Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system

Abstract

A flavor inhaler is provided. The flavor inhaler includes: a replaceable battery; a battery housing portion having an opening and housing the battery through the opening; a removable battery cover covering the opening; and a removable outer panel covering the battery cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a flavor inhaler and a flavor inhalation system. Prior Technology

[0002] Heated non-combustible flavor inhalers are conventionally known, which heat a material containing a flavor source to produce an aerosol or the like without burning the material. This type of known flavor inhaler includes a heating element for heating the flavor-producing article and a battery for supplying power to the heating element; the battery is replaceable (e.g., see PTL 1).

[0003] Citation List Patent documents PTL 1:CN 107373765 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues Although PTL 1 reveals a flavor inhaler with a replaceable battery, an improvement in aesthetics is needed to further enhance its quality.

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a flavor inhaler with an improved aesthetic appearance and a flavor inhalation system with an improved aesthetic appearance.

[0006] Solution to the problem According to a first aspect, a flavor inhaler is provided. The flavor inhaler includes: a replaceable battery; a battery housing portion having an opening and housing the battery through the opening; a removable battery cover covering the opening; and a removable outer panel covering the battery cover.

[0007] Based on the above aspects, by further covering the removable battery cover that covers the opening with a removable outer panel, the connection part of the battery cover to the battery housing part can be hidden, thereby enabling a flavor inhaler with an improved aesthetic appearance.

[0008] The width of the outer panel in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler can be greater than the width of the battery cover in the width direction.

[0009] In this case, by making the width of the outer panel in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler greater than the width of the battery cover in the width direction, the appearance of the flavor inhaler can be unified.

[0010] An additional component housing and a non-removable inner cover may be provided. The component housing houses the battery-powered component, and the non-removable inner cover covers the component housed in the component housing. An outer panel may cover the battery cover and the inner cover.

[0011] In this case, by further covering both the non-removable inner cover and the battery cover that cover the component with a removable outer panel, the connection portion of the inner cover to the component housing portion and the connection portion of the battery cover to the battery housing portion can be hidden, thereby improving the aesthetic appearance.

[0012] The length of the inner cover in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler can be less than the length of the battery cover in the longitudinal direction.

[0013] In this case, by making the length of the inner cover in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler less than the length of the battery cover in the longitudinal direction, the battery cover can be extended, thereby improving operability when changing the battery.

[0014] The inner cover, together with the components, can have a shape that covers the end face of the flavor inhaler in the longitudinal direction.

[0015] In this case, by having the inner cover, together with the component, have a shape that covers the end face of the flavor inhaler in the longitudinal direction, it is possible to prevent the user from attempting to remove the inner cover.

[0016] The inner cover may cover at least one of the heating part of the component for heating the flavor-producing article and the control part for controlling the operation of the heating part.

[0017] In this case, by covering at least one of the heating and control parts of the component with an inner cover, the important components of the component can be protected from impacts, etc.

[0018] The battery cover may have a magnetic material for attracting the outer panel, and the outer panel may have a magnetic material in a position corresponding to the magnetic material of the battery cover.

[0019] In this case, by having the battery cover have a magnetic material for attracting the outer panel, and having the outer panel have a magnetic material in a position corresponding to the magnetic material of the battery cover, the outer panel cannot be connected to the flavor inhaler if the battery cover is not connected to the battery housing, thus preventing the user from forgetting to connect the battery cover.

[0020] According to another aspect, a flavor inhalation system is provided, comprising: a flavor inhaler discussed above; and a flavor generating article used by being inserted into the flavor inhaler.

[0021] Based on the above aspects, a flavor inhalation system with an improved aesthetic appearance can be provided. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0022] [Figure 1] is a perspective view of the flavor inhalation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] is a perspective view of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] shows a cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler when viewed along the direction of arrow 3-3 in Figure 2. [Figure 4] is an exploded perspective view of the flavor inhaler. [Figure 5] shows a perspective view of the battery. [Figure 6] is a perspective view of the flavor-generating components. [Figure 7] is a perspective view showing the electrical connection between the battery and the flavor generating component. [Figure 8] is an illustrative view showing the process of removing the battery. [Figure 9] is another illustrative view showing the process for removing the battery. [Figure 10] shows another perspective view of the battery. [Figure 11] is another illustrative view showing the process for removing the battery. [Figure 12] is another exploded perspective view of the flavor inhaler. [Figure 13] shows a rear view of the battery panel. [Figure 14] shows an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the flavor inhaler. Implementation

[0023] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding parts are assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will not be given. For ease of understanding, the dimensions of parts in the following drawings have been appropriately altered.

[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a flavor inhalation system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a flavor inhaler 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flavor inhalation system 1000 is constructed by applying a flavor generating article 100 to the flavor inhaler 200, which includes a heating portion 40 discussed below. The flavor generating article 100 is at least partially received in the flavor inhaler 200 via an insertion opening 210.

[0025] For ease of description, an orthogonal XYZ coordinate system can be attached to the accompanying drawings described in this specification. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis is vertically upward, the XY plane is arranged to traverse the flavor inhaler 200 horizontally, and the Y-axis is arranged to extend from the side to the rear of the flavor inhaler 200. The Z-axis direction can also refer to the removal direction of the flavor-generating article 100, which is housed in the chamber 50 discussed below. Furthermore, the X-axis direction can also refer to the longitudinal direction of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100. The Y-axis direction can also refer to the lateral direction of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100.

[0026] The flavor inhaler 200 according to this embodiment is configured, for example, to generate a flavor-containing aerosol by heating a rod-type flavor generating article 100, which includes a flavor source containing an aerosol source. As an example, the flavor generating article 100 includes a puffable material on its end side along the negative Z-axis, the puffable material containing a flavor source (e.g., tobacco) and an aerosol source, and also includes a filter in another portion. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. The flavor generating article 100 is configured to be heated by a heated non-combustible flavor inhaler 200 to generate flavor. The flavor inhaler 200 is preferably a heated non-combustible tobacco type.

[0027] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the flavor-generating article 100 is described as a rod shape, but the flavor-generating article used in the flavor inhaler 200 is not limited to this shape. For example, the flavor-generating article may also be configured to contain a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol source. Furthermore, the cartridge may include a heater.

[0028] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the flavor inhaler 200 includes an upper member 204, a housing 410, an inner panel 510 (corresponding to an example of an inner cover), a battery panel 530 (corresponding to an example of a battery cover), an outer panel 520, and a cover 208. The movable cover 208 is disposed in the upper member 204. The cover 208 is preferably a sliding cover. The housing 410 defines a portion of the outer surface of the flavor inhaler 200, and the size of the housing is determined to fit the user's hand. When the user uses the flavor inhaler 200, the user can inhale the aerosol while holding the flavor inhaler 200 in their hand. The inner panel 510, battery panel 530, and outer panel 520 will be described later.

