Extractor

Abstract

The present invention provides an aspirator, comprising: a piezoelectric element substrate, which has an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit, which supplies liquid to be atomized to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate configured with the comb-shaped electrode pair; a sensor, which has at least one pair of detection units opposed to each other and detects the liquid supplied to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate; and a control unit, which controls the liquid supply unit based on the detection result of the sensor to supply a certain amount of liquid to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an extractor. Background Art

[0002] At present, there is known an atomizing unit that generates SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) by using a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT (Interdigital Transducer) composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair to atomize liquid (for example, Patent Documents 1-2). In addition, there is also a technology proposed to use such an atomizing unit in a flavor inhaler (for example, Patent Document 3).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: (Japanese) Patent Publication No. 2012-24646

[0006] Patent Document 2: (Japan) Patent Publication No. 2016-513992

[0007] Patent Document 3: (US) Patent No. 2017 / 0280771 Summary of the invention

[0008] The first feature provides an aspirator, the gist of which is that it has: a first liquid storage portion; a second liquid storage portion; an atomization unit, which is constructed as a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair, and uses surface elastic waves generated by applying voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency to atomize the liquid; a suction nozzle, which guides the aerosol generated by atomizing the liquid using the atomization unit; the atomization unit is constructed to atomize the first liquid supplied from the first liquid storage portion and the second liquid supplied from the second liquid storage portion separately.

[0009] The second feature is based on the first feature, and its essence is that the first liquid and the second liquid are different liquids.

[0010] The third feature is based on the first feature or the second feature, and its essence is that the first liquid contains at least nicotine.

[0011] The fourth feature is based on the third feature, and its essence is that the first liquid further contains at least one of an acid, a flavor component, and a body sensory component.

[0012] The fifth feature is any one of the first to fourth features, wherein the second liquid contains a flavor component.

[0013] The sixth feature is based on the fifth feature, and its essence is that the flavor component contains at least one of menthol, limonene, citral, linalool, vanillin, carvone and their glycosides.

[0014] The seventh feature is based on the fifth feature or the sixth feature, and its essence is that the second liquid further contains at least one of a flavor component, a body component, an emulsifier, glycerin, propylene glycol, and ethanol.

[0015] The eighth feature is any one of the first to seventh features, wherein the nozzle has a first flow path through which a first aerosol generated by atomizing the first liquid mainly passes, and a second flow path through which a second aerosol generated by atomizing the second liquid mainly passes.

[0016] The ninth feature is based on the eighth feature cited from the third feature or the fourth feature, and its essence lies in that the first flow path is defined by at least a partially curved pipeline.

[0017] The tenth feature is based on the eighth feature cited from any one of the fifth to seventh features, and its summary lies in that the second flow path is defined by a substantially linear pipeline.

[0018] The eleventh feature is based on the eighth feature cited from the third feature or the fourth feature, and its gist is that an airflow accelerating member configured to narrow the first flow path is provided in the first flow path.

[0019] The twelfth feature is based on the first feature, and its summary is that a collecting member arranged in a manner for aerosol passing through the airflow accelerating member to collide is provided in the first flow path.

[0020] The thirteenth feature is any one of the first to seventh features, wherein the nozzle has a flow path through which the aerosol generated by atomizing the first liquid passes while rotating.

[0021] The fourteenth feature is based on any one of the first to thirteenth features, and its essence is that the piezoelectric element substrate has a surface on which the comb-shaped electrode pair is arranged, a back side arranged on the opposite side of the surface, and a pair of edges opposite to each other, and the suction device also has: a first liquid supply part, which is configured to supply the first liquid to one of the edges of the piezoelectric element substrate; and a second liquid supply part, which is configured to supply the second liquid to the other edge of the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0022] The fifteenth feature is based on the fourteenth feature, and its essence is that it has a cover, which is configured to cover the surface side of the piezoelectric element substrate, and the cover has: a first opening portion, which is configured to be directly above the one edge and allows the first aerosol generated by the atomization of the first liquid to pass through; a second opening portion, which is configured to be directly above the other edge and allows the second aerosol generated by the atomization of the second liquid to pass through.

[0023] The sixteenth feature is based on the fifteenth feature, and its essence is that the cover has an opening different from the first opening and the second opening, and the air flowing into the cover from the opening passes over the IDT and flows out of the cover from the first opening and the second opening.

[0024] The seventeenth feature is based on the fifteenth feature or the sixteenth feature, and its essence is that the piezoelectric element substrate has a configuration portion for setting the comb-shaped electrode pair, and the cover is configured to cover at least directly above the configuration portion and not contact the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0025] The eighteenth feature is any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth features, wherein the first flow path communicates with the first opening, and the second flow path communicates with the second opening.

[0026] The nineteenth feature is any one of the first to eighteenth features, and is gist of having a collecting member configured to collect a portion of at least one of a first aerosol generated by atomizing the first liquid and a second aerosol generated by atomizing the second liquid.

[0027] The twentieth feature provides an aspirator, the gist of which is that it comprises: a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit that supplies liquid to be atomized to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate provided with the comb-shaped electrode pair; a sensor having at least one pair of detection units opposed to each other and detecting the liquid supplied to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate; and a control unit that controls the liquid supply unit based on the detection result of the sensor so that a constant amount of liquid is supplied to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0028] The twenty-first feature is based on the twentieth feature, and its summary is that the detection part is provided separately from the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0029] The twenty-second feature is based on the twentieth or twenty-first feature, and its essence is that the piezoelectric element substrate has an edge to which liquid is supplied from the liquid supply part, the detection part has a convex part protruding toward the opposite detection part, and the interval between the edge and the convex part is 0.10mm~0.20mm.

[0030] The twenty-third feature is based on the twenty-second feature, and its essence is that it further includes a guide wall provided on the edge side of the piezoelectric element substrate, and the distance between the edge and the end surface of the edge side of the guide wall is greater than 0.25 mm.

[0031] The twenty-fourth feature is based on the twenty-second or twenty-third feature, and its essence is that the interval between the convex parts of the detection part facing each other is equivalent to the overlapping length of the comb-shaped electrode pair.

[0032] The twenty-fifth feature is any one of the twentieth to twenty-fourth features, wherein the piezoelectric element substrate has edges facing each other with the comb-shaped electrode pair interposed therebetween, and the sensors are provided on each of the edges facing each other.

[0033] The twenty-sixth feature is based on any one of the twentieth to twenty-fifth features, and is gist that the sensor is any one of a conductivity sensor, a transmitting and receiving sensor, and an electrostatic capacitance sensor.

[0034] The twenty-seventh feature provides a control unit for controlling the atomization unit, the gist of which is that the atomization unit comprises: a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit configured to supply liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate; the piezoelectric element substrate is configured to atomize the liquid by using surface elastic waves generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency, and the control unit is configured to periodically change one or both of the amplitude and frequency of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair.

[0035] The gist of the twenty-eighth feature, based on the twenty-seventh feature, is that the control unit is configured to modulate the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair based on a sine wave, a rectangular wave, a triangle wave or a sawtooth wave, and the modulation is one or both of amplitude modulation and frequency modulation.

[0036] The twenty-ninth feature is based on the twenty-seventh feature. Its summary is that the control unit is configured to change the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair so that the amplitude becomes a sine wave, a rectangular wave, a triangle wave or a sawtooth wave.

[0037] The thirtieth feature is based on the twenty-ninth feature. Its summary is that the control unit is configured to change the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair by alternately setting a period during which the high-frequency voltage is applied and a period during which the high-frequency voltage is not applied.

[0038] The thirty-first feature is based on any one of the twenty-eighth to thirtieth features, and its essence is that the duty cycle of the rectangular wave is set so that when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair, one or both of the following can be achieved: the piezoelectric element substrate is not damaged due to high temperature and the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization is suppressed.

[0039] The thirty-second feature is based on the twenty-eighth or twenty-ninth feature, and its essence is that the ratio of the length of the period changing along the first direction parallel to the amplitude and the ratio of the length of the period changing along the second direction opposite to the first direction in one cycle of the triangular wave are set so that when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair, one or both of the following can be achieved: the piezoelectric element substrate will not be damaged due to high temperature and the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization can be suppressed.

[0040] The thirty-third feature is based on the twenty-eighth or twenty-ninth feature, and its essence is that the ratio of the length of one cycle of the sawtooth wave to the amplitude is set so that when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair, one or both of the following can be achieved: the piezoelectric element substrate will not be damaged due to high temperature and the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization can be suppressed.

[0041] The thirty-fourth feature is based on any one of the twenty-seventh to thirty-third features, and its essence is that the frequency of the periodic change is greater than or equal to 50 Hz and less than or equal to 500 Hz.

[0042] The thirty-fifth feature provides a control unit for controlling the atomization unit, the gist of which is that the atomization unit comprises: a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit configured to supply liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate; the piezoelectric element substrate is configured to atomize the liquid using surface elastic waves generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency, and the control unit is configured to start supplying the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate from the start of applying the high-frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair to the start of a prescribed time.

[0043] The thirty-sixth feature is based on the thirty-fifth feature, and its essence is that the length of the predetermined time is set to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size due to atomization.

[0044] The thirty-seventh feature is based on the thirty-fifth or thirty-sixth feature, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to set the supply speed of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate to a predetermined value after the start of the supply.

[0045] The thirty-eighth feature is based on the thirty-fifth or thirty-sixth feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to set the supply rate of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate to zero after the start of the supply and gradually increase it to a specified value.

[0046] The thirty-ninth feature is based on the thirty-eighth feature, and its essence is that the length of time from when the supply speed changes from zero to when it reaches the specified value is set to suppress the generation of particles larger than a specified size generated by atomization.

[0047] The fortieth feature provides a control unit for controlling the atomization unit, the gist of which is that the atomization unit comprises: a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit configured to supply liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate; a sensor for detecting the amount of liquid to be atomized present in the piezoelectric element substrate, the piezoelectric element substrate being configured to atomize the liquid using surface elastic waves generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency, and the control unit being configured to control the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate based on the amount of the liquid present in the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0048] The forty-first feature is based on the fortieth feature, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to simultaneously start the application of the high-frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair and the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate.

[0049] The forty-second feature is based on the fortieth feature, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to start supplying the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate after the start of application of the high-frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair.

[0050] The forty-third feature is based on any one of the forty to forty-second features, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to control the supply of liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate in such a way that an amount of liquid to be atomized within a first specified range is present on the piezoelectric element substrate before the high-frequency voltage starts to be applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair.

[0051] The forty-fourth feature is based on the forty-third feature, and its essence is that the amount in the first predetermined range is set to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size generated by atomization.

[0052] The forty-fifth feature is based on any one of the forty to forty-fourth features, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to control the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate in such a manner that the supply speed of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate becomes a specified value or a specified change after the high-frequency voltage starts to be applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair.

[0053] The forty-sixth feature is based on any one of the forty to forty-fifth features, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to stop supplying the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate when the amount of the liquid to be atomized present in the piezoelectric element substrate is greater than the upper limit of the amount in a second prescribed range, and the upper limit and lower limit of the amount in the second prescribed range are respectively greater than the upper limit and lower limit of the amount in the first prescribed range.

[0054] The forty-seventh feature is based on the forty-sixth feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to restart the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate when the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate is stopped and the amount of the liquid to be atomized present in the piezoelectric element substrate is lower than the lower limit of the amount in the second specified range.

[0055] The forty-eighth feature is based on the forty-sixth or forty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the amount in the second predetermined range is set to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size generated by atomization.

[0056] The forty-ninth feature provides a program whose gist is to cause a processor to function as at least a part of a control unit having any one of the twenty-seventh to forty-eighth features.

[0057] The fiftieth feature provides an absorber, the gist of which is that it comprises: an atomization unit, which is configured to have a piezoelectric element substrate having a first IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair, and utilizes surface elastic waves generated by applying voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency to atomize liquid; and a control unit, which is configured to monitor the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair and apply voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a frequency determined based on the monitored resonant frequency.

