JP6660418B2 - Cartridge and non-burning type flavor inhaler - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a cartridge used for a non-burning type flavor inhaler having a flavor source, and a non-burning type flavor inhaler provided with a detachable cartridge.

  2. Description of the Related Art A non-burning type flavor inhaler that atomizes an aerosol source by electric power supplied from a battery is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

  For example, a non-burning type flavor inhaler includes an atomizing unit for atomizing an aerosol source, and a cartridge having a flavor source. For example, the cartridge is replaceable and connected to an atomization unit.

WO2013 / 116558

A first feature is a cartridge, which forms a flavor source constituted by a plurality of raw material pieces for imparting flavor to an aerosol generated by a non-burning type flavor inhaler, and an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction. A flavor source container that stores the flavor source, wherein the flavor source container is an upstream end of the aerosol flow path in the flavor source container from the upstream end side of the flavor source container. The flavor source accommodating body is inserted into the non-burning type flavor inhaler and is exchangeably connected to the non-burning type flavor inhaler. The flavor source container moves the flavor source inside the flavor source container. The flavor source container has a plurality of openings at the upstream end of the flavor source container, through which the aerosol passes but the raw material pieces do not pass. The outer wall is the flavor It is formed in the vicinity of the downstream end of the container, and summarized in that includes a tapered portion extending towards the downstream end from the upstream end of the flavor source container.

A second feature is that, in the first feature, each of the plurality of openings has a minimum width having a smallest width as a width passing through a center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings, and The gist is that the small width is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the plurality of raw material pieces .

A third feature is that, in the first feature or the second feature, the flavor source container has a cap including an opening at a downstream end of the flavor source container .

A fourth feature is that in any one of the first to third features, the mesh body having the plurality of openings is provided, and the flavor source container and the mesh body are integrally formed of resin. The gist is to be a body .

A fifth feature is a flavor inhaler, which includes an atomizing unit for atomizing an aerosol source without burning, and makes the cartridge according to any of the first to fourth features detachable. The gist is that the flavor source container has a mouth end for a user to suck the aerosol .

A sixth feature is the fifth feature, wherein the device is provided between the atomizing unit and the cartridge mounted on the non-burning type flavor inhaler, and is generated in the atomizing unit and passes through the cartridge. The gist of the present invention is to further include an aerosol flow control chamber for controlling the flow of the aerosol .

A seventh feature is that in the sixth feature, the atomization unit is accommodated in an atomization unit container, and the cartridge is attached to a predetermined position of the atomization unit container by a positioning mechanism. I do.

An eighth feature is the seventh feature according to the seventh feature, wherein the positioning mechanism is provided in the atomization unit container, and is separated by a first distance from an end of the atomization unit container on the cartridge side. The point is to have an end cap .

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an internal structure of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view (AA cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 5) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view (BB cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 7) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a CC section shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the duty ratio control according to the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the duty ratio control according to the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the first modification. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the second modification. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the third modification. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. FIG. 23 is a diagram for describing the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. FIG. 24 is a diagram for describing the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. FIG. 25 is a diagram for describing the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. FIG. 26 is a diagram mainly illustrating functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the fifth modification. FIG. 27 is a diagram mainly illustrating functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the sixth modification. FIG. 28 is a diagram mainly illustrating functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the seventh modification. FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a package 300 according to the eighth modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and ratios of dimensions are different from actual ones.

  Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined in consideration of the following description. In addition, it is needless to say that dimensional relationships and ratios are different between drawings.

[Overview of disclosure]
The cartridge mentioned in the background art needs to have air permeability so that a user can inhale aerosol. For example, a mesh body having a plurality of openings is arranged at at least one end of the cartridge.

  However, each of the plurality of openings provided in the mesh body needs to be small enough to prevent the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source from falling off. Further, in order to improve the extraction efficiency of the flavor component, it is preferable that the particle size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source is small. On the other hand, each of the plurality of openings provided in the mesh body preferably has a large area in order to secure a sufficient opening ratio as the whole of the mesh body.

  As a result of intensive studies, the inventors have found that the cartridge for the non-burning type flavor inhaler is very small. New knowledge was obtained. The inventors have found that the following features are effective based on such new findings.

  A cartridge according to an outline of the disclosure includes a flavor source including a plurality of raw material pieces that impart a flavor to an aerosol generated by a non-burning type flavor inhaler, a flavor source container that stores the flavor source, and the flavor source. A mesh body disposed at least at one end of the container. The mesh body has a plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of apertures has a polygonal shape having an interior angle of 180 ° or less. Each of the plurality of openings has a minimum width having the smallest width and a maximum width having the largest width as a width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings. The minimum width is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the plurality of raw material pieces, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width.

  In the summary of the disclosure, each of the plurality of openings provided in the mesh body has a polygonal shape having an interior angle of 180 ° or less, and has the smallest width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings. It has a minimum width with a width and a maximum width with a largest width. Here, since the minimum width is smaller than the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source, it is possible to suppress the falling off of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width. Can increase the porosity as a whole.

  As described above, in the cartridge for the non-burning type flavor inhaler, the opening ratio of the whole mesh body can be secured while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source.

[Embodiment]
(Non-burning type flavor inhaler)
Hereinafter, the non-burning type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an internal structure of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. However, it should be noted that a reservoir 21 described later is omitted in FIG. FIG. 5 is a side view showing the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view (AA cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 5) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view (BB cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 7) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. However, it should be noted that a flavor source 31A described later is omitted in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A which is a direction from the non-mouth end to the mouth end. The non-burning type flavor suction device 1 is a device for sucking flavor without burning.

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

  As shown in FIG. 2, the power supply unit 10 has a shape extending along the predetermined direction A, and has at least a battery 11. The battery 11 may be a disposable battery or a rechargeable battery. It is preferable that the initial value of the output voltage of the battery 11 be in a range of 1.2 V or more and 4.2 V or less. Further, the battery capacity of the battery 11 is preferably in the range of 100 mAh or more and 1000 mAh or less.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first cartridge 20 has a shape extending along the predetermined direction A. The first cartridge 20 has a reservoir 21, an atomizing unit 22, a flow path forming body 23, an outer frame 24, and an end cap 25. The first cartridge 20 has a first flow path 20 </ b> X disposed downstream of the atomization unit 22 as an aerosol flow path extending along the predetermined direction A. It should be noted that, in the aerosol flow path, a side closer to the atomizing unit 22 is referred to as upstream, and a side apart from the atomizing unit 22 is referred to as downstream.

