Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system

Abstract

A flavor inhaler, the flavor inhaler comprising: a containing portion in which a flavor generating article is contained, the containing portion being provided with a first opening portion in which the flavor generating article is inserted; a first member extending from the receiving portion; and a second member outside of the accommodating portion, the second member pressing the first member from a side surface with respect to a direction in which the first member extends, thereby suppressing movement of the first member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a flavor inhaler and a flavor inhalation system. Background Art

[0002] Flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors and the like without burning materials are conventionally known. The flavor inhaler may be an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol. The flavor inhaler includes a receiving portion for receiving a flavor generating article. In addition to the flavor generating article, components may be provided inside or outside the receiving portion. In PTL 1, a heating module is provided inside the main body portion of the aerosol generating device. In PTL 2 and PTL 3, a bottom member having a suppressing portion is provided in the receiving portion, and the suppressing portion suppresses air from flowing through the air flow path.

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] PTL 1: JP 2021-532755 A

[0006] PTL 2: WO 2022 / 123756

[0007] PTL 3: WO 2022 / 123758 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical Problem

[0009] From the viewpoint of efficiently heating the flavor generating article accommodated in the accommodating portion, it is desirable to suppress the positional displacement of the member extending from the accommodating portion. In PTL 3, the bottom member can be fixed to the inside of the bottom portion of the chamber constituting the accommodating portion by means of an adhesive containing epoxy resin or the like. It is desirable to propose another method for suppressing such positional displacement of the member.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to suppress the positional displacement of the member extending from the accommodating portion in order to efficiently heat the accommodated flavor generating article.

[0011] Solution to the Problem

[0012] According to a first aspect, there is provided a flavor inhaler. The flavor inhaler includes: a receiving portion in which a flavor generating article is received, and the receiving portion is provided with a first opening portion into which the flavor generating article is inserted; a first member that extends from the receiving portion; and a second member outside the receiving portion, the second member suppressing the movement of the first member by pressing the first member from the side with respect to the extending direction of the first member.

[0013] According to the first aspect, displacement of the first member extending from the receiving portion can be suppressed, particularly displacement in the front-rear direction in which the first member extends, thereby allowing efficient heating of the received flavor generating article.

[0014] The gist of the second aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the first aspect, wherein the second member includes metal.

[0015] According to the second aspect, since the second member can be precisely formed and the first member can be pressed using the elasticity of the metal, displacement of the first member can be further suppressed.

[0016] The gist of the third aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the second member is provided with at least one contact portion, and the at least one contact portion includes a contact surface having a shape corresponding to the side surface of the first member.

[0017] According to the third aspect, the second member can effectively press the first member, and displacement of the first member can be further suppressed.

[0018] The gist of the fourth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the third aspect, wherein the contact portion is a member extending from the contact surface in a direction inclined with respect to the direction.

[0019] According to the fourth aspect, for example, due to the elasticity of the inclined portion, the second member can press the first member more strongly, and displacement of the first member can be further suppressed.

[0020] The gist of the fifth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect, wherein at least a part of the second member is annular.

[0021] According to the fifth aspect, it is easier to position the second member around the first member, thereby facilitating attachment of the second member to the first member.

[0022] The gist of the sixth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein the first member is fixed to the receiving portion using an adhesive.

[0023] According to the sixth aspect, by bonding the first member to the receiving portion, displacement of the first member can be further suppressed.

[0024] The gist of the seventh aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect, the flavor inhaler further including a third member provided between the receiving portion and the second member and having a through hole or a cut formed therein, the first member being inserted into the through hole or the cut.

[0025] According to the seventh aspect, the orientation of the second member can be firmly fixed by means of the third member, and the positional displacement of the first member can be more reliably suppressed.

[0026] The gist of the eighth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, which further includes: a housing; and an elastic member that presses the accommodation portion, the first member, and the second member toward the housing or a member fixed to the housing.

[0027] According to the eighth aspect, by forming a seal, for example, between the accommodation portion and the housing or a member fixed to the housing, the unwanted leakage of the aerosol generated in the accommodation portion inside the housing can be suppressed by heating the flavor generating article.

[0028] The gist of the ninth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the eighth aspect, which further includes a third member having a through hole or a cut formed therein, and the first member is inserted into the through hole or the cut, wherein the accommodation portion, the third member, the second member, and the elastic member are arranged in the stated order along the direction in which the first member extends.

[0029] According to the ninth aspect, the elasticity of the elastic member enables the suppression of the positional displacement of the first member while integrally pushing the accommodation portion, the third member, and the second member.

[0030] The gist of the tenth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the ninth aspect, wherein the second member contacts the third member and the elastic member.

[0031] According to the tenth aspect, the flavor inhaler can be made more compact.

[0032] The gist of the eleventh aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the accommodation portion further includes a second opening portion, and the first member extends from the inside of the accommodation portion through the second opening portion to the outside of the accommodation portion.

[0033] According to the eleventh aspect, the positional displacement of the first member relative to the accommodation portion can be suppressed, thereby allowing the flavor generating article accommodated therein to be heated more efficiently.

[0034] The gist of the twelfth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the eleventh aspect, wherein the first member is configured to support the end portion of the flavor generating article accommodated in the accommodation portion.

[0035] According to the twelfth aspect, the positional displacement of the first member is suppressed by the second member, and the first member is configured to support the end portion of the flavor generating article, thereby enabling the flavor generating article to be supported more stably.

[0036] The essential point of the thirteenth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect, wherein the first member is provided with a groove portion which defines an air flow passage inside the accommodation portion when the flavor generating article is accommodated in the accommodation portion.

[0037] According to the thirteenth aspect, when the flavor generating article is accommodated in the accommodation portion, a more stable air flow passage can be formed.

[0038] The essential point of the fourteenth aspect lies in the flavor generating article according to the thirteenth aspect, wherein the first member has a support surface which supports the end portion of the flavor generating article accommodated in the accommodation portion, and the groove portion is formed in the support surface.