[0029] From the perspective of efficiently dissipating heat from the heating element 40 to the outside, the housing 410 is preferably formed of metal (such as aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), etc. However, the housing 410 is not limited to the above materials and can also be made of resin, for example, and any suitable material can be selected, such as, in particular, polycarbonate (PC), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin, PEEK (polyether ether ketone), or polymer alloys containing multiple types of polymers.

[0030] The upper member 204 includes an insertion opening 210 for receiving the flavor-generating article 100, and a cap 208 is slidably attached to the upper member 204 to close the insertion opening 210. Specifically, the cap 208 is configured to move along the outer surface of the upper member 204 between a closed position for closing the insertion opening 210 and an open position for opening the insertion opening 210 (positions shown in Figures 1 and 2). For example, a user can manually operate the cap 208 to move the cap 208 between the closed and open positions. In this way, the cap 208 can allow or restrict the flavor-generating article 100 from entering the interior of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0031] The upper component 204 preferably comprises at least one of a metal and a resin (such as PC). The metal contained in the upper component 204 can be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or an alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), etc. However, the upper component 204 is not limited to the above materials, and any suitable material can be selected, such as ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers. From the perspective of achieving a uniform aesthetic appearance, it is preferable that the material of the upper component 204 is the same as the material of the housing 410. Conversely, from the perspective of making the insertion opening 210 protrude, it is preferable that the material of the upper component 204 is different from the material of the housing 410.

[0032] In the flavor inhalation system 1000, air inhaled by the user is introduced into the flavor inhaler 200 through the insertion opening 210, flows through the chamber 50 in the negative Z-axis direction, and is supplied to the upstream end face of the flavor generating article 100. That is, the flavor inhalation system 1000 shown in FIG1 has a so-called counter-flow airflow path. It should be noted that the airflow path is not limited to the counter-flow type, and can also be a so-called bottom flow type airflow path, in which air is supplied into the chamber 50 from an exhaust port formed in the bottom portion of the chamber 50 and is supplied to the upstream end face of the flavor generating article 100.

[0033] The internal structure of the flavor inhaler 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler 200 as viewed along the direction of arrow 3-3 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 3, the power supply section 20, the atomizing section 30, and the control section 80 are disposed in the internal space of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0034] The control unit 80 includes a board 81. The board 81 may include, for example, a microprocessor, and can control the power supply from the power supply unit 20 to the atomizing unit 30. This enables the control unit 81 to control the heating of the flavor-generating article 100 by the atomizing unit 30 (heating unit 40). Additionally, the control unit 80 includes a communication element 82, such as a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The control unit 80 can communicate with external devices via the communication element 82.

[0035] The power supply section 20 includes a battery 21 electrically connected to a plate 81 of the control section 80. The battery 21 has two ends and a side connecting these ends together; for example, it is a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery or a non-rechargeable battery). The battery 21 is electrically connected to the atomizing section 30 via the plate 81. This allows the battery 21 to supply power to the atomizing section 30 to properly heat the flavor-producing article 100.

[0036] The atomizing portion 30 includes: a chamber 50 extending along the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 100; a heating portion 40 surrounding a portion of the chamber 50; a heat-insulating portion 32; and a generally cylindrical insertion guide member 34. The chamber 50 has a cylindrical shape to accommodate the flavor-generating article 100. It should be noted that the chamber 50 may also have a so-called elliptical shape, the major and minor diameters of which lie in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200. The chamber 50 is preferably formed of a heat-resistant material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and may be formed, for example, of metals (such as stainless steel), resins (such as PEEK), glass, or ceramics.

[0037] The heating element 40 is configured to heat the flavor-generating article 100. Specifically, the heating element 40 is configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 50 to heat the flavor-generating article 100 housed in the chamber 50. The heating element 40 may be a heating element that generates heat (i.e., its temperature rises) by means of electricity from the power supply 20. The heating element 40 may be a sheet heater, such as a membrane heater. The heating element 40 may be positioned to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 50, or it may be positioned on the inner surface of the chamber 50. Here, the length of the heating element 40 in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 10 mm. The heater constituting the heating element 40 may include a heating wire. The heater is disposed outside the chamber 50, which serves as a housing portion for housing the flavor-generating article 100, and the heater is configured to heat the flavor-generating article 100 from the outside of the flavor-generating article 100 housed in the chamber 50. Therefore, the flavor inhaler 200 is preferably an externally heated flavor inhaler.

[0038] It should be noted that the heating element 40 is an induction coil disposed in the flavor inhaler 200, and can be configured to inductively heat the receptor disposed in the flavor generating article 100. Alternatively, the heating element 40 can be a microwave radiation source disposed in the flavor inhaler 200, and can be configured to heat the microwave absorbent (such as water or glycerin) contained in the flavor generating article 100 by means of microwaves. Moreover, the flavor inhaler 200 can be an internally heated type, in which case the heating element 40 can be a needle-type or blade-type heater.

[0039] The heat insulation portion 32 is configured to surround the chamber 50 and the heating portion 40 and to suppress heat dissipation to the outside of the chamber 50. For example, the heat insulation portion 32 may be an aerogel. A heat diffusion member (such as a graphite sheet) may be disposed between the heat insulation portion 32 and the chamber 50. The graphite sheet is preferably formed of a material having a high diffusivity along the planar direction and a low diffusivity along the thickness direction. The heat diffusion member may be disposed between the heat insulation portion 32 and the heating portion 40 (such as a membrane heater), or it may be disposed between the heating portion 40 (such as a membrane heater) and the chamber 50.

[0040] The insertion guide member 34 is formed of a resin material (such as PEEK, PC, or ABS) and is disposed between the cap 208 (in the closed position) and the chamber 50. When the cap 208 is in the open position, the insertion guide member 34 communicates with the outside of the flavor inhaler 200, thereby guiding the flavor generating article 100 into the chamber 50 when it is inserted into the insertion guide member 34.

[0041] The flavor inhaler 200 may further include a terminal 90. The terminal 90 may be, for example, an interface for connecting the flavor inhaler 200 to an external power source. If the battery 21 is a rechargeable battery, connecting the external power source to the terminal 90 allows current to flow from the external power source to the battery 21, thereby charging the battery 21. Furthermore, data related to the operation of the flavor inhaler 200 can also be transmitted to an external device by connecting a data transmission cable to the terminal 90.

[0042] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the flavor inhaler 200. As shown in Figure 4, the flavor inhaler 200 includes a flavor generating assembly 300 (corresponding to an example of an assembly), an upper component 204, a terminal 90, a housing 410, a battery 21, and a panel portion 500. The panel portion 500 includes an inner panel 510, a battery panel 530, and an outer panel 520. In the example shown, the housing 410 consists of a single shell, but it can also consist of two or more shells. Moreover, in the example shown, the panel portion 500 includes three panels, but there is no particular limitation on the number of panels in the panel portion 500, and it can be one, two, four, or more.