  The reservoir 21 stores the aerosol source 21A. The reservoir 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section orthogonal to the first flow path 20X (predetermined direction A). In the embodiment, the reservoir 21 is located in a gap between the flow path forming body 23 and the outer frame 24. The reservoir 21 is made of, for example, a porous body such as a resin web or cotton. However, the reservoir 21 may be configured by a tank that stores the liquid aerosol source 21A. The aerosol source 21A includes a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

  The atomization unit 22 atomizes the aerosol source 21A by the electric power supplied from the battery 11 without burning. In the embodiment, the atomizing unit 22 is configured by a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch, and the atomizing unit 22 has an electric resistance having a resistance value in a range of 1.0 Ω to 3.0 Ω. It is preferable to be constituted by heat rays. The predetermined pitch is equal to or greater than a value at which the heating wire does not contact, and is preferably a small value. The predetermined pitch is preferably, for example, 0.40 mm or less. The predetermined pitch is preferably constant in order to stabilize the atomization of the aerosol source 21A. The predetermined pitch is a distance between the centers of the heating wires adjacent to each other.

  The flow path forming body 23 has a shape extending along the predetermined direction A. The flow path forming body 23 has a cylindrical shape that forms the first flow path 20X extending along the predetermined direction A.

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

  The end cap 25 is a cap that closes a gap between the flow path forming body 23 and the outer frame body 24 from the downstream side. The end cap 25 suppresses a situation in which the aerosol source 21A stored in the reservoir 21 leaks to the second cartridge 30 side.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second cartridge 30 has at least a flavor source 31A. The second cartridge 30 is mounted on the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1. In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is connected to the first cartridge 20. Specifically, a part of the second cartridge 30 is housed in the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20 as described above.

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

  The second cartridge 30 imparts flavor to the aerosol by passing the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22. Here, it should be noted that in the embodiment, the flavor can be imparted to the aerosol without heating the flavor source 31A. Also, it should be noted that substantially no aerosol is generated from the flavor source 31A.

  In the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 40 mm or less. Further, in the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably equal to or less than 25 mm. On the other hand, in the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 5 mm or more. Further, in the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 1 mm or more. In the direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 20 mm or less. Further, it is preferable that the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 be 10 mm or less in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction A. On the other hand, in the direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 3 mm or more. Furthermore, it is preferable that the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 be 1 mm or more in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction A.

  The flavor source container 31 has a cylindrical shape, and forms a second channel 30X extending along the predetermined direction A. The flavor source container 31 contains a flavor source 31A. A flavor source 31A that imparts flavor to the aerosol is accommodated in the second flow path 30X. Here, in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the size of the first flow path 20X is preferably small in order to secure the volume of the reservoir 21 that stores the aerosol source 21A. Therefore, in the case where the second cartridge 30 is housed in the outer frame 24 having a constant cross-sectional area over the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), as a result, the size of the second flow path 30X is as described above. It tends to be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

  The flavor source 31 </ b> A is configured by a raw material piece that imparts flavor to the aerosol generated by the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1. The lower limit of the size of the raw material piece is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less. Further, the lower limit of the size of the raw material piece is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. Since the specific surface area increases as the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A becomes smaller, the flavor component is easily released from the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A. As a raw material piece constituting the flavor source 31A, a cut tobacco or a molded product obtained by forming a tobacco raw material into granules can be used. The flavor source 31A may be made of a plant other than tobacco (eg, mint, herb, etc.). A flavor such as menthol may be provided to the flavor source 31A.

  Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are obtained by sieving according to JIS Z 8815 using a stainless sieve according to JIS Z 8801, for example. For example, a raw material piece is sieved for 20 minutes by a dry and mechanical shaking method using a stainless sieve having a mesh of 0.71 mm, and is passed through a stainless sieve having a mesh of 0.71 mm. Obtain raw material pieces. Subsequently, the raw material pieces were sieved for 20 minutes by a dry and mechanical shaking method using a stainless sieve having a mesh of 0.212 mm, and passed through a stainless steel sieve having a mesh of 0.212 mm. Remove the raw material pieces. That is, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve (opening = 0.71 mm) that defines the upper limit and do not pass through the stainless steel sieve (opening = 0.212 mm) that defines the lower limit. is there. Therefore, in the embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A is defined by the aperture of the stainless sieve that defines the lower limit. In addition, the upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A is defined by the aperture of the stainless sieve that defines the upper limit.

  In the embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the flavor source container 31 has an upstream end portion (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). ) Preferably has a protruding portion 31 </ b> E protruding upstream (in the embodiment, on the side of the flow path forming member 23 or the end cap 25) from the outer edge. The protrusion 31E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end portion (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31, or intermittently along the outer edge of the flavor source container 31. It may be provided. When there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, the protruding portion 31E extends along the outer edge of the upstream end portion (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31. It is preferable that they are provided continuously. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the aerosol from staying in the space formed in the upstream portion of the tapered portion 31T.

  In the embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 preferably includes a tapered portion 31T that spreads from upstream to downstream. The tapered portion 31T may be included in a part of the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31. The taper angle α of the tapered portion 31T is, for example, about 5 degrees.

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that a rib 31R extending along the predetermined direction A from upstream to downstream is provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31, as shown in FIG. Although not particularly limited, the number of the ribs 31R is preferably two or more. It is preferable that the downstream end of the rib 31R does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. For example, in the predetermined direction A, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, in a state where the filter 33 is inserted into the flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the downstream end of the rib 31R be in contact with the filter 33 without reaching the downstream end of the flavor source container 31.

  The mesh body 32 is arranged upstream (non-mouth side) of the flavor source 31A. In the embodiment, the mesh body 32 is arranged at the upstream end of the flavor source container 31. When the mesh body 32 is provided in the very small flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are integrally formed from the viewpoint of securing the strength of the mesh body 32. That is, in the embodiment, the mesh body 32 is a part of the flavor source container 31. In such a case, the flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are preferably made of resin. As the resin, for example, one or more resins selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene resin and ABS resin can be used. From the viewpoint of moldability and texture, the resin is preferably polypropylene. The flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are formed by molding or injection molding.