[0039] According to the fourteenth aspect, an air flow passage communicating with the end surface of the flavor generating article can be formed using a simplified structure.

[0040] The essential point of the fifteenth aspect lies in the flavor inhaler according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth aspects, wherein a second opening portion is formed in the bottom portion of the accommodation portion.

[0041] According to the fifteenth aspect, various structures (such as air flow passages) can be provided near the end surface of the flavor generating article accommodated in the accommodation portion.

[0042] According to the sixteenth aspect, a flavor inhalation system is provided. The essential point of the sixteenth aspect lies in the fact that the flavor inhalation system includes the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, and a flavor generating article.

[0043] According to the sixteenth aspect, the positional displacement of the first member extending from the accommodation portion of the flavor inhaler, particularly the positional displacement in the front - rear direction in which the first member extends, can be suppressed, thereby allowing efficient heating of the accommodated flavor generating article. Description of the Drawings

[0044] Figure 1A is a schematic front view of the flavor inhaler according to the present embodiment.

[0045] Figure 1B is a schematic top view of the flavor inhaler according to the present embodiment.

[0046] Figure 1C is a schematic bottom view of the flavor inhaler according to the present embodiment.

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic cross - sectional side view of the consumable material.

[0048] Figure 3 is along​​​​​Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler as viewed in the direction of arrow 3-3 shown.

[0049] Figure 4A is a perspective view of the chamber.

[0050] Figure 4B is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the chamber as viewed in the direction of arrow 4B-4B shown.

[0051] Figure 5A is along Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of the chamber as viewed in the direction of arrow 5A-5A shown.

[0052] Figure 5B is along Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of the chamber as viewed in the direction of arrow 5B-5B shown.

[0053] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the chamber and the heating unit.

[0054] Figure 7 is Figure 5B A cross-sectional view in the state where the consumable material shown in is set at the desired position in the chamber.

[0055] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first support part.

[0056] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second support part.

[0057] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the second support part as viewed from the negative Z-axis side.

[0058] Figure 11A is a perspective view of the second member.

[0059] Figure 11B is a plan view of the second member.

[0060] Figure 11C is along Figure 11B A cross-sectional view of the second member as viewed in the direction of arrow 11C-11C shown.

[0061] Figure 12A is a perspective view of the first member.

[0062] Figure 12B is along Figure 12A A cross-sectional view of the first member as viewed in the direction of arrow 12B-12B shown. Detailed implementation ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0063] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following-described drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or corresponding components, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0064] Figure 1A is a schematic front view of a flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1B is a schematic top view of a flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1C is a schematic bottom view of a flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment. For ease of description, an X-Y-Z orthogonal coordinate system can be applied to the drawings described in this specification. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis is oriented vertically upward, the X-Y plane is arranged to horizontally cross the flavor inhaler 100, and the Y-axis is arranged to extend from the front surface to the rear surface of the flavor inhaler 100. The Z-axis can also refer to the insertion direction of the consumable material accommodated in the chamber of the atomization unit discussed below, or the axial direction of the first member. The X-axis direction can also refer to the longitudinal direction of the device in a plane perpendicular to the insertion direction of the consumable material, or the direction in which the heating unit and the power supply unit are aligned. The Y-axis direction can also refer to the lateral direction of the device in a plane perpendicular to the insertion direction of the consumable material.

[0065] The flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to generate an aerosol containing flavor by heating a rod-shaped consumable material having a flavor source containing an aerosol source.

[0066] As Figures 1A to 1C shown, the flavor inhaler 100 includes a housing 101, a sliding cover 102, and a switch unit 103. The housing 101 forms the outermost shell of the flavor inhaler 100, and the size of the housing is determined to be suitable for the user's hand. When the user uses the flavor inhaler 100, the user can inhale the aerosol while holding the flavor inhaler 100 in their hand. The housing 101 can be configured by assembling a plurality of components. For example, the housing 101 can be formed of a resin (such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone)).

[0067] The housing 101 has an opening for receiving the consumable material (the opening is not shown in the drawings), and the sliding cover 102 is slidably attached to the housing 101 to close the opening. More specifically, the sliding cover 102 is configured to be able to slide along the outer surface of the housing 101 between a closed position for closing the opening of the housing 101 ( Figure 1A and Figure 1Bbetween the position shown in [description] and the open position for opening the opening. For example, the user can manually operate the sliding cover 102 to move the sliding cover 102 between the closed position and the open position. Thus, the sliding cover 102 can allow or restrict the consumable material from entering the interior of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0068] The switch unit 103 is used to turn on and off the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. For example, in a state where the consumable material has been inserted into the flavor inhaler 100, the user can operate the switch unit 103 to supply power from a power source to the heating unit, as discussed below, so as to heat the consumable material without burning it. It should be noted that the switch unit 103 can be a switch provided outside the outer housing 101, or can be a switch located inside the outer housing 101. If the switch is located inside the outer housing 101, pressing the switch unit 103 on the surface of the outer housing 101 indirectly presses the switch. In this embodiment, an example where the switch of the switch unit 103 is located inside the outer housing 101 is described.

[0069] The flavor inhaler 100 can further include a terminal, which is not shown in the drawings. The terminal can be, for example, an interface for connecting the flavor inhaler 100 to an external power source. If the power source provided in the flavor inhaler 100 is a rechargeable battery, connecting the external power source to the terminal allows current to flow from the external power source to the power source, thereby charging the power source. Further, the flavor inhaler 100 can be configured to be able to transmit data related to the operation of the flavor inhaler 100 to an external device by connecting a data transmission cable to the terminal.