[0043] The flavor generating assembly 300 includes a heating section 40 (FIG. 3) and a control section 80, and is powered by a battery 21. Preferably, the flavor generating assembly 300 further includes a chamber 50. The flavor generating assembly 300 has a base 310. In the flavor generating assembly 300, the atomizing section 30, the plate 81, and the flexible printed circuit board (FPC, FPC, FPG. 6), etc., are arranged on the base 310, which serves as a support or base. The flavor generating assembly 300 is configured such that each component is stably supported while ensuring electrical connection between components. The flavor generating assembly 300 is preferably rod-shaped to facilitate its insertion into the housing 410.

[0044] The housing 410 extends along its longitudinal direction and has a first end 414, a second end 416 on the side opposite to the first end 414 along the longitudinal direction, and a side surface 415 extending from the first end 414 side to the second end 416 side. A first opening 411 is formed in the end face at the first end 414, and a second opening 412 (corresponding to an example of an opening) is formed in the side surface 415. The first opening 411 and the second opening 412 are connected to form an opening. The interior of the housing 410 is divided into a first receiving portion 417 (corresponding to an example of a component receiving portion) and a second receiving portion 418 (corresponding to an example of a battery receiving portion). The first receiving portion receives the flavor generating component 300 through the first opening 411, and the second receiving portion receives the battery 21 through the second opening 412.

[0045] The flavor generating component 300 is housed in the housing 410 such that a plate 81 is disposed on the side of the second opening portion 412. Preferably, the plate 81 defines a portion of the surface of the flavor generating component 300 on the side of the second opening portion 412. This prevents the plate 81 or nearby components from contacting and damaging the housing 410 when the flavor generating component 300 is inserted into the housing 410. Furthermore, even if the communication element 82 (FIG. 3) is positioned close to the plate 81, the flavor inhaler 200 can be configured compactly because communication is unlikely to be obstructed by the housing 410. Additionally, the plate 81 can be accessed after the flavor generating component 300 has been inserted into the housing 410. For example, the plate 81 can be attached to or removed from the flavor generating component housed in the housing 410, and components can be added to or removed from the plate 81 by means of welding or the like.

[0046] In the flavor generating assembly 300, the atomizing portion 30, including the heating portion 40, is preferably disposed on the side of the plate 81 opposite to the side of the second opening portion 412. The heating portion 40 is preferably disposed on the side opposite to the second opening portion 412 relative to the central axis Ax2 (FIG. 6), which extends along the longitudinal direction of the flavor generating assembly 300. This allows for efficient heat dissipation from the heating portion 40 via the housing 410. More preferably, the housing 410 contains a metal (such as aluminum, magnesium, or titanium) or an alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), as this promotes heat dissipation.

[0047] The upper member 204 is disposed on the first opening portion 411 side of the flavor generating assembly 300. Preferably, the cap 208 disposed in the upper member 204 is movable in a coordinate system on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction between a position corresponding to the insertion opening 210 through which the flavor generating article 100 is inserted and a position corresponding to the plate 81. If a magnet that moves integrally with the cap 208 is disposed on the cap 208, a mechanism for detecting the position of the cap 208 can be compactly configured by disposing of a magnetic sensor on the plate 81. A terminal 90 is disposed on the second end 416 side of the flavor generating assembly 300. The terminal 90 is housed at one end of the housing 410 on the second end 416 side.

[0048] Panel portion 500 is configured to cover the first opening portion 411 and the second opening portion 412. Inner panel 510 is a generally L-shaped panel that corresponds to a portion of the first opening portion 411 and the second opening portion 412 connected to the first opening portion 411. In the example shown, inner panel 510 is configured to cover the heating portion 40 and the control portion 80 of the flavor generating assembly 300, and covers the first end 414, which is the longitudinal end face of the housing 410. By arranging inner panel 510 to cover the heating portion 40 and the control portion 80 of the flavor generating assembly 300, important components of the flavor generating assembly 300 can be protected from impacts, etc. Battery panel 530 is a panel whose shape corresponds to the remainder of the second opening portion 412 and extends along the longitudinal direction of the housing 410. Inner panel 510 and battery panel 530 are disposed inside outer panel 520.

[0049] The outer panel 520 is configured to cover at least a portion of the inner panel 510 and the battery panel 530. Preferably, the outer panel 520 is removably attached to the battery panel 530, etc. In the example shown, the outer panel 520 is attracted to the battery panel 530 by magnetic force, as discussed below. Additionally, the outer panel 520 has a protrusion 524, which, by inserting the protrusion 524 into a recess (not shown) in the upper member 204, provides a more stable hold for the outer panel 520 and facilitates its attachment. Here, the width of the outer panel 520 along the width direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of the flavor inhaler 200 can be configured to be smaller than the width of the battery panel 530 along the width direction. In this case, by making the width of the outer panel 520 smaller than the width of the battery panel 530, it is easier to hold the flavor inhaler 200 securely. Alternatively, the width of the outer panel 520 along the width direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of the flavor inhaler 200 can be configured to be greater than the width of the battery panel 530 along the width direction. In this case, by making the width of the outer panel 520 greater than the width of the battery panel 530 to cover the battery panel 530, the appearance of the flavor inhaler 200 can be unified.

[0050] For example, the inner panel 510, battery panel 530, and outer panel 520 can be formed of resin or metal. Each of the inner panel 510, battery panel 530, and outer panel 520 can be partially formed of resin and partially formed of metal. The resin contained in the inner panel 510, battery panel 530, or outer panel 520 is, for example, PC, ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy. For example, the metal contained in the inner panel 510, battery panel 530, or outer panel 520 can be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, an alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), or stainless steel. Here, in this embodiment, the inner panel 510, battery panel 530, and outer panel 520 are made of resin.

[0051] The upper component 204 has a first connecting portion 91 for connection to the housing 410, flavor generating assembly 300, inner panel 510, or outer panel 520. The first connecting portion 91 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other components, a fastening portion (e.g., a screw hole) for fastening with other components, a mating portion (e.g., a protrusion or recess) for mating with other components, or a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other components. Alternatively, the first connecting portion 91 may have a magnetic component (corresponding to an example of a magnetic material) or a magnet (corresponding to an example of a magnetic material) and may be attracted to another component by magnetic force. In the example shown, the first connection 91 is a claw portion and is configured to engage with the inner panel 510. The first connecting portion 91 enables more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0052] At least one panel included in panel portion 500 may have second connecting portions 514, 526. Inner panel 510 has a second connecting portion 514 for connection to upper member 204, housing 410, flavor generating assembly 300, battery panel 530, or outer panel 520. The second connecting portion 514 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a screw hole) for fastening to other members, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protrusion or recess) for mating to other members, or may have an adhesive surface for adhesive bonding to other members. Alternatively, the second connecting portion 514 may have a magnetic component or magnet and may be attracted to another member by magnetic force.