  In the embodiment, the mesh body 32 has a plurality of openings 32A, as shown in FIG. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a polygonal shape having an interior angle of 180 ° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin having a smallest width and a maximum width Wmax having a largest width as a width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings 32A. The minimum width Wmin is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the raw material piece constituting the flavor source 31A. In detail, since the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are actually non-spherical, the minimum width Wmin is the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A from the viewpoint of suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces. It is preferably smaller than 1/2. The maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin. For example, the maximum width Wmax is preferably larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material piece. Alternatively, it is preferable that the maximum width Wmax is not less than √2 times and not more than 6 times the minimum width Wmin. That is, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape different from a circle. Furthermore, it is preferable that each of the plurality of openings 32A has a quadrangular shape because the raw material piece is hard to fit into the openings 32A. In addition, each side of the square shape of the opening 32A may include a non-linear portion generated in manufacturing the opening 32A. In addition, each vertex of the square shape of the opening 32A may include a curved portion generated in manufacturing the opening 32A.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, each of the plurality of openings 32A preferably has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, and an octagon. The shape of each of the plurality of openings 32A may be one type as shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, or may be two types as shown in FIG. The shape of each of the plurality of openings 32A may be three or more. In addition, it is preferable that each of the plurality of openings 32A has a quadrangular shape from the viewpoint of the arrangement efficiency of the plurality of openings 32A and the ease of manufacturing.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, it is preferable that the plurality of openings 32 </ b> A be arranged such that sides of each of the openings 32 </ b> A adjacent to each other are parallel. The interval P between the openings 32A adjacent to each other is preferably 0.15 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less. In such a case, the thickness of the mesh body 32 is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

  The filter 33 is made of a predetermined fiber and has such a roughness that a raw material piece does not pass. The filter 33 is arranged downstream of the flavor source 31A. The filter 33 is, for example, an acetate filter. The cap 34 is provided downstream (on the suction side) of the filter 33.

  In addition, it is preferable that the flavor source container 31 (here, including the mesh body 32), the filter 33, and the cap 34 are bonded or welded to each other.

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that all the openings of the mesh body 32 are the above-described openings 32A, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The openings of the mesh body 32 may include openings other than the openings 32A described above.

(Connection Status)
Hereinafter, a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a CC section shown in FIG. However, it should be noted that the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X, the air is supplied from the first flow path 20X so as to suppress the deviation of the aerosol flow in the second flow path 30X. An aerosol flow adjusting chamber G for adjusting the flow of the aerosol is provided. In the embodiment, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source container 31. Specifically, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the end cap 25 and the mesh body 32.

  Here, the filling rate of the flavor source 31A stored in the flavor source container 31 may not be 100% with respect to the capacity of the flavor source container 31. That is, it is conceivable that a void is generated in the flavor source container 31. However, it is needless to say that the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is different from the void generated when the filling rate of the flavor source 31A is not 100%.

  In the embodiment, in a section orthogonal to the predetermined direction A, on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X to the outside of the first flow path 20X, the second flow path 30X extends from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X. When the distance to the outer surface is the shift distance, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A may be determined in consideration of the largest shift distance among the shift distances. That is, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G may be determined according to the largest shift distance. From the viewpoint of suppressing the bias of the flow of the aerosol flowing in the flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the longer the shift distance is, the longer the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is. It is preferable that the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is equal to or more than 1/10 of the largest shift distance.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 14, when the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X are coaxial circles in a cross section orthogonal to the predetermined direction A, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A Is determined according to the difference between the radius R1 of the first flow path 20X and the radius R2 of the second flow path 30X (that is, the shift distance).

  In the embodiment, as described above, the flavor source container 31 is upstream from the outer edge of the upstream end portion (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). It has a protruding portion 31E that protrudes to the side (in the embodiment, the flow path forming body 23 or the end cap 25 side). That is, the flavor source container 31 has the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G.

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

  It is preferable that the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G does not include a portion that protrudes upstream from the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X). It is preferable that the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G does not include a portion that protrudes downstream from the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow path 30X). Thereby, it is possible to suppress the aerosol from staying in an unnecessary space.

  The inner wall surface of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G extends from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) to the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow path 30X). It is preferable that they are continuous without including a step.

  In the embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 is in contact with the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame body 24 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). The inner edge 25in of the cap 25 is preferably located between the outer edge 25out of the flow path forming body 23 and the inner edge 25in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove the end cap 25 from the downstream side. Further, when the end cap 25 is disposed in the outer frame 24, the end cap 25 does not easily interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

(Control circuit)
Hereinafter, the control circuit according to the embodiment will be mainly described. FIG. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the embodiment.

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

  The notification unit 40 notifies various information. The notification unit 40 may be constituted by a light emitting element, may be constituted by a vibration element, or may be constituted by a sound output element. The notification unit 40 may be a combination of two or more of the light emitting element, the vibration element, and the sound output element. The notification unit 40 is preferably provided in the power supply unit 10, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The notification unit 40 may be provided on the first cartridge 20 or may be provided on the second cartridge 30.

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

  The detecting unit 51 detects a puff operation. In such a case, the detection unit 51 is connected to the suction sensor, and detects the puff operation based on the output result of the suction sensor. In addition, the detection unit 51 detects power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In such a case, the detecting unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on a power line connecting the battery 11 and the atomizing unit 22, and detects power supply based on an output result of the voltage sensor. .

  The notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify various information. For example, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 in response to the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. As described above, the notification unit 40 may notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 by the light emission of the light emitting element, or may notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 by the vibration of the vibrating element. The replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 may be notified by the output sound of the element.

  Here, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the number of times of the puff operation or the energizing time to the atomizing unit 22. Note that the number of puff operations can be specified by the puff operation detected by the detection unit 51 described above. Similarly, the power supply time to the atomization unit 22 can be specified by the power supply detected by the detection unit 51 described above.

  Specifically, the notification control unit 52 has a counter 52X that counts the number of puff operations or the time of energization to the atomizing unit 22. When the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of the counter 52X. It is preferable that the notification control unit 52 resets the count value of the counter 52X after the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Alternatively, when the count value of the counter 52X has reached a predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 notifies the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of the counter 52X by a predetermined operation of the user. The user's predetermined operation is a hardware interface (for example, a switch or a button) for turning on or off the power of the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 or a hardware interface for controlling power supply to the atomizing unit 22. When a switch (eg, switch or button) is provided in the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1, the operation may be a hardware interface. Alternatively, the predetermined user operation may be an operation of blowing a breath from the mouth of the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 as long as the detection unit 51 can detect the puff operation. Alternatively, the user's predetermined operation is such that the detection unit 51 can detect a puff operation, and if it is in a mode that can be distinguished from a general puff operation, an operation of inhaling (for example, two inhalations in a short time) It may be. The counter 52X may be a count-up type counter or a count-down type counter.

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 in response to the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. In such a case, it is preferable that the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 reaches a predetermined number.

  In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 in response to the detection of the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11. Is preferred. In such a case, it is preferable that the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 based on the output voltage of the battery 11. Specifically, it is preferable that the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing or the charging timing of the battery 11 when the output voltage of the battery 11 falls below a predetermined threshold.

  However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the notification control unit 52 determines the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 based on the number of puff operations or the energization time to the atomizing unit 22. It may be detected. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 may detect the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 when the number of puff operations or the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

  In addition, the notification unit 40 performs the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20, the replacement timing of the battery 11, The charging timing of the battery 11 is notified.