[0058] The fifty-first feature is based on the fiftieth feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to apply a voltage to the comb electrode pair at a frequency selected from a plurality of different frequencies when monitoring the resonant frequency, and when the electric power reflected from the comb electrode pair is minimum, the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair is determined as the resonant frequency.

[0059] The fifty-second feature is based on the fifty-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to detect a first electric power reflected from the comb electrode pair when a voltage is applied to the comb electrode pair at a first frequency, and then detect a second electric power reflected from the comb electrode pair when a voltage is applied to the comb electrode pair at a second frequency that differs from the first frequency by a first value, and when the second electric power is smaller than the first electric power, apply a voltage to the comb electrode pair at a third frequency that differs from the second frequency by a second value that is smaller than the first value.

[0060] The fifty-third feature is based on the fifty-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely increase or decrease the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the reflected power from the comb electrode pair, and terminate the scan when the tendency of the value of the reflected power changes from decreasing to increasing, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair as the resonant frequency when the reflected power becomes minimum.

[0061] The fifty-fourth feature is based on the fifty-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely increase the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the reflected power from the comb electrode pair, and when the tendency of the value of the reflected power changes from decrease to increase, the frequency variation amplitude of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair is reduced and the frequency is discretely reduced.

[0062] The fifty-fifth feature is based on the fifty-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely reduce the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the reflected power from the comb electrode pair, and when the tendency of the value of the reflected power changes from decrease to increase, the change amplitude of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair is reduced and the frequency is discretely increased.

[0063] The fifty-sixth feature is based on the fifty-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to determine as the initially selected frequency a resonant frequency monitored before the start of atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit, a resonant frequency estimated based on the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate, or a frequency closest to the resonant frequency during previous suction, among the multiple different frequencies.

[0064] The fifty-seventh feature is based on the fiftieth feature, and its essence is that it also has a second IDT, which is configured to be arranged on the piezoelectric element substrate and receives the surface elastic wave to generate a voltage, and the control unit is configured to apply a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a frequency selected from a plurality of different frequencies when monitoring the resonant frequency, and the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair when the voltage generated in the second IDT is maximum is determined as the resonant frequency.

[0065] The fifty-eighth feature is based on the fifty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to detect a first voltage generated in the second IDT when a voltage is applied to the comb electrode pair at a first frequency, then detect a second voltage generated in the second IDT when a voltage is applied to the comb electrode pair at a second frequency that differs from the first frequency by a first value, and when the second voltage is greater than the first voltage, apply a voltage to the comb electrode pair at a third frequency that differs from the second frequency by a second value that is smaller than the first value.

[0066] The fifty-ninth feature is based on the fifty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely increase or decrease the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the voltage generated in the second IDT, and terminate the scan when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair when the voltage becomes maximum as the resonant frequency.

[0067] The sixtieth feature is based on the fifty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely increase the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the voltage generated in the second IDT, and when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing, the variation amplitude of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair is reduced and the frequency is discretely reduced.

[0068] The sixty-first feature is based on the fifty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to discretely reduce the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair while monitoring the voltage generated in the second IDT, and when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing, the change amplitude of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair is reduced and the frequency is discretely increased.

[0069] The sixty-second feature is based on the fifty-seventh feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to determine as the initially selected frequency a resonant frequency monitored before the start of atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit, a resonant frequency estimated based on the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate, or a frequency closest to the resonant frequency during previous suction, among the multiple different frequencies.

[0070] The sixty-third feature is based on any one of the fiftieth to sixty-second features, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to monitor the resonance frequency before or after the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit is started or finished.

[0071] The sixty-fourth feature is based on any one of the fiftieth to sixty-second features, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to monitor the resonance frequency after detecting a request to atomize the liquid.

[0072] The sixty-fifth feature is based on any one of the fiftieth to sixty-second features, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to apply a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a frequency determined based on the monitored resonance frequency during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit.

[0073] The sixty-sixth feature is based on the sixty-third feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to determine a frequency range including the monitored resonance frequency, and during the atomization of the liquid performed by the atomization unit, control the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair in a manner that varies within the determined frequency range.

[0074] The sixty-seventh feature is based on the sixty-sixth feature, and its essence is that it further includes a storage unit that stores the correspondence between the resonance frequency and the frequency range, and the control unit is configured to determine the frequency range based on the monitored resonance frequency and the correspondence.

[0075] The sixty-eighth feature is based on any one of the fiftieth to sixty-second features, and its summary is that the control unit is configured to monitor the resonance frequency during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit.

[0076] The sixty-ninth feature is based on the sixty-eighth feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to control the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair to change within a specified range during the atomization of the liquid performed by the atomization unit, and adjust the specified range in a manner including the monitored resonance frequency.

[0077] The seventieth feature is based on the sixty-eighth feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to control the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair in a manner that varies within a prescribed range during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit, and determines the monitored resonance frequency as the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair during the next suction.

[0078] The seventy-first feature is based on any one of the fifty to sixty-second features, and its essence is that it also includes a temperature sensor, which detects the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate, and the control unit is configured to obtain the temperature detected by the temperature sensor during the atomization of the liquid performed by the atomization unit, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair based on the detected temperature.

[0079] The seventy-second feature is based on the seventy-first feature, and its essence is that the control unit is configured to predict the change of the resonant frequency in the atomization of the liquid performed by the atomization unit based on the detected temperature, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair based on the predicted change of the resonant frequency.

[0080] The seventy-third feature is based on the seventy-second feature, and its essence is that it also includes a storage unit that stores the correspondence between the temperature and the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair, and the control unit is configured to predict the change of the resonant frequency based on the detected temperature and the correspondence. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0081] Figure 1 It is a figure which shows the flavor inhaler 1 which concerns on embodiment.

[0082] Figure 2 It is a figure which shows the atomizing unit 100 which concerns on embodiment.

[0083] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a plan view of the SAW module 30 as viewed from the front surface side of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0084] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a cross section of the SAW module 30 .

[0085] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the mechanism of aerosol generation.

[0086] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining the through hole 34 according to Modification Example 1.

[0087] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the partition wall 37 according to the second modification.

[0088] Figure 8 It is a diagram for explaining the partition wall 37 according to the second modification.

[0089] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining the hydrophilic layer 38 according to Modification Example 3.

[0090] Fig.10 It is a figure which shows the result of the 1st experiment.

[0091] Fig.11 It is a figure which shows the result of the second experiment.

[0092] Fig.12 It is a figure which shows the result of the third experiment.

[0093] Fig.13 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 5.

[0094] Fig.14 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 6.

[0095] Fig.15 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 6.

[0096] Fig.16 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 7.

[0097] Fig.17 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 7.

[0098] Fig.18 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 8.

[0099] Fig.19 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 8.

[0100] Fig. 20 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 8.

[0101] Fig.21 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 9.

[0102] Fig. 22 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 9.

[0103] Fig.23 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 9.

[0104] Fig.24 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 9.

[0105] Fig.25 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 9.

[0106] Fig.26 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 10.

[0107] Fig. 27 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 11.

[0108] Fig.28 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 12.

[0109] Fig.29 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 13.

[0110] Fig.30 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 14.

[0111] Fig.31 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 14.

[0112] Fig.32 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 14.

[0113] Fig.33 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 14.

[0114] Fig.34 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 15.

[0115] Fig.35 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 16.

[0116] Fig.36 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 16.

[0117] Fig.37 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 17.

[0118] Fig.38 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 18.

[0119] Fig.39 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 19.

[0120] Fig.40 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 19.

[0121] Fig.41 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 19.

[0122] Fig.42 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 20.

[0123] Fig.43 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 20.

[0124] Fig.44 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 20.

[0125] Fig.45 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 22.

[0126] Fig.46 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 23.

[0127] Fig.47 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 23.

[0128] Fig.48 It is a diagram for explaining the experimental results.

[0129] Fig.49 Yes means Figure 1 The illustrated perspective view is an example of the appearance of the unit of the flavor inhaler except for the sensor, the control unit, and the power supply.

[0130] Fig.50 yes Fig.49 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the unit is shown.

[0131] Fig.51 yes Fig.49 An exploded perspective view of the unit shown.

[0132] Fig.52 It is an exploded perspective view of the atomization unit with the first cover and the second cover removed.

[0133] Fig.53 is a cross-sectional view of the atomization unit.

[0134] Fig.54 It is a side sectional view of the suction nozzle.

[0135] Fig.55 It is a side sectional view showing another example of the suction nozzle.

[0136] Fig.56 It is a perspective view showing still another example of the suction nozzle.

[0137] Fig.57 Yes Fig.56 Schematic diagram of the suction nozzle with the separation portion and air outlet shown in cross section.

[0138] Fig.58 It is a side sectional view showing still another example of the suction nozzle.

[0139] Fig.59 Yes means through Fig.58 A schematic side view of the air flow of the suction nozzle is shown.

[0140] Fig.60 It is a side sectional view showing still another example of the suction nozzle.

[0141] Fig.61 Yes means through Fig.60 A schematic side view of the air flow of the suction nozzle is shown.

[0142] Fig.62 This is a graph showing the measurement results of the particle size distribution of the aerosol generated in Experimental Example 1.

[0143] Fig.63 A graph and evaluation chart showing discomfort in the throat.

[0144] Fig.64 Yes Fig.52 An enlarged view of an extracted representation of a portion of the atomization unit is shown.

[0145] Fig.65 Yes means Fig.64 A graph showing the relationship between the interval C2 and the amount of atomization is shown.

[0146] Fig.66 Yes means Fig.64 The graph shown is a graph of the relationship between the interval L1 and the amount of atomization.

[0147] Fig.67 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 26A.

[0148] Fig.68 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 26A.

[0149] Fig.69 This is a diagram for explaining modification example 26D.

[0150] Fig.70 This is a diagram for explaining modification example 26D.

[0151] Fig.71 This is a diagram for explaining modification example 26D.

[0152] Fig.72 This is a diagram for explaining modification example 26D.

[0153] Fig.73 This is a diagram for explaining Modification Example 26E.

[0154] Fig.74 This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0155] Fig.75 An example of a control circuit included in the suction device is shown.

[0156] Fig.76 Yes means Fig.74 A flowchart of a specific example of the processing performed in step 4004.

[0157] Fig.77 It is a specific description Fig.76 A diagram showing an example of a method of determining a resonance frequency in a process of.

[0158] Fig.78A Indicates that it is used to Fig.77 An example of the structure of the absorber of this modified example in which the resonance frequency is determined by a method different from the method described in .

[0159] Fig.78B An example of the arrangement of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown.

[0160] Fig.78C An example of the arrangement of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown.

[0161] Fig.78D An example of the arrangement of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown.

[0162] Fig.79 Yes means Fig.74 A flowchart of a specific example of the processing performed in step 4004.

[0163] Fig.80A This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0164] Fig.80B This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0165] Fig.80C This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0166] Fig.81A This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0167] Fig.81B This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0168] Fig.81C This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0169] Fig.82 This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device of Modification Example 27.

[0170] Fig.83 This is a flowchart showing a specific example of the processing performed in step 4814. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0171] The following will describe the embodiments. In addition, in the following drawings, the same or similar parts are marked with the same or similar symbols. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic diagrams, and the ratio of each dimension is sometimes different from the actual ratio.

[0172] Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined with reference to the following description. In addition, of course, the drawings may include portions where the relationship and ratio of dimensions are different from each other.

[0173] [Disclosure Summary]

[0174] As described in the background art, a technique for using an atomizing unit using a piezoelectric element substrate in a flavor inhaler has been proposed. The inventors have conducted intensive research and found that various studies are required when using a piezoelectric element substrate in an atomizing unit for a flavor inhaler.