[0053] In the example shown, the second connection portion 514A has screw holes, and the inner panel 510 is configured to be fastened to the flavor generating assembly 300 and the housing 410 using screws along the X-axis and Z-axis directions. Therefore, the inner panel 510 is non-removable relative to the flavor generating assembly 300 and the housing 410. It should be noted that "non-removable" means that the connection is robust or complex enough to prevent removal by a user. The inner panel 510 can be connected by means other than screws, provided that the connection is robust or complex enough to prevent removal by a user. Furthermore, by configuring the inner panel 510 to cover the first end 414 (which is the longitudinal end face of the housing 410), it is possible to prevent a user from attempting to remove the inner panel 510.

[0054] The battery panel 530 has a second connecting portion 514 for connection to the housing 410, flavor generating assembly 300, inner panel 510, or outer panel 520. The second connecting portion 514 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other components, a fastening portion (e.g., a screw hole) for fastening with other components, a mating portion (e.g., a protrusion or recess) for mating with other components, or a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other components. Alternatively, the second connecting portion 514 may have a magnetic component or magnet and be attracted to another component by magnetic force. In the example shown, the second connecting portion 514A is a screw hole, and the battery panel 530 is configured to be fastened to the housing 410 along the X-axis using screws. Furthermore, the second connecting portion 514B is a magnetic component configured to be attracted to a second connecting portion 526, which is a magnet on the outer panel 520. The second connecting part 514 enables more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0055] Here, the battery 21 housed in the second receiving portion 418 of the housing 410 can be replaced by removing the screws and removing the battery panel 530. The battery panel 530 may have a protective member 531 (e.g., sponge or elastomer) on the side of the battery 21 to protect the connection between the electrical connector 213 of the battery 21 and the electrical connector 350 of the flavor generating assembly 300, discussed below. By providing the protective member 531, the connection between the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350, as well as the battery 21 itself, can be protected from impacts, etc. In the example shown, the protective member 531 provided on the side of the battery 21 of the battery panel 530 is schematically shown by dashed lines. It should be noted that the protective member is not limited to being provided on the battery panel 530; it may also be provided in another location, provided that it protects the connection between the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350.

[0056] Furthermore, the battery panel 530 is not limited to being completely removable. For example, the battery panel 530 can be configured to be connected to the housing 410 by a cord-like member and remain connected to the housing 410 by the cord-like member after removal. In this case, loss of the removed battery panel 530 can be prevented, thereby improving workability when replacing the battery 21. Additionally, the battery panel 530 can also be opened and closed by means of a hinge, or by means of a sliding mechanism. Furthermore, the battery panel 530 can have an exhaust port for discharging gases generated inside the battery 21, and a seal for closing the exhaust port. Furthermore, various indicators, such as standards and country of manufacture, can be displayed on the battery panel 530. Here, the length of the inner panel 510 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200 can be configured to be less than the length of the battery panel 530 along the longitudinal direction. In this case, the battery panel 530 can be lengthened, thereby improving workability when replacing the battery 21.

[0057] The outer panel 520 includes a second connecting portion 526 for removably connecting to the upper member 204, the housing 410, the flavor generating assembly 300, the inner panel 510, or the battery panel 530. The second connecting portion 526 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, a fastening portion (e.g., a screw hole) for fastening to other members, a mating portion (e.g., a protrusion or recess) for mating to other members, or a surface for applying adhesive for bonding to other members. Alternatively, the second connecting portion 526 may have a magnetic component or magnet and be attracted to another member by magnetic force.

[0058] In the example shown, the second connecting portion 526 is a magnet and is configured to be attracted to the magnetic member 514B of the battery panel 530. In the example shown, the second connecting portion 526, located on the battery panel 530 side of the outer panel 520 and corresponding to the magnetic member 514B of the battery panel 530, is schematically shown by dashed lines. It should be noted that magnets can be provided on both the outer panel 520 and the battery panel 530, or a magnet can be provided on one of the outer panel 520 and the battery panel 530, and a magnetic member can be provided on the other. The second connecting portion 526 allows for more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200. Furthermore, since the outer panel 520 cannot be connected to the flavor inhaler 200 if the battery panel 530 is not securely fastened to the housing 410, it prevents the user from forgetting to connect the battery panel 530. Additionally, a magnetic sensor can be provided on the plate 81, and when the magnetic sensor detects a magnetic field associated with the second connection portion 526 of the outer panel 520, the control portion 80 can assume that the outer panel 520 is connected and control the heating of the flavor generating article 100 by means of the atomizing portion 30 (heating portion 40).

[0059] Here, by adopting the configuration of the outer panel 520 covering the battery panel 530, since the connection portion between the battery panel 530 and the housing 410 (i.e., the second connection portion 514A of the battery panel 530) may be hidden by the outer panel 520, a flavor inhaler 200 and a flavor inhalation system 1000 with an improved aesthetic appearance can be provided. Furthermore, by adopting the configuration of the outer panel 520 covering the inner panel 510, since the connection portion between the inner panel 510 and the flavor generating component 300 and the housing 410 (i.e., the second connection portion 514A of the inner panel 510) may be hidden by the outer panel 520, an improved aesthetic appearance can be achieved.

[0060] As discussed above, the flavor inhaler 200 may include at least one panel of the panel portion 500 disposed on the side of the first opening portion 411 or the second opening portion 412 of the flavor inhaler 200, and at least one upper member 204 located on the side of the first end 414 and wherein a movable cap 208 is disposed. Therefore, the first opening portion 411 or the second opening portion 412, or both the first opening portion 411 and the second opening portion 412, can be covered, and the parts of the flavor generating assembly 300 exposed in the first opening portion 411 or the second opening portion 412, or exposed in the first opening portion 411 and the second opening portion 412, can be protected.

[0061] As shown in Figure 4, the flavor inhaler 200 may include a tactile switch 380 and a display section 390, which are electrical loads disposed on a plate 81. The tactile switch 380 has an on state when pressed and an off state when not pressed, and is configured to generate different electrical signals in the circuitry on the plate 81 in the on and off states. For example, the tactile switch 380 is configured to energize the circuit in the on state and not energize the circuit in the off state. The tactile switch 380 serves as an input section for receiving input from a user.

[0062] The display portion 390 has at least one of a light source (such as a light-emitting diode) and a screen composed of multiple pixels. In the example shown, the inner panel 510 has a through-hole 512 extending along its thickness direction, and the outer panel 520 has a window portion 522 at a position facing the through-hole 512 along its thickness direction. The display portion 390 is configured such that the translucent display window portion forming the light path is inserted into the through-hole 512, and is configured to emit light to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200 through the translucent window portion 522 of the outer panel 520.

[0063] The tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200. In the example shown, the inner panel 510 has a through-hole 515 penetrating along the thickness direction, and a button made of resin or the like is configured to protrude through the through-hole 515 on the outer panel 520 side. Furthermore, the through-hole 515 and the button are covered with silicone rubber from the flavor generating component 300 side, and the tactile switch 380 is disposed on the silicone rubber flavor generating component 300 side. The silicone rubber is elastically deformable and waterproof, and inhibits moisture from entering the tactile switch 380 and its surrounding environment. Moreover, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the outer panel 520 near the through-hole 515 is configured to be elastically deformable under pressure from the user. Therefore, when the user presses the outer panel 520 near the through-hole 515, the silicone rubber elastically deforms by the button, and thus the tactile switch 380 is activated. The tactile switch 380 is configured such that the pressure applied by the user causes the tactile switch 380 to switch between an on and off state.