[0070] Next, the consumable material used in the flavor inhaler 100 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the consumable material 110. In this embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 and the consumable material 110 can form a flavor inhalation system. In Figure 2In the illustrated example, the consumable material 110 includes a solid puffable material 111 (corresponding to an example of an aerosol - generating substrate), a tubular member 114, a hollow filter portion 116, and a filter portion 115. The puffable material 111 is wrapped with a first wrapping paper 112. The tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 are wrapped with a second wrapping paper 113 different from the first wrapping paper 112. The second wrapping paper 113 also wraps a part of the first wrapping paper 112 that wraps the puffable material 111. This connects the tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 to the puffable material 111. However, the second wrapping paper 113 can be omitted, and the first wrapping paper 112 can be used to connect the tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 to the puffable material 111. A lip - demisting agent 117 is applied to the outer surface of the second wrapping paper 113, at the end near the filter - portion 115 side, to reduce the likelihood of the second wrapping paper 113 adhering to the user's lips. The portion of the consumable material 110 to which the lip - demisting agent 117 is applied serves as the mouthpiece of the consumable material 110.

[0071] The puffable material 111 can include a flavor source (such as tobacco) and an aerosol source. Further, the first wrapping paper 112 that wraps the puffable material 111 can be a breathable sheet member. The tubular member 114 can be a paper tube or a hollow filter. In the illustrated example, the consumable material 110 includes the puffable material 111, the tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115, but the configuration of the consumable material 110 is not limited thereto. For example, the hollow filter portion 116 can be omitted, and the tubular member 114 and the filter portion 115 can be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0072] Next, the internal structure of the flavor inhaler 100 will be described. Figure 3 is a cross - sectional view of the flavor inhaler 100 viewed along the Figure 1B direction of arrow 3 - 3 shown. As Figure 3As shown, the inner housing 10 is disposed inside the outer housing 101 of the flavor inhaler 100. The inner housing 10 is made of, for example, resin and can particularly be formed of polycarbonate (PC), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin, PEEK, polymer alloy (e.g., including multiple types of polymers), or metal (such as aluminum). From the viewpoints of heat resistance and strength, the inner housing 10 is preferably formed of PEEK. However, the material of the inner housing 10 is not particularly limited. The power supply unit 20 and the atomization unit 30 are disposed in the inner space of the inner housing 10. Further, the outer housing 101 is made of, for example, resin and can particularly be formed of polycarbonate, ABS resin, PEEK, polymer alloy (including multiple types of polymers), or metal (such as aluminum).

[0073] The power supply unit 20 includes a power supply 21. The power supply 21 can be, for example, a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. The power supply 21 is electrically connected to the atomization unit 30. This allows the power supply 21 to supply power to the atomization unit 30 to appropriately heat the consumable material 110.

[0074] As shown in the drawings, the atomization unit 30 includes a chamber 50 (corresponding to an example of the accommodating portion) extending in the insertion direction (Z-axis direction) of the consumable material 110, a heating unit 40 closing a part of the chamber 50, a heat insulation portion 32, and a substantially tubular insertion guide member 34. The chamber 50 is configured to accommodate the consumable material 110. The heating unit 40 is configured to heat the consumable material 110 accommodated in the chamber 50 from the outside. The heating unit 40 can be provided in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the chamber 50.

[0075] The flavor inhaler 100 further includes a first support portion 37 and a second support portion 38 that support both ends of the chamber 50 and the heat insulation portion 32. The first support portion 37 is provided to support the end portions of the chamber 50 and the heat insulation portion 32 on the side of the sliding lid 102 (positive Z-axis side). The second support portion 38 is provided to support the end portions of the chamber 50 and the heat insulation portion 32 directly or indirectly on the negative Z-axis side. The first support portion 37 and the second support portion 38 can, for example, include an elastomer (such as silicone rubber).

[0076] The second support part 38 includes a first member 36. A part of the first member 36 is disposed in the bottom part of the bottom of the chamber 50 and forms part of the accommodating portion, while the other part extends to the outside of the chamber 50. The first member 36 can be used as a stopper for positioning the consumable material 110 inserted into the chamber 50. The first member 36 has protrusions and recesses in the surface in contact with the consumable material 110, and an air flow passage is formed between the surface in contact with the consumable material 110 and the first member 36. The first member 36 can be made of, for example, a resin material (such as PEEK), or metal, glass, or ceramic, but is not particularly limited thereto. Further, the material constituting the first member 36 can be a material having a lower thermal conductivity than the material constituting the chamber 50. When connecting the first member 36 to the bottom part 56 of the chamber 50 (see Figure 4B ), an adhesive that can be composed of a resin material (such as epoxy resin) or an inorganic material can be used. It should be noted that the heating unit 40 can be provided on the inner surface of the chamber 50.

[0077] The heat insulation part 32 is generally tubular as a whole and is provided to surround the chamber 50. For example, the heat insulation part 32 can include an aerogel sheet. The insertion guide member 34 is formed of a resin material (such as PEEK, polycarbonate, or ABS) and is provided between the sliding cover 102 in the closed position and the chamber 50. In the present embodiment, since the insertion guide member 34 can be in contact with the chamber 50, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, the insertion guide member 34 is preferably formed of PEEK. The insertion guide member 34 communicates with the outside of the flavor inhaler 100 when the sliding cover 102 is in the open position, and guides the consumable material 110 to be inserted into the chamber 50 when the consumable material 110 is inserted into the insertion guide member 34.

[0078] Next, the structure of the chamber 50 will be described. Figure 4A is a perspective view of the chamber 50. Figure 4B is along Figure 4A a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 observed in the direction of the arrow 4B - 4B shown. Figure 5A is along Figure 4B a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 observed in the direction of the arrow 5A - 5A shown. Figure 5B is along Figure 4B a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 observed in the direction of the arrow 5B - 5B shown. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the chamber 50 and the heating unit 40. As Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown, the chamber 50 can be a tubular member that includes a first opening portion 52 and a tubular sidewall portion 60. A consumable material 110 is inserted into the first opening portion, and the sidewall portion houses the consumable material 110. Inside the chamber 50 is an accommodation space for heating the consumable material 110. The chamber 50 is preferably formed of a material that is heat-resistant and has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and can be formed of, for example, metal (such as stainless steel), resin (such as PEEK), glass, or ceramic.

