WO2023089799A1 - Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material - Google Patents

Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023089799A1
WO2023089799A1 PCT/JP2021/042719 JP2021042719W WO2023089799A1 WO 2023089799 A1 WO2023089799 A1 WO 2023089799A1 JP 2021042719 W JP2021042719 W JP 2021042719W WO 2023089799 A1 WO2023089799 A1 WO 2023089799A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
consumable material
flavor
heating
consumable
heater
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2021/042719
Other languages
French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
哲哉 吉村
康信 井上
学 山田
Original Assignee
日本たばこ産業株式会社
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by 日本たばこ産業株式会社 filed Critical 日本たばこ産業株式会社
Priority to PCT/JP2021/042719 priority Critical patent/WO2023089799A1/en
Priority to KR1020247012412A priority patent/KR20240068694A/en
Publication of WO2023089799A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023089799A1/en

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/46—Shape or structure of electric heating means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a flavor suction device, a flavor suction system, and a method for transforming consumables.
  • flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors without burning materials have been known.
  • a flavor inhaler for example, one having an internal heating element that heats the inserted consumable material from the inside is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
  • One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a flavor inhaler, a flavor suction system, and a method of transforming the consumable, which can achieve both ease of insertion of the consumable and thermal contact between the heater and the consumable. to provide.
  • a first aspect of the present invention provides a flavor inhaler.
  • This flavor inhaler includes a storage section that stores at least part of the consumable material, and a heating section that is inserted into the consumable material stored in the storage section and heats the consumable material from the inside.
  • the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the portion is deformed along the shape of the heating portion.
  • the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage section is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section. Therefore, the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section, and the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating section to the consumable material can be improved.
  • the heating part deforms the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the containing part into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, and the major axis of the consumable material after being contained in the containing part is
  • the diameter of the consumable item is longer than the diameter of the consumable item before it is stored in the storage portion, and the minor axis of the consumable item after being stored in the storage portion is shorter than the diameter of the consumable item before being stored in the storage portion.
  • the heating section deforms the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the containing section into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, thereby shortening the distance in the lateral direction of the containing section occupied by the consumable material. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the thickness of the housing portion.
  • the contact area between the heating unit and the consumable material can be increased by deforming the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the storage unit into an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
  • the heating section is flat.
  • the contact area between the heating part and the consumable material can be widened because the heating part is flat. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
  • the heating part is configured such that the maximum width of the heating part is larger than 30% of the major axis of the consumable material after being stored in the storage part.
  • the maximum width of the heating portion is made larger than 30% of the major axis of the consumable material after it has been accommodated in the accommodating portion, so that the consumable material inserted into the accommodating portion has a flat shape. , so that the consumable material can be brought into closer contact with the heating unit.
  • the heating portion has a circumference extending from the opening side of the accommodating portion to the opposite side of the opening in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the accommodating portion. is configured to lengthen toward the
  • the circumferential length of the heating portion is increased from the opening side of the housing portion toward the side opposite to the opening, so that the length of contact between the consumable material and the heating portion is reduced from the opening side. Since it becomes longer toward the side opposite to the opening, it is possible to prevent the consumables from falling off.
  • an urging device is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the accommodating portion and biases the consumable material inserted into the accommodating portion toward the heating portion. It further comprises a part.
  • the consumable material inserted into the storage section is biased toward the heating section by the biasing section, whereby the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section. heat transfer efficiency from to the consumables can be improved.
  • the biasing portion protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the housing portion toward the heating portion, and the heating portion has a maximum circumferential length in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing portion. The projection distance is maximized at the position where
  • the protruding distance of the urging portion is maximized at the position where the circumferential length of the heating portion in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the accommodating portion is maximized, so that the consumable material is transferred to the heating portion.
  • the heat transfer efficiency from the heating unit to the consumable material can be further improved.
  • the heating portion has a sharp edge on the opening side of the accommodating portion.
  • the end portion of the heating portion on the opening side of the storage portion has a sharp shape, so that the heating portion can be easily inserted into the consumables.
  • the opening of the accommodating portion is formed, and the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the accommodating portion is made to correspond to the shape of the heating portion. It further comprises a deformable guide portion.
  • the guide section deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the storage section so as to correspond to the shape of the heating section. Even if the cross-sectional shape varies, the guide part can deform the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material into a desired shape corresponding to the shape of the heating part.
  • the end of the heating portion on the opening side of the accommodating portion is configured to protrude further toward the opening than the end of the guide portion on the side opposite to the opening.
  • the end portion of the storage portion of the heating portion on the opening side protrudes further toward the opening side than the end portion of the guide portion on the side opposite to the opening, thereby allowing the consumption heat to be inserted into the opening. Deformation of the material by the heating part can be reliably started.
  • the heating unit in any one of the first to tenth modes, has a heating element that generates heat and at least two substrates sandwiching the heating element.
  • the substrates can support the heating element.
  • the heating element is a heating element and the substrate is a conductive plate
  • the conductive plate can support the heating element and also serve as an electrode.
  • the heating unit is a PTC heater.
  • the PTC heater by using the PTC heater, it is possible to efficiently heat the consumables without using a control device or the like.
  • a thirteenth form of the present invention provides a flavor suction system.
  • This flavor inhalation system comprises a consumable and a flavor inhaler of any of the first to twelfth aspects.
  • the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage section is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a flavor inhaling system having a flavor inhaler capable of bringing the consumable material into close contact with the heating unit and improving the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material.
  • the consumable item has an inserted portion into which a heating portion that heats the consumable item from the inside is inserted, and the inserted portion surrounds the inserted heating portion.
  • the inserted portion surrounds the inserted heating portion.
  • the inserted portion includes an annular sheet disposed so as to surround the inserted heating portion. can be easily transformed.
  • a fifteenth form of the present invention provides a method for transforming a consumable to be inserted into a flavor inhaler.
  • the flavor inhaler includes a storage section that stores at least part of the consumable material and a heating section that heats the consumable material from the inside.
  • This method includes a step of deforming the cross-sectional shape of the consumable to be inserted into the container by a guide provided in the container, and a step of changing the shape of the consumable to be inserted into the container by the heating unit.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material is deformed by the guide section, the shape of the consumable material is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section, and the consumable material is moved to the heating section by the urging section.
  • the consumable material to be inserted into the storage section can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler according to one embodiment of the present invention in the thickness direction of the heater.
  • 2 is an exploded perspective view of the heater shown in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the heater shown in FIG. 1;
  • 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a consumable in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the tobacco portion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable product shown in Fig. 5;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler;
  • Fig. 10 is another cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in the flavor inhaler;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the width direction of the heater;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the width direction of the heater;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the thickness direction of the heater;
  • tobacco sticks are taken as an example of the consumable material, but the consumable material is not limited to tobacco as long as it generates flavor when heated.
  • FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention in the width direction of the heater 120.
  • FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention in the thickness direction of the heater 120. As shown in FIG.
  • the flavor inhaler 100 includes a housing (accommodating section) 110 and a heater (heating section) 120 .
  • the housing 110 has an opening 10 at one end and accommodates at least a portion of a consumable item 200 (described below) inserted into the opening 10 through the opening 10 .
  • the housing 110 is made of, for example, a resin, particularly PC (Polycarbonate), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (PolyEtherEtherKetone), a polymer alloy containing a plurality of types of polymers, or aluminum. It can be made of metal.
  • the housing 110 is configured such that the cross-sectional area in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the smallest in the vicinity of the opening 10 .
  • the housing 110 has a shaping guide (guide portion) 20 and a restraining rib (biasing portion) 30 .
  • the shaping guide 20 forms the opening 10 and deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable 200 inserted into the housing 110 so as to correspond to the shape of the heater 120 .
  • the restraining ribs 30 are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 and urge the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 toward the heater 120 to deform the shape of the consumable material 200 .
  • the detailed configuration of the shaping guides 20 and the restraining ribs 30 and the function of deforming the consumable material 200 will be described later.
  • an air intake hole (not shown) is provided on the side opposite to the opening 10 of the housing 110.
  • a bottom-flow type flavor inhaler 100 is configured by supplying air to the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 through the air intake hole.
  • the intake hole may be provided in a member forming the bottom of the housing 110 and communicate with the consumable product 200 through the inside of the member.
  • the heater 120 is a flat PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater that is inserted into the consumable material 200 housed in the housing 110 and heats the consumable material 200 from the inside. Also, the heater 120 deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 along the shape of the heater 120 . The function of the heater 120 to deform the consumable material 200 will be described later.
  • the shaping guide 20, the restraining ribs 30, and the heater 120 deform the shape of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 from the shape of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110. be.
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the heater shown in FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the heater shown in FIG. 1.
  • the heater 120 has a PTC element (heating element) 121, at least two metal plates (substrates) 122, and a holding member 123.
  • the PTC element 121 is sandwiched from both sides by metal plates 122 and adhered with, for example, a conductive adhesive paste.
  • a conductive adhesive paste for example, a so-called anisotropic conductive adhesive in which conductive particles are uniformly dispersed in an epoxy adhesive can be used.
  • the metal plate 122 may be made of a nickel (Ni)-containing iron alloy with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, such as Invar (registered trademark). According to this, the metal plate 122 can suppress peeling of the adhesion between the metal plate 122 and the PTC element 121 due to thermal expansion when the PTC element 121 generates heat. By sandwiching the PTC element 121 between at least two metal plates 122, the metal plates 122 can support the PTC element 121 and also serve as electrodes.
  • Ni nickel
  • Invar registered trademark
  • the holding member 123 is coupled to the housing 110 when the heater 120 is attached to the housing 110 .
  • the holding portion 123 may be made of engineering plastic.
  • Engineering plastics have high heat resistance and high mechanical strength, and can be formed into desired shapes at low cost by injection molding or the like, and are thus suitably used as constituent materials for structural members.
  • the holding portion 123 may be made of PEEK, which is a type of engineering plastic.
  • PEEK is a thermoplastic resin that has extremely high heat resistance and high dimensional stability. Therefore, when the holding member 123 is made of PEEK, the holding member 123 can further reduce the influence of heat generated by the heater 120 .
  • a PTC heater is a heater that uses a resistor that has a property (PTC property) that the electrical resistance rises sharply when reaching a certain temperature (called the Curie temperature), and electricity stops flowing.
  • the PTC heater can keep the temperature below a certain temperature without using a control device or the like by utilizing the PTC characteristics.
  • the heater 120 may be a PTC heater using barium titanate (BaTiO 3 ) having PTC characteristics as a resistor. In such a case, the heater 120 can set the Curie temperature of barium titanate to 350.degree.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic side sectional view showing a consumable product 200 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a section of the tobacco portion 210 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable product 200 shown in FIG.
  • the consumable product 200 has a tobacco portion (inserted portion) 210 and a paper tube 220 .
  • the tobacco portion 210 has a through hole 211 in the center into which the heater 120 is inserted.
  • the tobacco portion 210 has a two-layer structure of a flavor release layer (annular sheet) 212 and an elastically deformable layer (annular sheet) 213 arranged so as to surround the inserted heater 120 .
  • a wrapper 214 is wound around the outer periphery of the elastic deformation layer 213 .
  • the flavor-releasing layer 212 is composed of, for example, a tobacco sheet and a non-tobacco sheet carrying glycerin around the tobacco sheet, and is heated by the heater 120 to release flavor-containing volatile compounds. It should be noted that the flavor release layer 212 can include only one of tobacco sheets and non-tobacco sheets.
  • the elastic deformation layer 213 is made of, for example, a non-woven fabric sheet, a corrugated sheet, a non-tobacco sheet, or the like, and is elastically deformable in its thickness direction (that is, the radial direction of the cylindrical elastic deformation layer 213). The elastic deformation layer 213 contributes to the deformation of the consumable material 200 along the shape of the heater 120 when the heater 120 is inserted.
  • the elastic deformation layer 213 is elastically deformed in the thickness direction with respect to the heater 120 , making it easier to contact or approach the heater 120 . Therefore, the flavor release layer 212 can be brought into contact with or closer to the heater 120, and the consumable material 200 can be efficiently heated.
  • the paper tube 220 cools the volatile compounds released from the flavor release layer 212.
  • Tobacco portion 210 includes flavor release layer 212 and elastically deformable layer 213 arranged to surround heater 120 to be inserted, so that heater 120 is inserted into consumable material 200 to change the shape of consumable material 200. It can be easily transformed.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 may be circular or elliptical.
  • the non-tobacco sheet may contain a flavor generating base material.
  • the flavor-generating base material is a material that imparts flavor and taste, and is preferably a tobacco material.
  • Flavor-generating substrates may also include perfumes.
  • a flavoring agent is a substance that provides an odor or flavor.
