig. 1-8 in regard to having a check valve. Specifically, the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 9 comprises a check valve 50 positioned downstream of the flavor source 20 and configured to permit movement of gas from the flavor source 20 to outside of the container 12. By this means, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed by the check valve 50. As a result, downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking. It should be noted that, in general, the flow path of the flavor inhaler 100 is relatively long on the upstream side of the flavor source 20, so the vapor or aerosol is less likely to leak from the flavor inhaler 100. For this reason, arranging the check valve 50 downstream of the flavor source 20 makes it possible to effectively suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the flavor inhaler 100. The check valve 50 may, however, be arranged upstream of the flavor source 20.
The check valve 50 shown in fig. 9 is what is known as a ball check valve. Specifically, the check valve 50 shown in fig. 9 comprises a ball valve 51 and a valve seat 52. The valve seat 52 is positioned downstream of the flavor source 20 and is configured to partition a space accommodating the flavor source 20 and the susceptor 23, and a space 53 accommodating the ball valve 51. The ball valve 51 is arranged inside a space inside the container 12 between the valve seat 52 and the top wall 12c, i.e., inside the space 53, and is configured to be capable of opening/closing an opening formed in the valve seat 52. An edge portion forming the opening formed in the valve seat 52 may be inclined to align with the ball valve 51. This allows the ball valve 51 to close off the opening in the valve seat 52 more securely. Specifically, when the user draws from the mouthpiece 130 in a state in which the flavor-generating article 10 is accommodated in the flavor inhaler 100 as shown in fig. 2, the ball valve 51 is separated from the valve seat 52 by the air passing through the inside of the container 12 so that the check valve 50 opens, and when the user is not drawing from the mouthpiece 130, the ball valve 51 contacts the valve seat 52 so that the check valve 50 closes.
Fig. 10 is a plan view showing another example of the check valve 50 used in the flavor-generating article. The check valve 50 shown in fig. 10 is what is known as a flap check valve. Specifically, the check valve 50 comprises: a base 54 having an opening or cutout 54c; and a flap portion 55 provided on a downstream side of the base 54 so as to cover the opening or cutout 54c. In this case, downstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol can be suppressed by the flap portion 55 covering the opening or cutout 54c. In the check valve 50 shown in fig. 10, similarly to the check valve 50 shown in fig. 9, the base 54 is positioned downstream of the flavor source 20 and is configured to partition the space accommodating the flavor source 20 and the susceptor 23, and the space 53 accommodating the flap portion 55. The diameter (maximum length) of the opening or cutout 54c may be 1 mm-4 mm.
The base 54 comprises a first part 54a and a second part 54b spaced apart from the first part 54a. The first part 54a and the second part 54b are positioned in a coplanar form. The two ends of the flap portion 55 may be respectively fixed to the first part 54a and the second part 54b of the base 54. In this case, a length between the two ends of the flap portion 55 is preferably greater than a distance between the first part 54a and the second part 54b of the base 54. As a result, the flap portion 55 is fixed to the base 54 so as to flex or bend, and a portion of the flap portion 55 is therefore spaced apart from the base 54, which enables the user to draw the vapor or aerosol from a gap between the flap portion 55 and the base 54.
In the example shown in fig. 10, the flap portion 55 has a substantially rectangular planar shape overall, and the two ends thereof are fixed over their entire length to the first part 54a and the second part by means of an adhesive, etc.
The flap portion 55 may comprise a first flap member 55a and a second flap member 55b. In this case, one end of each of the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b is preferably fixed to the base 54, while the other ends of each of the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b are preferably fixed to each other. As a result, the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b can be fixed overlapping each other. The weight of this overlap improves opening/closing operations of the flap portion 55 (makes the flap portion 55 less likely to open). A flap portion 55 having a satisfactory opening/closing operation can therefore be easily formed by using the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b. It should be noted that the other ends of each of the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b need not be fixed to each other. In this case, the other ends of each of the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b may overlap without being bonded together.
Furthermore, the length of the first flap member 55a and the length of the second flap member 55b are preferably substantially equal. In this case, the distances from each of the two ends of the flap portion 55 to the overlap between the first flap member 55a and second flap member 55b are equal, therefore improving opening/closing of the flap, specifically, the function of restricting vapor or aerosol pressure is easier to adjust. The length of the first flap member 55a or the second flap member 55b, that is, the length between said one end and said other end of the first flap member 55a or the second flap member 55b, may be 1 mm-10 mm, for example.