[0064] It should be noted that, instead of or in addition to the tactile switch 380, the flavor inhaler 200 may include any interface that accepts input from the user, such as a button or touch panel. Furthermore, the form of the display portion 390 and the optical path is not particularly limited to the examples above, provided that the user can obtain information via the display portion 390.

[0065] Additionally, the flavor inhaler 200 is preferably waterproof. Specifically, it is preferable to place a waterproof pad, silicone rubber, or elastic component (such as an O-ring) in the gap at the connection between the housing 410, the inner panel 510, the battery panel 530, and the upper component 204, and in the gap at the contact portion between the inner panel 510 and the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390.

[0066] Figure 5 is a perspective view of battery 21. As shown in Figure 5, battery 21 includes battery pack 211, flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 212, electrical connector 213, and thermistor 214. Battery pack 211 has a cylindrical shape. It should be noted that battery pack 211 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and may also have a prismatic or cuboid shape.

[0067] FPC 212 is electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of battery 21, with one end extending from one end of battery 21. FPC 212 is not fixed to battery pack 211 and is at least partially flexible. Electrical connector 213 is a board-to-board (BtoB) connector and is electrically connected to the other end of FPC 212. That is, electrical connector 213 is electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of battery 21 via FPC 212.

[0068] Thermistor 214 detects the temperature of battery 21 and outputs a temperature signal via FPC 212. In the example shown, thermistor 214, built into battery 21, is schematically shown by dashed lines. Including thermistor 214 in battery 21 allows for reliable temperature detection of battery 21. It should be noted that thermistors are not limited to those integrated into battery 21 and can also be placed near battery 21.

[0069] Additionally, battery 21 may have tape, hooks, grooves, etc. (not shown) to support FPC 212. Tape is wrapped around battery pack 211 together with FPC 212 to support FPC 212. Hooks support FPC 212 by hooking onto it. Grooves support FPC 212 by accommodating it. The tape, hooks, grooves, etc., are provided to secure FPC 212 so that it does not move when using flavor inhaler 200. Additionally, battery 21 may have tape, hooks, grooves, etc. (not shown) to support electrical connector 213.

[0070] Additionally, the battery 21 may have hooks, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. (not shown) to support the FPC 340 of the flavor generating assembly 300 discussed below. The hooks support the FPC 340 by hooking it. The hook-and-loop fasteners support the FPC 340 by attaching to the hook-and-loop fasteners provided on the FPC 340. The hooks, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc., allow the FPC 340 to be secured so that it does not move when the flavor inhaler 200 is used. Furthermore, the battery 21 may have hooks, etc. (not shown) to support the electrical connector 350 of the flavor generating assembly 300 discussed below.

[0071] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the flavor generating assembly 300. As shown in Figure 6, the flavor generating assembly 300 includes an atomizing part 30 (heating part 40), a control part 80, a base frame 310, a support 320, a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 330, a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 340, and an electrical connector 350.

[0072] The flavor generating assembly 300 compactly integrates several parts of the flavor inhaler 200, enabling a compact flavor inhaler 200 and facilitating its assembly. While there are no particular limitations on the parts included in the flavor generating assembly 300, the flavor generating assembly 300 preferably includes a heating section 40 and a control section 80, and more preferably, it also includes a chamber 50. Since the chamber 50 is a relatively large component in the flavor inhaler 200, integrating the chamber 50 into the flavor generating assembly 300 allows the flavor inhaler 200 to become more compact.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, the flavor generating assembly 300 has a central axis Ax2 extending in the longitudinal direction. As can be seen from Figures 3, 4, and 6, the communication element 82 is located on the side of the second opening portion 412 of the central axis Ax2. This allows radio waves from the communication element 82 to pass more easily through the second opening portion 412, thereby further reducing the risk of communication being obstructed by the housing 410, etc.

[0074] The base frame 310 serves as a support for each component of the flavor generating assembly 300. That is, the atomizing section 30 and the control section 80 are attached to the base frame 310. Although there are no particular limitations on the materials constituting the base frame 310, the base frame 310 may, for example, contain resin (such as PC) or metal.

[0075] The bracket 320 is configured to hold members (such as plate 81) in place to prevent them from falling out. In the example shown, the bracket 320 is attached to the base frame 310. While there are no particular limitations on the materials constituting the bracket 320, the bracket 320 may contain metal (such as stainless steel). The bracket 320 may be configured as part of the cover plate 81.

[0076] One end of the FPC 330 extends from the component body (the atomizing section 30 and the control section 80 supported by the base frame 310), and the other end is connected to the terminal 90 (Figure 3). Therefore, the plate 81 is electrically connected to the terminal 90. The use of the FPC 330 allows the flavor generating component 300 to be lightweight and compact. Furthermore, the FPC 330 can be electrically connected to any electrical or electronic component of the flavor generating component 300.

[0077] One end of the FPC 340 extends from the component body. The FPC 340 is at least partially flexible. The electrical connector 350 is a board-to-board connector and is electrically connected to the other end of the FPC 340. That is, the electrical connector 350 is electrically connected to the board 81 via the FPC 340. In addition, the electrical connector 350 is electrically connected to the electrical connector 213 (FIG. 5). Thus, the battery 21 is electrically connected to the board 81, thereby allowing power to be supplied from the battery 21 to the board 81 and the heating section 40 to properly heat the flavor-generating article 100. Furthermore, the FPC 340 can be electrically connected to any electrical or electronic component of the flavor-generating component 300.

[0078] As can be seen from Figures 4 and 6, in the example of Figure 6, FPC 340 extends relative to the central axis Ax2 toward the side opposite to the second opening portion 412 (i.e., along the negative X-axis direction). In this case, electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected to each other on the side opposite to the opening face facing the second opening portion 412, which is parallel to the side of the battery 21. The connection between electrical connectors 213 and 350 at this time is referred to as a rear-side connection.

[0079] It should be noted that the FPC 340 can extend toward the second opening portion 412 of the central axis Ax2 (i.e., along the positive X-axis direction). In this case, the electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected to each other on the side of the opening face facing the second opening portion 412, which is parallel to the side of the battery 21. The connection between the electrical connectors 213 and 350 at this time is referred to as the front-side connection. Furthermore, the electrical connectors 213 and 350 can be connected to each other on the side facing the opening face of the second opening portion 412 and the opposite side (i.e., the lateral side), which is parallel to the side of the battery 21.

[0080] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the electrical connection between battery 21 and flavor generating assembly 300. Figure 7 shows the state where electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected using the front connection; outer panel 520 and battery panel 530 are omitted in the illustration. As shown in Figure 7, battery 21 is housed in the second receiving portion 418 of housing 410. Tape 215 is wrapped around battery pack 211 to support FPC 212. FPC 340 extends toward the second opening portion 412 towards the central axis Ax2. In addition, housing 410 is provided with a tab 419 attached to the second receiving portion 418, and battery 21 can be easily removed from the second receiving portion 418 by pulling tab 419.