  • the perfume may be a natural perfume or a synthetic perfume.
  • the perfume one kind of perfume may be used, or a mixture of multiple kinds of perfumes may be used.
  • the fragrance for example, any fragrance such as essential oil, natural fragrance, synthetic fragrance, etc. can be used as long as it is a fragrance that is usually used.
  • it may be liquid or solid, and its properties are not limited.
  • the flavor generating substrate may also include cooling agents or flavorants.
  • the tobacco sheet may contain, for example, tobacco, polyhydric alcohol, and the like.
  • Polyhydric alcohols may be used alone or in combination of two or more in the tobacco sheet.
  • the polyhydric alcohol may also be added to the elastic deformation layer 213 described above.
  • Tobacco sheets can be formed into sheets by mixing powdered tobacco and polyhydric alcohol with a binder.
  • Describe relationships. 7 to 9 are cross-sectional views showing a state in which the consumable material 200 is accommodated in the flavor inhaler 100.
  • the consumable material 200 is applied to the flavor inhaler 100 to configure the flavor inhaling system.
  • 7 to 9 show the flavor release layer 212 and the elastically deformable layer 213 of the consumable product 200 as one annular sheet 215.
  • FIG. 7 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 passes through the shaping guide 20 with respect to a cross section in the width direction of the heater 120 and a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 at the entrance portion 22 of the shaping guide 20 .
  • FIG. 8 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 passes through the restraining rib 30, in cross section in the width direction of the heater 120, and at the intermediate portion and the other end of the restraining rib 30, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110. It shows the cross section to be done.
  • FIG. 8 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 passes through the restraining rib 30, in cross section in the width direction of the heater 120, and at the intermediate portion and the other end of the restraining rib 30, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110. It shows the cross section to be done.
  • FIG. 9 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 is accommodated in a predetermined accommodation position of the housing 110, in a cross section in the width direction of the heater 120 and in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 near the other end of the heater 120. An orthogonal cross section is shown.
  • the shaping guide 20 has a tapered portion 21, an inlet portion 22, and a contact portion 23.
  • the tapered portion 21 is configured to expand toward one end of the housing 110 and guides the insertion of the consumable material 200 into the flavor inhaler 100 . That is, the shaping guide 20 guides the consumable material 200 to the tip position of the heater 120 so that the consumable material 200 can be reliably inserted into the heater 120 .
  • the shaping guide 20 has a tapered shape expanded toward the outside of the housing 110 to guide the insertion of the consumable material 200, so that the consumable material 200 can be easily accommodated in the housing 110. can do.
  • the entrance part 22 is provided at the end of the housing 110 and has an elliptical cross-section, and has a long axis equal to or larger than the long axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 and a short axis of being housed in the housing 110 . It is configured to be approximately the same length as the diameter of the consumable 200 prior to insertion.
  • the end of the shaping guide 20 has an elliptical cross section, the cross-sectional shape of the consumable product 200 is deformed into an elliptical shape along the shape of the shaping guide 20 as the consumable product 200 is inserted. be able to.
  • the short diameter of the inlet portion 22 is substantially the same as the diameter of the consumable product 200 before it is housed in the housing 110, it is possible to suppress wobbling of the consumable product 200 in the direction of the short diameter of the shaping guide 20. .
  • the shaping guide 20 can shape the consumable material 200 into a constant shape, and the consumable material 200 can be smoothly attached to the housing 110 .
  • the heater 120 and the entrance portion 22 are configured such that the width direction of the heater 120 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the entrance portion 22 . Thereby, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed along the shape of the heater 120 . Therefore, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
  • the contact part 23 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 and has an elliptical cross section, and is configured such that the minimum inner peripheral length is equal to or less than the outer peripheral length of the consumable product 200 .
  • the consumable material 200 can be transformed into Therefore, even if the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 varies, the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 can be deformed into a desired shape by the shaping guide 20, and the consumable material 200 can be smoothly inserted into the housing 110. ⁇ In addition, since the entire periphery of the consumable material 200 is in contact with the contact portion 23, the consumable material 200 can be prevented from falling off.
  • the contact portion 23 is configured to make point contact with the consumable material 200 housed in the housing 110 in a cross section along the longitudinal axis of the housing 110 .
  • the point contact of the contact portion 23 with the consumable material 200 suppresses the heat transfer from the consumable material 200 to the housing 110 , so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved.
  • the heater 120 has a sharp tip shape. Therefore, the heater 120 can be easily inserted into the consumable item 200 .
  • the end of the heater 120 on the side of the opening 10 protrudes toward the opening 10 more than the end of the shaping guide 20 on the side opposite to the opening 10 .
  • the end of the heater 120 on the side of the opening 10 slightly protrudes toward one end of the housing 110 from the contact portion 23 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 .
  • the end of the heater 120 on the opening 10 side is inserted into the through hole 211 of the consumable material 200, so that the deformation of the consumable material 200 by the heater 120 is reliably started. can do.
  • the maximum width of the heater 120 with respect to the length of the contact portion 23 of the shaping guide 20 is configured to be larger than that of the conventional flavor inhaler having a piercing-type heater.
  • the length of the contact portion 23 is 7 mm
  • the maximum width of the heater 120 is 6 mm.
  • the heater 120 is configured such that the maximum width of the heater 120 is greater than 30%, preferably greater than 40%, of the major axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 .
  • the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 .
  • the heater 120 has a sharp shape and is configured so that its width increases toward the other end. Accordingly, as the consumable product 200 is inserted through the shaping guide 20 , the contour of the consumable product 200 is deformed along the shape of the heater 120 . Specifically, the consumable material 200 is spread in the width direction of the heater 120 . As a result, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved. In addition, since the heater 120 spreads the consumable material 200, it is possible to prevent the consumable material 200 from falling off.
  • the heater 120 has a flat plate shape, and deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape.
  • the major axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 is longer than the diameter of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110, and the diameter of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110.
  • the short diameter is shorter than the diameter of the consumable item 200 before being housed in the housing 110 .
  • the heater 120 deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 to be inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, thereby shortening the width of the housing 110 occupied by the consumable material 200 .
  • the housing 110 can be made thinner. Further, the contact area between the heater 120 and the consumable item 200 can be increased by deforming the outer shape of the consumable item 200 inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Therefore, heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
  • the heater 120 is arranged so that the circumference of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 gradually increases from the side of the opening 10 toward the side opposite to the side of the opening 10, that is, from one end toward the other end. is configured to As the circumferential length of the heater 120 gradually increases from one end to the other end, the contact length of the consumable material with the heating unit gradually increases from one end to the other end. It is possible to prevent the material from falling off.
  • the restraining rib 30 is provided so as to protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 toward the heater 120 along the thickness direction of the heater 120, and is composed of a pair of tapered surfaces facing each other (see FIG. 2). . It should be noted that the restraining ribs 30 are not limited to this configuration, and at least one restraining rib 30 may be provided at positions facing each other. In addition, the restraining rib 30 is arranged so as to overlap the region where the width of the heater 120 gradually widens in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . In addition, the shape of the restraining rib 30 can be selected from arbitrary projecting shapes.
  • the restraining rib 30 is configured so that the projection distance gradually increases toward the other end side of the housing 110, and the position where the width of the heater 120 is maximized, that is, the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is perpendicular to the position.
  • the protruding distance may be maximized at the position where the circumferential length in the cross section is maximized.
  • the length between the tapered surfaces of the restraining ribs 30 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the consumable material 200 before being inserted into the housing 110 .
  • the other end of the restraining rib 30 has a retaining shape formed in the shape of a precipitous wall that is substantially orthogonal to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 , and the restraining rib 30 extends along the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . 30 is configured so as not to overlap the PTC element 121 of the heater 120 .
  • the pressing rib 30 urges the consumable material 200 pushed and spread in the width direction of the heater 120 in the thickness direction of the heater 120. Deformed into a flat shape.
  • the projection distance of the restraining rib 30 increases, and the consumable material 200 is gradually deformed into a flat shape.
  • both the width of the heater 120 and the projecting distance of the restraining rib 30 are maximized, and the shape of the consumable material 200 is the final shape in close contact with the heater 120. It has a shape. Therefore, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 is urged toward the heater 120 by the restraining ribs 30 , so that the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 . heat transfer efficiency can be further improved. In addition, since the restraining rib 30 biases the consumable material 200, it is possible to prevent the consumable material 200 from falling off.
  • the radial length from the inner circumference to the outer circumference of the tobacco portion 210 in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable article 200 is the distance between the heater 120 and the restraining ribs 30. It may be configured to be greater than the shortest distance. According to this, the consumable material 200 can be reliably urged against the heater 120 by the restraining rib 30, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be further improved.
  • the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120. . Also, by providing at least one restraining rib 30 at positions facing each other, the consumables 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be urged toward the heater 120 from directions facing each other. Further, by setting the length between the tapered surfaces of the restraining ribs 30 to be smaller than the diameter of the consumable material 200, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved. can be further improved.
  • the consumable material 200 can be gradually deformed, and smooth deformation can be realized. Further, by forming the other end portion of the restraining rib 30 into a retaining shape, even if a force acts in the direction of pulling out the consumable material 200, resistance is generated due to the retaining shape. can be prevented from falling off. Also, in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 , the restraining ribs 30 do not overlap the PTC element 121 of the heater 120 , thereby preventing the heat generated from the PTC element 121 from escaping to the housing 110 through the restraining ribs 30 . can be suppressed.
  • an accommodation space 50 is formed inside the housing 110 to accommodate the consumable material 200 deformed by the heater 120 .
  • an air layer 40 is formed over the entire circumference of the consumable material 200 between the housing space 50 and the housing 110 . Since the air layer 40 has a low thermal conductivity, it can insulate between the consumable material 200 (accommodating space 50) and the housing 110, and the energy required for heating the consumable material 200 can be reduced. Further, the contact portion 23 is in contact with the consumable material 200 over the entire circumference of the consumable material 200 and seals the air layer 40 . This suppresses air convection in the air layer 40 .
  • the housing 110 is configured such that the cross-sectional area of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the smallest in the vicinity of the opening 10 .
  • the housing 110 is arranged so that the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the air layer 40 to the consumable material 200 is 5:1 to 1:1 at the point where the cross-sectional area in the cross section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the largest. is configured to Thereby, the air layer 40 can exhibit sufficient heat insulation performance.
  • the shaping guide 20 deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200
  • the heater 120 deforms the shape of the consumable material 200 along the shape of the heater 120
  • the restraining ribs 30 direct the consumable material 200 toward the heater 120 .
  • the shaping guide 20 deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 so as to correspond to the shape of the heater 120 . Therefore, even if the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 varies, the shaping guide 20 can deform the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 into a desired shape corresponding to the shape of the heater 120. .
  • the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 is deformed along the shape of the heater 120 by the heater 120 . Therefore, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
  • the shape of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 is changed from the shape of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110 by the shaping guide 20, the restraining rib 30, and the heater 120, Even if there is, an air layer 40 is formed between the accommodation space 50 in which the deformed consumable product 200 is accommodated and the housing 110 . Therefore, the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved by the air layer 40 having a low thermal conductivity.
  • the abutting part 23 forms an air layer 40 between the housing space 50 in which the deformed consumable material 200 is housed and the housing 110.
  • air convection in the air layer 40 can be suppressed, and excellent heat insulation performance can be achieved.
  • the contact portion 23 is provided near the opening 10, the volume of the sealed air layer 40 can be increased, so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved.
  • the heater 120 by inserting the heater 120 into the consumable material 200 and heating the consumable material 200 from the inside, the heater 120 as a heat source does not come into contact with the air layer 40, so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved. can.
  • the air layer 40 is formed along the entire circumference of the consumable material 200, the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved.
  • the heater 120 is a PTC heater
  • the heater may be a flexible polyimide heater configured by sandwiching a heat generating resistor (heat generating element) such as stainless steel between two films (substrates) such as PI (polyimide).
  • the heater may be a pin heater having an elliptical cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 .
  • the intake hole is provided on the side opposite to the opening 10 of the housing 110, that is, on the bottom of the housing 110.
  • the present invention is not limited to this. may be provided in the opening 10 of the housing 110 or in the housing 110 .
  • the air intake hole is provided in the housing 110, as shown in FIG. Even in this case, since the air layer 40 is sealed by the contact portion 23, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of convection in the air layer 40 in the vicinity of the contact portion 23, thereby preventing a decrease in heat insulating efficiency. Air can flow in while maintaining the size of the flavor inhaler 100 while preventing this.
  • the pressing rib 30 is configured by a pair of tapered surfaces facing each other, but the present invention is not limited to this.
  • 11 and 12 are cross-sectional views showing the arrangement of the restraining ribs 30 in the width direction of the heater 120.
  • FIG. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the restraining ribs 30 in the thickness direction of the heater 120. As shown in FIG.
  • the restraining ribs 30 are alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 .
  • the frictional force applied to the surface of the consumable material 200 when the consumable material 200 is inserted is reduced as compared with the case where the restraining ribs 30 are arranged at positions facing each other. be able to.
  • the restraining ribs 30 are arranged along the thickness direction of the heater 120 near the other end of the heater 120 so as to face each other.
  • the restraining ribs 30 are arranged along the width direction of the heater 120 near the other end of the heater 120 so as to face each other.