The first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b may be fixed so as to overlap each other at said other ends. In this case, a ratio of the length of the overlap between the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b to the length between said one end and said other end of the first flap member or the second flap member is preferably 0-0.4. As a result, the weight of the central part of the flap portion 55 can be increased by the overlap between the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b while flexibility of the flap portion 55 overall is maintained, therefore enabling better opening/closing of the flap portion 55. Specifically, the operation when the flap portion 55 opens can be smoothly performed, while vapor or aerosol pressure is restricted. The length of the overlap between the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b may be 0 mm-2 mm, for example. Furthermore, a ratio of the length of the overlap between the first flap member 55a and the second flap member 55b to the diameter (maximum length) of the opening or cutout 54c may be 0-1.
In the flavor inhaler 100 shown in fig. 2 when a flavor-generating article 10 having the check valve 50 shown in fig. 9 or 10 is used, the airflow resistance downstream of the flavor source 20 is preferably greater than the airflow resistance upstream of the flavor source 20. In this case, downstream movement of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 can be suppressed during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking.
Fig. 11 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 11 comprises the flavor source 20 and the container 12 accommodating the flavor source 20. As shown in the drawing, the container 12 comprises a first cylindrical body 60 having a first bottom wall 61 and a first side wall 62, and a second cylindrical body 70 having a second bottom wall 71 and a second side wall 72. The first cylindrical body 60 is inserted inside the second cylindrical body 70 so that the first side wall 62 abuts the second bottom wall 71. In this case, as shown in the drawing, an air layer A1 can be readily provided between the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 72, and it is therefore possible to suppress transfer of heat of the container 12 to the outside of the flavor-generating article 10. The flavor-generating article 10 may further comprise the susceptor 23 (corresponding to an example of the heating source) accommodated inside the container 12.
As shown in the drawing, the first bottom wall 61 of the first cylindrical body 60 is provided at one end of the first side wall 62, and a first opening 63 is formed at the other end of the first cylindrical body 60. The first cylindrical body 60 may be closed off at both ends so that the first cylindrical body 60 comprises a closed space. As shown in the drawing, the second bottom wall 71 of the second cylindrical body 70 is provided at one end of the second side wall 72, and a second opening 73 is formed at the other end of the second cylindrical body 70. The second cylindrical body 70 may be closed off at both ends, but preferably has the second opening 73 for insertion of the first cylindrical body 60.
As shown in the drawing, the filling member 22a is disposed upstream of the flavor source 20 and the susceptor 23. Furthermore, the filling member 22b is disposed upstream of the flavor source 20 and the susceptor 23. In the example depicted, the filling member 22a and the filling member 22b may be formed by the same material of the flavor source 20, and may be tobacco granules, for example. A rib which supports one longitudinal end of the susceptor 23 may be formed on the second bottom wall 71 in order to keep the susceptor 23 at a suitable position in the longitudinal direction of the container 12.
An air flow path is preferably formed between the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 72. In this case, an air layer A1 (air flow path) is formed outside the first side wall 62 of the container 12, and it is therefore possible to further suppress transfer of heat of the container 12 to the outside of the flavor-generating article 10. In the example depicted, the second opening 73 of the second cylindrical body 70 functions as the air inlet 13, with the air layer A1 thereby functioning as the air flow path.
As shown in the drawing, the second side wall 72 preferably has at least one rib 72a on an inner face thereof, and the rib 72a preferably abuts an outer face of the first side wall 62. In this case, the rib 72a enables a gap (air layer A1) having a fixed width to be formed between the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 72. In this embodiment, the rib 72a extends along the longitudinal direction of the inner face of the second side wall 72. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a plurality of the ribs 72a are arranged at circumferential intervals on the inner face of the second side wall. The plurality of ribs 72a are preferably arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction on the inner face of the second side wall.