[0079] As Figure 4B and Figure 5B shown, the sidewall portion 60 includes a contact portion 62 and a separation portion 66. When the consumable material 110 is set at a desired position within the chamber 50, the contact portion 62 contacts or presses a part of the consumable material 110, and the separation portion 66 is separated from the consumable material 110. It should be noted that in this specification, "the desired position within the chamber 50" refers to the position where the consumable material 110 is appropriately heated, the position of the consumable material 110 when the user sucks, or the position where the consumable material 110 contacts the first member 36. Each of the contact portions 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. Each of the separation portions 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. As Figure 6 shown, the heating unit 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62. The heating unit 40 is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without a gap. It should be noted that the heating unit 40 may include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating unit 40 including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without a gap.

[0080] As Figure 4A and Figure 5B shown, the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 is planar. Since the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 is planar, if a strip electrode 48 is connected to the heating unit 40 disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 (as Figure 6 shown), the bending of the strip electrode 48 can be suppressed. As Figure 4B and Figure 5B shown, the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62 is planar. In addition, as Figure 4B and Figure 5B shown, the thickness of the contact portion 62 is uniform.

[0081] As Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5BAs shown, the chamber 50 has two contact portions 62 in the circumferential direction of the chamber 50, and the two contact portions 62 face each other and are substantially parallel to each other. The distance between the inner surfaces 62a of the two contact portions 62 is preferably at least partially less than the width of the portion of the consumable material 110 that is disposed between the contact portions 62 when inserted into the chamber 50.

[0082] As Figure 5B shown, the inner surface 66a of the separation portion 66 may have an overall arcuate cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the chamber 50. Further, the separation portion 66 is provided adjacent to the contact portion 62 in the circumferential direction.

[0083] As Figure 4B shown, the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50 has a second opening portion 56a, Figure 3 through which the first member 36 shown passes so as to be disposed inside the chamber 50. The first member 36 extends from the inside of the chamber 50 through the second opening portion 56a to the outside of the chamber 50. The first member 36 is configured to support the end portion of the consumable material 110 accommodated in the chamber 50. This makes it possible to form an air flow passage based on the shape of the first member 36. From the viewpoint of forming the air flow passage, the first member 36 preferably supports a portion of the consumable material 110 inserted into the chamber 50 so as to expose at least a part of the end surface of the consumable material 110. Further, the bottom portion 56 may support a portion of the consumable material 110 such that the exposed end surface of the consumable material 110 communicates with the gap 67 (see Figure 7 ) described below.

[0084] As Figure 4A and Figure 4B shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a tubular portion 54 between the first opening portion 52 and the side wall portion 60. In a state where the consumable material 110 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 50, a gap can be formed between the tubular portion 54 and the consumable material 110. Further, as Figure 4A and Figure 4B shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a first guiding portion 58 having a tapered surface 58a that connects the inner surface of the tubular portion 54 and the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62.

[0085] As Figure 6As shown, the heating unit 40 includes a heating element 42. The heating element 42 can be, for example, a heating track. The heating element 42 is preferably arranged to heat these contact portions 62 without contacting the separating portion 66 of the chamber 50. In other words, the heating element 42 is preferably arranged only on the outer surface of the contact portions 62. The heating element 42 can have a difference in heating capacity between the portion heating the separating portion 66 of the chamber 50 and the portion heating these contact portions 62. More specifically, the heating element 42 can be configured to heat the contact portions 62 to a higher temperature than the separating portion 66. For example, the arrangement density of the heating track of the heating element 42 in the contact portions 62 and the separating portion 66 can be adjusted. The heating element 42 can also be wound around the outer circumference of the chamber 50, with substantially the same heating capacity around the entire circumference of the chamber 50. As Figure 6 As shown, in addition to the heating element 42, the heating unit 40 preferably further includes an electrical heat insulation member 44 that covers at least one surface of the heating element 42. In the present embodiment, the electrical heat insulation member 44 is arranged to cover both surfaces of the heating element 42.

[0086] Figure 7 is the same position as Figure 5B in a state where the consumable material 110 in Figure 7 is set at a desired position inside the chamber 50. As shown, when the consumable material 110 is set at a desired position inside the chamber 50, the consumable material 110 can contact and be pressed by the contact portions 62 of the chamber 50. At the same time, a gap 67 is formed between the consumable material 110 and the separating portion 66. The gap 67 constitutes a first air flow passage A1 and can communicate with the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50, and can also communicate with an air flow passage (a second air flow passage A2 discussed below) between the end surface of the consumable material 110 positioned inside the chamber 50 and the first member 36. This allows the air that has flowed in from the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50 to pass through the gap 67 and flow into the interior of the consumable material 110.

[0087] Next, the structures of the first support portion 37 and the second support portion 38 (which support the chamber 50 and the heat insulation portion 32) will be described.

[0088] As Figure 8As shown, the first support portion 37 includes a washer 80 and an annular member 90. The washer 80 is disposed around the tubular portion 54 of the chamber 50 and is configured to support the chamber 50. The washer 80 is made of, for example, resin and can particularly be formed of polycarbonate, ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy (e.g., including multiple types of polymers). The flange portion 52a of the chamber 50 contacts the chamber 50 side of the insertion guide member 34 around its entire circumference and is configured such that the through hole 34a and the interior of the chamber 50 communicate with each other. It should be noted that the washer 80 can be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, etc. Further, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, the washer 80 is preferably made of PEEK.