Landscapes

  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

Provided is a flavor inhaler. This flavor inhaler comprises a housing portion that houses at least a portion of a consumable material, and a heating portion that is inserted into the consumable material housed in the housing portion and heats the consumable material from the interior thereof, wherein the heating portion causes the outer shape of the consumable material, when inserted into the housing portion, to deform according to the shape of the heating portion.

Description

香味吸引器、香味吸引システムおよび消費材の変形方法Flavor sucker, flavor sucking system and method for transforming consumables
　本発明は、香味吸引器、香味吸引システムおよび消費材の変形方法に関する。 The present invention relates to a flavor suction device, a flavor suction system, and a method for transforming consumables.
　従来、材料の燃焼をすることなく香味等を吸引するための香味吸引器が知られている。このような香味吸引器として、例えば、挿入された消費材を内部から加熱する内部加熱要素を備えたものが知られている（例えば、特許文献１参照）。 Conventionally, flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors without burning materials have been known. As such a flavor inhaler, for example, one having an internal heating element that heats the inserted consumable material from the inside is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
特許第６０００４５１号明細書Patent No. 6000451
　特許文献１に開示されるような香味吸引器において、消費材をヒータに容易に挿入するために、消費材のたばこ密度を低下させると、ヒータと消費材との間の熱的接触が小さくなり、エアロゾルの発生量が少なくなる可能性がある。本発明の目的の１つは、消費材の挿入容易性と、ヒータと消費材との間の熱的接触とを両立することができる香味吸引器および香味吸引システム、並びに消費材の変形方法を提供することである。 In order to facilitate the insertion of the consumable into the heater in a flavor inhaler such as that disclosed in US Pat. , may produce less aerosols. One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a flavor inhaler, a flavor suction system, and a method of transforming the consumable, which can achieve both ease of insertion of the consumable and thermal contact between the heater and the consumable. to provide.
　本発明の第１形態では、香味吸引器が提供される。この香味吸引器は、消費材の少なくとも一部を収容する収容部と、収容部に収容された消費材に挿入され、消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部と、を備え、加熱部は、収容部に挿入される消費材の外形を、加熱部の形状に沿って変形させる。 A first aspect of the present invention provides a flavor inhaler. This flavor inhaler includes a storage section that stores at least part of the consumable material, and a heating section that is inserted into the consumable material stored in the storage section and heats the consumable material from the inside. The outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the portion is deformed along the shape of the heating portion.
　本発明の第１形態によれば、加熱部によって、収容部に挿入される消費材の外形が、加熱部の形状に沿って変形される。そのため、消費材を加熱部に密着させることができ、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 According to the first aspect of the present invention, the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage section is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section. Therefore, the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section, and the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating section to the consumable material can be improved.
　本発明の第２形態では、第１形態において、加熱部は、収容部に挿入される消費材の外形を、断面楕円形状に変形させ、収容部に収容された後の消費材の長径は、収容部に収容される前の消費材の直径よりも長く、収容部に収容された後の消費材の短径は、収容部に収容される前の消費材の直径よりも短い。 According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the heating part deforms the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the containing part into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, and the major axis of the consumable material after being contained in the containing part is The diameter of the consumable item is longer than the diameter of the consumable item before it is stored in the storage portion, and the minor axis of the consumable item after being stored in the storage portion is shorter than the diameter of the consumable item before being stored in the storage portion.
　本発明の第２形態によれば、加熱部が収容部に挿入される消費材の外形を断面楕円形状に変形させることで、消費材が占有する収容部の短手方向の距離が短くなる。そのため、収容部を薄型化することができる。また、加熱部が収容部に挿入される消費材の外形を断面楕円形状に変形させることで、加熱部と消費材との接触面積を広くすることができる。そのため、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 According to the second aspect of the present invention, the heating section deforms the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the containing section into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, thereby shortening the distance in the lateral direction of the containing section occupied by the consumable material. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the thickness of the housing portion. In addition, the contact area between the heating unit and the consumable material can be increased by deforming the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the storage unit into an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
　本発明の第３形態では、第１形態または第２形態において、加熱部は、平板状である。 In the third embodiment of the present invention, in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the heating section is flat.
　本発明の第３形態によれば、加熱部が平板状であることにより、加熱部と消費材との接触面積を広くすることができる。そのため、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 According to the third aspect of the present invention, the contact area between the heating part and the consumable material can be widened because the heating part is flat. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
　本発明の第４形態では、第３形態において、加熱部は、加熱部の最大幅が、収容部に収容された後の消費材の長径の３０％よりも大きくなるように構成されている。 According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect, the heating part is configured such that the maximum width of the heating part is larger than 30% of the major axis of the consumable material after being stored in the storage part.
　本発明の第４形態によれば、加熱部の最大幅を、収容部に収容された後の消費材の長径の３０％よりも大きくすることで、収容部に挿入される消費材を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材を加熱部により密着させることができる。 According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the maximum width of the heating portion is made larger than 30% of the major axis of the consumable material after it has been accommodated in the accommodating portion, so that the consumable material inserted into the accommodating portion has a flat shape. , so that the consumable material can be brought into closer contact with the heating unit.
　本発明の第５形態では、第１形態から第４形態までの何れかにおいて、加熱部は、収容部の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が、収容部の開口側から開口とは反対側に向けて長くなるように構成されている。 According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the heating portion has a circumference extending from the opening side of the accommodating portion to the opposite side of the opening in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the accommodating portion. is configured to lengthen toward the
　本発明の第５形態によれば、加熱部の周長が収容部の開口側から開口とは反対側に向けて長くなることで、消費材が加熱部と接触する長さが、開口側から開口とは反対側に向けて長くなるので、消費材の脱落を防止することができる。 According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the circumferential length of the heating portion is increased from the opening side of the housing portion toward the side opposite to the opening, so that the length of contact between the consumable material and the heating portion is reduced from the opening side. Since it becomes longer toward the side opposite to the opening, it is possible to prevent the consumables from falling off.
　本発明の第６形態では、第１形態から第５形態までの何れかにおいて、収容部の内周面に設けられ、収容部に挿入される消費材を加熱部に向けて付勢する付勢部をさらに備える。 According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, an urging device is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the accommodating portion and biases the consumable material inserted into the accommodating portion toward the heating portion. It further comprises a part.
　本発明の第６形態によれば、収容部に挿入される消費材が、付勢部によって加熱部に向けて付勢されることにより、消費材を加熱部に密着させることができ、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the consumable material inserted into the storage section is biased toward the heating section by the biasing section, whereby the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section. heat transfer efficiency from to the consumables can be improved.
　本発明の第７形態では、第６形態において、付勢部は、収容部の内周面から加熱部に向けて突出し、加熱部の、収容部の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が最大になる位置で、突出距離が最大になるように構成されている。 According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect, the biasing portion protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the housing portion toward the heating portion, and the heating portion has a maximum circumferential length in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing portion. The projection distance is maximized at the position where
　本発明の第７形態によれば、付勢部の突出距離が、収容部の長手方向に直交する断面における加熱部の周長が最大になる位置において最大になることにより、消費材を加熱部により密着させることができ、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率をさらに向上させることができる。 According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the protruding distance of the urging portion is maximized at the position where the circumferential length of the heating portion in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the accommodating portion is maximized, so that the consumable material is transferred to the heating portion. The heat transfer efficiency from the heating unit to the consumable material can be further improved.
　本発明の第８形態では、第１形態から第７形態までの何れかにおいて、加熱部は、収容部の開口側の端部が先鋭形状を有する。 According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the heating portion has a sharp edge on the opening side of the accommodating portion.
　本発明の第８形態によれば、加熱部における収容部の開口側の端部が先鋭形状を有することで、加熱部を消費材に容易に挿入することができる。 According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the end portion of the heating portion on the opening side of the storage portion has a sharp shape, so that the heating portion can be easily inserted into the consumables.
　本発明の第９形態では、第１形態から第８形態までの何れかにおいて、収容部の開口を形成し、収容部に挿入される消費材の断面形状を、加熱部の形状に対応するよう変形させるガイド部をさらに備える。 According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the opening of the accommodating portion is formed, and the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the accommodating portion is made to correspond to the shape of the heating portion. It further comprises a deformable guide portion.
　本発明の第９形態によれば、ガイド部によって、収容部に挿入される消費材の断面形状が、加熱部の形状に対応するよう変形されることにより、収容部に挿入される消費材の断面形状にばらつきがあった場合でも、ガイド部で消費材の断面形状を加熱部の形状に対応した所望の形状に変形させることができる。 According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the guide section deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the storage section so as to correspond to the shape of the heating section. Even if the cross-sectional shape varies, the guide part can deform the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material into a desired shape corresponding to the shape of the heating part.
　本発明の第１０形態では、第９形態において、加熱部における収容部の開口側の端部は、ガイド部の開口とは反対側の端部よりも開口側に突出するように構成されている。 According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the ninth aspect, the end of the heating portion on the opening side of the accommodating portion is configured to protrude further toward the opening than the end of the guide portion on the side opposite to the opening. .
　本発明の第１０形態によれば、加熱部における収容部の開口側の端部を、ガイド部の開口とは反対側の端部よりも開口側に突出させることにより、開口に挿入される消費材の加熱部による変形を確実に開始することができる。 According to the tenth form of the present invention, the end portion of the storage portion of the heating portion on the opening side protrudes further toward the opening side than the end portion of the guide portion on the side opposite to the opening, thereby allowing the consumption heat to be inserted into the opening. Deformation of the material by the heating part can be reliably started.
　本発明の第１１形態では、第１形態から第１０形態までの何れかにおいて、加熱部は、熱を発生する発熱体と、発熱体を挟み込む少なくとも２つの基体と、を有する。 In the eleventh mode of the present invention, in any one of the first to tenth modes, the heating unit has a heating element that generates heat and at least two substrates sandwiching the heating element.
　本発明の第１１形態によれば、発熱体を少なくとも２つの基体で挟み込むことで、基体が発熱体を支持することができる。また、発熱体が発熱素子であり、基体が導電板である場合に、導電板によって発熱素子を支持するとともに、導電板が電極の役割を兼ねることができる。 According to the eleventh form of the present invention, by sandwiching the heating element between at least two substrates, the substrates can support the heating element. Further, when the heating element is a heating element and the substrate is a conductive plate, the conductive plate can support the heating element and also serve as an electrode.
　本発明の第１２形態では、第１１形態において、加熱部は、ＰＴＣヒータである。 In the twelfth form of the present invention, in the eleventh form, the heating unit is a PTC heater.
　本発明の第１２形態によれば、ＰＴＣヒータを用いることにより、制御装置等を用いることなく消費材を効率的に加熱することができる。 According to the twelfth form of the present invention, by using the PTC heater, it is possible to efficiently heat the consumables without using a control device or the like.
　本発明の第１３形態では、香味吸引システムが提供される。この香味吸引システムは、消費材と、第１形態から第１２形態までのいずれかに記載の香味吸引器と、を備える。 A thirteenth form of the present invention provides a flavor suction system. This flavor inhalation system comprises a consumable and a flavor inhaler of any of the first to twelfth aspects.
　本発明の第１３形態によれば、加熱部によって、収容部に挿入される消費材の外形が、加熱部の形状に沿って変形される。そのため、消費材を加熱部に密着させることができ、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる香味吸引器を有する香味吸引システムを得ることができる。 According to the thirteenth form of the present invention, the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage section is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a flavor inhaling system having a flavor inhaler capable of bringing the consumable material into close contact with the heating unit and improving the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material.
　本発明の第１４形態では、第１３形態において、消費材は、消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部が挿入される被挿入部を有し、被挿入部は、挿入される加熱部を取り囲むように配置された環状シートを含む。 According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the thirteenth aspect, the consumable item has an inserted portion into which a heating portion that heats the consumable item from the inside is inserted, and the inserted portion surrounds the inserted heating portion. including an annular seat positioned in the
　本発明の第１４形態によれば、被挿入部が、挿入される加熱部を取り囲むように配置された環状シートを含むことにより、加熱部が消費材に挿入されたときに、消費材の形状を容易に変形させることができる。 According to the fourteenth form of the present invention, the inserted portion includes an annular sheet disposed so as to surround the inserted heating portion. can be easily transformed.
　本発明の第１５形態では、香味吸引器に挿入される消費材の変形方法が提供される。香味吸引器は、消費材の少なくとも一部を収容する収容部と、消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部とを備える。この方法は、収容部に設けられたガイド部により、収容部に挿入される消費材の断面形状を変形させる工程と、加熱部により、収容部に挿入される消費材の形状を、加熱部の形状に沿って変形させる工程と、収容部に設けられた付勢部により、収容部に挿入される消費材を加熱部に向けて付勢する工程と、を有する。 A fifteenth form of the present invention provides a method for transforming a consumable to be inserted into a flavor inhaler. The flavor inhaler includes a storage section that stores at least part of the consumable material and a heating section that heats the consumable material from the inside. This method includes a step of deforming the cross-sectional shape of the consumable to be inserted into the container by a guide provided in the container, and a step of changing the shape of the consumable to be inserted into the container by the heating unit. A step of deforming along the shape, and a step of urging the consumable material inserted into the storage portion toward the heating portion by a biasing portion provided in the storage portion.
　本発明の第１５形態によれば、ガイド部により消費材の断面形状を変形させ、加熱部により消費材の形状を加熱部の形状に沿って変形させ、付勢部により消費材を加熱部に向けて付勢することにより、収容部に挿入される消費材を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材を加熱部に密着させることができる。そのため、加熱部から消費材への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 According to the fifteenth mode of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material is deformed by the guide section, the shape of the consumable material is deformed by the heating section along the shape of the heating section, and the consumable material is moved to the heating section by the urging section. By urging it toward, the consumable material to be inserted into the storage section can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material can be brought into close contact with the heating section. Therefore, the efficiency of heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable material can be improved.