As shown in the drawing, the first side wall 62 preferably comprises an opening or cutout enabling communication between the air flow path (air layer A1) and the inside of the first cylindrical body 60. In this case, the air passing through the air flow path can be supplied into the container 12 through the opening or cutout. The opening or cutout may be covered by the second side wall 72 with the air flow path (air layer A1) therebetween. In this case, it is possible to prevent the opening or cutout from being exposed. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation as to the number of openings or cutouts, and openings or cutouts in any number of one or more may be formed in the first side wall 62. When a plurality of openings or cutouts are formed in the second side wall 62, the plurality of openings or cutouts may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or the longitudinal direction. In the embodiment depicted, the first cylindrical body 60 comprises the opening or cutout 62a and the opening or cutout 62b, but the first cylindrical body 60 may equally comprise only either one of the opening or cutout 62a and the opening or cutout 62b.
As shown in fig. 11, the opening or cutout 62a is preferably positioned upstream from the susceptor 23. In this case, air flowing into the container 12 from the opening or cutout 62a passes through the susceptor 23, and the vapor or aerosol generated in the vicinity of the susceptor 23 can therefore be efficiently delivered. Meanwhile, the opening or cutout 62b is preferably positioned downstream from the susceptor 23. In this case, air may be supplied through the opening or cutout 62b, and the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source can therefore be efficiently cooled by the air from the opening or cutout. In this embodiment, the flavor-generating article 10 comprises the susceptor 23 as the heating source, but the opening or cutout 62a is still preferably positioned upstream from the heating source when the flavor-generating article 10 is heated by a heating source other than the susceptor 23. Furthermore, the opening or cutout 62b is preferably positioned downstream from the heating source.
The opening or cutout 62a upstream of the susceptor 23 may be larger than the downstream opening or cutout 62b. In other words, an opening area of the opening or cutout 62a upstream of the susceptor 23 may be greater than an opening area of the downstream opening or cutout 62b. In this case, it is possible to suppress leakage of the vapor or aerosol from the downstream opening or cutout 62b. Furthermore, it is possible to increase the amount of air supplied to the flavor source 20 from the upstream opening or cutout 62a. Meanwhile, the opening or cutout 62a upstream of the susceptor 23 may be smaller than the downstream opening or cutout 62b. In other words, the opening area of the opening or cutout 62a upstream of the susceptor 23 may be smaller than the opening area of the downstream opening or cutout 62b. In this case, it is possible to increase the amount of air supplied from the downstream opening or cutout 62b, thereby further promoting cooling of the vapor or aerosol.
The first bottom wall 61 of the first cylindrical body 60 preferably comprises a first ventilation port 64. In this case, the first ventilation port 64 may function as an air inlet or an air outlet of the container 12. In the example shown in fig. 11, the container 12 comprises the air inlet 13, and the first ventilation port 64 may therefore function as the air outlet. Furthermore, as shown in fig. 11, the second bottom wall 71 may be configured to be impermeable to air. As a result, when the first bottom wall 61 comprises the first ventilation port 64, the first side wall 62 comprises the opening or cutout 62a, and the air flow path (layer A1) is formed between the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 72, the air passing through the air flow path (air layer A1) and the opening or cutout 62a and flowing into the container 12 can flow to outside the container 12 from the first ventilation port 64. That is to say, the flavor-generating article 10 may have a "counterflow" flow path. Accordingly, in the example shown in fig. 11, the air inlet 13 and the first ventilation port 64 functioning as the air outlet are formed on the same side of the container 12.
Fig. 12 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 12 differs from the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 11 in that the second bottom wall 71 of the second cylindrical body 70 comprises a second ventilation port 74. In this case, the second ventilation port 74 may function as an air inlet or an air outlet of the container 12. In the example shown in fig. 12, the first bottom wall 61 comprises the first ventilation port 64 functioning as an air inlet, and the second ventilation port 74 may therefore function as an air outlet. Furthermore, in the example shown in fig. 12, the first ventilation port 64 functioning as an air inlet and the air inlet 13 are formed on the same side of the container 12. In this case, when air is supplied from the bottom portion side of the flavor inhaler 100, air can be easily supplied to the air inlet 13 and the first ventilation port 64.
The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 12 furthermore differs from the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 11 in regard to comprising non-tobacco particles 80 as the filling member 22b upstream of the flavor source 20 inside the container 12. In this case, gaps in the non-tobacco particles 80 may function as an air flow path when the user is smoking, while upstream leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 is suppressed by the non-tobacco particles 80 during heating of the flavor source 20 while the user is not smoking. Tobacco particles or particles of an aerosol-generating substance may also be packed upstream of the flavor source 20 instead of or as well as the non-tobacco particles 80.