[0089] The annular member 90 is configured to engage with the insertion guide member 34 and the washer 80 and support the insertion guide member and the washer. In the example shown, the annular member 90 engages with the upper end portion 82 of the washer 80. The annular member 90 can be formed of an elastic member made of silicone rubber or the like. It should be noted that if silicone rubber is used, the Shore A hardness is preferably in the range of 40 to 60 and can be appropriately selected according to the deformation of the annular member 90. Further, the annular member 90 is configured to be positioned on the fixing portion 22 fixed to the inner housing 10 and fixed to the fixing portion. Further, although not shown in the drawings, the insertion guide member 34 is configured to contact the fixing portion 22 on the side opposite to the chamber 50. It should be noted that a sealing surface can be formed at the contact point between the washer 80 and the annular member 90 so as to further suppress the leakage of the aerosol generated in the chamber 50 from between the chamber 50 and the insertion guide member 34 into the inner housing 10.

[0090] Figure 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the second support portion 38. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the second support portion 38 viewed from the negative Z-axis side. As Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the second support part 38 includes a second member 200, an annular member 72, and a heater pad 74. Further, the first member 36 disposed in the bottom part 56 of the chamber 50 has a shaft portion 36a that protrudes outside the chamber 50 through the second opening portion 56a of the chamber 50. The shaft portion 36a is formed around a central axis Ax extending in the longitudinal direction of the first member 36. Hereinafter, the direction in which the first member 36 extends through the second opening portion 56a is referred to as the axial direction. The orientation of the axial direction is not restricted, and the axial direction means the forward direction and the backward direction in which the first member 36 extends, without distinction. The axial direction includes the direction in which the first member 36 extends from the inside to the outside of the chamber 50. In the example shown, the axial direction is set to be the same as the insertion direction (Z-axis direction) of the consumable material 110. The second opening portion 56a into which the first member 36 is inserted is formed in the bottom part 56 of the chamber 50, thereby allowing various structures (such as air flow channels) to be provided near the end surface of the consumable material 110 accommodated in the chamber 50.

[0091] The annular member 72 has a through hole 72a in its central part, and the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36 is inserted through the through hole. The annular member 72 is disposed between the chamber 50 and the second member 200. The annular member 72 can be used as a support part that contacts the bottom part 56 of the chamber 50 and supports the chamber 50. The annular member 72 is made of, for example, resin, and in particular, can be formed of polycarbonate, ABS resin, PEEK, polymer alloy (including multiple types of polymers), or metal (such as aluminum). Further, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, the annular member 72 is preferably made of PEEK. It should be noted that the annular member 72 may have a cutout through which the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36 passes, instead of the through hole 72a.

[0092] The heater pad 74 can be formed of an elastic member made of silicone rubber or the like. It should be noted that if silicone rubber is used, the Shore A hardness is preferably in the range of 40 to 60, and can be appropriately selected according to the deformation of the heater pad 74. Further, the heater pad 74 is configured to be positioned on the inner housing 10 or the fixing part 22 (the fixing part is fixed to the inner housing 10) and fixed to the inner housing or the fixing part. The heater pad 74 has a through hole 74a in its central part, and the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36 is inserted through the through hole. It should be noted that the heater pad 74 may have a cutout through which the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36 passes, instead of the through hole 74a.

[0093] As discussed above, the heater pad 74 is formed of an elastic member made of, for example, silicone rubber, and is configured to push the chamber 50 toward the insertion guide member 34 (i.e., in the positive Z-axis direction) via the second member 200 and the annular member 72. More specifically, in a state where the insertion guide member 34 has been inserted into the housing and has come into contact with the flange portion 52a, the heater pad 74 is compressed by the insertion guide member 34 and the chamber 50, thereby pushing the chamber 50 toward the insertion guide member 34. In this way, the heater pad 74 presses the chamber 50, the first member 36, and the second member 200 toward the housing (such as the inner housing 10) or a member (the member being fixed to the housing). This forms a seal between the flange portion 52a of the chamber 50 and the insertion guide member 34, so that it is possible to suppress the leakage of the aerosol generated by heating the consumable material 110 in the chamber 50 from between the chamber 50 and the insertion guide member 34 into the inner housing 10.

[0094] Furthermore, by configuring the heater pad 74 of an elastic member, the heater pad 74 fixed to the fixing portion 22 undergoes elastic deformation, so that it is possible to maintain the state in which the chamber 50 is pushed by the heater pad 74 within the inner housing 10.

[0095] Furthermore, since the heater pad 74 pushes the chamber 50 via the second member 200 and the annular member 72, the heater pad 74 and the chamber 50 do not come into contact with each other. This makes it difficult for the heat from the chamber 50 to be transferred to the heater pad 74, so that it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the heater pad 74 and also to suppress the heat loss from the chamber 50. From the same viewpoint, the annular member 72 is preferably formed of a material having a lower thermal conductivity than the heater pad 74.

[0096] As Figure 10 shown, the first member 36 is configured such that the shaft portion 36a passes through the opening in the fixing portion 22, and the fixing portion is fixed to the inner housing 10. The shaft portion 36a has a flat surface 360 on the side surface of the end portion on its negative Z-axis side. The fixing portion 22 has a flat surface 22a opposite to the flat surface 360 of the shaft portion 36a. The flat surface 360 of the shaft portion 36a is in contact with the flat surface 22a of the fixing portion 22, so that it is possible to prevent the chamber 50 from rotating relative to the fixing portion 22.

[0097] As Figure 9As shown, the second member 200 presses the first member 36 to the outside of the chamber 50 in a direction (axial direction) extending from the side with respect to the first member 36. Due to the frictional force associated with the pressing, the second member 200 serves as a stopper to suppress the positional displacement of the first member 36, particularly the axial positional displacement. In other words, the second member 200 can suppress the positional displacement of the first member 36 extending in the front and rear directions or one of the directions. The axial displacement of the first member 36 extending from the inside to the outside of the chamber 50, particularly the displacement of the first member 36 with respect to the chamber 50, may adversely affect the heating efficiency because, for example, an air flow channel based on the shape of the first member 36 may be formed inside the chamber 50. The second member 200 can also suppress such an adverse effect. The first member 36 can be fixed to the chamber 50 using an adhesive or the like, but there is a risk that the adhesion may weaken, for example, due to the degradation of the epoxy resin contained in the adhesive. The second member 200 can even suppress the above-mentioned adverse effect in such a case.