[0175] The disclosed atomizing unit includes: a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; and a liquid supply unit configured to supply liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate. The piezoelectric element substrate is configured to atomize the liquid using surface elastic waves generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair at a high frequency (resonance frequency). The piezoelectric element substrate has the comb-shaped electrode pairs whose number is determined based on the desired aerosol atomized by the surface elastic waves.

[0176] According to the disclosed outline, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs is determined based on the desired aerosol. Therefore, in an atomization unit in which the power that can be supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs is limited, an appropriate atomization unit can be provided by improving the atomization efficiency of the liquid.

[0177] [Implementation Method]

[0178] (Aroma absorber)

[0179] Hereinafter, the flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 It is a figure which shows the flavor inhaler 1 which concerns on embodiment.

[0180] like Figure 1 As shown, the aroma inhaler 1 comprises: an atomizing unit 100, a liquid storage unit 200, a sensor 300, a control unit 400, and a power supply 500. The aroma inhaler 1 comprises a housing 1X for accommodating the atomizing unit 100, the liquid storage unit 200, the sensor 300, the control unit 400, and the power supply 500. Figure 1 As shown, the housing 1X may have a rectangular box shape or a cylindrical shape. The aroma inhaler 1 has a chamber 1C connected from the inlet 1A to the outlet 1B. A nozzle 1D may also be provided at the outlet 1B. The nozzle 1D may also be integrated with the housing 1X or separated from the housing 1X. The nozzle 1D may also have a filter.

[0181] The atomizing unit 100 atomizes the liquid to be atomized supplied from the liquid storage unit 200. The atomizing unit 100 atomizes the liquid using a surface acoustic wave (SAW). The atomizing unit 100 may also be a detachable cartridge. The details of the atomizing unit 100 will be described later.

[0182] The liquid storage part 200 stores liquid. The liquid storage part 200 may also be a detachable cigarette cartridge. The liquid storage part 200 may also be a structure integrated with the atomization unit 100. The liquid may also contain solvents such as water, glycerin, propylene glycol, and ethanol. The liquid may also contain a solute (flavor component) that contributes to at least one of the aroma and taste. The flavor component may also include a volatile component and a non-volatile component. The volatile component is generally a component used as a fragrance. The volatile component may also be a component derived from a plant or a synthetic component. For example, the volatile component is menthol, limonene, linalool, vanilla extract, tobacco extract, etc. The non-volatile component may also be a component that contributes to the taste. For example, the non-volatile component is sugars such as glucose, fructose, sucrose, and lactose, bitter substances such as tannin, catechins, and naringin, acids such as malic acid and citric acid, salts, etc. The liquid may also be in a state of emulsification by an emulsifier or in a state of suspension by a dispersant. The liquid may contain water-soluble flavors and ionic substances that are insoluble in glycerin and propylene glycol but soluble in water.

[0183] When the liquid storage unit 200 is a cartridge, and the SAW module described later has two or more through holes, liquid can be supplied from one cartridge to the two or more through holes, or liquid can be supplied from two or more cartridges to the two or more through holes separately. When more than two cartridges are provided, each cartridge can also store different types of liquids. For example, the first cartridge can store volatile components, and the second cartridge can store non-volatile components.

[0184] When the liquid storage part 200 is a cartridge, the cartridge may also integrally include the above-mentioned mouthpiece 1D. According to this structure, the mouthpiece 1D is also replaced with the replacement of the cartridge, so that the hygiene of the mouthpiece 1D is maintained.

[0185] When the liquid storage unit 200 is a cartridge, the cartridge may be a disposable type or a reusable type. The reusable type is a type in which the user refills the cartridge with the liquid he likes.

[0186] The sensor 300 detects the user's puffing action. For example, the sensor 300 detects the flow of gas passing through the chamber 1C. For example, the sensor 300 is a flow sensor. The flow sensor includes an orifice configured in the chamber 1C. The flow sensor monitors the differential pressure between the upstream of the orifice and the downstream of the orifice, and detects the flow of air through the monitored differential pressure.

[0187] The control unit 400 is composed of a processor and a memory, etc., and controls each structure provided in the flavor inhaler 1. The control unit 400 can also be an article that is detachably constructed. For example, the control unit 400 specifies the start of the suction action based on the detection result of the sensor 300. The control unit 400 can also start the atomization action of the atomization unit 100 based on the start of the suction action. The control unit 400 can also specify the stop of the suction action based on the detection result of the sensor 300. The control unit 400 can also stop the atomization action of the atomization unit 100 based on the stop of the suction action. The control unit 400 can also stop the atomization action of the atomization unit 100 when a constant period has passed since the start of the suction action.

[0188] In the embodiment, the control unit 400 may also include a voltage-frequency control circuit for controlling the SAW module described later. The voltage-frequency adjustment circuit controls the frequency and magnitude of the power (e.g., AC voltage) supplied to the SAW module 30 as the atomization operation of the atomization unit 100. However, as described later, the voltage-frequency adjustment circuit may also be provided on the drive circuit substrate 20.

[0189] The power source 500 supplies power for driving the aroma inhaler 1. The power source 500 may be a primary battery such as manganese, alkali, oxygen-containing compound, nickel, nickel-manganese, lithium, etc., or a secondary battery such as nickel-cadmium battery, nickel-hydrogen battery, lithium battery, etc. The power source 500 may also be a detachable article.

[0190] (Atomization unit)

[0191] Hereinafter, the atomizing unit according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 2 It is a figure which shows the atomizing unit 100 which concerns on embodiment.

[0192] like Figure 2 As shown, the atomizing unit 100 includes a housing 10 , a driving circuit substrate 20 , a SAW module 30 , a sealing plate 40 , and a top cover 50 .

[0193] The housing 10 accommodates the drive circuit board 20, the SAW module 30, and the sealing plate 40. The housing 10 may accommodate a container for accommodating liquid to be atomized, or a liquid supply unit (for example, a syringe pump) for supplying liquid to the SAW module 30.

[0194] The drive circuit substrate 20 has a drive circuit for driving the SAW module 30. The drive circuit substrate 20 may also be considered to include a portion of the control unit 400 (e.g., a voltage / frequency control circuit). Alternatively, the drive circuit substrate 20 may also be considered to be a portion of the control unit 400. For example, the drive circuit drives the SAW module 30 using power supplied from the power supply 500. The drive circuit controls the frequency and magnitude of the power (e.g., AC voltage) supplied to the SAW module 30. The drive circuit may also control the amount of liquid supplied to the SAW module 30.

[0195] As described later, the SAW module 30 includes a piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of at least one comb-shaped electrode pair. The details of the SAW module 30 will be described later (see Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

[0196] The sealing plate 40 is a plate-shaped member disposed on the driving circuit substrate 20 and the SAW module 30. The driving circuit substrate 20 and the SAW module 30 are disposed between the housing 10 and the sealing plate 40. The sealing plate 40 has an opening 41 that exposes at least the piezoelectric element substrate. For example, the sealing plate 40 is made of stainless steel.

[0197] The top cover 50 is arranged on the sealing plate 40. The top cover 50 has an inlet 51 and an outlet 52, and has an air flow path from the inlet 51 to the outlet 52. The aerosol is discharged from the SAW module 30 to the outlet 52 through the air flow from the inlet 51 to the outlet 52. The top cover 50 may also have an O-ring 53 for improving the air tightness of the air flow path. For example, the top cover 50 is made of a resin such as polycarbonate having heat resistance, and the O-ring 53 may also be made of a resin such as silicone having elasticity. The position of the outlet 52 is arbitrary, but it may also be set directly above the opening 41 of the sealing plate 40. According to this structure, the aerosol generated from the SAW module 30 directly above can be effectively guided, and the flow path of the aerosol can be shortened. The outlet 52 may also have a filter.

[0198] (SAW module)

[0199] Hereinafter, a SAW module according to an embodiment will be described. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a plan view of the SAW module 30 as viewed from the front surface side of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 . Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a cross section of the SAW module 30 .

[0200] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the SAW module 30 has a piezoelectric element substrate 31, an electrode (IDT composed of a main body 32 and a comb-shaped electrode pair 33), a through hole 34, and a heat dissipation mechanism 35. The piezoelectric element substrate 31 is configured to atomize the liquid using SAW generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a high frequency (resonance frequency).

[0201] The piezoelectric element substrate 31 has a surface 31F on which the main body portion 32 and the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 are arranged, and a back surface 31B provided on the opposite side of the surface 31F. The piezoelectric element substrate 31 includes a piezoelectric body that expands and contracts by applying a voltage. In the piezoelectric element substrate 31, the portion on which the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is arranged is sometimes referred to as a configuration portion 30A. The piezoelectric body only needs to constitute at least the surface 31F. As the piezoelectric body, a known piezoelectric body composed of ceramics such as quartz, barium titanate, and lithium niobate can be used.

[0202] The main body portion 32 is electrically connected to the power source 500. The main body portion 32 includes a first main body portion 32A integral with a first comb-shaped electrode 33A as one of the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33, and a second main body portion 32B integral with a second comb-shaped electrode 33B as the other of the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33. The first main body portion 32A and the second main body portion 32B are arranged with the arrangement portion 30A sandwiched in a direction B orthogonal to the traveling direction A of the SAW. The power output from the battery is supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 through the main body portion 32.

[0203] The comb-shaped electrode pair 33 includes a first comb-shaped electrode 33A and a second comb-shaped electrode 33B. The first comb-shaped electrode 33A and the second comb-shaped electrode 33B are alternately arranged in the traveling direction A of the SAW. The first comb-shaped electrode 33A has a shape extending from the first main body portion 32A along the orthogonal direction B. The second comb-shaped electrode 33B has a shape extending from the second main body portion 32B along the orthogonal direction B. For example, the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is made of a gold-plated metal or the like.

[0204] The through hole 34 is a hole that penetrates the piezoelectric element substrate 31 from the back surface 31B to the surface 31F. The through hole 34 forms a flow path that guides the liquid from the back surface 31B to the surface 31F. When viewed from the side of the surface 31F, the through hole 34 has a maximum width W in the direction A of the SAW. MAX and the maximum length L in the orthogonal direction B MAX . Maximum length L MAX Than the maximum width W MAXIn other words, the through hole 34 has a shape that is long in the orthogonal direction B (for example, an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape). When the through hole 34 is an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape, the long side axis of the through hole 34 only needs to be along the orthogonal direction B. Along the orthogonal direction B, the long side axis of the through hole 34 only needs to be inclined by less than 45° relative to the orthogonal direction B. The maximum length L MAX It is preferable that the length of the arrangement portion 30A (for example, the overlapping portion of the first comb-shaped electrode 33A and the second comb-shaped electrode 33B) in the orthogonal direction B be greater. Figure 3 As shown, the through holes 34 preferably include at least two through holes sandwiching the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. According to this structure, the interaction between the SAW and the liquid is increased, and the amount of liquid atomized by the same electric power is increased.

[0205] The heat dissipation mechanism 35 is a mechanism configured to absorb heat generated by reflection of surface elastic waves at the end of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The heat dissipation mechanism 35 includes at least one of a heat dissipation layer and a Peltier element made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The heat dissipation mechanism 35 has a through hole 35A that is continuous with the through hole 34. The through hole 35A is a hole for guiding liquid to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. Figure 4 In the example shown, the heat dissipation mechanism 35 is a heat dissipation layer disposed on the back side 31B of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the heat dissipation mechanism 35 only needs to be in contact with the piezoelectric element substrate 31, and can also be disposed on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The heat dissipation mechanism 35 can also be a Peltier element. The heat dissipation mechanism 35 can also include both a heat dissipation layer and a Peltier element. For example, as the heat dissipation layer, metals such as aluminum, copper, and iron can also be used, and carbon, aluminum nitride, and ceramics can also be used. For example, the Peltier element can also be attached to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 using an adhesive (grease, epoxy resin, metal paste). The thermal conductivity of the adhesive is preferably higher than 0.1 W / m / K. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the adhesive is preferably higher than 0.5 W / m / K. The thinner the adhesive layer, the better, and a thinner adhesive layer can be achieved by screen printing.