  The power control unit 53 outputs a predetermined instruction to the battery 11 as an instruction to the battery 11 such that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range. The output of the predetermined instruction may be performed once for each puff operation. Also, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the puff period in which the puff operation is performed, but in the non-puff period in which the puff operation is not performed, It should be noted that the output of power to the battery 11 is not indicated to the battery 11. The puff period and the non-puff period can be specified by the puff operation detected by the detection unit 51 described above.

  Here, the power control unit 53 controls the predetermined instruction such that the amount of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 falls within a desired range. For example, the power control unit 53 changes the predetermined instruction in accordance with a decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11. Further, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the power supply to the atomizing unit 22. In other words, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 when the puff period exceeds the predetermined period even during the puff period in which the user is actually performing the puff operation. I do.

  In addition, even if a predetermined period has not elapsed after the start of the puff operation, the power control unit 53 stops power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 when the puff operation ends. As a result, aerosol is not generated during a period in which the puff operation is not performed (a non-puff period), and droplets are generated due to stagnation and condensation of the aerosol in the aerosol flow path during the non-puff period. The situation where the aerosol generated in the subsequent puff operation is trapped in the droplets is suppressed, and the risk of hindering the supply of the aerosol amount in a desired range and the deterioration of taste due to the droplets can be suppressed.

  Here, the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit value of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period. Further, the predetermined period is preferably shorter than the average value of the puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period. The average value of the puff period is, of course, shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period.

  Since the predetermined period is determined in order to suppress the variation of the user's puff period, it is necessary that a certain number or more users have a puff period longer than the predetermined period. From such a viewpoint, the predetermined period is preferably derived from statistics. Furthermore, since the predetermined period is shorter than the average value of the puff period derived from the statistics, the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 in the majority of the puff operations can be fixed to the predetermined period, and thus the variation in the user's puff period The variation in the amount of aerosol due to the above can be suppressed.

  For example, the predetermined period is 1 second or more and 3 seconds or less. When the predetermined period is 1 second or longer, the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 does not become too short as compared with the puff period, and a sense of discomfort given to the user is reduced. On the other hand, when the predetermined period is 3 seconds or less, the puff operation in which the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period can be set to a certain number or more.

  Further, the predetermined period may be 1.5 seconds or more and 2.5 seconds or less. Thereby, the uncomfortable feeling given to the user is further reduced, and the puff operation in which the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period can be increased.

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

  Note that the standard puff period can be derived from the statistics of the user's puff period, and is a period between the lower limit of the plurality of users 'puff periods and the upper limit of the plurality of users' puff periods. It is. The lower limit and the upper limit may be derived, for example, as the lower limit and the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of the average value based on the distribution of the user's puff period data, and m ± nσ (where m is the average value). , Σ is a standard deviation, and n is a positive real number).

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 controls the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 by pulse control. In such a case, the power control unit 53 outputs, as a change in the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the duty ratio output to the battery 11 in one puff operation with a decrease in the amount of power stored in the battery 11. Is preferred.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the power control unit 53 controls an interval (pulse interval) of an on-time during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 changes the pulse interval P1 to the pulse interval P2 to increase the duty ratio output to the battery 11 in one puff operation.

  Alternatively, the power control unit 53 controls the length of the ON time (pulse width) for supplying power from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22, as shown in FIG. Specifically, power control unit 53 increases the duty ratio output to battery 11 in one puff operation by changing pulse width W1 to pulse width W2.

  In addition, the power control unit 53 may increase the duty ratio stepwise or may continuously increase the duty ratio as a change of the predetermined instruction with a decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11.

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 estimates the charged amount of the battery 11 based on the voltage value output from the battery 11. Alternatively, the power control unit 53 may estimate the amount of power stored in the battery 11 based on the number of times of the puff operation or the energizing time to the atomizing unit 22. Note that the number of puff operations can be specified by the puff operation detected by the detection unit 51 described above. Similarly, the power supply time to the atomization unit 22 can be specified by the power supply detected by the detection unit 51 described above.

  In the embodiment, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 stop the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 until the count value of the counter 52X reaches the predetermined value and the count value is reset. In other words, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 stop the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 until the count value is reset after the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 is notified. That is, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped until the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Therefore, the use of the second cartridge 30 that can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol is suppressed.

(Control method)
Hereinafter, a control method according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the amount of power supplied from battery 11 to atomizing section 22 in one puff operation. It should be noted that the flow shown in FIG. 18 is started by detecting the start of the puff operation.

  Note that as a premise of the flow shown in FIG. 18, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) outputs power to the atomization unit 22 to the battery 11 during the puff period during which the puff operation is being performed. It should be noted that the battery 11 is not instructed to output power to the atomizing unit 22 during the non-puff period in which the puff operation is not performed.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in step S10, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) estimates the amount of power stored in the battery 11. As described above, it is preferable that the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 estimates the charged amount of the battery 11 based on the voltage value output from the battery 11.

  In step S20, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) determines a predetermined instruction (for example, a duty ratio) to be output to the battery 11. More specifically, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 determines a duty ratio to be output to the battery 11 so that the duty ratio increases with a decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11. In other words, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 outputs an instruction to increase the duty ratio as a change of the predetermined instruction.

  In step S30, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. In other words, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 determines whether or not the puff period has exceeded the predetermined period. When the determination result is YES, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to the process of step S50, and when the determination result is NO, the process proceeds to step S40.

  In step S40, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) determines whether or not the puff operation has been completed. When the result of the determination is NO, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 returns to the process of step S30. When the result of the determination is YES, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 stops supplying power to the atomizing unit 22 and performs a series of operations. The process ends. The end of the puff operation may be detected by the detection unit 51 as long as the detection unit 51 can detect the puff operation, as described above. Alternatively, the end of the puff operation may be detected by operating a hardware interface (for example, a switch or a button) for switching whether to perform power supply to the atomizing unit 22 or not.

  In step S50, the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) supplies power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 even during the puff period in which the user is actually performing the puff operation. Stop.

(Action and effect)
In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the power supply to the atomization unit 22. The predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period. Therefore, even if the user whose puff period is longer than the predetermined period uses the non-burning type flavor inhaler, an extreme decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11 is suppressed, and the amount of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 is reduced. It is easy to control the predetermined instruction so as to fall within a desired range.

  As described above, regardless of the length of the puff period of the user and the charged amount of the battery 11, the smoking starts (the initial stage where the charged amount of the battery 11 is sufficient) and ends with the smoking (that is, the charged amount of the battery 11 decreases). Through the puff operation up to the final stage, the amount of aerosol supplied per one puff operation can be kept within a desired range.

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 changes a predetermined instruction to be output to the battery 11 in one puff operation with a decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11. Suppressing a difference in the amount of power actually supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 between an initial stage in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is sufficient and a final stage in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is insufficient. Can be. Thus, the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 can be kept within a desired range regardless of the length of the puff period of the user and the amount of charge of the battery 11.