The first cylindrical body 60 of the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 12 comprises, between the first bottom wall 61 and the first side wall 62, a connecting portion 65 which decreases in diameter from the first side wall 62 toward the first bottom wall 61. By virtue of the container 12 comprising the connecting portion 65, air from the first ventilation port 64 passes through the connecting portion 65 and the air can thereby diffuse in the width direction, which therefore enables air to be supplied over a wider range of the flavor source 20. As shown in fig. 12, when the container 12 accommodates the susceptor 23, the susceptor 23 may abut the connecting portion 65. In this case, the susceptor 23 can be kept at a suitable position in the longitudinal direction of the container 12 by means of the connecting portion 65.
Fig. 13 is a schematic side view in cross section of a flavor-generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. 13 differs from the flavor-generating article 10 shown in fig. in 11 in that the container 12 comprises a heating source insertion chamber 82 isolated from the space accommodating the flavor source 20. In this case, the flavor source 20 can be heated by inserting the heating source 110 into the heating source insertion chamber 82, without breaking the container for the flavor source 20. Note that the heating source 110 is depicted in fig. 13 for convenience of description.
In the example depicted, the first cylindrical body 60 comprises a cylindrical body 66 extending in the longitudinal direction from the bottom wall 61 on the inside of the first side wall 62. The heating source insertion chamber 82 is defined by the cylindrical portion 66 and the first bottom wall 61. The cylindrical body 66 partitions the inside of the container 12 so that the flavor source 20 inside the container 12 does not penetrate into the heating source insertion chamber 82. Furthermore, the cylindrical body 66 is preferably impermeable to air so that the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 20 does not penetrate into the heating source insertion chamber 82. The cylindrical body 66 penetrates the second bottom wall 71 of the second cylindrical body 70. Specifically, the second bottom wall 71 of the second cylindrical body 70 comprises an opening 71a through which the cylindrical body 66 passes, and the cylindrical body 66 mates with the opening 71a in such a way that essentially no gap is formed.
The heating source 110 may be a microwave-generating antenna, for example. Specifically, the heating source 110 may be configured to emit microwaves at the flavor source 20 in a state in which the heating source 110 is inserted in the heating source insertion chamber 82. In this case, the cylindrical body 66 is preferably formed by a material having low relative permittivity which does not readily absorb microwaves. The heating source 110 may be a heating element of the resistance heating pin-type or blade-type. In this case, the cylindrical body 66 is preferably formed by a material such as a metal having a good rate of heat transfer in order to efficiently transmit the heat of the heating source 110 to the flavor source 20.
A method for producing the flavor-generating articles 10 shown in fig. 11-13 will be described. The method for producing these flavor-generating articles 10 comprises: arranging the flavor source 20 inside the first cylindrical body 60; and inserting the first cylindrical body 60 inside the second cylindrical body 70 in such a way that the first side wall 62 of the first cylindrical body 60 in which the flavor source 20 is arranged abuts the second bottom wall 71 of the second cylindrical body 70. This enables a flavor-generating article having an air layer between the first side wall 62 and the second side wall 72 to be be easily produced. The first cylindrical body 60 and the second cylindrical body 70 may be bonded together by an adhesive or the like, or may be fixed together by a mechanical fixing means such as snap-fitting, for example. When the susceptor 23 is accommodated inside the container 12 of the flavor-generating article 10, the susceptor 23 may be arranged inside the first cylindrical body 60 before the flavor source 20 is arranged inside the first cylindrical body 60.
Embodiments of the present invention were described above, but the present invention is not limited to those embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept disclosed in the claims, specification and drawings. Moreover, any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or drawings is also within the scope of the technical concept of the invention of this application, provided that it exhibits the action and effect of the invention of this application.
Several aspects disclosed in the present description are given below.

(1) A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source; and
- a container accommodating the flavor source; and
- a filling member which is positioned upstream and/or downstream of the flavor source and is provided in an air flow path inside the container.
(2) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (1), wherein
the filling member comprises a particulate filling member.
(3) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (2), wherein
the particulate filling member comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, cellulose, tobacco granules, glycerol, and flavoring additives.
(4) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (3), wherein
the particulate filling member and the flavor source comprise the abovementioned tobacco granules.
(5) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (2) to (4), wherein
- the particulate filling member is positioned downstream of the flavor source, and
- the container comprises an air inlet positioned upstream of the flavor source, an air outlet positioned downstream of the particulate filling member, and a ventilation port communicating with the particulate filling member.