[0098] Figure 11A is a perspective view of the second member 200. Figure 11B is a plan view of the second member 200. Figure 11C is along Figure 11B The cross-sectional view taken along line 11C-11C in. The second member 200 includes a contact portion 210 that contacts the first member 36 and a base portion 220. The contact portion 210 is configured such that its end portion 211 contacts the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36.

[0099] The material of the second member 200 is not particularly limited as long as the axial displacement of the first member 36 can be suppressed. Since the contact portion 210 presses the first member 36 from the side of the first member 36 to suppress the axial displacement of the first member 36, the end portion 211 of the contact portion 210 needs to have high machining accuracy. From this viewpoint, the second member 200 preferably contains a metal, and more preferably is a metal member. The metal constituting the second member 200 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, stainless steel.

[0100] From a similar viewpoint, at least one contact portion 210 preferably includes a contact surface having a shape corresponding to the side surface of the shaft portion 36a of the first member 36. The contact surface (which is the end surface of the end portion 211 of the contact portion 210) is preferably configured such that there is substantially no gap between the contact surface and the side surface of the shaft portion 36a. In the example shown, since the shaft portion 36a is cylindrical, the end portion 211 of each contact portion 210 is formed with an arcuate end surface, and the radius of curvature of the arcuate end surface is the radius of the cross-section of the shaft portion 36a (see Figure 11B) Moreover, from the viewpoint of effectively pressing the shaft portion 36a, the second member 200 is preferably configured to contact the first member 36 from multiple directions. From this viewpoint, more preferably, the second member 200 has a plurality of contact portions 210 having shapes corresponding to the side surfaces of the shaft portion 36a.

[0101] The base portion 220 is a member that supports these contact portions 210. The base portion 220 can also serve as a connecting portion that connects the plurality of contact portions while supporting the plurality of contact portions 210. In the illustrated example, four contact portions 210 are formed in the second member 200, but the number of contact portions 210 is not particularly limited and can be one, two, three, or five or more. The base portion 220 is preferably annular. Configuring at least a part of the second member 200 to be annular in this way makes it easier to arrange the second member 200 around the first member 36, thus facilitating attachment. It should be noted that the base portion 220 does not have to be annular and can have, for example, a polygonal contour shape.

[0102] As Figure 11C shown, the base portion 220 is formed along the plane S10. At the same time, each contact portion 210 is a member that extends from the contact surface in a direction inclined with respect to the axial direction. In the illustrated example, the contact portions 210 are arranged along a conical surface. In this way, the contact portions 210 are formed to be inclined with respect to the plane S10 and the axial direction and can be elastically deformed in a direction perpendicular to the inclination (see arrow A10). Therefore, when the shaft portion 36a is inserted into the second member 200, the shaft portion 36a is pressed due to elasticity, enabling the shaft portion 36a to be fixed more stably. From this viewpoint, the second member 200 is preferably elastic. Additionally, the second member 200 preferably includes two parts that are inclined with respect to each other. If the second member 200 is made of metal, the second member 200 can elastically press the shaft portion 36a by means of the metal. It should be noted that the shape of the second member 200 is not particularly limited as long as it can press the first member 36 from the side to suppress the axial displacement of the first member 36.

[0103] As Figure 9As shown, the annular member 72 is disposed between the second member 200 and the chamber 50. By setting the second member 200 to contact the lower surface of the annular member 72, the orientation of the second member 200 is firmly fixed, and the positional displacement of the first member 36 can be more reliably suppressed. In addition, the annular member 72 allows for greater design flexibility. For example, the annular member 72 can be joined to other members and integrally pushed by the heater pad 74. The shape of the annular member 72 is not particularly limited as long as a through hole 72a is formed, and a non-annular member can be used instead. A member having a through hole 72a will be appropriately referred to as a third member, including cases where the member is not annular. It should be noted that the annular member 72 can be omitted from the second support portion 38, and the second member 200 can contact and support the chamber 50.

[0104] The chamber 50, the annular member 72, the second member 200, and the heater pad 74 are arranged in the stated order along the axial direction of the first member 36. Accordingly, the axial displacement of the first member 36 relative to the chamber 50 is suppressed, and the chamber 50, the annular member 72, the first member 36, and the second member 200 are integrally pushed due to the elasticity of the heater pad 74. Accordingly, the first member 36 can be stably fixed to the chamber 50, which is pushed by the heater pad 74. From the viewpoint of making the flavor inhaler 100 more compact, the second member 200 preferably contacts the annular member 72 and the heater pad 74, but the configuration is not limited thereto.

[0105] Next, an example of the structure of the first member 36 and the air flow passage during flavor inhalation will be described in detail. Figure 12A is a perspective view of the first member 36. Figure 12B is along Figure 12A the cross-sectional view of the first member 36 viewed in the direction of the arrow 12B-12B shown. As Figure 12A and Figure 12B shown, the first member 36 includes a shaft portion 36a and a flat plate portion 36b. As Figure 9 shown, the shaft portion 36a projects out of the chamber 50 through the second opening portion 56a of the chamber 50. One end of the shaft portion 36a is coupled to a substantially central portion of one surface of the flat plate portion 36b. The flat plate portion 36b has a shape that is substantially consistent with the inner surfaces 62a and 66a of the side wall portions 60 of the chamber 50 (in the cross-section of the chamber 50 shown in Figure 5A and 5B ). More specifically, the flat plate portion 36b has a flat surface portion 81 on the side opposite to the surface coupled to the shaft portion 36a, and the flat surface portion 81 includes a pair of straight portions 81a and an arcuate portion 81b connecting the pair of straight portions 81a.