[0206] like Figure 4 As shown, a liquid supply unit 60 configured to supply liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is provided on the back surface 31B side of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The liquid supply unit 60 supplies liquid to the front surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 via the through hole 34 and the through hole 35A.

[0207] For example, the liquid supply unit 60 is a syringe pump. In this case, the through hole 34 and the through hole 35A constitute a flow path for the liquid. The syringe pump may be a manual type or an electric type.

[0208] Figure 4In the example, the liquid supply part 60 is a syringe pump, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the liquid supply part 60 can also be a component that supplies liquid through capillary phenomenon. In this case, the liquid supply part 60 includes a capillary component that sucks up the liquid, and the through hole 34 and the through hole 35A constitute a hole for the capillary component to pass through. The first end of the capillary component at least reaches the liquid storage part 200, and the second end of the capillary component reaches the SAW module 30. The capillary component is arranged on at least a part of the cross section of the through hole 34 and the through hole 35A. The capillary component can also be composed of at least any one of a fibrous material derived from nature, a fibrous material derived from plants, and a synthetic fiber material. For example, the fibrous material derived from nature can also be at least any one of dried plants, cut pieces of dried plants, cut pieces of tobacco leaves, dried fruits, cut pieces of dried fruits, dried vegetables, and cut pieces of dried vegetables. For example, the fibrous material derived from plants can also be at least any one of defatted cotton and hemp fibers. The capillary member may be a cut piece of dried plant material formed into a sheet, such as a cut piece of filter paper or tobacco sheet.

[0209] In addition, the liquid supply unit 60 may be a combination of a syringe pump and a capillary component. When the remaining amount of the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 200 is above a threshold value, the liquid may be supplied by the capillary component, and when the remaining amount of the liquid is below the threshold value, the liquid may be supplied by the syringe pump. The syringe pump and the capillary component may be used separately based on a predetermined reference by the control unit 400.

[0210] When the liquid storage unit 200 is a cartridge, the liquid supply unit 60 can also automatically supply liquid to the SAW module 30 according to the assembly of the cartridge. When a power switch for driving the flavor inhaler 1 is provided, the liquid supply unit 60 can also automatically supply liquid to the SAW module 30 according to the turning on of the power switch.

[0211] like Figure 4 As shown, the SAW module 30 may also include a coating 36. The coating 36 may cover the entire piezoelectric element substrate 31, or may cover a portion of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The coating 36 may also be provided on the inner side of the through hole 34. According to this structure, the contact of the liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 can be suppressed. In addition, by appropriately stacking the coating material, the coating 36 may be provided on the inner side of the through hole 35A in addition to the inner side of the through hole 34. According to this structure, the contact of the liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 can be further suppressed.

[0212] The coating layer 36 may be made of any material that can suppress the modification of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 caused by the adhesion of the liquid. For example, the coating layer 36 may be made of a polymer material such as polypropylene and polyethylene. The coating layer 36 may also be made of a metal, carbon, Teflon (registered trademark), glass, polyparaxylene, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, or a ceramic material such as silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, or aluminum oxide.

[0213] Under such a premise, the piezoelectric element substrate 31 has a number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 determined based on the desired aerosol atomized by SAW. Specifically, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is determined based on the atomization efficiency of the aerosol atomized by SAW. The interval between adjacent electrodes included in the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the width of the electrodes in the traveling direction are determined by the frequency set based on the desired particle size of the aerosol atomized by SAW.

[0214] Here, the desired aerosol is an aerosol containing a desired particle size at the peak of the number concentration. The atomization efficiency is the level of the number concentration of the aerosol when the power supplied to the comb electrode pair 33 is constant. The number concentration is the number of particles contained in the aerosol per unit volume. For example, the number concentration of submicron droplets is 10 8 Pieces / cm 3 above.

[0215] In the embodiment, the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is provided by a battery provided in the flavor inhaler having the atomization unit 100. In this environment, the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is preferably 3W or more. With a power of 3W or more, atomization of the liquid is appropriately generated. On the other hand, the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is preferably 10W or less. With a power of 10W or less, it is possible to appropriately control the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 while suppressing overheating of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, the piezoelectric element substrate, and the liquid under the constraints of the power and capacity that can be supplied by the battery.

[0216] Generally speaking, the reduction of the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 can suppress the overheating of the SAW module 30, but it also causes a reduction in the amount of aerosol. Under such a premise, from the perspective of suppressing the overheating of the SAW module 30, the amount of power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 can also be controlled by PWM (Pulse Width Modulation). According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the overheating of the SAW module 30 by PWM while suppressing the reduction of the amount of aerosol generated by SAW.

[0217] Under the constraint of this power, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is preferably 10 or more. According to this structure, the liquid can be atomized with a higher atomization efficiency. On the other hand, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is preferably 80 or less. According to this structure, the frequency band will not be too narrow, and even considering the manufacturing differences of the atomization unit 100 and the differences in the resonant frequency under different conditions (temperature, pressure, humidity, etc.), appropriate atomization can be achieved.

[0218] The spacing between adjacent electrodes and the width of the electrodes in the traveling direction are necessarily determined by the frequency of the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The higher the frequency, the narrower the spacing between adjacent electrodes, and the smaller the particle size of the aerosol. Under this relationship, for example, the desired particle size with a peak number concentration can also be 0.2μm to 1.0μm. In this case, the frequency is preferably above 20MHz. According to this structure, the particle size with a peak number concentration can be converged to the range of the desired particle size. On the other hand, the frequency is preferably below 200MHz. According to this structure, the spacing between the electrodes will not be too narrow, and the possibility of short circuiting of the electrodes at a power higher than the minimum power (for example, 3W) can be reduced.

[0219] As described above, it should be noted that the inventors conducted in-depth research and obtained a new insight that the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is determined based on the atomization efficiency of the aerosol under the condition that the power that can be supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is limited. It should also be noted that the inventors obtained the insight that the spacing between the electrodes (i.e., frequency) is determined according to the frequency set based on the desired particle size of the aerosol. It should also be noted that the inventors obtained a new insight that the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is determined based on the desired aerosol based on the insight that the atomization efficiency can be changed according to the spacing between the electrodes (i.e., frequency or desired particle size). The desired aerosol is an aerosol that contains aerosols of desired particle sizes in a desired distribution.

[0220] In addition, the inventors have conducted in-depth research and have obtained a new insight that the aerosol atomization efficiency is high when the ratio (hereinafter, R) of the length of the repeating portion of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 (hereinafter, H) and the wavelength of the SAW (hereinafter, λ0) is within a specified range. R (=H / λ0) is preferably greater than 10 and preferably less than 150. In addition, R is preferably less than 70 and preferably less than 50. Here, λ0 is represented by the ratio (v / f) of the frequency (hereinafter, f) of the power supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the propagation speed (hereinafter, v) of the SAW. f is correlated with the spacing between the electrodes and the width of the electrodes in the traveling direction, and v is correlated with the type (characteristics) of the piezoelectric element substrate on which the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is set. In other words, the length of the repeating portion of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, the spacing between the electrodes, and the type of the piezoelectric element substrate are preferably determined in a manner that satisfies the relationship of 10≦R≦150. According to this structure, an atomization unit 100 with high aerosol atomization efficiency can be provided.

[0221] (Shape of through hole)

[0222] Hereinafter, the shape of the through hole according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a diagram for explaining the mechanism of aerosol generation.

[0223] like Figure 5 As shown, the portion of the liquid exposed from the through hole 34 that is relatively close to the portion in contact with the SAW constitutes the thin film portion 71. The portion of the liquid exposed from the through hole 34 that is relatively far from the portion in contact with the SAW constitutes the thick film portion 72. The particle size of the aerosol 81 atomized from the thin film portion 71 is smaller than the particle size of the aerosol 82 atomized from the thick film portion 72. Therefore, in the case where a smaller particle size (for example, 0.2 μm to 1.0 μm) is desired, it is effective to increase the area of ​​the thin film portion 71 when viewing the piezoelectric element substrate 31 from the side of the surface 31F. From this point of view, it is preferred that the through hole 34 has a maximum length L MAX Than the maximum width W MAX Large shape.

[0224] In addition, when assuming that the maximum length L MAX If the through hole 34 has a circular shape with a diameter of a certain size, the area of ​​the liquid exposed from the through hole is too large, and when the user tilts the flavor inhaler 1, there is a possibility that the liquid will flow onto the piezoelectric element substrate 31. From this point of view, it is also preferred that the through hole 34 has a maximum length L MAX Than the maximum width W MAX Large shape.

[0225] (Function and Effect)

[0226] According to the embodiment, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is determined based on the desired aerosol. Therefore, in the atomization unit 100 in which the power that can be supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is limited, it is possible to provide an appropriate atomization unit by improving the atomization efficiency of the liquid.

[0227] [Change Example 1]

[0228] Hereinafter, a modification example 1 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0229] In the first modification, the through hole 34 has a maximum length L MAX Than the maximum width W MAX Under this premise, if Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the through hole 34 is configured to reduce interference between the reflected wave of the SAW reflected by the through hole 34 and the SAW generated by the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. Specifically, the long axis of the through hole 34 is preferably inclined relative to the orthogonal direction B. The long axis of the through hole 34 may also be inclined by 30° or more and 45° or less relative to the orthogonal direction B. In addition, the shape of the through hole 34 is not limited to Figure 6 The elliptical shape shown may also be a rectangular shape.

[0230] In addition, the through hole 34 may have a shape other than an elliptical shape and a rectangular shape. In this case, it is also set to reduce the interference between the reflected wave of the SAW reflected by the through hole 34 and the SAW generated by the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. For example, at least a portion of the through hole 34 is divided by an edge line where the through hole 34 and the SAW are in contact, and the edge line is inclined with respect to the orthogonal direction B relative to the traveling direction A of the SAW. Here, the edge line may also have a portion parallel to the orthogonal direction B. However, at least half of the edge line is preferably inclined with respect to the orthogonal direction B. At least half of the edge line is preferably inclined with respect to the orthogonal direction B by more than 30° and less than 45°. In the case where the through hole 34 is an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape, the long side axis of the through hole 34 may also be inclined with respect to the orthogonal direction B by more than 30° and less than 45°.

[0231] According to this structure, the SAW generated by applying a voltage at a high frequency (resonance frequency) to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is less likely to be interfered by the reflected wave of the SAW reflected by the through hole 34. Therefore, the durability of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is improved, and the aerosol atomization efficiency is also improved.

[0232] [Change Example 2]

[0233] Hereinafter, a modification example 2 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0234] In the second modification, the SAW module 30 has a partition wall 37 that separates the liquid exposed from the through hole 34 from the configuration portion 30A. The partition wall 37 preferably covers the entire configuration portion 30A. In addition, the partition wall 37 may also be configured to separate the air flow path from the inlet 51 to the outlet 52 from the configuration portion 30A. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 caused by the adhesion of the liquid and the collision of the air introduced from the inlet 51.

[0235] like Figure 7 As shown, the partition wall 37 may be provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 between the configuration portion 30A and the through hole 34 so as to contact the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. According to this structure, it is possible to reliably suppress the degradation of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 accompanied by the adhesion of liquid, etc. The partition wall 37 may not cover the entire piezoelectric element substrate 31. Typically, the partition wall 37 may also be provided at a position away from the end of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 by 0.5 mm (typical film width).

[0236] In this case, when the atomization region is provided on the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 side of the through hole 34 , the partition wall 37 may be provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 between the arrangement portion 30A and the atomization region so as to be in contact with the surface 31F.

[0237] like Figure 8 As shown, the partition wall 37 may be provided on the surface 31F between the configuration portion 30A and the through hole 34 so as not to contact the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. It is possible to avoid the situation where the propagation of the SAW is hindered by the partition wall 37, and to some extent suppress the degradation of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 accompanied by the adhesion of liquid, etc. In addition, the gap between the partition wall 37 provided for the propagation of the SAW and the surface 31F may also be several microns. If it is such a gap, the degradation of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 can be fully suppressed.