本発明の一実施形態に係る香味吸引器の要部をヒータの幅方向について示す断面図である。It is a sectional view showing the important part of the flavor inhaler concerning one embodiment of the present invention about the width direction of a heater. 本発明の一実施形態に係る香味吸引器の要部をヒータの厚み方向について示す断面図である。Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler according to one embodiment of the present invention in the thickness direction of the heater. 図１に示したヒータを分解して示す斜視図である。2 is an exploded perspective view of the heater shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 図１に示したヒータを示す斜視図である。FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the heater shown in FIG. 1; 本発明の一実施形態に係る消費材を示す概略側断面図である。1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a consumable in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 図５に示した消費材の長手方向に直交するたばこ部の断面を示す断面図である。Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the tobacco portion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable product shown in Fig. 5; 消費材が香味吸引器に収容される状態を示す断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler; 消費材が香味吸引器に収容される状態を示す断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler; 消費材が香味吸引器に収容される状態を示す断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in a flavor inhaler; 消費材が香味吸引器に収容される状態を示す別の断面図である。Fig. 10 is another cross-sectional view showing a state in which consumables are accommodated in the flavor inhaler; 抑えリブの配置をヒータの幅方向について示す断面図である。FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the width direction of the heater; 抑えリブの配置をヒータの幅方向について示す断面図である。FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the width direction of the heater; 抑えリブの配置をヒータの厚み方向について示す断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of restraining ribs in the thickness direction of the heater;
　以下、本発明の実施形態について図面を参照して説明する。以下で説明する図面において、同一のまたは相当する構成要素には、同一の符号を付して重複した説明を省略する。なお、以下の実施形態では、消費材としてたばこスティックを例に挙げて説明するが、加熱により香味を発生するものであれば、消費材はたばこに限定されない。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In the following embodiments, tobacco sticks are taken as an example of the consumable material, but the consumable material is not limited to tobacco as long as it generates flavor when heated.
　図１は、本発明の一実施形態に係る香味吸引器１００の要部をヒータ１２０の幅方向について示す断面図である。図２は、本発明の一実施形態に係る香味吸引器１００の要部をヒータ１２０の厚み方向について示す断面図である。 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention in the width direction of the heater 120. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the flavor inhaler 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention in the thickness direction of the heater 120. As shown in FIG.
　図１および図２に示すように、香味吸引器１００は、筐体（収容部）１１０とヒータ（加熱部）１２０とを備える。筐体１１０は、一端に開口１０を有し、開口１０を介して、開口１０に挿入される消費材２００（後述する）の少なくとも一部を収容する。筐体１１０は、例えば、樹脂製であり、特に、ＰＣ（Ｐｏｌｙｃａｒｂｏｎａｔｅ）、ＡＢＳ（Ａｃｒｙｌｏｎｉｔｒｉｌｅ－Ｂｕｔａｄｉｅｎｅ－Ｓｔｙｒｅｎｅ）樹脂、ＰＥＥＫ（ＰｏｌｙＥｔｈｅｒＥｔｈｅｒＫｅｔｏｎｅ）または複数種類のポリマーを含有するポリマーアロイ等、あるいは、アルミ等の金属で形成され得る。ここで、筐体１１０は、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面における断面積が、開口１０近傍において最も小さくなるように構成されている。 As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the flavor inhaler 100 includes a housing (accommodating section) 110 and a heater (heating section) 120 . The housing 110 has an opening 10 at one end and accommodates at least a portion of a consumable item 200 (described below) inserted into the opening 10 through the opening 10 . The housing 110 is made of, for example, a resin, particularly PC (Polycarbonate), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (PolyEtherEtherKetone), a polymer alloy containing a plurality of types of polymers, or aluminum. It can be made of metal. Here, the housing 110 is configured such that the cross-sectional area in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the smallest in the vicinity of the opening 10 .
　また、筐体１１０は、整形ガイド（ガイド部）２０と抑えリブ（付勢部）３０とを有する。整形ガイド２０は、開口１０を形成し、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の断面形状を、ヒータ１２０の形状に対応するよう変形させる。抑えリブ３０は、筐体１１０の内周面に設けられ、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００をヒータ１２０に向けて付勢し、消費材２００の形状を変形させる。整形ガイド２０および抑えリブ３０の詳細な構成および消費材２００を変形させる機能については、後述する。 Further, the housing 110 has a shaping guide (guide portion) 20 and a restraining rib (biasing portion) 30 . The shaping guide 20 forms the opening 10 and deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable 200 inserted into the housing 110 so as to correspond to the shape of the heater 120 . The restraining ribs 30 are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 and urge the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 toward the heater 120 to deform the shape of the consumable material 200 . The detailed configuration of the shaping guides 20 and the restraining ribs 30 and the function of deforming the consumable material 200 will be described later.
　また、筐体１１０の開口１０とは反対側、すなわち筐体１１０の底部には、図示しない吸気孔が設けられる。この吸気孔を介して筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００に空気が供給されることで、ボトムフロー型の香味吸引器１００が構成される。吸気孔は、筐体１１０の底部を構成する部材に設けられ、部材内部を通じて消費材２００と連通してもよい。筐体１１０の開口１０とは反対側に吸気孔を設けることにより、筐体１１０の開口１０近傍の構成を簡素化することができる。また、空気層４０（後述する）に対流が生じることを抑制でき、空気層４０による断熱性能を維持することができる。 Also, on the side opposite to the opening 10 of the housing 110, that is, on the bottom of the housing 110, an air intake hole (not shown) is provided. A bottom-flow type flavor inhaler 100 is configured by supplying air to the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 through the air intake hole. The intake hole may be provided in a member forming the bottom of the housing 110 and communicate with the consumable product 200 through the inside of the member. By providing an air intake hole on the side opposite to the opening 10 of the housing 110, the configuration of the vicinity of the opening 10 of the housing 110 can be simplified. In addition, the occurrence of convection in the air layer 40 (described later) can be suppressed, and the heat insulation performance of the air layer 40 can be maintained.
　ヒータ１２０は、筐体１１０に収容された消費材２００に挿入され、消費材２００を内部から加熱する平板状のＰＴＣ（Ｐｏｓｉｔｉｖｅ　Ｔｅｍｐｅｒａｔｕｒｅ　Ｃｏｅｆｆｉｃｉｅｎｔ）ヒータである。また、ヒータ１２０は、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の外形を、ヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形させる。ヒータ１２０の消費材２００を変形させる機能については、後述する。ここで、整形ガイド２０、抑えリブ３０およびヒータ１２０は、筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の形状を、筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の形状から変形させるものである。 The heater 120 is a flat PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater that is inserted into the consumable material 200 housed in the housing 110 and heats the consumable material 200 from the inside. Also, the heater 120 deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 along the shape of the heater 120 . The function of the heater 120 to deform the consumable material 200 will be described later. Here, the shaping guide 20, the restraining ribs 30, and the heater 120 deform the shape of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 from the shape of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110. be.
　図３は、図１に示したヒータを分解して示す斜視図である。図４は、図１に示したヒータを示す斜視図である。図３および図４に示すように、ヒータ１２０は、ＰＴＣ素子（発熱体）１２１と、少なくとも２つの金属板（基体）１２２と、保持部材１２３とを有する。ＰＴＣ素子１２１は、金属板１２２で両側から挟まれ、例えば導電性接着ペーストによって接着される。導電性接着ペーストとしては、例えば、エポキシ系の接着剤中に導電粒子を均一に分散させた、いわゆる異方性導電接着剤を用いることができる。 FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the heater shown in FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the heater shown in FIG. 1. FIG. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the heater 120 has a PTC element (heating element) 121, at least two metal plates (substrates) 122, and a holding member 123. FIG. The PTC element 121 is sandwiched from both sides by metal plates 122 and adhered with, for example, a conductive adhesive paste. As the conductive adhesive paste, for example, a so-called anisotropic conductive adhesive in which conductive particles are uniformly dispersed in an epoxy adhesive can be used.
　金属板１２２は、インバー（登録商標）等の熱膨張率が低いニッケル（Ｎｉ）含有鉄合金で構成されてもよい。これによれば、金属板１２２は、ＰＴＣ素子１２１が発熱した際の熱膨張によって、ＰＴＣ素子１２１との間の接着が剥離することを抑制することができる。また、ＰＴＣ素子１２１を少なくとも２つの金属板１２２で挟み込むことで、金属板１２２がＰＴＣ素子１２１を支持するとともに電極の役割を兼ねることができる。 The metal plate 122 may be made of a nickel (Ni)-containing iron alloy with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, such as Invar (registered trademark). According to this, the metal plate 122 can suppress peeling of the adhesion between the metal plate 122 and the PTC element 121 due to thermal expansion when the PTC element 121 generates heat. By sandwiching the PTC element 121 between at least two metal plates 122, the metal plates 122 can support the PTC element 121 and also serve as electrodes.
　保持部材１２３は、ヒータ１２０を筐体１１０に取り付けるとき、筐体１１０に結合される。保持部１２３は、エンジニアリングプラスチックで構成されてもよい。エンジニアリングプラスチックは、耐熱性および機械的強度が高く、かつ射出成形等で所望の形状を安価に形成可能であるため、構造部材の構成材料として好適に用いられる。例えば、保持部１２３は、エンジニアリングプラスチックの一種であるＰＥＥＫで構成されてもよい。ＰＥＥＫは、熱可塑性樹脂として非常に高い耐熱性を有するとともに、寸法安定性が高い樹脂である。したがって、保持部材１２３がＰＥＥＫで構成される場合、保持部材１２３は、ヒータ１２０が発する熱による影響をより軽減することが可能である。 The holding member 123 is coupled to the housing 110 when the heater 120 is attached to the housing 110 . The holding portion 123 may be made of engineering plastic. Engineering plastics have high heat resistance and high mechanical strength, and can be formed into desired shapes at low cost by injection molding or the like, and are thus suitably used as constituent materials for structural members. For example, the holding portion 123 may be made of PEEK, which is a type of engineering plastic. PEEK is a thermoplastic resin that has extremely high heat resistance and high dimensional stability. Therefore, when the holding member 123 is made of PEEK, the holding member 123 can further reduce the influence of heat generated by the heater 120 .
　ＰＴＣヒータは、ある温度（キュリー温度と称される）になると電気抵抗が急激に上昇し、電気が流れなくなる特性（ＰＴＣ特性）を有する抵抗体を用いたヒータである。ＰＴＣヒータは、ＰＴＣ特性を活用することで、制御装置等を用いることなく温度を一定温度以下に保つことが可能である。ヒータ１２０は、ＰＴＣ特性を有するチタン酸バリウム（ＢａＴｉＯ３）を抵抗体とするＰＴＣヒータであってもよい。このような場合、ヒータ１２０は、チタン酸バリウムのキュリー温度を３５０℃に設定することができるため、３５０℃未満の温度で消費材２００を加熱することができる。 A PTC heater is a heater that uses a resistor that has a property (PTC property) that the electrical resistance rises sharply when reaching a certain temperature (called the Curie temperature), and electricity stops flowing. The PTC heater can keep the temperature below a certain temperature without using a control device or the like by utilizing the PTC characteristics. The heater 120 may be a PTC heater using barium titanate (BaTiO 3 ) having PTC characteristics as a resistor. In such a case, the heater 120 can set the Curie temperature of barium titanate to 350.degree.
　図５は、本発明の一実施形態に係る消費材２００を示す概略側断面図である。図６は、図５に示した消費材２００の長手方向に直交するたばこ部２１０の断面を示す断面図である。図５および図６に示すように、消費材２００は、たばこ部（被挿入部）２１０とペーパチューブ２２０とを有する。たばこ部２１０は、中心にヒータ１２０が挿入される貫通孔２１１を有する。また、たばこ部２１０は、挿入されるヒータ１２０を取り囲むように配置された２層構造の香味放出層（環状シート）２１２と、弾性変形層（環状シート）２１３とを有する。弾性変形層２１３の外周には、ラッパー２１４が巻装されている。 FIG. 5 is a schematic side sectional view showing a consumable product 200 according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a section of the tobacco portion 210 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable product 200 shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the consumable product 200 has a tobacco portion (inserted portion) 210 and a paper tube 220 . The tobacco portion 210 has a through hole 211 in the center into which the heater 120 is inserted. Further, the tobacco portion 210 has a two-layer structure of a flavor release layer (annular sheet) 212 and an elastically deformable layer (annular sheet) 213 arranged so as to surround the inserted heater 120 . A wrapper 214 is wound around the outer periphery of the elastic deformation layer 213 .
　香味放出層２１２は、例えばたばこシートと、たばこシートの外周に配置され、グリセリンを担持させた非たばこシートとから構成され、ヒータ１２０により加熱されて香味を含む揮発性化合物を放出する。なお、香味放出層２１２は、たばこシートおよび非たばこシートのいずれか一方のみを含むことができる。弾性変形層２１３は、例えば不織布シートやコルゲートシート、非たばこシート等により構成され、その厚さ方向（すなわち、筒状の弾性変形層２１３の径方向）に弾性変形可能である。弾性変形層２１３は、ヒータ１２０が挿入されたとき、消費材２００がヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形されることに寄与する。 The flavor-releasing layer 212 is composed of, for example, a tobacco sheet and a non-tobacco sheet carrying glycerin around the tobacco sheet, and is heated by the heater 120 to release flavor-containing volatile compounds. It should be noted that the flavor release layer 212 can include only one of tobacco sheets and non-tobacco sheets. The elastic deformation layer 213 is made of, for example, a non-woven fabric sheet, a corrugated sheet, a non-tobacco sheet, or the like, and is elastically deformable in its thickness direction (that is, the radial direction of the cylindrical elastic deformation layer 213). The elastic deformation layer 213 contributes to the deformation of the consumable material 200 along the shape of the heater 120 when the heater 120 is inserted.
　これにより、貫通孔２１１にヒータ１２０を挿入したときに、弾性変形層２１３がヒータ１２０に対して厚さ方向に弾性変形して、ヒータ１２０に接触または接近しやすくなる。このため、ヒータ１２０に対して香味放出層２１２をより接触または接近させることができ、消費材２００が効率よく加熱され得る。 Accordingly, when the heater 120 is inserted into the through-hole 211 , the elastic deformation layer 213 is elastically deformed in the thickness direction with respect to the heater 120 , making it easier to contact or approach the heater 120 . Therefore, the flavor release layer 212 can be brought into contact with or closer to the heater 120, and the consumable material 200 can be efficiently heated.
　ペーパチューブ２２０は、香味放出層２１２から放出された揮発性化合物を冷却する。たばこ部２１０が、挿入されるヒータ１２０を取り囲むように配置された香味放出層２１２および弾性変形層２１３を含むことにより、ヒータ１２０が消費材２００に挿入されたときに、消費材２００の形状を容易に変形させることができる。なお、消費材２００の断面形状は、円形であってもよいし、楕円形であってもよい。 The paper tube 220 cools the volatile compounds released from the flavor release layer 212. Tobacco portion 210 includes flavor release layer 212 and elastically deformable layer 213 arranged to surround heater 120 to be inserted, so that heater 120 is inserted into consumable material 200 to change the shape of consumable material 200. It can be easily transformed. The cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 may be circular or elliptical.
　ここで、非たばこシートは、香味発生基材を含んでいてもよい。香味発生基材は、香喫味を与える材料であり、たばこ材料であることが好ましい。香味発生基材には、香料も含まれ得る。香料とは、香りや風味を提供する物質である。香料は天然香料であってもよいし合成香料であってもよい。香料として１種類の香料を用いてもよいし複数種類の香料の混合物を用いてもよい。また、香料としては、例えば、精油、天然香料、合成香料等、通常使用される香料であれば、どのような香料でも使用可能である。また、液体でも固体でもよく、性状を問わない。また、香味発生基材は、清涼剤または風味料を含んでもよい。 Here, the non-tobacco sheet may contain a flavor generating base material. The flavor-generating base material is a material that imparts flavor and taste, and is preferably a tobacco material. Flavor-generating substrates may also include perfumes. A flavoring agent is a substance that provides an odor or flavor. The perfume may be a natural perfume or a synthetic perfume. As the perfume, one kind of perfume may be used, or a mixture of multiple kinds of perfumes may be used. Moreover, as the fragrance, for example, any fragrance such as essential oil, natural fragrance, synthetic fragrance, etc. can be used as long as it is a fragrance that is usually used. Moreover, it may be liquid or solid, and its properties are not limited. The flavor generating substrate may also include cooling agents or flavorants.
　また、たばこシートは、例えばたばこや多価アルコール等を含み得る。多価アルコールは、単独で、または２種以上を組み合わせて、たばこシートに使用することができる。なお、多価アルコールは、上述した弾性変形層２１３にも添加され得る。たばこシートは、粉状のたばこおよび多価アルコールにバインダを混ぜることでシート状に形成され得る。 In addition, the tobacco sheet may contain, for example, tobacco, polyhydric alcohol, and the like. Polyhydric alcohols may be used alone or in combination of two or more in the tobacco sheet. Note that the polyhydric alcohol may also be added to the elastic deformation layer 213 described above. Tobacco sheets can be formed into sheets by mixing powdered tobacco and polyhydric alcohol with a binder.