[0081] Here, electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected to each other on the side of battery 21. By connecting electrical connectors 213 and 350 to each other on the side of battery 21, electrical connection between the positive and negative electrodes of battery 21 and flavor generating component 300 can be achieved through a single-location connection. This makes it possible to provide flavor inhaler 200 and flavor inhalation system 1000 with improved battery 21 connectivity.

[0082] Furthermore, electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected via board-to-board (BtoB) connectors. Using a BtoB connection to join electrical connectors 213 and 350 allows for a reduction in the size of the flavor inhaler 200 and achieves lower contact resistance compared to pin-to-terminal connections, for example, where the electrical connection is made at a single point. Alternatively, instead of a BtoB connection, electrical connectors 213 and 350 can also be connected via board-to-wire (BtoW) or wire-to-wire (WtoW) connections.

[0083] It should be noted that by extending FPC 212 from one end of battery 21 to electrically connect the positive and negative electrodes of battery 21 to electrical connector 213, and by extending FPC 340 from the component body to electrically connect the component body to electrical connector 350, the connection portion between electrical connector 213 and electrical connector 350 can be moved from one end of battery 21 to the side of battery 21.

[0084] Figure 8 is an illustrative view showing the process for removing battery 21. Figure 8 illustrates the process for removing battery 21 when the front connection is used to connect electrical connector 213 and electrical connector 350. First, as shown in Figure 8(a), the outer panel 520 and battery panel 530 are removed to expose battery 21. Next, as shown in Figure 8(b), electrical connector 350 is removed. The removed electrical connector 350 and FPC 340 are omitted in the figure. Then, as shown in Figure 8(c), battery 21 is removed from second receiving portion 418 by pulling tab 419. Tab 419 is omitted in the figure.

[0085] When electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected to each other on the side facing the opening of the second opening portion 412 (i.e., connected using the front connection), the operation of connecting or disconnecting electrical connectors 213 and 350 when replacing the battery 21 can be performed while the battery 21 is housed in the second receiving portion 418. Furthermore, making at least a portion of FPC 212 and at least a portion of FPC 340 flexible improves operability when replacing the battery 21.

[0086] It should be noted that when attaching a new battery 21, the process shown in FIG8 can be reversed to attach the battery 21. Here, by providing a protective member 531 on the battery panel 530 on the side of the battery 21, the connection between the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350, as well as the battery 21 itself, can be protected from contact pressure from the battery panel 530 when the battery panel 530 is screwed onto the housing 410. Furthermore, since the protective member 531 contacts the connection between the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350, the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350 are held in place, thereby improving the operability of connecting the electrical connector 213 and the electrical connector 350.

[0087] Figure 9 is another illustrative view showing the process for removing battery 21. Figure 9 illustrates the process for removing battery 21 when the rear connection is used to connect electrical connector 213 and electrical connector 350. First, as shown in Figure 9(a), the outer panel 520 and battery panel 530 are removed to expose battery 21. Then, as shown in Figure 9(b), the battery pack 211 is removed from the second receiving portion 418 by pulling tab 419. The removed battery pack 211 and tab 419 are omitted in the figure. Then, as shown in Figure 9(c), the plate 420 attached to the connection portion between electrical connector 213 and electrical connector 350 is removed. The removed plate 420 is omitted in the figure. Next, as shown in Figure 9(d), electrical connector 350 is removed. The removed electrical connector 350 and FPC 340 are omitted in the figure.

[0088] If electrical connectors 213 and 350 are connected to each other on the side opposite to the side facing the opening of the second opening portion 412 (i.e., connected using a rear-side connection), the operation of connecting or disconnecting electrical connectors 213 and 350 when replacing battery 21 can be performed when battery 21 (battery pack 211) is removed from the second receiving portion 418. Furthermore, making at least a portion of FPC 212 and at least a portion of FPC 340 flexible improves workability when replacing battery 21.

[0089] It should be noted that when attaching a new battery 21, the process shown in FIG9 can be reversed to attach the battery 21. Here, the second receiving portion 418 of the housing 410 may be provided with a groove 421 for supporting FPC 212 and a groove 422 for supporting FPC 340. Grooves 421 and 422 respectively receive FPC 212 and FPC 340, thereby supporting FPC 212 and FPC 340. Grooves 421 and 422 are provided so that FPC 212 and FPC 340 can be fixed so that they do not move when using the flavor inhaler 200. In addition, instead of grooves 421 and 422, hook fasteners or the like may be provided to support FPC 212 and FPC 340 respectively. Moreover, in addition to plate 42, the second receiving portion 418 of the housing 410 may also have grooves or the like that support at least one of electrical connector 213 and electrical connector 350.

[0090] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of battery 21A. As shown in Figure 10, battery 21A has electrical connector 213A instead of the electrical connector 213 shown in Figure 5. Other aspects of the configuration are the same as shown in Figure 5, and therefore their description is omitted. Electrical connector 213A is a board-to-wire (BtoW) connector and is electrically connected to the other end of FPC 212. That is, electrical connector 213A is electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of battery 21A via FPC 212. In addition, battery 21A may have tape, hooks, hook-and-loop fasteners, grooves, etc. (not shown) to support at least one of FPC 212, FPC 340, electrical connector 213, and electrical connector 350A discussed below.

[0091] Figure 11 is an illustrative view showing the process for removing battery 21A. Figure 11 illustrates the process for removing battery 21A when electrical connectors 213A and 350A, discussed below, are connected using a front-side connection. First, as shown in Figure 11(a), the outer panel 520 and battery panel 530 are removed to expose battery 21A. In Figure 11(a), one end of cable 340A extends from the component body of the flavor generating assembly, and the other end of cable 340A is electrically connected to electrical connector 350A. Electrical connector 350A is a board-to-wire connector. Electrical connectors 213A and 350A are connected in a board-to-wire (BtoW) manner by means of the board-to-wire connector. Connecting electrical connectors 213A and 350A together using a BtoW connection improves operability when replacing battery 21A and achieves lower contact resistance compared to, for example, a pin-to-terminal connection where an electrical connection is made at a single point. Here, instead of BtoW connection, electrical connector 213A and electrical connector 350A can be connected using either BtoB or WtoW connection.

[0092] Next, as shown in Figure 11(b), remove the electrical connector 350A. The removed electrical connector 350A and cable 340A are omitted from the figure. Then, as shown in Figure 11(c), remove the battery 21A from the second receiving portion 418 by pulling the tab 419. It should be noted that when attaching a new battery 21A, the process shown in Figure 11 can be reversed. Furthermore, the attachment of a new battery 21A can be detected from the power-on state.