[0238] In this case, when the atomization region is provided on the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 side of the through hole 34 , the partition wall 37 may be provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 between the arrangement portion 30A and the atomization region so as not to contact the surface 31F.

[0239] [Change Example 3]

[0240] Hereinafter, a modification example 3 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0241] In Modification Example 3, if Fig. 9As shown, between the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the through hole 34, a hydrophilic layer 38 continuous with the through hole 34 is provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. For example, the hydrophilic layer 38 is composed of Teflon (registered trademark) resin, glass fiber, etc. The hydrophilic layer 38 can be formed by a well-known hydrophilic treatment technology. For example, the hydrophilic treatment technology can also be the formation of a hydrophilic polymer film of acetate, etc., diamond-like carbon film formation treatment, plasma treatment, surface concave-convex treatment, or a combination thereof. According to this structure, the liquid exposed from the through hole 34 easily moves to the hydrophilic layer 38, and a thin film of liquid is easily formed on the hydrophilic layer 38. Therefore, an aerosol with a smaller particle size can be generated from the thin film formed on the hydrophilic layer 38. For example, when the desired particle size is a smaller particle size (for example, 0.2μm to 1.0μm), it is preferred to provide a hydrophilic layer 38.

[0242] [Change Example 4]

[0243] Hereinafter, a modification example 4 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0244] In the fourth modification, a display device is provided for displaying the state of the flavor inhaler 1. The display device may be provided on the outer surface of the housing 1X of the flavor inhaler 1, or may be provided separately from the flavor inhaler 1. In the case where the display device is separate from the flavor inhaler 1, the display device has a function of communicating with the flavor inhaler 1. The display device includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal or an organic EL. The display device may also display the remaining amount of the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 200, or may display the number of puffing actions performed by the user.

[0245] [Experimental results]

[0246] (First Experiment)

[0247] The following describes the first experiment. In the first experiment, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 was changed, and the aerosolized state was visually confirmed. Fig.10 It is a figure which shows the result of the 1st experiment.

[0248] In the sample with N=20, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 was 20, and a power of 9.5 W was applied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 at a frequency of 46.09 MHz. In the sample with N=40, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 was 40, and a power of 9.0 W was applied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 at a frequency of 46.42 MHz. In the sample with N=80, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 was 80, and a power of 8.0 W was applied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 at a frequency of 46.505 MHz.

[0249] like Fig.10As shown, it was confirmed that the aerosol amount of the sample with N = 40 was larger than that of the sample with N = 20, and that the aerosol amount of the sample with N = 80 was larger than that of the sample with N = 40. From these experimental results, it was visually confirmed that the more the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33, the higher the atomization efficiency.

[0250] In addition, the experiment was also conducted on a sample in which the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 was 160, but it was confirmed that in this sample, atomization was not generated by the same power. This result is considered to be because, as explained in the second experiment, the NBW was too narrow and the usable frequency was too narrow, so appropriate atomization was not generated due to the technical difficulty of always driving the device at the most effective frequency.

[0251] (Second experiment)

[0252] Next, the second experiment will be described. In the second experiment, NBW was confirmed by changing the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 . Fig.11 It is a figure which shows the result of the second experiment. Fig.11 In the figure, "N" is the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33. "Frequency" is the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33. "NBW" is a frequency band centered on the resonant frequency of the SAW where the power reflection coefficient of the SAW is smaller than the threshold. The power reflection coefficient of the SAW at a smaller degree means that a large amount of electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy. That is, the maximum energy conversion is achieved in the NBW of the frequency band centered on the resonant frequency of the SAW.

[0253] like Fig.11 As shown, it was confirmed that the NBW (Null Bandwidth) became narrower as the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 increased. As described above, it was confirmed that the NBW was too narrow and the usable frequency was too narrow for the sample with N=160, so it was estimated that appropriate atomization was not generated.

[0254] Thus, although the results of the first experiment confirmed that the atomization efficiency increases as the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 increases, the results of the second experiment confirmed that the atomization efficiency decreases when the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is too large. That is, the results of the first and second experiments confirmed that it is preferable to determine the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 based on the atomization efficiency of the aerosol. In other words, it was confirmed that the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is preferably determined in a manner that satisfies the conditions that the NBW is not less than a predetermined width and the aerosol amount is greater than a threshold value.

[0255] (Third Experiment)

[0256] The third experiment will be described below. The effect of the frequency of the mean volume diameter (Dv50) was confirmed for the three samples. Fig.12 It is a figure which shows the result of the third experiment.

[0257] “Straight IDT-2.25mm” is a sample having a comb-shaped electrode pair 33 with a straight line shape having a length of 2.25mm. “Straight IDT-4.5mm” is a sample having a comb-shaped electrode pair 33 with a straight line shape having a length of 4.5mm. “Focussed IDT-50°” is a sample having a comb-shaped electrode pair 33 with a length of 2.25mm and a fan-shaped shape having a central angle of 50°.

[0258] like Fig.12 As shown, it was confirmed that the average volume diameter (Dv50) decreases as the frequency increases regardless of the design of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. Based on this result, it was confirmed that the electrode spacing and electrode width (ie, frequency) can be determined based on the desired particle size of the aerosol.

[0259] [Change Example 5]

[0260] Hereinafter, a modification example 5 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0261] In Modification Example 5, the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 will be described.

[0262] Specifically, in modification example 5, the control unit 400 periodically changes the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the scattering of droplets from the liquid guided by the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. As a result, the liquid can be effectively utilized and stable aerosol atomization can be achieved. In detail, when a high voltage is applied, the aerosol is atomized in the liquid (thin film portion) on the side close to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, and when a low voltage is applied, the supply of the liquid that is reduced due to atomization is promoted. By periodically repeating these phenomena, the generation of coarse particles can be suppressed and the atomization amount of fine particles can be increased. In addition, it is preferred to repeat the high voltage and low voltage at a period of about 100 Hz.

[0263] For example, Fig.13 As shown, the periodic amplitude of the high-frequency voltage may also describe a sine wave shape, a rectangular wave shape, a triangular wave shape, or a sawtooth wave shape. It is particularly preferred to apply the high-frequency voltage in such a way that the periodic amplitude of the high-frequency voltage describes a rectangular wave shape.

[0264] [Change Example 6]

[0265] Hereinafter, a modification example 6 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0266] In Modification Example 6, the optimum frequency line shape of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is described. The optimum frequency is the resonant frequency of the SAW (for example, the center frequency of the NBW described above) at which the power reflection coefficient of the SAW is smaller than a threshold value.

[0267] First, the point where the optimal frequency changes in the relationship between the liquid supply speed (μl / sec) of the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and time will be described. Specifically, Fig.14 As shown, samples with different liquid supply speeds were prepared ( Fig.14 12 samples) to confirm the relationship between the time of applying voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the optimal frequency. However, the width of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is constant. According to this confirmation result, it is read that the optimal frequency changes with the passage of time, and it is also read that this change is different depending on the liquid supply speed. Therefore, the control unit 400 can improve the atomization efficiency of the aerosol by monitoring the optimal frequency that changes according to the liquid supply speed and the passage of time, and supplying power at the monitored optimal frequency.

[0268] Next, the point of optimal frequency change in the relationship between the output (W) of the SAW generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a high frequency and time will be described. Specifically, Fig.15 As shown, prepare different samples of SAW output ( Fig.15 5 samples), the relationship between the time of applying voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the optimal frequency was confirmed. However, the width of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 was constant. According to this confirmation result, it was read that the optimal frequency changes with the passage of time, and it was also read that this change is different according to the output of the SAW. Therefore, the control unit 400 can improve the atomization efficiency of the aerosol by monitoring the optimal frequency that changes according to the output of the SAW and the passage of time, and supplying power at the monitored optimal frequency.

[0269] [Change Example 7]

[0270] Hereinafter, a modification example 7 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0271] In Modification Example 7, the relationship between the liquid supply rate (μl / sec) of the liquid guided to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the output (W) of the SAW generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a high frequency will be described.

[0272] First, if Fig.16As shown, the control unit 400 gradually increases the output of the SAW from time tStart in such a manner that the output of the SAW reaches a desired level at time t2. The control unit 400 makes the output of the SAW zero at time tEnd. On the other hand, the control unit 400 increases the liquid supply rate to a desired level at time t1. The control unit 400 makes the liquid supply rate zero at time tEnd. Time t1 may also be between time tStart and time t2.

[0273] Then, if Fig.17 As shown, the control unit 400 gradually increases the output of the SAW from time tStart in such a manner that the output of the SAW reaches a desired level at time t2. The control unit 400 makes the output of the SAW zero at time tEnd. On the other hand, the control unit 400 gradually increases the liquid supply speed from time t1 in such a manner that the liquid supply speed reaches a desired level at time t3. The control unit 400 makes the liquid supply speed zero at time tEnd. Time t1 may also be between time tStart and time t2. Time t3 may also be after time t2.

[0274] In addition, time tStart may be the timing when the sensor 300 detects the start of the puff action or the timing when the button for the puff action is pressed. Time tEnd may be the timing when the sensor 300 detects the end of the puff action or the timing when the button for the puff action is not pressed.

[0275] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the SAW output gradually increases from time tStart, and the liquid supply speed starts to increase at time t1 after time tStart. Therefore, in the initial stage of increasing the SAW output (W), it is possible to suppress the scattering of large-diameter droplets from the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. Fig.17 As shown, by gradually increasing the liquid supply rate, it is possible to suppress the scattering of large-diameter liquid droplets.

[0276] [Change Example 8]

[0277] Hereinafter, Modification Example 8 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0278] In Modification 8, a detector for detecting the state of aerosol is provided. For example, the control unit 400 may also provide feedback of errors such as poor aerosol generation based on the detection result of the detector. The detector may also be a microphone sensor for detecting weak noise generated during the generation of aerosol.

[0279] like Fig.18As shown, the detector 39 may be provided on the back surface 31B of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The detector 39 is preferably provided on the side opposite to the liquid sandwiching the piezoelectric element substrate 31.

[0280] like Fig.19 As shown, the detector 39 may be provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. When the propagation direction of the SAW is set to the P direction, the detector 39 may be provided beside the liquid in the Q direction orthogonal to the P direction. The detector 39 is preferably not in contact with the liquid.

[0281] like Fig. 20 As shown, the detector 39 may be provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 at a position away from the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. In order to suppress contact between the detector 39 and the aerosol, a shield 39A is preferably provided between the detector 39 and the aerosol.

[0282] [Change Example 9]

[0283] Hereinafter, a ninth modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0284] In Modification Example 9, a sensor is provided to detect the liquid exposed from the through hole 34. For example, the control unit 400 may also control the liquid supply unit 60 (liquid supply speed, etc.) based on the detection result of the sensor. According to this structure, through accurate pump control, it is possible to prevent excessive supply of atomized liquid to the atomizing unit and depletion of liquid in the atomizing unit, thereby improving the stability of aerosol atomization.

[0285] like Fig.21 As shown, the sensor 71 may also be a conductivity sensor having a pair of front ends (e.g., front ends 71A, 71B). The pair of front ends are adjacent to the through hole 34 and are electrically connected using the liquid exposed from the through hole 34. The sensor 71 detects the presence of the liquid based on the conductivity of the electrical signal between the pair of front ends.

[0286] like Fig. 22 As shown, the sensor 72 may also be a conductivity sensor having two or more pairs of front ends (e.g., front ends 72A, 72B, etc.). The two or more pairs of front ends are adjacent to the through hole 34 and are electrically connected using the liquid exposed from the through hole 34. However, the positions where the front end pairs are set are different from each other. The uniformity of the film can be monitored based on the conductivity of the electrical signal between the front end pairs, and by using the sensor 72, the presence of the liquid can be detected at the position where the front end pairs are set.