　続いて、消費材２００を香味吸引器１００に収容するとき、すなわち消費材２００を筐体１１０の一端側から他端側に向けて挿入するときの消費材２００と筐体１１０およびヒータ１２０との関係について説明する。図７から図９は、消費材２００が香味吸引器１００に収容される状態を示す断面図である。ここで、消費材２００が香味吸引器１００に適用されることで、香味吸引システムが構成される。なお、図７から図９では、消費材２００の香味放出層２１２および弾性変形層２１３を、１つの環状シート２１５として示す。 Next, when the consumable material 200 is stored in the flavor inhaler 100, that is, when the consumable material 200 is inserted from one end side of the housing 110 toward the other end side, the relationship between the consumable material 200, the housing 110, and the heater 120 is determined. Describe relationships. 7 to 9 are cross-sectional views showing a state in which the consumable material 200 is accommodated in the flavor inhaler 100. FIG. Here, the consumable material 200 is applied to the flavor inhaler 100 to configure the flavor inhaling system. 7 to 9 show the flavor release layer 212 and the elastically deformable layer 213 of the consumable product 200 as one annular sheet 215. FIG.
　図７は、消費材２００が整形ガイド２０を通過するときの状態を、ヒータ１２０の幅方向の断面、および整形ガイド２０の入口部２２における、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面について示す。図８は、消費材２００が抑えリブ３０を通過するときの状態を、ヒータ１２０の幅方向の断面、並びに抑えリブ３０の中間部および他端側端部における、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面について示す。図９は、消費材２００が筐体１１０の所定の収容位置に収容された状態を、ヒータ１２０の幅方向の断面、およびヒータ１２０の他端側端部近傍における、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面について示す。 FIG. 7 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 passes through the shaping guide 20 with respect to a cross section in the width direction of the heater 120 and a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 at the entrance portion 22 of the shaping guide 20 . FIG. 8 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 passes through the restraining rib 30, in cross section in the width direction of the heater 120, and at the intermediate portion and the other end of the restraining rib 30, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110. It shows the cross section to be done. FIG. 9 shows a state in which the consumable material 200 is accommodated in a predetermined accommodation position of the housing 110, in a cross section in the width direction of the heater 120 and in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 near the other end of the heater 120. An orthogonal cross section is shown.
　図７に示すように、整形ガイド２０は、テーパ部２１と、入口部２２と、当接部２３とを有する。テーパ部２１は、筐体１１０の一端側に向けて拡管されるように構成され、香味吸引器１００への消費材２００の挿入を案内する。すなわち、整形ガイド２０によって消費材２００をヒータ１２０の先端位置に導き、消費材２００を確実にヒータ１２０に挿入することができる。具体的には、整形ガイド２０が、筐体１１０の外部に向けて拡管されたテーパ形状を有することにより、消費材２００の挿入が案内されるので、消費材２００を筐体１１０に容易に収容することができる。 As shown in FIG. 7, the shaping guide 20 has a tapered portion 21, an inlet portion 22, and a contact portion 23. The tapered portion 21 is configured to expand toward one end of the housing 110 and guides the insertion of the consumable material 200 into the flavor inhaler 100 . That is, the shaping guide 20 guides the consumable material 200 to the tip position of the heater 120 so that the consumable material 200 can be reliably inserted into the heater 120 . Specifically, the shaping guide 20 has a tapered shape expanded toward the outside of the housing 110 to guide the insertion of the consumable material 200, so that the consumable material 200 can be easily accommodated in the housing 110. can do.
　入口部２２は、筐体１１０の端部に設けられて楕円形の断面を有し、長径が筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の長径以上、短径が筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の直径とほぼ同じ長さになるように構成されている。ここで、整形ガイド２０の終端が楕円形の断面を有しているので、消費材２００の挿入に伴って、消費材２００の断面形状を、整形ガイド２０の形状に沿って楕円形状に変形させることができる。また、入口部２２の短径が筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の直径とほぼ同じ長さなので、整形ガイド２０の短径方向への消費材２００のぐらつきを抑制することができる。また、消費材２００の端面寸法にばらつきがあった場合でも、整形ガイド２０で一定の形状に整形することができ、消費材２００を筐体１１０にスムーズに装着することができる。 The entrance part 22 is provided at the end of the housing 110 and has an elliptical cross-section, and has a long axis equal to or larger than the long axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 and a short axis of being housed in the housing 110 . It is configured to be approximately the same length as the diameter of the consumable 200 prior to insertion. Here, since the end of the shaping guide 20 has an elliptical cross section, the cross-sectional shape of the consumable product 200 is deformed into an elliptical shape along the shape of the shaping guide 20 as the consumable product 200 is inserted. be able to. In addition, since the short diameter of the inlet portion 22 is substantially the same as the diameter of the consumable product 200 before it is housed in the housing 110, it is possible to suppress wobbling of the consumable product 200 in the direction of the short diameter of the shaping guide 20. . In addition, even if the dimensions of the end face of the consumable material 200 vary, the shaping guide 20 can shape the consumable material 200 into a constant shape, and the consumable material 200 can be smoothly attached to the housing 110 .
　なお、ヒータ１２０および入口部２２は、ヒータ１２０の幅方向が入口部２２の長径方向と一致するように構成されている。これにより、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００をヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形させることができる。そのため、消費材２００をヒータ１２０に密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 The heater 120 and the entrance portion 22 are configured such that the width direction of the heater 120 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the entrance portion 22 . Thereby, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed along the shape of the heater 120 . Therefore, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
　また、当接部２３は、筐体１１０の内周面に設けられて楕円形の断面を有し、最小内周長が消費材２００の外周長以下となるように構成されている。これにより、消費材２００が整形ガイド２０を通過するとき、消費材２００の全周が当接部２３と接触するので、消費材２００の断面形状を、当接部２３の形状に沿ってより確実に変形させることができる。そのため、消費材２００の断面形状にばらつきがあった場合でも、整形ガイド２０で消費材２００の断面形状を所望の形状に変形させ、消費材２００を筐体１１０にスムーズに挿入することができる。また、消費材２００の全周が当接部２３と接触することで、消費材２００の脱落を防止することができる。 Also, the contact part 23 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 and has an elliptical cross section, and is configured such that the minimum inner peripheral length is equal to or less than the outer peripheral length of the consumable product 200 . As a result, when the consumable material 200 passes through the shaping guide 20, the entire circumference of the consumable material 200 is in contact with the contact portion 23, so that the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 conforms to the shape of the contact portion 23 more reliably. can be transformed into Therefore, even if the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 varies, the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 can be deformed into a desired shape by the shaping guide 20, and the consumable material 200 can be smoothly inserted into the housing 110.例文帳に追加In addition, since the entire periphery of the consumable material 200 is in contact with the contact portion 23, the consumable material 200 can be prevented from falling off.
　ここで、当接部２３は、筐体１１０の長手軸に沿った断面において、筐体１１０に収容される消費材２００と点接触するように構成されている。当接部２３が消費材２００と点接触することで、消費材２００から筐体１１０への熱伝達が抑制されるので、香味吸引器１００の断熱性能を向上させることができる。 Here, the contact portion 23 is configured to make point contact with the consumable material 200 housed in the housing 110 in a cross section along the longitudinal axis of the housing 110 . The point contact of the contact portion 23 with the consumable material 200 suppresses the heat transfer from the consumable material 200 to the housing 110 , so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved.
　ヒータ１２０は、先端が尖っている先鋭形状を有する。そのため、ヒータ１２０を消費材２００に容易に挿入することができる。また、ヒータ１２０の開口１０側の端部は、整形ガイド２０の開口１０とは反対側の端部よりも開口１０側に突出する。具体的には、ヒータ１２０の開口１０側の端部は、筐体１１０の長手方向について、当接部２３よりも筐体１１０の一端側にわずかに突出している。これにより、消費材２００が整形ガイド２０を通過すると同時に、ヒータ１２０の開口１０側の端部が消費材２００の貫通孔２１１に挿入されるので、ヒータ１２０による消費材２００の変形を確実に開始することができる。 The heater 120 has a sharp tip shape. Therefore, the heater 120 can be easily inserted into the consumable item 200 . The end of the heater 120 on the side of the opening 10 protrudes toward the opening 10 more than the end of the shaping guide 20 on the side opposite to the opening 10 . Specifically, the end of the heater 120 on the side of the opening 10 slightly protrudes toward one end of the housing 110 from the contact portion 23 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . As a result, at the same time as the consumable material 200 passes through the shaping guide 20, the end of the heater 120 on the opening 10 side is inserted into the through hole 211 of the consumable material 200, so that the deformation of the consumable material 200 by the heater 120 is reliably started. can do.
　ここで、整形ガイド２０の当接部２３の長径に対するヒータ１２０の最大幅は、従来の突き刺し型ヒータを有する香味吸引器と比較し、大きくなるように構成されている。例えば、当接部２３の長径は７ｍｍであり、ヒータ１２０の最大幅は６ｍｍである。また、ヒータ１２０は、ヒータ１２０の最大幅が、筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の長径の３０％よりも大きく、好ましくは４０％よりも大きくなるように構成されている。これらにより、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材２００をヒータ１２０により密着させることができる。 Here, the maximum width of the heater 120 with respect to the length of the contact portion 23 of the shaping guide 20 is configured to be larger than that of the conventional flavor inhaler having a piercing-type heater. For example, the length of the contact portion 23 is 7 mm, and the maximum width of the heater 120 is 6 mm. Also, the heater 120 is configured such that the maximum width of the heater 120 is greater than 30%, preferably greater than 40%, of the major axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 . As a result, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 .
　図８に示すように、ヒータ１２０は、先鋭形状を有し、他端側に向かうにつれて幅が広がるように構成されている。これにより、消費材２００が整形ガイド２０を通過して挿入されるにつれて、消費材２００の外形がヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形される。具体的には、消費材２００は、ヒータ１２０の幅方向に押し広げられる。これにより、消費材２００をヒータ１２０に密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。また、ヒータ１２０が消費材２００を押し広げることで、消費材２００の脱落を防止することができる。 As shown in FIG. 8, the heater 120 has a sharp shape and is configured so that its width increases toward the other end. Accordingly, as the consumable product 200 is inserted through the shaping guide 20 , the contour of the consumable product 200 is deformed along the shape of the heater 120 . Specifically, the consumable material 200 is spread in the width direction of the heater 120 . As a result, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved. In addition, since the heater 120 spreads the consumable material 200, it is possible to prevent the consumable material 200 from falling off.
　具体的には、ヒータ１２０は、平板状の形状を有し、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の外形を、断面楕円形状に変形させる。このとき、筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の長径は、筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の直径よりも長く、筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の短径は、筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の直径よりも短い。ヒータ１２０が筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の外形を断面楕円形状に変形させることで、消費材２００が占有する筐体１１０の短手方向の距離が短くなる。そのため、筐体１１０を薄型化することができる。また、ヒータ１２０が筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の外形を断面楕円形状に変形させることで、ヒータ１２０と消費材２００との接触面積を広くすることができる。そのため、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 Specifically, the heater 120 has a flat plate shape, and deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape. At this time, the major axis of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 is longer than the diameter of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110, and the diameter of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110. The short diameter is shorter than the diameter of the consumable item 200 before being housed in the housing 110 . The heater 120 deforms the outer shape of the consumable material 200 to be inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, thereby shortening the width of the housing 110 occupied by the consumable material 200 . Therefore, the housing 110 can be made thinner. Further, the contact area between the heater 120 and the consumable item 200 can be increased by deforming the outer shape of the consumable item 200 inserted into the housing 110 into an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Therefore, heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
　また、ヒータ１２０は、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が、開口１０側から開口１０とは反対側に向けて、すなわち一端側から他端側に向けて徐々に長くなるように構成されている。ヒータ１２０の周長が一端側から他端側に向けて徐々に長くなることで、消費材が加熱部と接触する長さが、一端側から他端側に向けて徐々に長くなるので、消費材の脱落を防止することができる。 In addition, the heater 120 is arranged so that the circumference of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 gradually increases from the side of the opening 10 toward the side opposite to the side of the opening 10, that is, from one end toward the other end. is configured to As the circumferential length of the heater 120 gradually increases from one end to the other end, the contact length of the consumable material with the heating unit gradually increases from one end to the other end. It is possible to prevent the material from falling off.
　抑えリブ３０は、ヒータ１２０の厚み方向に沿って筐体１１０の内周面からヒータ１２０に向けて突出するように設けられ、互いに対向する一対のテーパ面により構成されている（図２参照）。なお、抑えリブ３０は、この構成に限定されず、互いに対向する位置に少なくとも１つずつ設けられればよい。また、抑えリブ３０は、筐体１１０の長手方向について、ヒータ１２０の幅が徐々に広がる領域と重なるように配置されている。なお、抑えリブ３０の形状は、任意の突出形状から選択することができる。 The restraining rib 30 is provided so as to protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 toward the heater 120 along the thickness direction of the heater 120, and is composed of a pair of tapered surfaces facing each other (see FIG. 2). . It should be noted that the restraining ribs 30 are not limited to this configuration, and at least one restraining rib 30 may be provided at positions facing each other. In addition, the restraining rib 30 is arranged so as to overlap the region where the width of the heater 120 gradually widens in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . In addition, the shape of the restraining rib 30 can be selected from arbitrary projecting shapes.
　ここで、抑えリブ３０は、筐体１１０の他端側に向けて突出距離が徐々に長くなるように構成され、ヒータ１２０の幅が最大になる位置、すなわち筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が最大になる位置で、突出距離が最大になるように構成されていてもよい。このとき、抑えリブ３０のテーパ面間の長さは、筐体１１０に挿入される前の消費材２００の直径よりも小さくなるように構成されている。また、抑えリブ３０の他端側端部は、筐体１１０の内周面に対してほぼ直交する絶壁状に形成された抜け止め形状となっており、筐体１１０の長手方向について、抑えリブ３０がヒータ１２０のＰＴＣ素子１２１と重ならないように構成されている。 Here, the restraining rib 30 is configured so that the projection distance gradually increases toward the other end side of the housing 110, and the position where the width of the heater 120 is maximized, that is, the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is perpendicular to the position. The protruding distance may be maximized at the position where the circumferential length in the cross section is maximized. At this time, the length between the tapered surfaces of the restraining ribs 30 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the consumable material 200 before being inserted into the housing 110 . In addition, the other end of the restraining rib 30 has a retaining shape formed in the shape of a precipitous wall that is substantially orthogonal to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 , and the restraining rib 30 extends along the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . 30 is configured so as not to overlap the PTC element 121 of the heater 120 .
　これにより、消費材２００が抑えリブ３０を通過するとき、ヒータ１２０の幅方向に押し広げられた消費材２００を、抑えリブ３０がヒータ１２０の厚み方向に付勢することで、消費材２００が扁平形状に変形される。ここで、抑えリブ３０の中間部では、ヒータ１２０の幅が広がるにつれて、抑えリブ３０の突出距離が長くなり、消費材２００が徐々に扁平形状に変形される。 As a result, when the consumable material 200 passes through the pressing rib 30, the pressing rib 30 urges the consumable material 200 pushed and spread in the width direction of the heater 120 in the thickness direction of the heater 120. Deformed into a flat shape. Here, in the intermediate portion of the restraining rib 30, as the width of the heater 120 increases, the projection distance of the restraining rib 30 increases, and the consumable material 200 is gradually deformed into a flat shape.