(6) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (2) to (5), wherein
the particulate filling member comprises an upstream particulate filling member positioned upstream of the flavor source, and a downstream particulate filling member positioned downstream of the flavor source.
(7) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (6), wherein
the upstream particulate filling member comprises a different material from the downstream particulate filling member.
(8) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (2) to (7), wherein
an average particle size of the particulate filling member is 0.1 mm-3 mm.
(9) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (2) to (8),
comprising, between the particulate filling member and the flavor source, a partition member allowing the passage of air.
(10) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (1) to (9),
comprising a susceptor arranged inside the flavor source.
(11) A smoking system comprising: the flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (1) to (10); and
a flavor inhaler comprising a heating source for heating the flavor-generating article.
(12) The smoking system as disclosed in (11), wherein
- the flavor inhaler comprises a chamber accommodating the flavor-generating article, and
- the heating source is configured to be inserted into the container of the flavor-generating article when the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber, and
- if an airflow resistance downstream from the flavor source is R1, and an airflow resistance upstream from the flavor source is R2 in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber, then R1>R2.
(13) The smoking system as disclosed in (11) citing (10), wherein
- the flavor inhaler comprises a chamber accommodating the flavor-generating article, and
- if an airflow resistance downstream from the susceptor is R3, and an airflow resistance upstream from the susceptor is R4 in a state in which the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the chamber, then R3>R4.
(14) The smoking system as disclosed in any of (11) to (13), wherein
the flavor inhaler comprises an air flow path communicating with an air inlet of the container of the flavor-generating article, and the air flow path passes outside a side wall of the container to communicate with the air inlet.
(15) A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source; and
- a container accommodating the flavor source; and
- a flow path curving portion which is arranged downstream of the flavor source and is configured to curve the air flow path passing through the container.
(16) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (15), wherein
the flow path curving portion includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a helical flow path element, a spiral flow path element, and a gas-impermeable plate-shaped member.
(17) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (16), wherein
- the spiral flow path element comprises an upper member, a lower member, and a spiral member positioned therebetween, and
- air that has flowed in from the lower member moves along the spiral member and flows out from the upper member.
(18) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (17), wherein
the lower member comprises a gas-permeable member, and a gas-impermeable member provided on a surface of the gas-permeable member.
(19) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (18), wherein
the gas-impermeable member is arranged on at least one face of the gas-permeable member so as not to overlap an outer edge of the gas-permeable member.
(20) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (19), wherein
the center of the gas-impermeable member and the center of the gas-permeable member are substantially aligned.
(21) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (17) to (20), wherein
the spiral member is integrally formed with the upper member or the lower member.
(22) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (17) to (21), wherein
the spiral flow path element is arranged so as to close off an opening of the container.
(23) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (17) to (22), wherein
- the spiral flow path element comprises a spiral flow path defined by the upper member, the lower member, and the spiral member,
- the spiral flow path comprises an air inlet and an air outlet, and
- the spiral flow path element comprises a ventilation port communicating with the spiral flow path between the air inlet and the air outlet.
(24) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (16) to (22), wherein
- the helical flow path element comprises at least one helical flow path comprising an air inlet and an air outlet,
- the helical flow path extends in a longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article, and
- the air inlet and the air outlet are positioned so as not to overlap as seen from the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article.
(25) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (16) to (22), wherein
the plate-shaped member is arranged so as to extend in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article.
(26) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (15), wherein
- the container has a wall defining an internal space, and
- the flow path curving portion comprises a groove or a rough surface formed on an inner face of the wall.
(27) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (15) to (26), wherein
the flow path curving portion is arranged outside the container.
(28) A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source; and
- a container accommodating the flavor source; and
- a check valve positioned downstream of the flavor source and configured to permit movement of gas from the flavor source to outside of the container.
(29) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (28), wherein
the check valve comprises a ball check valve or a flap check valve.
(30) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (29), wherein
- the check valve comprises a flap check valve, and
- the flap check valve comprises: a base having an opening or cutout; and a flap portion provided on a downstream side of the base so as to cover the opening or cutout.
(31) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (30), wherein
- the two ends of the flap portion are respectively fixed to a first part and a second part of the base, and
- a length between the two ends of the flap portion is greater than a distance between the first part and the second part of the base.