[0287] like Fig.23As shown, the sensor 73 may also be a sensor having a transmitter (e.g., transmitter 73A) that outputs a predetermined signal and a receiver (e.g., receiver 73B) that receives the predetermined signal. The transmitter 73A and the receiver 73B are arranged to sandwich the through hole 34, and the sensor 73 detects the presence of liquid based on the degree of transmission of the predetermined signal. The transmitter 73A and the receiver 73B may also be formed using a thin film solid pad.

[0288] like Fig.24 As shown, the sensor 74 may also be a SAW sensor having a transmitter (e.g., transmitter 74A) that outputs SAW and a receiver (e.g., receiver 74B) that receives SAW. The transmitter 74A and the receiver 74B are arranged to sandwich the through hole 34, and the sensor 74 detects the presence of liquid based on the transmission degree of the SAW. The transmitter 74A and the receiver 74B may also be formed using a thin film IDT.

[0289] like Fig.25 (a) and Fig.25 As shown in (b), the sensor 75 may also be a capacitance sensor having one or more electrodes (e.g., front end 75A, 75B, etc.). In this case, the one or more electrodes are arranged so as to straddle the liquid arranged in the atomization region. The sensor 75 detects whether there is liquid based on the difference in capacitance generated by the presence or absence of liquid. In this case, the through hole 34 may not be provided.

[0290] [Change Example 10]

[0291] Hereinafter, a modification example 10 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0292] In Modification Example 10, a combination example of Modification Example 8 and Modification Example 9 is described. Fig.26 As shown, the SAW module 30 includes a detector 81 , a sensor 82 , and a depth sensor 83 .

[0293] The detector 81 detects the state of the aerosol, similarly to the detector 39 described in the modification 8. The sensor 82 detects the liquid exposed from the through hole 34, similarly to the conductivity sensor or SAW sensor described in the modification 9. The depth sensor 83 detects the depth of the liquid in the through hole 34 (the surface water level of the liquid). The depth sensor 83 may also be a conductivity sensor that detects the presence of the liquid based on the conductivity of the electrical signal.

[0294] In this structure, the control unit 400 controls the aerosol before and after atomization. Fig.26As shown in the upper section, the liquid supply unit 60 (liquid supply speed, etc.) is controlled based on the detection result of the depth sensor 83. For example, the control unit 400 controls the liquid supply unit 60 so that the liquid maintains a desired depth. According to this structure, the responsiveness of the aerosol atomization is improved.

[0295] The control unit 400 is used in the aerosol atomization, such as Fig.26 As shown in the lower section of FIG. 8 , based on the detection result of the detector 81, an error such as poor aerosol generation is fed back. The control unit 400 may also notify the user of the error, or may stop the operation of the flavor inhaler 1 (e.g., the atomization unit 100). In addition, the control unit 400 controls the liquid supply unit 60 (liquid supply speed, etc.) based on the detection result of the sensor 82. According to this structure, the stability of atomization of the aerosol is improved.

[0296] In addition, the amount of liquid in atomization can also be controlled by the depth sensor 83. When the decrease in the amount of liquid is detected by the depth sensor 83, the control unit 400 controls the liquid supply unit 60 (liquid supply speed, etc.) based on the detection result of the depth sensor 83. According to this structure, the amount of liquid is appropriately controlled during atomization, so the stability of aerosol atomization is improved.

[0297] In addition, although not shown, two or more depth sensors with different detectable depths may be provided as the depth sensor 83. In this case, it is easy to appropriately control the amount of solution within the range of the depth sensors with different detectable depths. For example, when a liquid is detected by a depth sensor that can detect a liquid at a first depth, and a liquid is not detected by a depth sensor that can detect a liquid at a second depth shallower than the first depth, the depth at which the liquid can be detected is between the first depth and the second depth.

[0298] [Change Example 11]

[0299] Hereinafter, Modification Example 11 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0300] In Modification Example 11, a method of guiding liquid on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. Specifically, Fig. 27 As shown, a supply port 34X, a hydrophilic layer 38A, a hydrophobic layer 38B, and a hydrophobic layer 38C are provided on a surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0301] The supply port 34X is a point where liquid is supplied. The supply port 34X is provided outside the path of the SAW. Therefore, the supply port 34X does not need to be the through hole 34 described above, and may be a point where liquid is supplied from the surface 31F side of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0302] The hydrophilic layer 38A is continuous with the supply port 34X and has a pattern for guiding the liquid in the path of the SAW. The hydrophobic layer 38B is disposed on the side closer to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 than the hydrophilic layer 38A, and is disposed separately from the hydrophilic layer 38A. The hydrophobic layer 38C is disposed on the side farther from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 than the hydrophilic layer 38A, and is disposed separately from the hydrophilic layer 38A. The hydrophobic layer 38B and the hydrophobic layer 38C can be used to restrict the movement of the liquid from the hydrophilic layer 38A, and the contact angle of the SAW with respect to the liquid can be reduced, thereby improving the atomization efficiency of the aerosol.

[0303] According to this structure, since it is not necessary to provide the through hole 34 , it is easy to provide the coating layer 36 covering the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0304] [Example 12]

[0305] Hereinafter, a modification example 12 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0306] In Modification Example 12, a method of supplying liquid to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. Specifically, Fig.28 As shown, a hydrophilic layer 38D and a core rope 90 are provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0307] The hydrophilic layer 38D is arranged on the travel path of the SAW. The hydrophilic layer 38D has a length L and a width W, and constitutes an atomization zone for atomizing the aerosol. The core rope 90 is continuous with the hydrophilic layer 38D, and supplies liquid to the hydrophilic layer 38D. The core rope 90 may also have a core rope core 91 for maintaining the shape of the core rope 90 and a retaining layer 92 for retaining the liquid. The core rope core 91 in contact with the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is preferably composed of a metal or plastic having a hardness that can reflect the SAW transmitted on the piezoelectric element substrate 31 by the core rope core 91. The retaining layer 92 may also be composed of a capillary component that supplies liquid by capillary phenomenon.

[0308] According to this structure, since it is not necessary to provide the through hole 34 , it is easy to provide the coating layer 36 covering the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0309] [Example 13]

[0310] Hereinafter, a modification example 13 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0311] In Modification Example 13, a method of supplying liquid to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. Specifically, Fig.29As shown, the hydrophilic layer 38E and the member 84 are provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. In addition, the liquid storage section 200 and the driving section 61 are provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31.

[0312] The hydrophilic layer 38E is provided on the path of the SAW and constitutes an atomization region for atomizing the aerosol. The component 84 may be a sensor for detecting the presence of liquid or a detector for detecting the state of the aerosol.

[0313] The liquid storage unit 200 and the driving unit 61 constitute a device for dripping liquid near the hydrophilic layer 38E. For example, the liquid storage unit 200 may also have a nozzle for storing liquid and dripping the liquid. The driving unit 61 may also be a component (for example, a motor) that generates a driving force for dripping liquid from the nozzle.

[0314] According to this structure, since it is not necessary to provide the through hole 34 , it is easy to provide the coating layer 36 covering the piezoelectric element substrate 31 .

[0315] [Change Example 14]

[0316] Hereinafter, a modification example 14 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0317] In Modification Example 14, a method of supplying liquid to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. Specifically, Fig.30 and Fig.31 As shown, the SAW module 30 has a guide member 610 for guiding liquid. The piezoelectric element substrate 31 is covered with a coating layer 36 .

[0318] The guide member 610 is provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 at the edge portion of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The guide member 610 has a shape having a predetermined height from the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The guide member 610 may also be formed of a material having high thermal conductivity (for example, metal or ceramic). The guide member 610 has a flow path 611, a temporary storage portion 612, and a guide slit 613. The flow path 611 constitutes a flow path for the liquid. The temporary storage portion 612 temporarily stores the liquid supplied via the flow path 611. The guide slit 613 is inclined relative to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The guide slit 613 guides the liquid overflowing from the temporary storage portion 612 to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 by its own weight and / or capillary force. Two or more guide slits may be provided as the guide slit 613.

[0319] According to this structure, by using the guide member 610 provided at the edge of the piezoelectric element substrate 31, the atomization area can be arranged at a position away from the edge of the piezoelectric element substrate 31, and the peeling of the coating 36 at the edge can be suppressed. In addition, since it is not necessary to provide the through hole 34, it is easy to provide the coating 36 covering the piezoelectric element substrate 31.

[0320] In Modification 14, the case where the liquid is supplied from the back surface 31B of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is exemplified, but Modification 14 is not limited thereto. The liquid may be supplied from the lateral direction of the guide member 610 or from above the guide member 610. When the liquid is supplied from above the guide member 610, the flow path 611 may not be provided.

[0321] Alternatively, the liquid may be supplied through the through hole 34. In this case, the guide member 610 is provided so that the flow path 611 communicates with the through hole 34, and the atomization region can be arranged at a position away from the edge of the through hole 34, thereby suppressing the peeling of the coating 36 at the edge.

[0322] Or, if Fig.32 As shown, the SAW module 30 may also have a guide member 610A for guiding liquid. The guide member 610A is made of a member such as plastic or metal having a tiny flow path inside, and is provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The guide member 610A guides the liquid impregnated in the guide member 610A to the tiny space between the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the guide member 610A. The guide member 610A guides the liquid from the tiny space to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31.

[0323] Or, if Fig.33 As shown, the SAW module 30 may also have a guide member 610B for guiding liquid. The guide member 610B is made of a member such as plastic or metal having a tiny flow path inside, and is provided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The guide member 610B guides the liquid impregnated in the guide member 610B toward the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 along the inclined surface 613B of the guide member 610B.

[0324] according to Fig.32 or Fig.33 The structure shown, Fig.30 and Fig.31 As in the structure shown, the mist region can be arranged at a position away from the edge portion of the piezoelectric element substrate 31, and peeling of the coating layer 36 at the edge portion can be suppressed.

[0325] [Change Example 15]

[0326] Hereinafter, a modification example 15 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0327] In Modification Example 15, a change in the substrate structure of the SAW module 30 is described. Specifically, Fig.34 As shown, the SAW module 30 includes a piezoelectric element substrate 621 , a flat plate 622 , a buffer member 623 , and an atomized surface layer 624 . Fig.34 In the embodiment, structures other than the substrate structure (eg, the comb-shaped electrode pair 33) are omitted.

[0328] The piezoelectric element substrate 621 is the same as the above-mentioned piezoelectric element substrate 31. The flat plate 622 is a substrate different from the piezoelectric element substrate 31, for example, an aluminum flat plate. The buffer 623 is located on the surface and side of the piezoelectric element substrate 621, and is composed of a buffer liquid that transmits the SAW generated from the piezoelectric element substrate 621 to the atomization surface layer 624. For example, the buffer liquid is glycerol. The atomization surface layer 624 is arranged on the buffer 623 and the flat plate 622, and an atomization area for atomizing the aerosol is provided. For example, the atomization surface layer 624 is composed of a stainless steel flat plate. In this case, liquid can also be supplied from the surface side of the atomization surface layer 624.

[0329] According to this structure, the SAW can be transmitted to the atomizing surface layer 624 different from the piezoelectric element substrate 621, and the liquid (fragrance solution) can be prevented from contacting the piezoelectric element substrate 621. For example, a through hole corresponding to the through hole 34 described above may be provided in the flat plate 622.

[0330] [Example 16]

[0331] Hereinafter, Modification Example 16 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0332] In the modification example 16, the change of the shape of the edge portion of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 when the liquid is supplied from the back side 31B of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. The edge portion is a portion adjacent to the atomization area. The edge portion is chamfered. According to this structure, by reducing the energy density of the atomization area, the peeling of the coating 36 at the edge portion can be suppressed.

[0333] Here, if Fig.35 As shown, the chamfering of the edge portion can also be a linear chamfering, such as Fig.36 As shown, it can also be a rounded chamfer. The edge portion can also be the edge portion of the through hole 34.