　これに対して、抑えリブ３０の他端側端部では、ヒータ１２０の幅および抑えリブ３０の突出距離がともに最大となっており、消費材２００の形状は、ヒータ１２０に密着した最終的な形状となっている。そのため、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００が、抑えリブ３０によってヒータ１２０に向けて付勢されることにより、消費材２００をヒータ１２０により密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率をさらに向上させることができる。また、抑えリブ３０が消費材２００を付勢することで、消費材２００の脱落を防止することができる。 On the other hand, at the other end of the restraining rib 30, both the width of the heater 120 and the projecting distance of the restraining rib 30 are maximized, and the shape of the consumable material 200 is the final shape in close contact with the heater 120. It has a shape. Therefore, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 is urged toward the heater 120 by the restraining ribs 30 , so that the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 . heat transfer efficiency can be further improved. In addition, since the restraining rib 30 biases the consumable material 200, it is possible to prevent the consumable material 200 from falling off.
　また、図５および図６に示した消費材２００について、消費材２００の長手方向に直交する断面におけるたばこ部２１０の内周から外周までの径方向長さは、ヒータ１２０と抑えリブ３０との最短距離よりも大きくなるように構成されてもよい。これによれば、抑えリブ３０によって消費材２００を確実にヒータ１２０に付勢することができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率をさらに向上させることができる。 5 and 6, the radial length from the inner circumference to the outer circumference of the tobacco portion 210 in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the consumable article 200 is the distance between the heater 120 and the restraining ribs 30. It may be configured to be greater than the shortest distance. According to this, the consumable material 200 can be reliably urged against the heater 120 by the restraining rib 30, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be further improved.
　このように、ヒータ１２０の厚み方向に沿って抑えリブ３０を設けることで、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材２００をヒータ１２０により密着させることができる。また、抑えリブ３０を互いに対向する位置に少なくとも１つずつ設けられることで、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００を互いに対向する方向からヒータ１２０に向けて付勢することができる。また、抑えリブ３０のテーパ面間の長さを、消費材２００の直径よりも小さくすることで、消費材２００をヒータ１２０により密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率をさらに向上させることができる。 By providing the restraining ribs 30 along the thickness direction of the heater 120 in this manner, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120. . Also, by providing at least one restraining rib 30 at positions facing each other, the consumables 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be urged toward the heater 120 from directions facing each other. Further, by setting the length between the tapered surfaces of the restraining ribs 30 to be smaller than the diameter of the consumable material 200, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved. can be further improved.
　さらに、抑えリブ３０の突出距離を、筐体１１０の他端側に向けて徐々に長くすることで、消費材２００を徐々に変形させることができ、スムーズな変形を実現することができる。また、抑えリブ３０の他端側端部を抜け止め形状とすることで、消費材２００を引き抜く方向に力が働いた場合であっても、抜け止め形状による抵抗が発生するので、消費材２００の脱落を防止することができる。また、筐体１１０の長手方向について、抑えリブ３０がヒータ１２０のＰＴＣ素子１２１と重ならないようにすることで、ＰＴＣ素子１２１から発生する熱が抑えリブ３０を介して筐体１１０に逃げることを抑制することができる。 Furthermore, by gradually lengthening the projection distance of the restraining rib 30 toward the other end of the housing 110, the consumable material 200 can be gradually deformed, and smooth deformation can be realized. Further, by forming the other end portion of the restraining rib 30 into a retaining shape, even if a force acts in the direction of pulling out the consumable material 200, resistance is generated due to the retaining shape. can be prevented from falling off. Also, in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 , the restraining ribs 30 do not overlap the PTC element 121 of the heater 120 , thereby preventing the heat generated from the PTC element 121 from escaping to the housing 110 through the restraining ribs 30 . can be suppressed.
　図９に示すように、消費材２００が筐体１１０の所定の収容位置に収容された状態において、消費材２００の形状は、図８に示した最終的な形状が維持されている。ここで、筐体１１０の内側に、ヒータ１２０により変形された消費材２００が収容される収容空間５０が形成される。また、収容空間５０と筐体１１０との間に、消費材２００の全周にわたって空気層４０が形成される。空気層４０は、熱伝導率が低いため、消費材２００（収容空間５０）と筐体１１０との間を断熱することができ、消費材２００の加熱に必要なエネルギーを削減することができる。また、当接部２３は、消費材２００の外周の全周にわたって消費材２００と当接しており、空気層４０を封止している。これにより、空気層４０における空気の対流が抑制される。 As shown in FIG. 9, in a state in which the consumable item 200 is accommodated in the housing 110 at a predetermined accommodation position, the shape of the consumable item 200 maintains the final shape shown in FIG. Here, an accommodation space 50 is formed inside the housing 110 to accommodate the consumable material 200 deformed by the heater 120 . Also, an air layer 40 is formed over the entire circumference of the consumable material 200 between the housing space 50 and the housing 110 . Since the air layer 40 has a low thermal conductivity, it can insulate between the consumable material 200 (accommodating space 50) and the housing 110, and the energy required for heating the consumable material 200 can be reduced. Further, the contact portion 23 is in contact with the consumable material 200 over the entire circumference of the consumable material 200 and seals the air layer 40 . This suppresses air convection in the air layer 40 .
　ここで、筐体１１０は、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面における断面積が、開口１０近傍において最も小さくなるように構成されている。これにより、開口１０近傍における空気の流出入により空気層４０に対流が発生することを抑制でき、香味吸引器１００の断熱性能をさらに向上させることができる。また、筐体１１０は、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面における断面積が最も大きい箇所で、空気層４０がと消費材２００との断面積の比５：１から１：１となるように構成されている。これにより、空気層４０が十分な断熱性能を発揮することができる。 Here, the housing 110 is configured such that the cross-sectional area of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the smallest in the vicinity of the opening 10 . As a result, the occurrence of convection in the air layer 40 due to the inflow and outflow of air in the vicinity of the opening 10 can be suppressed, and the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved. In addition, the housing 110 is arranged so that the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the air layer 40 to the consumable material 200 is 5:1 to 1:1 at the point where the cross-sectional area in the cross section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 is the largest. is configured to Thereby, the air layer 40 can exhibit sufficient heat insulation performance.
　このように、整形ガイド２０により消費材２００の断面形状を変形させ、ヒータ１２０により消費材２００の形状をヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形させ、抑えリブ３０により消費材２００をヒータ１２０に向けて付勢することにより、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材２００をヒータ１２０に密着させることができる。そのため、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 In this way, the shaping guide 20 deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 , the heater 120 deforms the shape of the consumable material 200 along the shape of the heater 120 , and the restraining ribs 30 direct the consumable material 200 toward the heater 120 . By applying the force, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 . Therefore, heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
　上記構成の香味吸引器１００によれば、整形ガイド２０によって、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の断面形状が、ヒータ１２０の形状に対応するよう変形される。そのため、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の断面形状にばらつきがあった場合でも、整形ガイド２０で消費材２００の断面形状をヒータ１２０の形状に対応した所望の形状に変形させることができる。 According to the flavor inhaler 100 configured as described above, the shaping guide 20 deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 so as to correspond to the shape of the heater 120 . Therefore, even if the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 varies, the shaping guide 20 can deform the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material 200 into a desired shape corresponding to the shape of the heater 120. .
　また、上記構成の香味吸引器１００によれば、ヒータ１２０によって、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００の外形が、ヒータ１２０の形状に沿って変形される。そのため、消費材２００をヒータ１２０に密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 Further, according to the flavor inhaler 100 configured as described above, the outer shape of the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 is deformed along the shape of the heater 120 by the heater 120 . Therefore, the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be improved.
　また、整形ガイド２０、抑えリブ３０およびヒータ１２０によって、筐体１１０に収容された後の消費材２００の形状を、筐体１１０に収容される前の消費材２００の形状から変形させた場合であっても、変形された消費材２００が収容される収容空間５０と筐体１１０との間に空気層４０が形成される。そのため、熱伝導率の低い空気層４０によって香味吸引器１００の断熱性能を向上させることができる。 Further, when the shape of the consumable material 200 after being housed in the housing 110 is changed from the shape of the consumable material 200 before being housed in the housing 110 by the shaping guide 20, the restraining rib 30, and the heater 120, Even if there is, an air layer 40 is formed between the accommodation space 50 in which the deformed consumable product 200 is accommodated and the housing 110 . Therefore, the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved by the air layer 40 having a low thermal conductivity.
　また、消費材２００が筐体１１０に収容されたときに、当接部２３が、変形された消費材２００が収容される収容空間５０と筐体１１０との間に形成される空気層４０を封止することで、空気層４０における空気の対流を抑制することができ、優れた断熱性能を実現することができる。さらに、当接部２３が開口１０近傍に設けられることにより、封止される空気層４０の体積を大きくすることができるので、香味吸引器１００の断熱性能を向上させることができる。 Further, when the consumable material 200 is housed in the housing 110, the abutting part 23 forms an air layer 40 between the housing space 50 in which the deformed consumable material 200 is housed and the housing 110. By sealing, air convection in the air layer 40 can be suppressed, and excellent heat insulation performance can be achieved. Furthermore, since the contact portion 23 is provided near the opening 10, the volume of the sealed air layer 40 can be increased, so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved.
　また、ヒータ１２０を消費材２００に挿入し、消費材２００を内部から加熱することにより、熱源であるヒータ１２０が空気層４０に接触しないので、香味吸引器１００の断熱性能をより向上させることができる。また、空気層４０が消費材２００の外周の全周にわたって形成されることにより、香味吸引器１００の断熱性能をさらに向上させることができる。 Further, by inserting the heater 120 into the consumable material 200 and heating the consumable material 200 from the inside, the heater 120 as a heat source does not come into contact with the air layer 40, so that the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved. can. In addition, since the air layer 40 is formed along the entire circumference of the consumable material 200, the heat insulation performance of the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved.
　なお、上記実施形態では、ヒータ１２０がＰＴＣヒータである場合を例に挙げて説明したが、これに限定されない。例えば、ヒータは、２枚のＰＩ（ポリイミド）等のフィルム（基体）で、ステンレス等の発熱抵抗体（発熱体）を挟み込んで構成される、可撓性のポリイミドヒータであってもよい。また、ヒータは、筐体１１０の長手方向に直交する断面が楕円形状を有するピンヒータであってもよい。このようなピンヒータを用いた場合、同じ断面積を有する断面円形のピンヒータよりも、消費材２００が挿入されたときに、消費材２００が占有する筐体１１０の短手方向の距離が短くなる。そのため、筐体１１０を薄型化することができる。また、ピンヒータの短径に沿って抑えリブ３０設けることで、筐体１１０に挿入される消費材２００を扁平形状に変形させて、消費材２００をヒータにより密着させることができる。 In the above embodiment, the case where the heater 120 is a PTC heater has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the heater may be a flexible polyimide heater configured by sandwiching a heat generating resistor (heat generating element) such as stainless steel between two films (substrates) such as PI (polyimide). Alternatively, the heater may be a pin heater having an elliptical cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . When such a pin heater is used, when the consumable item 200 is inserted, the distance in the lateral direction of the housing 110 occupied by the consumable item 200 is shorter than that of a circular pin heater having the same cross-sectional area. Therefore, the housing 110 can be made thinner. Further, by providing the holding ribs 30 along the minor axis of the pin heater, the consumable material 200 inserted into the housing 110 can be deformed into a flat shape, and the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater.
　また、上記実施形態では、筐体１１０の開口１０とは反対側、すなわち筐体１１０の底部に吸気孔が設けられると説明したが、これに限定されず、空気層４０に直接連通する吸気孔を、筐体１１０の開口１０または筐体１１０に設けてもよい。なお、吸気孔を筐体１１０に設ける場合、図１０に示すように、筐体１１０の他端側端部近傍に吸気孔１１１を設けてもよい。この場合であっても、空気層４０が当接部２３によって封止されていることから、当接部２３付近の空気層４０において対流が生じることを抑制することができ、断熱効率の低下を防ぎつつ、香味吸引器１００のサイズを維持したまま空気を流入させることができる。 Further, in the above-described embodiment, the intake hole is provided on the side opposite to the opening 10 of the housing 110, that is, on the bottom of the housing 110. However, the present invention is not limited to this. may be provided in the opening 10 of the housing 110 or in the housing 110 . In addition, when the air intake hole is provided in the housing 110, as shown in FIG. Even in this case, since the air layer 40 is sealed by the contact portion 23, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of convection in the air layer 40 in the vicinity of the contact portion 23, thereby preventing a decrease in heat insulating efficiency. Air can flow in while maintaining the size of the flavor inhaler 100 while preventing this.
　また、上記実施形態では、抑えリブ３０が互いに対向する一対のテーパ面により構成されると説明したが、これに限定されない。図１１および図１２は、抑えリブ３０の配置をヒータ１２０の幅方向について示す断面図である。図１３は、抑えリブ３０の配置をヒータ１２０の厚み方向について示す断面図である。 Also, in the above embodiment, the pressing rib 30 is configured by a pair of tapered surfaces facing each other, but the present invention is not limited to this. 11 and 12 are cross-sectional views showing the arrangement of the restraining ribs 30 in the width direction of the heater 120. FIG. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the restraining ribs 30 in the thickness direction of the heater 120. As shown in FIG.
　図１１に示すように、抑えリブ３０は、筐体１１０の長手方向について互い違いに配置されている。このように抑えリブ３０を配置することにより、抑えリブ３０が互いに対向する位置に配置されている場合に比べて、消費材２００の挿入時に、消費材２００の表面にかかる摩擦力を緩やかにすることができる。 As shown in FIG. 11, the restraining ribs 30 are alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110 . By arranging the restraining ribs 30 in this way, the frictional force applied to the surface of the consumable material 200 when the consumable material 200 is inserted is reduced as compared with the case where the restraining ribs 30 are arranged at positions facing each other. be able to.
　図１２に示すように、抑えリブ３０は、図２に示した位置に加えて、ヒータ１２０の厚み方向に沿って、ヒータ１２０の他端側端部近傍に、互いに対向するように配置されている。また、図１３に示すように、抑えリブ３０は、ヒータ１２０の幅方向に沿って、ヒータ１２０の他端側端部近傍に、互いに対向するように配置されている。このように、ヒータ１２０の他端側端部近傍に抑えリブ３０を配置することにより、消費材２００の先端部分まで確実にヒータ１２０に密着させることができ、ヒータ１２０から消費材２００への熱伝達効率を向上させることができる。 As shown in FIG. 12, in addition to the positions shown in FIG. 2, the restraining ribs 30 are arranged along the thickness direction of the heater 120 near the other end of the heater 120 so as to face each other. there is As shown in FIG. 13, the restraining ribs 30 are arranged along the width direction of the heater 120 near the other end of the heater 120 so as to face each other. By arranging the restraining ribs 30 in the vicinity of the other end of the heater 120 in this manner, even the leading end of the consumable material 200 can be brought into close contact with the heater 120 , and the heat from the heater 120 to the consumable material 200 can be reliably transferred. Transmission efficiency can be improved.
　以上、本発明の実施形態について説明してきたが、上記した発明の実施形態は、本発明の理解を容易にするためのものであり、本発明を限定するものではない。本発明は、その趣旨を逸脱することなく、変更、改良され得るとともに、本発明にはその均等物が含まれる。また、上述した課題の少なくとも一部を解決できる範囲、または、効果の少なくとも一部を奏する範囲において、特許請求の範囲および明細書に記載された各構成要素の組み合わせ、または、省略が可能である。 Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the above-described embodiments of the present invention are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and the present invention includes equivalents thereof. In addition, within the range where at least part of the above problems can be solved or where at least part of the effect is achieved, the components described in the claims and the specification can be combined or omitted. .
　　１０…開口
　　２０…整形ガイド
　　２１…テーパ部
　　２２…入口部
　　２３…当接部
　　３０…抑えリブ
　　４０…空気層
　　５０…収容空間
　　１００…香味吸引器
　　１１０…筐体
　　１１１…吸気孔
　　１２０…ヒータ
　　１２１…ＰＴＣ素子
　　１２２…金属板
　　１２３…保持部材
　　２００…消費材
　　２１０…たばこ部
　　２１１…貫通孔
　　２１２…香味放出層
　　２１３…弾性変形層
　　２１４…ラッパー
　　２１５…環状シート
　　２２０…ペーパチューブ DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Opening 20... Shaping guide 21... Taper part 22... Inlet part 23... Contact part 30... Control rib 40... Air layer 50... Accommodating space 100... Flavor suction device 110... Case 111... Air intake hole 120... Heater 121... PTC element 122... Metal plate 123... Holding member 200... Consumable material 210... Tobacco part 211... Through hole 212... Flavor release layer 213... Elastic deformation layer 214... Wrapper 215... Annular sheet 220... Paper tube