[0093] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the flavor inhaler 200A. As shown in Figure 12, the flavor inhaler 200A includes a battery panel 530A (corresponding to an example of a battery cover), instead of the inner panel 510 and battery panel 530 shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the tactile switch 380 and display portion 390 shown in Figure 4 are attached to the battery 21 side (flavor generating assembly 300 side) of the battery panel 530A instead of to the plate 81, and the plate 81 has electrical contacts 83 that connect to the tactile switch 380 and display portion 390. Other aspects of the configuration are the same as shown in Figure 4, and therefore their description is omitted.

[0094] The battery panel 530A, together with the outer panel 520, constitutes the panel portion 500A. In the example shown, the panel portion 500A includes two panels, but there is no particular limitation on the number of panels in the panel portion 500A, and it can be one, three, or more. The battery panel 530A is a panel whose shape corresponds to the second opening 412 and extends along the longitudinal direction of the housing 410 to cover the second opening 412.

[0095] For example, the battery panel 530A can be formed of resin or metal. The battery panel 530A can be partially formed of resin and partially formed of metal. The resin contained in the battery panel 530A is, for example, PC, ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy. The metal contained in the battery panel 530A can be, for example, aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, an alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), or stainless steel. Here, in this embodiment, the battery panel 530A is made of resin.

[0096] Battery panel 530A has a second connecting portion 514 for connection to upper member 204, housing 410, flavor generating assembly 300, or outer panel 520. In the example shown, the second connecting portion 514A is a screw hole, and battery panel 530A is configured to be fastened to housing 410 along the X-axis using screws. Furthermore, the second connecting portion 514B is a magnetic component configured to be attracted to a second connecting portion 526, which is a magnet on outer panel 520.

[0097] The battery panel 530A may have a protective member 531 (e.g., sponge or elastomer) on the side of the battery 21 to protect the connection between the electrical connector 213 of the battery 21 and the electrical connector 350 of the flavor generating assembly 300. In the example shown, the protective member 531 on the side of the battery 21 of the battery panel 530A is schematically shown by dashed lines.

[0098] At least one of the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 is attached to the side of the battery 21 of the battery panel 530A. Here, the side of the battery panel 530A on the battery 21 side is not limited to the portion of the battery panel 530A covering the battery 21, but refers to the entire surface of the battery panel 530A on the battery 21 side. Therefore, the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 are not limited to the portion of the battery panel 530A covering the battery 21, but can be attached to any position on the entire surface of the battery panel 530A on the battery 21 side. In the example shown, the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 attached to the side of the battery panel 530A on the battery 21 side are schematically shown by dashed lines. The tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0099] The battery panel 530A has a through hole 512 extending along its thickness direction. The display portion 390 is attached to the battery panel 530A such that a semi-transparent display window portion forming a light path is inserted into the through hole 512, and the display portion is configured to emit light to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200A through the semi-transparent window portion 522 of the outer panel 520.

[0100] Additionally, the battery panel 530A has a through-hole 515 extending along its thickness direction. A button made of resin or the like is attached to the battery panel 530A so that it is exposed on the outer panel 520 side through the through-hole 515. Furthermore, the through-hole 515 and the button are covered with silicone rubber from the flavor generating component 300 side, and a tactile switch 380 is provided on the silicone rubber flavor generating component 300 side. The silicone rubber is elastically deformable and waterproof, and prevents moisture from entering the tactile switch 380 and its surrounding environment. The tactile switch 380 is configured to switch between an on and off state due to the elastic deformation of the outer panel 520 near the through-hole 515 caused by the user's pressing pressure, and the elastic deformation of the silicone rubber caused by the button.

[0101] Figure 13 shows a rear view of the battery panel 530A. Figure 13 shows the battery panel 530A as viewed from the negative X-axis direction. As shown in Figure 13, the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 are attached to the side of the battery 21 of the battery panel 530A along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200. Furthermore, a protective member 531 is provided on the side of the battery 21 of the battery panel 530A at a position corresponding to the connection portion between the electrical connector 213 of the battery 21 and the electrical connector 350 of the flavor generating assembly 300. It should be noted that the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 may be provided with a cover to prevent user contact, a cover to prevent the entry of foreign objects (such as water and dust), or a cover combining the corresponding functions of said cover.

[0102] Figure 14 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the flavor inhaler 200A. Figure 14 shows the electrical connection between the plate 81 and the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390. As shown in Figure 14, electrical contacts 83 are disposed on the plate 81 at positions corresponding to the tactile switches 380 and the display portion 390 of the battery panel 530A. It should be noted that this configuration is not limited to the configuration in which electrical contacts 83 are disposed on the plate 81, and separate electrical contacts can be disposed for electrical connection with the tactile switches 380 and the display portion 390. Furthermore, the electrical contacts of the tactile switches 380 and the display portion 390 can be grouped together at one location on the battery panel 530A using a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) or the like. In this case, grouping the electrical contacts together allows for a simplified configuration of the battery panel 530A. Furthermore, it is preferable that the electrical contacts are disposed at a position spaced apart from the heating portion 40 (Figure 3). The spaced-apart position mentioned herein is discussed below. In this case, distributing the electrical contacts at a position spaced apart from the heating portion 40 allows for protection of the electrical contacts from overheating.

[0103] The plate 81, tactile switch 380, and display portion 390 are configured such that by fastening the battery panel 530A to the housing 410, the electrical contacts 83 of the plate 81 and the electrical contacts (not shown) of the tactile switch 380 and display portion 390 are physically in contact with and electrically connected to each other. In this configuration, an electrical connection between the battery 21 and the battery panel 530A is established by covering the second receiving portion 418 with the battery panel 530A. That is, the electrical load disposed in the battery panel 530A has electrical contacts that are electrically connected to the electrodes of the battery 21 housed in the second receiving portion 418. This structure ensures that when the second receiving portion 418 is covered by the battery panel 530A, the electrical contacts of the electrical load and the electrodes of the battery 21 are electrically connected. It should be noted that at least one of the electrical contacts 83 of the plate 81 and the electrical contacts of the tactile switch 380 and display portion 390 can be, for example, a spring-loaded pin.

[0104] In this flavor inhaler 200A, the battery 21 housed in the second receiving portion 418 can be replaced by removing the outer panel 520 and unscrewing and removing the battery panel 530A. For example, the process for removing the battery 21 is similar to the process shown in FIG8, while the process for attaching a new battery 21 is the reverse of the process shown in FIG8, and therefore its description is omitted.

[0105] At this point, if an electrical load (such as a tactile switch 380 or a display portion 390) is located on the panel 81, the electrical load may hinder the replacement of the battery 21. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the removable battery panel 530A includes an electrical load, the electrical load is prevented from hindering battery replacement, and thus a flavor inhaler 200 and flavor inhaler system 1000 with improved operability can be provided during battery 21 replacement.