[0334] [Example 17]

[0335] Hereinafter, a modification example 17 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0336] In Modification Example 17, the change of the atomization area is described. Specifically, Fig.37 As shown, the SAW module 30 has two or more narrow grooves 631 (here, grooves 631A to 631D) as atomization areas. Each groove 631 has a shape extending in a direction orthogonal to the traveling direction of the SAW. Liquid is supplied to each groove 631. The amount of liquid supplied to each groove 631 can also be increased as it is closer to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. Fig.37 Although omitted, the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is covered with a coating 36 .

[0337] According to this structure, the energy of the SAW is dispersed by two or more grooves, so that the peeling of the coating 36 in the atomization area is suppressed, and the firmness of the appropriate coating at the end portion is increased.

[0338] [Example 18]

[0339] Hereinafter, Modification 18 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0340] In Modification Example 18, a method of guiding liquid on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is described. Specifically, Fig.38 As shown, the SAW module 30 has printed electrodes 641 to 643. Two liquid storage sections 200 (liquid storage section 200A and liquid storage section 200B) are provided. The liquid stored in the liquid storage section 200A may be different from the liquid stored in the liquid storage section 200B.

[0341] Printed electrodes 641 to 643 transport liquid using the voltage difference between adjacent printed electrodes. For example, printed electrode 641A transports liquid stored in liquid storage section 200A, and printed electrode 641B transports liquid stored in liquid storage section 200B. Printed electrode 642 transports a mixture of liquids supplied from printed electrode 641A and printed electrode 641B. Printed electrode 643A and printed electrode 643B transport a mixture of liquids supplied from printed electrode 642. A portion of printed electrode 643A and a portion of printed electrode 643B each constitute an atomization region.

[0342] The width of the printed electrode constituting the atomization area may be larger than the width of the printed electrode (e.g., printed electrode 642) not constituting the atomization area, and may be driven by a specific method so that the block of liquid is sucked in two or more directions at the same time. According to this structure, the width of the printed electrode not constituting the atomization area is smaller, so that the space saving of the printed electrode not constituting the atomization area can be achieved. By driving in a manner of sucking the block of liquid in two or more directions at the same time, the liquid in the atomization area can be made flat, and the contact angle of the SAW with respect to the liquid can be reduced.

[0343] [Example 19]

[0344] Hereinafter, a modification example 19 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0345] In Modification Example 19, the change of the heat dissipation mechanism is described. Specifically, Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown in FIG. 1 , a coating layer 651 and an adhesive layer 652 are provided on the back surface of the SAW module 30. The coating layer 651 may be formed of metal, and the adhesive layer 652 may be formed of solder.

[0346] Under this premise, if Fig.39 As shown in FIG. 6 , the SAW module 30 is bonded to a thermally conductive component 653 and a circuit substrate 654 via an adhesive layer 652. The thermally conductive component 653 is formed by a thermally conductive component such as metal, and has a columnar portion 653A and a flat portion 653B. The columnar portion 653A penetrates the circuit substrate 654, and the flat portion 653B is disposed on the back of the circuit substrate 654. The circuit substrate 654 is formed by a component that is easily bonded to the adhesive layer 652, and has a through hole for the columnar portion 653A to pass through.

[0347] Or, if Fig.40 As shown, the SAW module 30 is bonded to a heat sink 655 via an adhesive layer 652. The heat sink 655 is formed of a thermally conductive member such as metal.

[0348] Or, if Fig.41 As shown, the SAW module 30 may be bonded to the thermally conductive member 653 and the circuit substrate 654 via the bonding layer 652, and then the heat sink 655 ( Fig.39 and Fig.40 of ).

[0349] [Example 20]

[0350] Hereinafter, a modification 20 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0351] In Modification 20, a modification of the liquid supply unit will be described. Here, an example is given in which the liquid supply unit includes a liquid storage unit.

[0352] First, if Fig.42 As shown, the liquid supply unit 60 may also include a housing 661, a pump 662, and a piston 663. The housing 661 includes a liquid 666 for driving the piston 663 and a liquid 667 for generating an aerosol. The liquid 666 and the liquid 667 are separated by the piston 663. The housing 661 includes a flow path 661A connecting the housing 661 and the pump 662, and a flow path 661B connecting the housing 661 and the pump 662. The housing 661 includes a discharge port 661C for discharging the liquid 667.

[0353] Here, the pump 662 moves the piston 663 by the backflow of the liquid 666. For example, the pump 662 sucks up the liquid 666 via the flow path 661A and returns the liquid 666 to the housing 661 via the flow path 661B, thereby moving the piston 663 forward. Thus, the pump 662 can eject the liquid 667 from the ejection port 661C. The pump 662 may also be a piezoelectric pump.

[0354] According to this structure, the liquid 666 used for the ejection of the liquid 667 is not mixed with the liquid 667, so the possibility of impurities being mixed into the liquid 667 can be reduced. In addition, the liquid 667 that generates the aerosol does not pass through the pump 662, so it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the liquid 667. In addition, the movement amount of the piston 663 can be specified according to the reflux amount of the liquid 666, and the remaining amount of the liquid 667 can be specified according to the movement amount of the piston 663.

[0355] exist Fig.42 In the figure, liquid 666 is exemplified as a medium for driving piston 663, but gas may be used instead of liquid 666.

[0356] Here, if Fig.43 As shown, the liquid supply unit 60 may also include Fig.42 In addition to the structure shown, a pump 668 is provided. The pump 668 moves the piston 663 by the backflow of the liquid 666. The pump 668 sucks up the liquid 666 via the flow path 669A and returns the liquid 666 to the housing 661 via the flow path 669B, thereby retracting the piston 663. The pump 668 may also be a piezoelectric pump.

[0357] Then, if Fig.44 As shown, the liquid supply unit 60 includes a housing 671 and a bag 672. The housing 671 stores the bag 672 and the air 676, and has an inlet 671A for supplying the air 676 in the housing 671. The bag 672 stores the liquid 677 for generating the aerosol, and has a discharge port 672A for discharging the liquid 677. The discharge port 672A may be integrated with the housing 671.

[0358] Here, the bag 672 is formed of a flexible member, so that when air 676 is supplied into the housing 671 from the inlet 671A, the bag 672 can eject the liquid 677 by the pressure of the air 676 .

[0359] According to this structure, the air 676 used for ejecting the liquid 677 is not mixed with the liquid 677, so the possibility of impurities being mixed into the liquid 677 can be reduced.

[0360] Fig.44 In the figure, as the medium of the pressurized bag 672, air 676 is exemplified, but liquid may be used instead of the air 676.

[0361] [Change Example 21]

[0362] Hereinafter, Modification 21 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0363] Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the piezoelectric element substrate 31 may be cut out by laser cutting. According to this structure, the edge portion of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 becomes smooth, so the durability of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the adhesion of the coating layer 36 are improved.

[0364] [Example 22]

[0365] Hereinafter, Modification 22 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0366] In Modification Example 22, if Fig.45 As shown, the atomizing unit 100 includes a top cover 710, a guide wall 711, and a sensor 712. The atomizing unit 100 includes a piezoelectric element substrate 31 and a comb-shaped electrode pair 33, similar to the embodiment.

[0367] The top cover 710 is provided so as to cover the sides and the top of the aerosol atomized by the SAW. An opening 710A for discharging the aerosol is provided at the upper end of the top cover 710 .

[0368] The guide wall 711 is provided in contact with the inner wall of the top cover 710 without allowing a gap therebetween. The guide wall 711 is arranged separately from the piezoelectric element substrate 31, and a through hole 34 is provided between the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the guide wall 711. Fig.45 In the embodiment, as the guide wall 711, a guide wall 711A and a guide wall 711B are provided.

[0369] The first liquid is supplied from a liquid supply unit (e.g., a syringe pump) to the through hole 34A provided between the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the guide wall 711A. Similarly, the second liquid is supplied from a liquid supply unit (e.g., a syringe pump) to the through hole 34B provided between the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the guide wall 711B. The first liquid and the second liquid may be the same type of liquid or different types of liquid.

[0370] As in Modification 9 and the like, the sensor 712 detects the liquid leaking from the through hole 34. Based on the detection result of the sensor 712, the liquid supply unit 60 (liquid supply speed and the like) may be controlled. Fig.45 In the embodiment, as the sensors 712 , a sensor 712A for detecting the first liquid leaking out of the through-hole 34A and a sensor 712B for detecting the second liquid leaking out of the through-hole 34B are provided.

[0371] exist Fig.45 Although omitted, sealing components such as O-rings and seal rings may be used to suppress leakage of the first liquid and the second liquid.

[0372] [Example 23]

[0373] Hereinafter, Modification 23 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0374] In Modification Example 23, if Fig.46 As shown, the atomization unit 100 has Fig.45 In addition to the structure shown, there are also a collision plate 721 and a separation body 722.

[0375] The collision plate 721 is configured to cover the atomization area of ​​the first liquid. The collision plate 721 has the function of collecting coarse particles (for example, about 10 microns) contained in the aerosol generated from the first liquid by inertial collision. The fine particles contained in the aerosol are not collected by the collision plate 721, and are guided from the gap between the collision plate 721 and the piezoelectric element substrate 31 to the opening 710A (i.e., the user's mouth).

[0376] The coarse particles collected by the collision plate 721 may also be returned to the atomization area. The coarse particles returned to the atomization area may also be atomized again. Alternatively, the coarse particles collected by the collision plate 721 may no longer be used for atomization, but may be recovered using a recovery component such as a porous absorption component or a storage tank.

[0377] exist Fig.46 In the embodiment, a collision plate covering the atomization area of ​​the second liquid is not provided, but a collision plate covering the atomization area of ​​the second liquid may be provided. The first liquid and the second liquid may be liquids of the same type or liquids of different types. Depending on the presence or absence of the collision plate, an aerosol containing particles of a desired particle size can be supplied.

[0378] exist Fig.46 In the example, the first liquid and the second liquid are atomized separately, but the first liquid and the second liquid may be atomized after being mixed. The collision plate 721 may be arranged to cover the atomization area of ​​the mixed liquid, or may be provided at the suction port.

[0379] The separator 722 is disposed between the atomization region of the first liquid and the atomization region of the second liquid. The separator 722 suppresses mixing of the aerosol generated from the first liquid and the aerosol generated from the second liquid until the aerosol is discharged from the opening 710A. According to this structure, in the case where the first liquid and the second liquid are different types of liquids, mixing of aerosols generated from different liquids can be suppressed. In particular, in the case of reusing coarse particles contained in the aerosols generated from each liquid, it is preferable to suppress mixing of aerosols generated from different liquids.

[0380] In addition, the separator 722 can also collect large particles (for example, about 100 microns) larger than the coarse particles collected by the collision plate 721. In addition, when the collision plate 721 is not used, for example, large particles of about 100 microns can also be collected by the separator 722.

[0381] The oversized particles collected by the separator 722 may also be returned to the atomization area. The oversized particles returned to the atomization area may also be atomized again. Alternatively, the coarse particles collected by the separator 722 may no longer be used for atomization, but may be recovered by a recovery component such as a porous absorption component or a storage tank.

[0382] Fig.46 In the embodiment, a collision plate 721 is provided, but as Fig.47 As shown, a filter element 725 may be provided in place of the collision plate 721. The filter element 725 is a fiber layer filter element or a particle filling layer filter element provided at any position in the top cover 710. By changing the fiber diameter, particle size, filling rate, and filling length of the filter element 725, the collection efficiency of coarse particles can be optimally designed.

[0383] The top cover 710 may also have an inlet 726. A flow path of air or aerosol from the inlet 726 to the opening 710A is formed in the top cover 710. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the retention of aerosol in the top cover 710 and optimize the amount of aerosol supplied to the oral cavity. The inlet 726 may also be provided at Fig.45 and Fig.46 Top cover 710.

[0384] [Experimental results]

[0385] The following is an explanation of the experimental results. In the experiment, distilled water was used as the liquid, and the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair was 50 MHz. In the experiment, the particle size distribution of the particles contained in the aerosol was confirmed. The experimental results are as follows Fig.48 shown.