(32) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (30) or (31), wherein
- the flap portion comprises a first flap member and a second flap member,
- one end of each of the first flap member and the second flap member is fixed to the base, and
- the other ends of each of the first flap member and the second flap member are fixed to each other.
(33) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (32), wherein
the length of the first flap member and the length of the second flap member are substantially equal.
(34) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (32) or (33), wherein
- the first flap member and the second flap member are fixed so as to overlap each other at said other ends, and
- a ratio of the length of the overlap between the first flap member and the second flap member to the length between said one end and said other end of the first flap member or the second flap member is 0-0.4.
(35) A smoking system comprising the flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (28) to (34) and a flavor inhaler, wherein
- the flavor-generating article comprises an air inlet and an air outlet,
- the flavor inhaler comprises an intake port communicating with the air inlet, and an exhaust port communicating with the air outlet, and
- an airflow resistance downstream of the flavor source is greater than an airflow resistance upstream of the flavor source.
(36) A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source; and
- a container accommodating the flavor source and comprising an air inlet and an air outlet; and
- a nozzle communicating with the air outlet of the container, wherein
- an inner diameter of the nozzle is smaller than an inner diameter of the container.
(37) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (36), wherein
the length of the nozzle is 3 mm-10 mm.
(38) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (36) or (37),
comprising a ventilation port communicating with the inside of the container.
(39) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (36) to (38), wherein
the diameter of the air outlet of the container and the inner diameter of the nozzle are substantially equal.
(40) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (36) to (39),
comprising a mesh or a filter covering the air outlet of the container.
(41) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (36) to (40), wherein
- the container comprises a plurality of air outlets, and
- all of the plurality of air outlets communicate with the nozzle.
(42) A smoking system comprising: the flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (36) to (41); and
a flavor inhaler having a chamber which accommodates the flavor-generating article, and a mouthpiece.
(43) The smoking system as disclosed in (42), wherein
a ratio of the length of the nozzle and a distance from a tip end of the nozzle to an opening of the mouthpiece of the flavor inhaler is 10:0-3:7.
(44) The smoking system as disclosed in (42) or (43), wherein
the flavor inhaler comprises an air supply port radially adjacent to the nozzle, for supplying air into a gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
(45) The smoking system as disclosed in (44), wherein
a groove portion defining at least part of the air supply port is formed on at least one of a face of the mouthpiece facing the container and a face of the container facing the mouthpiece.
(46) The smoking system as disclosed in any of (42) to (45), wherein
the container comprises a guide portion which extends in a direction of extension of the nozzle and is positioned between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
(47) The smoking system as disclosed in (46) citing (44), wherein
the guide portion is configured to guide the air supplied from the air supply port toward the opening of the mouthpiece.
(48) The smoking system as disclosed in any of (42) to (47), wherein
the nozzle comprises a part where the outer diameter increases from the opening of the nozzle toward the air outlet of the container.
(49) The smoking system as disclosed in any of (42) to (48), wherein
- the flavor inhaler comprises an air flow path communicating with the air inlet of the container of the flavor-generating article, and
- the air flow path passes outside a side wall of the container to communicate with the air inlet.
(50) A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source; and
- a container accommodating the flavor source, wherein
- the container comprises a first cylindrical body having a first bottom wall and a first side wall, and a second cylindrical body having a second bottom wall and a second side wall, and
- the first cylindrical body is inserted inside the second cylindrical body so that the first side wall abuts the second bottom wall.
(51) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (50), wherein
an air flow path is formed between the first side wall and the second side wall.
(52) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (51), wherein
the first side wall comprises an opening or cutout enabling communication between the air flow path and the inside of the first cylindrical body.
(53) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (52),
- comprising a heating source arranged inside the container,
- wherein the opening or cutout is positioned upstream from the heating source.
(54) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (52),
- comprising a heating source arranged inside the container,
- wherein the opening or cutout is positioned downstream from the heating source.
(55) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (52),
- comprising a heating source arranged inside the container,
- wherein the first side wall comprises an abovementioned opening or cutout upstream and downstream from the heating source, and
- the upstream opening or cutout is larger than the downstream opening or cutout.
(56) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in (52),
- comprising a heating source arranged inside the container,
- wherein the first side wall comprises an abovementioned opening or cutout upstream and downstream from the heating source, and
- the upstream opening or cutout is smaller than the downstream opening or cutout.