[0106] Furthermore, as an electrical load, the battery panel 530A also includes at least one of a tactile switch 380, a light source such as a light-emitting diode (display portion 390), and a screen comprising multiple pixels (display portion 390). It should be noted that instead of the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390, the battery panel 530A may also have a plate on which the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390 are arranged, and the plate and the flavor generating assembly 300 can be electrically connected. In this case, since the tactile switch 380, the light source such as the light-emitting diode, the screen comprising multiple pixels, and the plate are prevented from obstructing battery replacement, the operability during battery replacement can be improved.

[0107] Furthermore, since the electrical connection between the battery 21 and the battery panel 530A is established by fastening the battery panel 530A to the housing 410 (i.e., by covering the second receiving portion 418 with the battery panel 530A), no additional connection work is required when replacing the battery 21, and thus the workability during battery 21 replacement can be improved.

[0108] It should be noted that the electrical loads (such as the tactile switch 380 and the display section 390) are preferably located in the battery panel 530A at a position spaced apart from the heating section 40 (FIG. 3). Here, "spaced apart" refers to, for example, a position in the battery panel 530A spaced apart from the position closest to the heating section 40, a position sufficiently spaced so that heat from the heating section 40 will not cause malfunction, a position where heat from the heating section 40 will not directly reach or have little effect due to heat insulation materials, or a position that does not overlap with the heating section 40 in a front view of the flavor inhaler 200A. In this embodiment, the negative Z-axis side of the battery panel 530A is, for example, a position spaced apart from the heating section 40. In this case, the electrical load can be protected from overheating by being located at a position spaced apart from the heating section 40.

[0109] Furthermore, the electrical loads (such as the tactile switch 380 and the display portion 390) are preferably located in the battery panel 530A at a position spaced apart from the battery 21. Here, "spaced apart" refers to, for example, a position in the battery panel 530A spaced apart from the position closest to the battery 21, a position sufficiently spaced so that heat from the battery 21 will not cause malfunction, or a position where heat from the battery 21 will not directly reach or have minimal impact due to heat insulation materials, etc. In this embodiment, the positive Z-axis side of the battery panel 530A is, for example, a position spaced apart from the battery 21. In this case, by positioning it at a position spaced apart from the battery 21, the electrical loads can be protected from overheating.

[0110] Since the electrical load is preferably located in the battery panel 530A at a position spaced apart from the heating part 40, and even more preferably at a position spaced apart from the battery 21, in this embodiment, the electrical load (such as the tactile switch 380 and the display part 390) is preferably located between the heating part 40 and the battery 21, for example, along the Z-axis direction.

[0111] While embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are provided for ease of understanding and are not intended to limit the invention. Modifications and improvements can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit, and equivalents are included within this invention. Furthermore, components described in the claims and specification may be combined or omitted within the scope of solving at least some of the aforementioned problems or demonstrating at least some of the advantageous effects.

[0112] The following sections provide several aspects disclosed in this specification. A first aspect of the present invention is a flavor inhaler comprising: a replaceable battery; a battery housing portion having an opening and housing the battery through the opening; a removable battery cover covering the opening; and a removable outer panel covering the battery cover. In a second aspect of the invention according to the first aspect, the width of the outer panel in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler is greater than the width of the battery cover in the width direction. In a third aspect of the invention according to the first or second aspect, a component receiving portion and a non-removable inner cover are further provided, the component receiving portion accommodating a battery-powered component, the non-removable inner cover covering the component contained in the component receiving portion, and an outer panel covering the battery cover and the inner cover. In a fourth aspect of the invention according to the third aspect, the length of the inner cover in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler is less than the length of the battery cover in the longitudinal direction. In a fifth aspect of the invention according to a third or fourth aspect, the inner cover, together with the assembly, has a shape that covers the end face of the flavor inhaler in the longitudinal direction. In a sixth aspect of the invention according to any one of the third to fifth aspects, the inner cover covers at least one of the heating portion of the component for heating the flavor-producing article and the control portion for controlling the operation of the heating portion. In a seventh aspect of the invention according to any one of the third to sixth aspects, the battery cover has a magnetic material for attracting the outer panel, and the outer panel has a magnetic material at a position corresponding to the magnetic material of the battery cover. The eighth aspect of the present invention is a flavor inhalation system comprising a flavor inhaler according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, and a flavor generating article used by means of insertion into the flavor inhaler.

[0113] List of reference numerals 21,21A: Battery 40: Heating section 80: Control Section 100: Flavor-producing products 200, 200A: Flavor Inhaler 300: Flavor Generation Components (Components) 412: Second opening section (opening) 417: First receiving section (component receiving section) 418: Second housing section (battery housing section) 510: Inner panel (inner cover) 514B, 526: Second connecting part (magnetic component) 520: Outer Panel 530, 530A: Battery panel (battery cover) 1000: Flavor Inhalation System

[0114] 20: Power Supply Section 21: Battery 30: Atomization section 32: Insulation section 34: Insert guide component 40: Heating section 50: Chamber 80: Control Section 81: Board 82: Communication Components 83: Electrical contacts 90:Terminal 91: First connecting part 100: Flavor-producing products 200: Flavor Inhaler 204: Upper component 208: Capping 210: Insertion opening 211: Battery Pack 212:FPC 213: Electrical connector 214: Thermistor 300: Flavor-generating components 310: Base frame 320: Bracket 330:FPC 340:FPC 350: Electrical connector 380: Tactile Switch 390: Display section 410: Outer shell 411: First opening section 412: Second opening section 414: First end 415: Side View 416: Second end 417: First Reception Section 418: Second containment section 419: protrusion 420: Plate 421: Groove 422: Groove 500: Panel section 510: Inner Panel 512: Through hole 514: Second connecting part 515: Through hole 520: Outer Panel 522: Window Section 524: Protrusion 526: Second connecting part 530: Battery Panel 531: Protective components 1000: Flavor Inhalation System 200A: Flavor Inhaler 213A: Electrical Connector 21A: Battery 340A: Cable 350A: Electrical Connector 500A: Panel Section 514A: Second connection part 514B: Second connecting part 530A: Battery Panel

Claims

1. A flavor inhaler, comprising: A replaceable battery, a battery housing having an opening through which the battery is received, a removable battery cover covering the opening, and a removable outer panel covering the battery cover, wherein the battery cover has a magnetic material for attracting the outer panel, and the outer panel has a magnetic material at a position corresponding to the magnetic material of the battery cover.

2. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein, The width of the outer panel in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler is greater than the width of the battery cover in that width direction.

3. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a component housing portion that houses a component powered by the battery; and a non-removable inner cover that covers the component housed in the component housing portion, wherein, The outer panel covers the battery cover and the inner cover.

4. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 3, wherein, The inner cover is shorter in length in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler than the battery cover is in the longitudinal direction.

5. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 3, wherein, The inner cap, together with the component, has a shape that covers the end face of the flavor inhaler in the longitudinal direction.

6. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 3, wherein, The inner cover covers at least one of the heating portion of the component for heating the flavor-producing article and the control portion for controlling the operation of the heating portion.

7. A flavor inhalation system, comprising: The flavor inhaler as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, and the flavor generating article, which is used by being inserted into the flavor inhaler.

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