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

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

  In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing (lifetime) of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Therefore, it is easy to detect the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. Further, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the life of the first cartridge 20 will be exhausted while the second cartridge 30 is being used. The replacement timing (lifetime) of the first cartridge 20 naturally corresponds to the number of the second cartridges 30 that can be used for one first cartridge 20 (the number of replacements).

  In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11 in response to the detection of the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the battery 11 or the charging timing of the battery 11.

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 until the count value of the counter 52X reaches the predetermined value and is reset. Therefore, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped until the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Therefore, the use of the second cartridge 30 that can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol is suppressed.

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the predetermined instruction so that the amount of the aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range, and starts the power supply to the atomization unit 22 for a predetermined period. When the time has elapsed, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped. Therefore, since the variation in the amount of power consumed in one puff operation is reduced, when the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 is detected based on the number of puff operations, the detection accuracy of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 is detected. Is improved.

  In the embodiment, the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X so as to suppress the flow of the aerosol in the second flow path 30X. An aerosol flow adjustment chamber G for adjusting the flow is provided. Thereby, the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X easily passes through the flavor source without bias in the second flow path 30X.

  In the embodiment, the reservoir 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section orthogonal to the first flow path 20X (predetermined direction A). This makes it possible to secure the volume of the reservoir 21 that stores the aerosol source 21A while suppressing the total length of the first cartridge 20 in the first flow path 20X (the predetermined direction A).

  In the embodiment, in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the size of the second flow path 30X is larger than the size of the first flow path 20X. In other words, since the first flow path 20X is small in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the volume of the reservoir 21 located around the flow path forming body 23 can be secured. Since the size of the second flow path 30X is large in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the flavor component can be efficiently extracted from the flavor source 31A.

  In the embodiment, in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 contacts the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame 24, and the inner edge 25in of the end cap 25 It is located between the outer edge 25out of the body 23 and the inner edge 25in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove the end cap 25 from the downstream side. Further, when the end cap 25 is disposed in the outer frame 24, the end cap 25 does not easily interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

  In the embodiment, in a section orthogonal to the predetermined direction A, on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first channel 20X to the outside of the first channel 20X, the second channel 30X extends from the outer edge of the first channel 20X. When the distance to the outer surface is the shift distance, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A is determined according to the largest shift distance among the shift distances. Thereby, the flow of the aerosol guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X can be appropriately adjusted in the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G, and the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is supplied to the second cartridge 30X. Inside the flavor source 31A without bias.

  In the embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A provided in the mesh body 32 has a polygonal shape having an inner angle of 180 ° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin having a smallest width and a maximum width Wmax having a largest width as a width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings 32A. Here, since the minimum width Wmin is smaller than the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A, the falling off of the raw material pieces forming the flavor source 31A can be suppressed, and the maximum width Wmax is smaller than the minimum width Wmin. Since it is large, the porosity can be increased as a whole of the mesh body.

  As described above, in the second cartridge 30 for the non-burning type flavor inhaler, the opening ratio of the entire mesh body 32 can be secured while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source.

  In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the opening 32A is larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material piece constituting the flavor source 31A. Therefore, the opening ratio of the entire mesh body 32 is improved.

  In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the opening 32A is not less than √2 times and not more than 6 times the minimum width Wmin of the opening 32A. Therefore, when the maximum width Wmax is not less than √2 times the minimum width Wmin, the opening ratio of the entire mesh body 32 is improved, and when the maximum width Wmax is not more than 6 times the minimum width Wmin, the mesh body 32 strength can be maintained.

  In the embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a diamond, a hexagon, and an octagon. The plurality of openings 32A are arranged such that sides of each of the openings 32A adjacent to each other are parallel. The interval P between the openings 32A adjacent to each other is 0.15 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less. Thereby, the plurality of openings 32A can be efficiently arranged, and the strength of the mesh body 32 can be maintained while improving the opening ratio of the mesh body 32 as a whole.

  In the embodiment, a rib 31R extending along the predetermined direction A from upstream to downstream is provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31. Therefore, while the rib 31R reinforces the flavor source container 31, the flow of the aerosol in the predetermined direction A in the flavor source container 31 is not hindered by the rib 31R, and the flavor component can be easily extracted from the flavor source 31A.

  In the embodiment, the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 includes a tapered portion 31T extending from upstream to downstream. Accordingly, the second cartridge 30 is easily fitted to the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20, and the second cartridge 30 is prevented from falling off while allowing the manufacturing error of the outer shape of the flavor source container 31.

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

[Modification 1]
Hereinafter, a first modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has a protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. On the other hand, in the first modification, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the first modification. However, it should be noted that the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the flavor source container 31 has a main body portion 31P that stores the flavor source 31A, and a flange portion 31Q disposed on a side surface of the main body portion 31P. Note that, in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the flange portion 31Q projects outward beyond the main body portion 31P and projects outward at least as much as the inner surface of the outer frame 24. Should. In FIG. 19, the flange portion 31Q is provided on the side surface of the downstream end portion of the main body portion 31P, but is not limited thereto. It may be provided anywhere on the side surface of the main body 31P.

  Here, the distance L3 from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the end cap 25 (that is, the distance from the portion where the outer frame 24 abuts on the flange 31Q to the downstream end of the end cap 25) is determined by the main body. It is longer than the length L4 of 31P (that is, the distance from the upstream end of the flange 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P). Therefore, even if the flavor source container 31 does not have the protruding portion 31E, the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is adjusted by the flange portion 31Q being hooked on the downstream end portion of the outer frame body 24. An aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed.

  When the first cartridge 20 does not have the end cap 25, the distance from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the downstream end of the flow path forming member 23 (that is, the outer frame 24 The distance from the portion in contact with 31Q to the downstream end of the flow path forming member 23) is greater than the length of the main body 31P (that is, the distance from the upstream end of the flange 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P). Is also long.

[Modification 2]
Hereinafter, a second modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has a protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. On the other hand, in the modification example 2, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the second modification. However, it should be noted that the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted in FIG. The protruding portion 25E contacts the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (preferably, the outer edge of the upstream end).

  As shown in FIG. 20, the end cap 25 projects from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap 25 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A) to the downstream side (the flavor source container 31 side). It has a portion 25E. The protrusion 25 </ b> E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25, or may be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the end cap 25. In addition, when there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the protruding portion 25E is provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the aerosol from staying in the space formed in the upstream portion of the tapered portion 31T.

  Thus, by providing the projection 25E instead of the projection 31E, even if the flavor source container 31 does not have the projection 31E, the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is adjusted. An aerosol flow conditioning chamber G is formed.