Claims (15)

  1. 　香味吸引器であって、
    　消費材の少なくとも一部を収容する収容部と、
    　前記収容部に収容された前記消費材に挿入され、前記消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部と、を備え、
    　前記加熱部は、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材の外形を、前記加熱部の形状に沿って変形させる、
    　香味吸引器。     A flavor inhaler,
    a container containing at least a portion of the consumable;
    a heating unit that is inserted into the consumable material stored in the storage unit and heats the consumable material from the inside;
    The heating unit deforms the outer shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage unit along the shape of the heating unit.
    flavor aspirator.
  2. 　請求項１に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材の外形を、断面楕円形状に変形させ、前記収容部に収容された後の前記消費材の長径は、前記収容部に収容される前の前記消費材の直径よりも長く、前記収容部に収容された後の前記消費材の短径は、前記収容部に収容される前の前記消費材の直径よりも短い、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 1,
    The heating section deforms the outer shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the containing section into an elliptical cross-sectional shape, and the major axis of the consumable material after being contained in the containing section is the same as that before being contained in the containing section. is longer than the diameter of the consumable material in the storage part, and the minor axis of the consumable material after being stored in the storage part is shorter than the diameter of the consumable material before being stored in the storage part.
    flavor aspirator.
  3. 　請求項１または請求項２に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、平板状である、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or claim 2,
    The heating unit has a flat plate shape,
    flavor aspirator.
  4. 　請求項３に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、前記加熱部の最大幅が、前記収容部に収容された後の前記消費材の長径の３０％よりも大きくなるように構成されている、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 3,
    The heating part is configured such that the maximum width of the heating part is larger than 30% of the major axis of the consumable material after being stored in the storage part.
    flavor aspirator.
  5. 　請求項１から請求項４までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、前記収容部の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が、前記収容部の開口側から前記開口とは反対側に向けて長くなるように構成されている、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
    The heating part is configured such that a circumferential length in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the accommodating part is elongated from the opening side of the accommodating part toward the opposite side of the opening.
    flavor aspirator.
  6. 　請求項１から請求項５までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記収容部の内周面に設けられ、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材を前記加熱部に向けて付勢する付勢部をさらに備える、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
    further comprising a biasing part provided on the inner peripheral surface of the storage part and biasing the consumable material inserted into the storage part toward the heating part;
    flavor aspirator.
  7. 　請求項６に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記付勢部は、前記収容部の内周面から前記加熱部に向けて突出し、前記加熱部の、前記収容部の長手方向に直交する断面における周長が最大になる位置で、突出距離が最大になるように構成されている、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 6,
    The urging portion protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the housing portion toward the heating portion, and the projection distance is at a position where the heating portion has the maximum circumferential length in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing portion. configured to maximize
    flavor aspirator.
  8. 　請求項１から請求項７までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、前記収容部の開口側の端部が先鋭形状を有する、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
    The heating unit has a sharp end on the opening side of the storage unit,
    flavor aspirator.
  9. 　請求項１から請求項８までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記収容部の開口を形成し、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材の断面形状を、前記加熱部の形状に対応するよう変形させるガイド部をさらに備える、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
    further comprising a guide part that forms an opening of the storage part and deforms the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the storage part so as to correspond to the shape of the heating part;
    flavor aspirator.
  10. 　請求項９に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部における前記収容部の開口側の端部は、前記ガイド部の前記開口とは反対側の端部よりも前記開口側に突出するように構成されている、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 9,
    An end portion of the heating portion on the opening side of the housing portion is configured to protrude toward the opening side more than an end portion of the guide portion opposite to the opening,
    flavor aspirator.
  11. 　請求項１から請求項１０までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、
    　熱を発生する発熱体と、
    　前記発熱体を挟み込む少なくとも２つの基体と、を有する、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
    The heating unit
    a heating element that generates heat;
    and at least two substrates sandwiching the heating element.
    flavor aspirator.
  12. 　請求項１１に記載の香味吸引器であって、
    　前記加熱部は、ＰＴＣヒータである、
    　香味吸引器。     The flavor inhaler according to claim 11,
    The heating unit is a PTC heater,
    flavor aspirator.
  13. 　香味吸引システムであって、
    　消費材と、
    　請求項１から請求項１２までのいずれか１項に記載の香味吸引器と、を備える、
    　香味吸引システム。     A flavor suction system,
    consumables and
    A flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
    Flavor suction system.
  14. 　請求項１３に記載の香味吸引システムであって、
    　前記消費材は、前記消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部が挿入される被挿入部を有し、
    　前記被挿入部は、挿入される前記加熱部を取り囲むように配置された環状シートを含む、
    　香味吸引システム。     14. The flavor inhalation system of claim 13, comprising:
    The consumable material has an inserted portion into which a heating unit that heats the consumable material from the inside is inserted,
    The inserted portion includes an annular sheet arranged to surround the inserted heating portion,
    Flavor suction system.
  15. 　香味吸引器に挿入される消費材の変形方法であって、
    　前記香味吸引器は、前記消費材の少なくとも一部を収容する収容部と、前記消費材を内部から加熱する加熱部とを備え、
    　前記収容部に設けられたガイド部により、収容部に挿入される前記消費材の断面形状を変形させる工程と、
    　前記加熱部により、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材の形状を、前記加熱部の形状に沿って変形させる工程と、
    　前記収容部に設けられた付勢部により、前記収容部に挿入される前記消費材を前記加熱部に向けて付勢する工程と、を有する、
    　消費材の変形方法。     A method of transforming a consumable to be inserted into a flavor inhaler, comprising:
    The flavor inhaler includes a storage unit that stores at least part of the consumable material and a heating unit that heats the consumable material from the inside,
    a step of deforming the cross-sectional shape of the consumable material to be inserted into the accommodation portion by means of a guide portion provided in the accommodation portion;
    a step of deforming the shape of the consumable to be inserted into the storage portion by the heating portion along the shape of the heating portion;
    urging the consumable material inserted into the storage unit toward the heating unit by a biasing unit provided in the storage unit;
    How to transform consumables.
PCT/JP2021/042719 2021-11-22 2021-11-22 Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material WO2023089799A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/JP2021/042719 WO2023089799A1 (en) 2021-11-22 2021-11-22 Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material
KR1020247012412A KR20240068694A (en) 2021-11-22 2021-11-22 Flavor aspirator, flavor aspiration system and method of modifying consumer goods