(57) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (56), wherein
the second side wall comprises at least one rib on an inner face thereof, and the rib abuts an outer face of the first side wall.
(58) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (57), wherein
the first bottom wall comprises a ventilation port.
(59) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (58), wherein
the second bottom wall is configured to be impermeable to air.
(60) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (59), wherein
the second bottom wall comprises a ventilation port.
(61) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (60),
comprising non-tobacco particles upstream of the flavor source inside the container.
(62) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (61), wherein
the container comprises a heating source insertion chamber isolated from a space accommodating the flavor source.
(63) The flavor-generating article as disclosed in any of (50) to (62),
comprising a susceptor accommodated in the container.
(64) A method for producing a flavor-generating article, the method comprising: arranging a flavor source inside a first cylindrical body; and
inserting the first cylindrical body inside a second cylindrical body in such a way that a first side wall of the first cylindrical body in which the flavor source is arranged abuts a second bottom wall of the second cylindrical body.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

10 Flavor-generating article
12 Container
12a Side wall
12b Bottom wall
13 Air inlet
14 Air outlet
15 Ventilation port
20 Flavor source
22, 22a, 22b Filling member
23 Susceptor
26a, 26b Partition member
28 Nozzle
28a Part
29 Guide portion
31 Plate-shaped member
32 Spiral flow path element
33 Upper member
33a Air outlet
34 Lower member
34a Air inlet
34b Gas-permeable member
34c Gas-impermeable member
35 Spiral member
36 Spiral flow path
40 Helical flow path element
42 Helical flow path
42a Air inlet
42b Air outlet
50 Check valve
53 Space
54 Base
54a First part
54b Second part
54c Opening or cutout
55 Flap portion
55a First flap member
55b Second flap member
60 First cylindrical body
61 First bottom wall
62 First side wall
62a Opening or cutout
62b Cutout
64 First ventilation port
70 Second cylindrical body
71 Second bottom wall
71a Opening
72 Second side wall
72a Rib
74 Second ventilation port
80 Non-tobacco particle
82 Heating source insertion chamber
100 Flavor inhaler
110 Heating source
110a Intake port
120 Chamber
130 Mouthpiece
130a Air flow path
130b Exhaust port
200 Smoking system
A1 Air layer

Claims

A flavor-generating article comprising: a flavor source;
a container accommodating the flavor source and comprising an air inlet and an air outlet; and

a nozzle communicating with the air outlet of the container, wherein

an inner diameter of the nozzle is smaller than an inner diameter of the container.
The flavor-generating article as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the length of the nozzle is 3 mm-10 mm.
The flavor-generating article as claimed in claim 1 or 2,
comprising a ventilation port communicating with the inside of the container.
The flavor-generating article as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein
the diameter of the air outlet of the container and the inner diameter of the nozzle are substantially equal.
The flavor-generating article as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4,
comprising a mesh or a filter covering the air outlet of the container.
The flavor-generating article as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein
the container comprises a plurality of air outlets, and

all of the plurality of air outlets communicate with the nozzle.
A smoking system comprising: the flavor-generating article as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6; and
a flavor inhaler having a chamber which accommodates the flavor-generating article, and a mouthpiece.
The smoking system as claimed in claim 7, wherein
a ratio of the length of the nozzle and a distance from a tip end of the nozzle to an opening of the mouthpiece of the flavor inhaler is 10:0-3:7.
The smoking system as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein
the flavor inhaler comprises an air supply port radially adjacent to the nozzle, for supplying air into a gap between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
The smoking system as claimed in claim 9, wherein
a groove portion defining at least part of the air supply port is formed on at least one of a face of the mouthpiece facing the container and a face of the container facing the mouthpiece.
The smoking system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein
the container comprises a guide portion which extends in a direction of extension of the nozzle and is positioned between the mouthpiece and the nozzle.
The smoking system as claimed in claim 11 citing claim 9, wherein
the guide portion is configured to guide the air supplied from the air supply port toward the opening of the mouthpiece.
The smoking system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein
the nozzle comprises a part where the outer diameter increases from the opening of the nozzle toward the air outlet of the container.
The smoking system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein
the flavor inhaler comprises an air flow path communicating with the air inlet of the container of the flavor-generating article, and

the air flow path passes outside a side wall of the container to communicate with the air inlet.