  When the first cartridge 20 does not have the end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 has an outer edge at the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). And a projection similar to the projection 25E projecting downstream (toward the flavor source container 31).

[Modification 3]
Hereinafter, a third modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

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

  On the other hand, in the third modification, as shown in FIG. 21, the first flow path 20X does not completely overlap the second flow path 30X when viewed from the predetermined direction A, and the second flow path 30X Has shifted from. In such a case, in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the size of the second flow path 30X is not particularly limited, but is about the same as the size of the first flow path 20X. And may be smaller than the size of the first flow path 20X. However, the size of the second flow path 30X may be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

[Modification 4]
Hereinafter, a fourth modification of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described. 22 to 25, the vertical axis represents the aerosol amount (in FIGS. 22 to 25, the TPM (Total Particulate Matter) amount) (mg / puff operation), and the horizontal axis represents the number of puff operations ( Puff number). The ordinate and the abscissa represent larger values as the distance from the intersection between them increases.

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

  Note that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 depends on the puff period during which the user actually performs the puff operation and the output voltage output to the battery 11. Here, a description will be given assuming a case where the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period can follow a normal distribution with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second. In this case, as described above, the upper limit value of the standard puff period is derived as m + nσ (where m is the average value, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number). It is about 3 to 4 seconds.

  In sample E, the initial value of the output voltage of the battery 11 is 4.2 V, and the battery capacity of the battery 11 is 220 mAh. Further, the atomizing unit 22 is configured by a wound heating wire, and the resistance value of the heating wire is 3.5Ω. In FIG. 22, the sample E1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when the sample E is sucked in a puff period of 2 seconds per one puff operation. 9 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when suction is performed during a puff period of 3 seconds per puff operation. Here, when the standard puff period follows a normal distribution with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second, the probability of sucking in a puff period of 3 seconds or more per one puff operation as shown in sample E2 is about 27. It should be noted that this is a likely event.

  In the sample F, the configurations of the battery 11 and the atomizing unit 22 are the same as those of the sample E. In FIG. 23, the sample F1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when the sample F is sucked in a puff period of 2 seconds per one puff operation. 9 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when suction is performed during a puff period of 3 seconds per puff operation. However, in the sample F1 and the sample F2, the power control unit 53 performs the atomization from the battery 11 when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the power supply to the atomization unit 22. The power supply to the unit 22 is stopped. Here, it should be noted that the predetermined period of 2.2 seconds is shorter than the upper limit value of the standard puff period derived from the user's puff period statistics, and shorter than the average value of the puff period.

  In Sample G, the configuration of the battery 11 is the same as that of Samples E and F. On the other hand, the atomizing unit 22 is configured by a heating wire wound at a predetermined pitch, and differs from the samples E and F in that the resistance value of the heating wire is 2.9Ω. 24, the sample G1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when the sample G is sucked in a puff period of 2 seconds per one puff operation, and the sample G2 shows that the sample G 9 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when suction is performed during a puff period of 3 seconds per puff operation. However, in the sample G1 and the sample G2, the power control unit 53 performs the atomization from the battery 11 when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the power supply to the atomization unit 22. The power supply to the unit 22 is stopped.

  In the sample H, the configurations of the battery 11 and the atomizing unit 22 are the same as those of the sample G. However, the predetermined pitch of the heating wire forming the atomization unit 22 is uniformly wound in a range of 0.35 mm to 0.40 mm, and is smaller than the predetermined pitch of the sample G. In FIG. 25, the sample H1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when the sample H is sucked in a puff period of 2 seconds per one puff operation. 9 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when suction is performed during a puff period of 3 seconds per puff operation. In the samples H1 and H2, similarly to the sample G, the power control unit 53 starts the power supply to the atomizing unit 22 when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) elapses. Then, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped. However, in the samples H1 and H2, the duty ratio at the time of supplying power to the atomizing unit 22 is changed according to the value of the output voltage of the battery 11 detected by the detecting unit 51. Specifically, as described above, since the output voltage of the battery 11 decreases with a decrease in the amount of power stored in the battery 11, the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 according to the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11 Is increased.

  Under such a premise, as shown in FIG. 22, for the sample E in which the puff period and the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 match regardless of the length of the puff period, the case where the puff period is 3 seconds is considered. The amount of aerosol fluctuates greatly when it is 2 seconds. Further, as can be seen by comparing the slopes of the sample E1 and the sample E2, the longer the puff period, that is, the energization time, the more the amount of aerosol changes from the first puff to the last puff.

  The inventors pay attention to such a result, set a predetermined period shorter than the upper limit value of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period, and set the predetermined period to the atomizing unit 22 in one puff operation. By stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the power supply, as shown in FIG. 23, the sample F2 having the puff period of 3 seconds is also used. It has been found that the variation in the amount of aerosol from the first puff to the last puff can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to suppress a change in the amount of the aerosol due to a variation in the puff period of the user.

  Furthermore, the inventors pay attention to such a result, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range when the energization time to the atomization unit 22 is a predetermined period. By changing the configuration of the atomization unit 22, as shown in FIG. 24, the amount of aerosol to be atomized by the atomization unit 22 from the first puff to the last puff over a longer number of puffs is desired. I found that it could fit in the range. Here, comparing the sample G2 shown in FIG. 24 with the sample F2 shown in FIG. 23, the sample G2 sets the amount of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 to a desired range over a longer number of puffs than the sample F2. On the other hand, the variation range of the aerosol amount from the first puff to the final puff is larger than the variation range in the sample F2. This is because the amount of electric power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 in one puff operation is increased by changing the configuration of the atomizing unit 22.

  In addition, the inventors have focused on such a result, and have found that the following change can reduce the reduction rate of the amount of aerosol. Specifically, by increasing the duty ratio of the electric power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in accordance with the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11, the reduction rate of the amount of the aerosol can be reduced. Also, the reduction rate of the amount of aerosol can be reduced by narrowing the predetermined pitch of the heating wire. With these changes, as shown in FIG. 25, in both H1 having a puff period of 2 seconds and H2 having a puff period of 3 seconds, the atomization is performed over the entire period from the first puff to the last puff. It has been found that the amount of aerosol atomized by the part 22 falls within a desired range.

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

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

  (2) The resistance value of the heating wire of the atomizing unit 22 is determined such that the amount of aerosol in a desired range is atomized when the energizing time to the atomizing unit 22 is a predetermined period. Here, assuming that the voltage supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 is the voltage at the end stage when the amount of charge stored in the battery 11 is insufficient, the power supply time to the atomization unit 22 Is a predetermined period, it is preferable that the amount of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 is determined so as to fall within a desired range.

  (3) Further, the power control unit 53 adjusts the output voltage of the battery 11 so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range from the first puff to the last puff. Increases, the duty ratio of the electric power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 is increased.