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/JP2021/042719 WO2023089799A1 (en) 2021-11-22 2021-11-22 Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023089799A1 true WO2023089799A1 (en) 2023-05-25

Family

ID=86396558

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/JP2021/042719 WO2023089799A1 (en) 2021-11-22 2021-11-22 Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material

Country Status (2)

Country Link
KR (1) KR20240068694A (en)
WO (1) WO2023089799A1 (en)

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2014533513A (en) * 2011-11-21 2014-12-15 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Extractor for aerosol generator
JP2015524260A (en) * 2012-12-28 2015-08-24 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Heated aerosol generator and method for generating aerosol with consistent properties
JP6000451B2 (en) 2012-06-21 2016-09-28 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Smoking articles for use with internal heating elements
US20160360794A1 (en) * 2015-09-29 2016-12-15 Shenzhen First Union Technology Co., Ltd. Heating device for cigarette
JP2018529322A (en) * 2015-08-31 2018-10-11 ブリティッシュ アメリカン タバコ （インヴェストメンツ） リミテッドＢｒｉｔｉｓｈ Ａｍｅｒｉｃａｎ Ｔｏｂａｃｃｏ （Ｉｎｖｅｓｔｍｅｎｔｓ） Ｌｉｍｉｔｅｄ Device for heating smoking material
JP2018174784A (en) * 2017-04-11 2018-11-15 暮らし創研株式会社 Smoking tool
WO2019186668A1 (en) * 2018-03-26 2019-10-03 日本たばこ産業株式会社 Aerosol generation device, control method, and program

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS60451U (en) 1983-06-10 1985-01-05 株式会社クボタ Greasing path structure between two shafts

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2014533513A (en) * 2011-11-21 2014-12-15 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Extractor for aerosol generator
JP6000451B2 (en) 2012-06-21 2016-09-28 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Smoking articles for use with internal heating elements
JP2015524260A (en) * 2012-12-28 2015-08-24 フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム Heated aerosol generator and method for generating aerosol with consistent properties
JP2018529322A (en) * 2015-08-31 2018-10-11 ブリティッシュ アメリカン タバコ （インヴェストメンツ） リミテッドＢｒｉｔｉｓｈ Ａｍｅｒｉｃａｎ Ｔｏｂａｃｃｏ （Ｉｎｖｅｓｔｍｅｎｔｓ） Ｌｉｍｉｔｅｄ Device for heating smoking material
US20160360794A1 (en) * 2015-09-29 2016-12-15 Shenzhen First Union Technology Co., Ltd. Heating device for cigarette
JP2018174784A (en) * 2017-04-11 2018-11-15 暮らし創研株式会社 Smoking tool
WO2019186668A1 (en) * 2018-03-26 2019-10-03 日本たばこ産業株式会社 Aerosol generation device, control method, and program

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR20240068694A (en) 2024-05-17

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
RU2764421C2 (en) Cartridge with an inner surface made of a material constituting a current collector
JP6890710B2 (en) Heater assembly for aerosol generation system
US11792894B2 (en) Aerosol-generating system including a cartridge containing a gel
JP7209069B2 (en) Aerosol generation system with planar induction coil
US20230413902A1 (en) E-vapor device including puncture device and sealed packet of pre-vapor formulation
CN108601398B (en) Aerosol-generating system and aerosol-generating article for use in such a system
US11864588B2 (en) Electronic aerosol provision system
RU2742806C1 (en) Steam supply systems
KR102166921B1 (en) An aerosol generating device with adjustable airflow
TW201808123A (en) Aerosol-generating system comprising a cartridge containing a gel
CA3107669A1 (en) Electronic cigarette and capsule for an electronic cigarette
KR20210034649A (en) Cartridge-based non-burning carburetor
TW202038753A (en) Electronic cigarette vaporiser with compressible wick
TW201938045A (en) Vapour provision apparatus and systems
WO2023089799A1 (en) Flavor inhaler, flavor inhalation system, and method for deforming consumable material
TW202042667A (en) Electronic cigarette with wick
WO2023089800A1 (en) Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system
WO2023089801A1 (en) Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system
WO2023073191A1 (en) A reusable vapour generating device and a vapour generating device with cartridge attachment
WO2023089802A1 (en) Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system
WO2023089798A1 (en) Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system
US20210282461A1 (en) Device for generating an aerosol
US20230397665A1 (en) Heater tube with thermal insulation and electrical isolation
WO2023105667A1 (en) Flavor inhaler and flavor inhaling system
WO2022234642A1 (en) Aerosol generation device and method for manufacturing aerosol generation device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 21964814

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 20247012412

Country of ref document: KR

Kind code of ref document: A

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2023562073

Country of ref document: JP

Kind code of ref document: A