[0106] The flat plate portion 36b is disposed inside the chamber 50 and can be fixed, for example, by means of an adhesive to the inner surface of the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50. In a state where the flat plate portion 36b of the first member 36 is fixed to the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50, the planar surface portion 81 is arranged to face the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50. The flat plate portion 36b constitutes the bottom wall portion of the accommodating portion for the consumable material 110.

[0107] The first member 36 further has a pair of ridge portions 83 on the planar surface portion 81. The pair of ridge portions 83 each extend substantially parallel to the straight line portion 81a of the planar surface portion 81 and are arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the illustrated example, the pair of ridge portions 83 are respectively provided on the straight line portion 81a, and a part of each ridge portion is also provided on the arcuate portion 81b.

[0108] The pair of ridge portions 83 have end surfaces 83a in their extending direction, side surfaces 83b facing each other, and upper surfaces 83c. The upper surface 83c is a support surface that supports the end of the consumable material 110 when the consumable material 110 is accommodated in the chamber 50. In this way, the positional displacement of the first member 36 is suppressed by the second member 200, and the first member is configured to support the end of the consumable material 110 accommodated in the chamber 50, so that the consumable material 110 can be supported more stably.

[0109] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the side surfaces 83b of the pair of ridge portions 83 are flat, and a straight groove portion 85 is formed between the side surfaces 83b. In other words, the groove portion 85 is formed in the upper surface 83c, which is the support surface for the consumable material 110. When the consumable material 110 is accommodated in the chamber 50, the groove portion 85 opens toward the end surface of the consumable material 110. The groove portion 85 defines a second air flow passage A2 that communicates with the end surface of the consumable material 110 accommodated in the chamber 50. The second air flow passage A2 extends along the bottom surface of the accommodating portion, and the bottom surface is formed by the first member 36.

[0110] As described in connection with Figure 7 When the consumable material 110 is disposed at a desired position inside the chamber 50, a gap 67 is formed between the consumable material 110 and the separation portion 66, and a first air flow passage A1 is formed between the consumable material 110 and the separation portion 66. The first air flow passage A1 extends from the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50 to the planar surface portion 81 of the first member 36.

[0111] When the user performs a suction action, the air that has passed through the first air flow channel A1 from the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50 and has reached the vicinity of the planar surface portion 81 of the first member 36 then passes through the second air flow channel A2 and enters the interior of the consumable material 110 from the end surface. The air that has entered the interior of the consumable material 110 can reach the interior of the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated within the consumable product 110.

[0112] Since the first air flow channel A1 and the second air flow channel A2 are formed inside the chamber 50, it is not necessary to provide a separate flow channel for introducing the air to be supplied to the consumable material 110 in the flavor inhaler 100, and thus the structure of the flavor inhaler 100 can be simplified.

[0113] In the present embodiment, since the axial displacement of the first member 36 is suppressed by the second member 200 and the groove portion 85 of the first member 36 defines the air flow channel, a more stable air flow channel is formed when the consumable material 110 is accommodated in the chamber 50, thereby making the inhalation more stable. In addition, since the groove portion 85 is formed in the upper surface 83c of the ridge portion 83 that supports the consumable material 110, the second air flow channel A2 communicating with the end surface of the consumable material 110 can be formed using a simplified structure.

[0114] The flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment includes: a chamber 50 in which a consumable material 110 is accommodated, the chamber 50 being provided with a first opening portion 52 into which the consumable material 110 is inserted; a first member 36 extending from the chamber 50; and a second member 200 outside the chamber 50 that presses the first member 36 from the side in a direction in which the first member 36 extends, thereby suppressing the movement of the first member 36 in the said direction. This makes it possible to suppress the positional displacement of the first member 36 extending from the chamber 50 in the direction in which the first member 36 extends, thereby allowing efficient heating of the accommodated consumable material 110.

[0115] In the flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment, the chamber 50 is further provided with a second opening portion 56a, and the first member 36 extends from the interior of the chamber 50 through the second opening portion 56a to the outside of the chamber 50. This makes it possible to suppress the positional displacement of the first member 36 relative to the chamber 50, thereby allowing more efficient heating of the accommodated consumable material 110.

[0116] The following variations are also within the scope of the present invention and can be combined with the above-described embodiments or other variations. In the following modification examples, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts having the same structure and function as those in the embodiments discussed above, and their descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0117] (Modification Example 1)

[0118] In the embodiments discussed above, the second member 200 is configured to inhibit the movement of the first member 36 disposed in the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50. However, the movement of the first member 36 is inhibited by the second member 200, the position of the first member within the chamber 50 is not particularly limited, and there is no need to define an air flow passage. The first member 36 may also be disposed outside the chamber 50 as long as the first member 36 extends from the chamber 50. Even in such a case, the second member 200 can inhibit the positional displacement of the first member 36 extending from the chamber 50, for example, by suppressing the displacement of the first member 36 in the direction in which the first member 36 extends, so that a decrease in heating efficiency can be suppressed. In this case, the first member 36 may be integrally formed with the chamber 50 as an accommodation portion, or the first member 36 may be configured to contact the chamber 50 to support the chamber 50.

[0119] (Modification Example 2)

[0120] The flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiments discussed above has a so-called countercurrent air flow passage in which air flowing into the first opening portion 52 of the chamber 50 is supplied to the end surface of the consumable material 110, but its configuration is not limited thereto, and a so-called underflow air flow passage may be provided in which air is supplied from the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50 into the chamber 50.

[0121] (Modification Example 3)

[0122] Furthermore, the heating element 42 is not limited to the resistive heating type and may be of the induction heating type. In this case, the heating element 42 can heat the chamber 50 by induction heating. Further, if the consumable material 110 includes a susceptor, the heating element 42 can heat the susceptor of the consumable material 110 by induction heating.

[0123] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modification examples, and various modifications within the scope of the technical concepts set forth in the claims, the specification, and the drawings are possible. It should be noted that any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or the drawings also falls within the scope of the technical concept of the invention of the present application as long as the functions and effects of the invention of the present application are thereby exhibited.