  With the above-described control, the amount of aerosol can be controlled from the initial stage in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is sufficient to the end stage in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is insufficient, regardless of the length of the puff period of the user. It is easy to stay within the range.

  That is, in the fourth modification, by adjusting the predetermined pitch and the resistance value of the heating wire forming the atomizing unit 22, the atomizing unit 22 is at least started to use the atomizing unit 22 (in other words, when the battery 11 is full). At the time of charging), a larger amount of aerosol can be atomized than the desired range of the aerosol supply amount in one puff operation.

  Under such a premise, the predetermined instruction (here, the duty ratio) output from the power control unit 53 is set so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 during a predetermined period falls within a desired range. It is determined based on the length of the period. In other words, the predetermined instruction is determined based on the length of the predetermined period in a state where the fluctuation of the amount of the aerosol due to the variation of the length of the puff period of the user is suppressed by determining the predetermined period. Therefore, from the initial stage (smoking start) in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is sufficient to the end stage (smoking end) in which the storage amount of the battery 11 is insufficient, regardless of the length of the user's puff period, The amount of the aerosol can easily be within the desired range.

  In the fourth modification, the upper limit of the amount (desired range) of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 is preferably 4.0 mg / 1 puff operation. Further, the upper limit is preferably 3.0 mg / 1 puff operation. When the above-mentioned value is the upper limit, the deterioration of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A stored in the second cartridge 30 is suppressed.

  On the other hand, the lower limit of the amount (desired range) of the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 is preferably 0.1 mg / 1 puff operation. When the above-mentioned value is the lower limit, it is possible to supply the aerosol in an amount that does not give the user a feeling of shortage, and it is possible to extract the flavor component from the flavor source 31A contained in the second cartridge 30 by the aerosol.

[Modification 5]
Hereinafter, a fifth modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the embodiment described above, the predetermined period is determined according to the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the puff periods of a plurality of users. On the other hand, in the fifth modification, the predetermined period is derived from the statistics of the puff period of the user who actually uses the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1.

  FIG. 26 is a diagram mainly illustrating functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the fifth modification. 26, the same components as those in FIG. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components as those in FIG. 15 is omitted.

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

  The memory 54 stores a puff period during which the user performs a puff operation.

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

  For example, the calculation unit 55 calculates a predetermined period according to the following procedure.

  First, in the initial setting, as in the above-described embodiment, a predetermined period (I second) is predetermined according to a standard puff period derived from statistics of a plurality of users' puff periods.

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

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

  Fourth, the duty ratio is changed so that the amount of power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 when the suction is performed for X seconds is equal to the amount of power supplied at the time of the initial setting (when the suction is performed for I seconds). That is, when the average value (X) <the initial setting value (I), the duty ratio corresponding to each battery voltage is relatively increased. On the other hand, when the average value (X)> the initial setting value (I), the duty ratio is reduced.

  It is preferable that the predetermined period is recalculated every fixed period (for example, replacement of the first cartridge 20).

(Action and effect)
In the fifth modification, the predetermined period is derived from the statistics of the puff period of the user who actually uses the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the predetermined period referred to when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, by setting a predetermined time suitable for the user's actual puff period, the puff period is longer for a user whose puff period is longer than in the case of using a predetermined period derived from the statistics of the puff periods of a plurality of users. By supplying the aerosol over the entire period, the sense of discomfort can be reduced, and for a user having a short puff period, the number of puff operations in which the aerosol in a desired range is supplied can be increased.

[Modification 6]
Hereinafter, a sixth modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the embodiment described above, the predetermined period is determined according to the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the puff periods of a plurality of users. On the other hand, in the modification 6, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puff period of the user who actually uses the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram mainly illustrating functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the sixth modification. 27, the same components as those in FIG. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components as in FIG. 15 will be omitted.

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

  The memory 54 stores a puff period during which the user performs a puff operation.

  The interface 56 is an interface for communicating with an external device 200 provided separately from the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1. The interface 56 may be a USB port, a wired LAN module, a wireless LAN module, or a short-range communication module (for example, Bluetooth or Felica). The external device 200 may be a personal computer or a smartphone.

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

  It should be noted that the external device 200 calculates the predetermined period by the same method as the calculation unit 55 according to the fifth modification.

(Action and effect)
In the sixth modification, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puff period of the user who actually uses the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the predetermined period referred to when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, by setting a predetermined time suitable for the user's actual puff period, the puff period is longer for a user whose puff period is longer than in the case of using a predetermined period derived from the statistics of the puff periods of a plurality of users. By supplying the aerosol over the entire period, the sense of discomfort can be reduced, and for a user having a short puff period, the number of puff operations in which the aerosol in a desired range is supplied can be increased.

[Modification 7]
Hereinafter, a seventh modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notification control unit 52 includes the counter 52X that counts the number of puff operations or the energization time to the atomizing unit 22. On the other hand, in the seventh modification, as shown in FIG. 28, the notification control unit 52 includes a first counter 52 </ b> A and a second 52B.

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

  The notification controller 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value. The notification controller 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value. The second predetermined value is an integral multiple of the first predetermined value.

  Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the predetermined value P, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 and increments the count value of the second counter 52B. Is also good. Thereby, the notification control unit 52 may detect the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the predetermined value Q. That is, the notification controller 52 may detect the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 has reached a predetermined number (predetermined value Q), as in the above-described embodiment. .

  Since the second predetermined value is an integral multiple of the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the replacement count of the second cartridge 30 as a result. It should be noted that

  In the seventh modification, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of the first counter 52A. May be. Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30, and changes the count value of the first counter 52A by a predetermined operation of the user. It may be reset. In such a case, the power control unit 53 stops power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 until the count value is reset after the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value. Is preferred.

  In the seventh modification, when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 and resets the count value of the second counter 52B. May be. Alternatively, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value, and changes the count value of the second counter 52B by a predetermined operation of the user. It may be reset. In such a case, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 until the count value is reset after the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value. Is preferred.

(Action and effect)
In the seventh modification, since the second predetermined value is an integral multiple of the first predetermined value, even when the replacement of the second cartridge 30 is repeated, the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 is the same. , The convenience of the user can be improved.

[Modification 8]
Hereinafter, a modification example 8 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

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

  As shown in FIG. 29, the package 300 has a first cartridge 20 and a second cartridge 30. The number of the second cartridges 30 is determined according to the life of the first cartridge 20. For example, the package 300 shown in FIG. 29 includes one first cartridge 20 and five second cartridges 30. In other words, the number of the second cartridges 30 is determined so that when one of the five second cartridges 30 is used up, the life of one of the first cartridges 20 ends.