[0124] A flavor inhaler according to a first mode of the present invention includes: an accommodation portion in which a flavor generating article is accommodated, and the accommodation portion is provided with a first opening portion into which the flavor generating article is inserted; a first member that extends from the accommodation portion; and a second member outside the accommodation portion that inhibits the movement of the first member by pressing the first member from the side with respect to the direction in which the first member extends.

[0125] The second mode of the present invention includes the first mode, wherein the second member includes metal.

[0126] The third mode of the present invention includes the first mode or the second mode, wherein the second member is provided with at least one contact portion, and the at least one contact portion includes a contact surface having a shape corresponding to the side surface of the first member.

[0127] The fourth mode of the present invention includes the third mode, wherein the contact portion is a member extending from the contact surface in a direction inclined with respect to the direction.

[0128] The fifth mode of the present invention includes any one of the first mode to the fourth mode, wherein at least a part of the second member is annular.

[0129] The sixth mode of the present invention includes any one of the first mode to the fifth mode, wherein the first member is fixed to the receiving portion using an adhesive.

[0130] The seventh mode of the present invention includes any one of the first mode to the sixth mode, and further includes a third member, which is disposed between the receiving portion and the second member and has a through hole or a notch formed therein, and the first member is inserted into the through hole or the notch.

[0131] The eighth mode of the present invention includes any one of the first mode to the sixth mode, and further includes: a housing; and an elastic member, which presses the receiving portion, the first member, and the second member toward the housing or a member fixed to the housing.

[0132] The ninth mode of the present invention includes the eighth mode, and further includes a third member, which has a through hole or a notch formed therein, and the first member is inserted into the through hole or the notch, wherein the receiving portion, the third member, the second member, and the elastic member are arranged in the stated order along the direction in which the first member extends.

[0133] The tenth mode of the present invention includes the ninth mode, wherein the second member contacts the third member and the elastic member.

[0134] The eleventh mode of the present invention includes any one of the first mode to the tenth mode, wherein the receiving portion further includes a second opening portion, and the first member extends from the inside of the receiving portion through the second opening portion to the outside of the receiving portion.

[0135] The twelfth mode of the present invention includes the eleventh mode, wherein the first member is configured to support the end end of the flavor generating article received in the receiving portion.

[0136] The thirteenth mode of the present invention includes the eleventh mode or the twelfth mode, wherein the first member is provided with a groove portion defining an air flow passage inside the accommodation portion when the flavor generating article is accommodated in the accommodation portion.

[0137] A fourteenth mode of the present invention includes the thirteenth mode, wherein the first member has a supporting surface which supports a tip end of the flavor generating article accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the groove portion is formed in the supporting surface.

[0138] A fifteenth mode of the present invention includes any one of the eleventh to fourteenth modes, wherein the second opening portion is formed in a bottom portion of the accommodating portion.

[0139] A flavor inhalation system according to a sixteenth mode of the present invention includes the flavor inhaler according to any one of the first to fifteenth modes, and a flavor generating article.

[0140] List of Reference Numerals

[0141] 10: Inner shell

[0142] 36: First component

[0143] 50: Chamber

[0144] 52: First opening part

[0145] 56: Bottom part of the chamber

[0146] 56a: Second opening portion

[0147] 72: Ring member

[0148] 74 :Heater pad

[0149] 83: Ridge

[0150] 83c: Upper surface of ridge portion

[0151] 85: Groove part

[0152] 100: Flavored Inhaler

[0153] 101: Outer shell

[0154] 110: Consumable Materials

[0155] 111: Smokable materials

[0156] 200: Second component

[0157] 210: Contact part

[0158] 220: Base part

[0159] A1: The first air flow channel

[0160] A2: The second air flow channel

Claims

1. A flavor inhaler, comprising: a receiving portion in which a flavor generating article is received, and the receiving portion is provided with a first opening portion into which the flavor generating article is inserted; a first member extending from the receiving portion; and a second member outside the receiving portion, the second member suppressing movement of the first member by pressing the first member in a direction extending laterally with respect to the direction of the first member.

2. The flavor inhaler according to claim 1, wherein, the second member comprises metal.

3. The flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, the second member is provided with at least one contact portion, and the at least one contact portion includes a contact surface having a shape corresponding to a side surface of the first member.

4. The flavor inhaler according to claim 3, wherein, the contact portion is a member extending from the contact surface in a direction inclined with respect to the direction.

5. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, at least a part of the second member is annular.

6. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the first member is fixed to the receiving portion using an adhesive.

7. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a third member disposed between the receiving portion and the second member and having a through hole or a cut formed therein, and the first member is inserted into the through hole or the cut.

8. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a housing; and an elastic member that presses the receiving portion, the first member, and the second member toward the housing or a member fixed to the housing.

9. The flavor inhaler according to claim 8, further comprising a third member having a through hole or a cut formed therein, and the first member is inserted into the through hole or the cut, wherein, the receiving portion, the third member, the second member, and the elastic member are arranged in the stated order along the direction in which the first member extends.

10. The flavor inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, the second member contacts the third member and the elastic member.

11. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, the receiving portion further includes a second opening portion, and the first member extends from the inside of the receiving portion through the second opening portion to the outside of the receiving portion.

12. The flavor inhaler according to claim 11, wherein, the first member is configured to support a tip end of the flavor generating article received in the receiving portion.

13. The flavor inhaler according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, the first member is provided with a groove portion that defines an air flow passage inside the receiving portion when the flavor generating article is received in the receiving portion.

14. The flavor inhaler according to claim 13, wherein, The first member has a support surface that supports a distal end of the flavor generating article received in the receiving portion, and the recessed portion is formed in the support surface.

15. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, the second opening portion is formed in a bottom portion of the receiving portion.

16. A flavor inhalation system comprising the flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a flavor generating article.

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