  Specifically, in the first cartridge 20, an allowable puff count, which is the number of puff operations permitted for the first cartridge 20, or an allowable energization time, which is an energization time allowed for the first cartridge 20, is defined. . The allowable number of puffs and the allowable energizing time are values for suppressing the depletion of the aerosol source 21A. In other words, the permissible number of puffs and the permissible energizing time are the upper limit values at which the aerosol source 21A can be stably supplied to the atomizing unit 22 and an appropriate aerosol can be atomized. As the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30, the number of times of the puff operation or the timing at which the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 reaches a predetermined value is determined. The number of the second cartridges 30 is an integer part of a quotient obtained by dividing the allowable number of puffs or the allowable energizing time by a predetermined value. Here, the allowable number of puffs or the allowable energizing time may not be divisible by a predetermined value. In other words, the life of the first cartridge 20 may be a life having a margin with respect to the number of the second cartridges 30.

  Alternatively, the timing of the number of times of the puff operation or the time when the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 reaches the first predetermined value is the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. The timing of the number of puff operations or the time at which the energization time to the atomizing unit 22 reaches the second predetermined value is the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. The second predetermined value is an integral multiple T of the first predetermined value. The integer multiple T is the number of the second cartridges 30 included in the package 300.

(Action and effect)
In the eighth modification, the number of the second cartridges 30 is determined according to the life of the first cartridge 20. Therefore, even when the replacement of the second cartridge 30 is repeated, the number of the first cartridge 20 and the second Since the replacement timing is aligned, user convenience is improved. In other words, by using up the second cartridge 30 included in the package 300, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20.

[Other Embodiments]
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above-described embodiments, it should not be understood that the description and drawings forming part of this disclosure limit the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples, and operation techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 has the end cap 25, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, when the reservoir 21 has a configuration (for example, a tank) capable of suppressing leakage of the aerosol source 21A, the first cartridge 20 may not have the end cap 25. In such a case, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source container 31.

  In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is housed in the first cartridge 20 (the protruding portion 25E), but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the power supply unit 10 may house the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30. Alternatively, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 may be connected at end faces facing each other. In such a case, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are connected, for example, by screwing.

  Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the end cap 25 is preferably joined to the reservoir 21 in order to suppress the refilling of the reservoir 21 with the aerosol source 21A and the like.

  In the embodiment, the end cap 25 has a protruding portion 25E protruding downstream (toward the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the end cap 25 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). However, embodiments are not limited to this. In the case where the end cap 25 is not provided, the protruding portion 25E that protrudes downstream (toward the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section orthogonal to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). The flow path forming body 23 may have. The protruding portion 25 </ b> E contacts an upstream end (for example, an outer edge of the upstream end) of the flavor source container 31.

  In the embodiment, the case where the atomizing unit 22 is a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch has been exemplified. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The shape of the heating wire forming the atomizing section 22 is arbitrary.

  In the embodiment, the case where the atomization unit 22 is configured by the heating wire is illustrated. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The atomization unit 22 may atomize the aerosol source 21A by ultrasonic waves.

  In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 is replaceable. However, embodiments are not limited to this. Specifically, instead of the first cartridge 20, an atomizing unit having a reservoir 21 and an atomizing section 22 is provided in the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1, and even if the atomizing unit is a unit that is not replaced. Good.

  In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is replaceable. However, embodiments are not limited to this. Specifically, instead of the second cartridge 30, a flavor source unit having a flavor source 31A is provided in the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1, and the flavor source unit may be a unit that is not replaced. However, if the second cartridge 30 is an essential feature, this is not the case.

  In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are interchangeable. However, embodiments are not limited to this. Specifically, the configuration of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 may be provided in the non-burning type flavor inhaler 1.

  In the embodiment, the package 300 has one first cartridge 20. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The package 300 may have two or more first cartridges 20.

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 by pulse control. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may control the output voltage of the battery 11. In such a case, the power control unit 53 may output, as a change of the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the instruction voltage to be output to the battery 11 with a decrease in the charged amount of the battery 11.

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 outputs, as a change of the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the duty ratio output to the battery 11 in one puff operation with a decrease in the amount of stored power of the battery 11. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may output, as a change of the predetermined instruction, an instruction to extend a predetermined period for stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 with a decrease in the amount of power stored in the battery 11. .

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

  In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the puff period during which the puff operation is performed, but performs the atomization during the non-puff period during which the puff operation is not performed. The power output to the unit 22 is not instructed to the battery 11. However, embodiments are not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may switch the output of the power to the atomization unit 22 according to the operation of a hardware interface (for example, a switch or a button) for outputting the power to the atomization unit 22. That is, the puff operation and the non-puff operation are switched according to the operation of the hardware interface.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a cartridge and a non-combustion type flavor inhaler that can secure the porosity of the whole mesh body while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source. .

Claims (8)

A flavor source composed of a plurality of raw material pieces that impart a flavor to an aerosol generated by a non-burning type flavor inhaler,
Forming an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction, having a flavor source container that stores the flavor source,
The flavor source container is inserted into the non-burning type flavor inhaler from an upstream end side of the flavor source container, which is an upstream end of the aerosol flow path in the flavor source container, and the non-burning type flavor is sucked. Exchangeably connected to the aspirator,
The flavor source container movably stores the flavor source inside the flavor source container ,
The flavor source container has a plurality of openings at the upstream end of the flavor source container, through which the aerosol passes but the raw material pieces do not pass,
A cartridge characterized in that an outer wall surface of the flavor source container is formed near a downstream end of the flavor source container, and includes a tapered portion extending from an upstream end to a downstream end of the flavor source container . Each of the plurality of apertures has a minimum width having a smallest width as a width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of apertures,
The cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the minimum width is smaller than a lower limit of a size of the plurality of raw material pieces. The flavor source container, the downstream end of the flavor source container cartridge according to claim 1 or claim 2 characterized by having a cap containing an opening. Comprising a mesh body having the plurality of openings,
The flavor source container and the mesh body cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it is integrally molded body composed of a resin. Atomizing unit that atomizes the aerosol source without burning,
A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4 is detachably provided,
The non-burning type flavor inhaler, wherein the flavor source container has a mouth end for a user to inhale the aerosol. An aerosol flow control chamber provided between the atomizing unit and the cartridge mounted on the non-burning type flavor inhaler, and configured to adjust a flow of aerosol generated in the atomizing unit and passing through the cartridge; The non-burning type flavor inhaler according to claim 5, which is provided. The atomizing unit is housed in an atomizing unit housing,
The non-burning type flavor inhaler according to claim 6, wherein the cartridge is attached to a predetermined position of the atomization unit container by a positioning mechanism. 8. The positioning mechanism according to claim 7, wherein the positioning mechanism includes an end cap provided on the atomizing unit container and separated from the cartridge-side end of the atomizing unit container by a first distance. A non-burning type flavor inhaler according to item 1.

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