[0386] exist Fig.48 In the figure, the particle size distribution confirmed based on the number of particles and the particle size distribution confirmed based on the volume of particles are shown. For the number of particles, the particle size distribution is confirmed to have a single peak, but for the volume of particles, the particle size distribution is confirmed to have two peaks (about 0.6 microns and about 8 microns).

[0387] In this case, by using Modification Example 23 (refer to Fig.46 or Fig.47 ) described in the collision plate 721 or filter 725 selectively collects particles of about 8 microns, thereby being able to adjust the particle size distribution based on the volume of the particles to maintain a single peak (about 0.6 microns).

[0388] [Example 24]

[0389] Fig.49 Yes means Figure 1 The illustrated perspective view is a perspective view of an example of the appearance of the unit including the sensor 300, the control unit 400, and the power supply 500 of the flavor inhaler 1. Fig.50 yes Fig.49 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the unit is shown. Fig.51 yes Fig.49 The exploded perspective view of the unit shown. Figures 49 to 51 As shown, the unit 1000 includes a nozzle 1001D, an atomizing unit 1100, a first liquid storage unit 1200A, and a second liquid storage unit 1200B. In addition, hereinafter, the "aroma absorber" is sometimes referred to as the "absorber". The "absorber" is not limited to aroma components, and any absorbable components can be absorbed.

[0390] The first liquid storage section 1200A and the second liquid storage section 1200B are accommodated in the structure Figure 1The interior of the housing 1202 of a portion of the housing 1X shown. In this modification, the first liquid storage portion 1200A has a cylinder 1204A and a piston 1206A, and the first liquid is stored in the space defined by the cylinder 1204A and the piston 1206A. Similarly, the second liquid storage portion 1200B has a cylinder 1204B and a piston 1206B, and the second liquid is stored in the space defined by the cylinder 1204B and the piston 1206B. The first liquid storage portion 1200A and the second liquid storage portion 1200B can also be a cartridge that can be loaded and unloaded from the housing 1202. In addition, the first liquid storage portion 1200A and the second liquid storage portion 1200B can also be configured as an integrated cartridge that can be loaded and unloaded at the same time.

[0391] In this variation, the first liquid and the second liquid may also be the same liquid. In addition, the first liquid and the second liquid may also be different liquids. The first liquid may also contain at least nicotine. In addition, the first liquid may also contain acids such as malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, etc., for example, in order to form a salt with nicotine. In addition, as a flavoring component, the first liquid may also contain: erythritol, salt, inosinic acid, glutamic acid, succinic acid, their sodium salts, their potassium salts, isohumulone, cucurbitacin, curcumin, falcipertolide, naringin, quasin, quinine, riboflavin, thiamine, and at least one of catechins. In addition, as a component (somatosensory component) that makes the user who absorbs it feel physical, the first liquid may also contain capsaicin, piperine, eugenol, allicin, allyl isothiocyanate, gingerol, cinnamaldehyde, and at least one of their glycosides.

[0392] The second liquid may also contain a flavoring ingredient containing at least one of menthol, limonene, citral, linalool, vanillin, carvone and their glycosides. The second liquid may also be in an emulsified state containing an emulsifier. As emulsifiers, emulsifiers such as glycerol fatty acid esters, sorbitan fatty acid esters, propylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, lecithin, saponin, sodium caseinate, oxyethylene fatty acid alcohol, sodium oleate, morpholine fatty acid salts, polyoxyethylene higher fatty acid alcohols, calcium stearoyl lactylate, ammonium phosphate monoglyceride, etc. may be used. The second liquid may also contain solvents such as glycerol, propylene glycol, ethanol, etc. In the case where a hydrophobic flavoring ingredient is used in the second liquid, it can be made into an aqueous solution by dissolving the flavoring ingredient in their solvents. In addition, as a flavoring component, the second liquid may also include: erythritol, salt, inosinic acid, glutamic acid, succinic acid, their sodium salts, and their potassium salts, isohumulone, cucurbitacin, curcumin, falcardiol, naringin, quassin, quinine, riboflavin, thiamine, and at least one of catechins. In addition, as a component that makes the user feel physical sensation (physical component), the second liquid may also include capsaicin, piperine, eugenol, allicin, allyl isothiocyanate, gingerol, cinnamaldehyde, and at least one of their glycosides. At least one of the first liquid and the second liquid may also be related to Figure 1 The liquid stored in the liquid storage section 200 described above is the same.

[0393] like Fig.50 As shown, the housing 1202 contains a motor 1208A and a gear box 1210A. Figure 1 The power supply 500 shown in the figure supplies power. The gear box 1210A can convert the driving force of the motor 1208A in the rotational direction into the driving force of the piston 1206A in the axial direction. In addition, the gear box 1210A can change the rotation speed of the motor 1208A. Similarly, the motor 1208B and the gear box 1210B are stored in the housing 1202, and the motor 1208B and the gear box 1210B are used to drive the piston 1206B. In the motor 1208B, Figure 1 The power supply 500 shown in the figure supplies power. That is, in this modification, the motors 1208A, 1208B, the gear boxes 1210A, 1210B constitute a liquid supply unit for supplying liquid from the first liquid storage unit 1200A and the second liquid storage unit 1200B. In addition, a single motor and a gear box can also be used to drive both the piston 1206A and the piston 1206B.

[0394] like Fig.50As shown, the atomizing unit 1100 is disposed above the first liquid storage part 1200A and the second liquid storage part 1200B and fixed to the upper part of the housing 1202 by means of a fixing member 1002 such as a screw. In addition, the nozzle 1001D is fixed to the upper part of the atomizing unit 1100 by means of a fixing member 1004 such as a screw.

[0395] like Fig.51 As shown, the atomization unit 1100 is covered by a first cover 1106 and a second cover 1107. The first cover 1106 has a first opening 1102 and a second opening 1104 on its upper surface. As described later, the first opening 1102 is configured to allow a first aerosol generated by atomizing the first liquid to pass through. As described later, the second opening 1104 is configured to allow a second aerosol generated by atomizing the second liquid to pass through.

[0396] Next, Figures 49 to 51 The atomization unit 1100 is shown for illustration. Fig.52 It is an exploded perspective view of the atomization unit 1100 with the first cover 1106 and the second cover 1107 removed. Fig.53 is a cross-sectional view of the atomization unit 1100 . Fig.53 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the first liquid storage part 1200A and the second liquid storage part 1200B are shown. Fig.52 As shown, the atomizing unit 1100 includes a base member 1108, a PCB board 1109, a piezoelectric element substrate 1031 having a comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, a pair of guide walls 1711A, 1711B, and a top cover 1710. An adhesive sheet 1110 is provided between the base member 1108 and the PCB board 1109, the position of the PCB board 1109 relative to the base member 1108 is fixed, and leakage of the first liquid and the second liquid is suppressed.

[0397] like Fig.53 As shown in FIG. 1 , the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 is mounted on the upper surface of the PCB board 1109. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The heat dissipation mechanism 1035 can be the same as the heat dissipation mechanism 35 shown in FIG. In addition, the heat dissipation mechanism 1035 can also be replaced by using Fig.39 - Fig.41 The heat dissipation mechanism shown.

[0398] In addition, the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 has a pair of edges 1031A and 1031B facing each other. A guide wall 1711A is provided on the edge 1031A side of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031, and a guide wall 1711B is provided on the edge 1031B side. The guide walls 1711A and 1711B respectively have through holes 1713A and 1713B extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. In addition, the guide walls 1711A and 1711B respectively have recessed portions 1714A and 1714B communicating with the through holes 1713A and 1713B. Fig.53 As shown, the first liquid storage part 1200A and the second liquid storage part 1200B are connected to the lower surfaces of the guide walls 1711A and 1711B, respectively. The liquid (the first liquid and the second liquid) supplied by the syringe pump passes through the through holes 1713A and 1713B from the bottom to the top from the first liquid storage part 1200A and the second liquid storage part 1200B, respectively, and reaches the recesses 1714A and 1714B. The liquid reaching the recesses 1714A and 1714B reaches the edges 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031, and the energy of the comb-shaped electrode 1033 is atomized. That is, the syringe pump is configured to supply the first liquid and the second liquid to the respective edges 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031.

[0399] The atomizing unit 1100 further includes a sealing member 1111. The sealing member 1111 is generally annular and contacts the upper surfaces of the guide walls 1711A and 1711B and the upper surface of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. Thus, the liquid reaching the recesses 1714A and 1714B is prevented from flowing out of the guide walls 1711A and 1711B and the piezoelectric element substrate 1031.

[0400] The atomizing unit 1100 has a contact point provided on the PCB board 1109 and a pair of electrical contacts 1032A and 1032B electrically connected to the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033. In addition, the atomizing unit 1100 has a sensor 1070 for detecting liquid. Fig.52 In the example shown, sensor 1070 is a conductivity sensor. The function of sensor 1070 can be the same as Fig.21 The function of the sensor 71 shown in FIG. 1 is the same as that of the sensor 71 shown in FIG. In addition, without limitation thereto, a sensor for detecting liquid may also be used. Fig. 22 - Fig.25 The transmitter and receiver shown, or a capacitive sensor.

[0401] like Fig.52 and Fig.53As shown, the top cover 1710 has an opening 1710a in the center for aerosol to pass through, and is configured to cover the guide walls 1711A, 1711B, the PCB board 1109, and the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 from above. In addition, an O-ring 1113 is provided between the lateral peripheral portion of the top cover 1710 and the first cover 1106.

[0402] In addition, if Fig.53 As shown, the opening 1710a of the top cover 1710 is located above the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033 and the pair of edges 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. As a result, the aerosol from the first liquid and the aerosol from the second liquid generated in the pair of edges 1031A and 1031B can flow out to the outside of the top cover 1710. In addition, as shown in the figure, the first cover 1106 is provided in a manner covering the surface side of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. The first opening 1102 and the second opening 1104 of the first cover 1106 are respectively provided directly above the edges 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. As a result, the aerosol from the first liquid and the aerosol from the second liquid generated in each edge 1031A and 1031B can pass through the first opening 1102 and the second opening 1104, respectively. Therefore, the first opening 1102 of the first cover 1106 can mainly release aerosol from the first liquid, and the second opening 1104 can mainly release aerosol from the second liquid.

[0403] In addition, if Fig.53 As shown, the first cover 1106 is provided so as to cover the portion where the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033 is arranged and not to contact the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033. Thus, it is possible to prevent the aerosol generated in the edges 1031A and 1031B from contacting the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033 and deteriorating the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, and it is possible to prevent the propagation of the SAW generated by the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033 from being hindered. The gap between the first cover 1106 and the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 may be, for example, several micrometers. With such a gap, it is possible to sufficiently suppress the degradation of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33.

[0404] Next, Fig.49 - Fig.51 The suction nozzle 1001D shown is described. Fig.54 FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of the nozzle 1001D. The nozzle 1001D has a first conduit 1016 that is at least partially curved, a second conduit 1018 that is substantially straight, and a third conduit 1020. Fig.50It is found that the first conduit 1016 is connected to the first opening 1102 of the first cover 1106, and the second conduit 1018 is connected to the second opening 1104. That is, the first conduit 1016 defines a first flow path 1016a through which the first aerosol generated by atomization of the first liquid mainly passes. In addition, the second conduit 1018 defines a second flow path 1018a through which the second aerosol generated by atomization of the second liquid mainly passes. In addition, the first aerosol and the second aerosol merge and pass through the third flow path 1020a defined by the third conduit 1020. A first air inlet 1016b is formed on the side of the first conduit 1016, and a second air inlet 1018b is formed on the side of the second conduit 1018. Through the user's inhalation, air flows from the first air inlet 1016b and the second air inlet into the first flow path 1016a and the second flow path 1018a respectively.

[0405] It is found that when the first liquid contains nicotine and water, when the first liquid is atomized by the SAW generated by the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, the particle size distribution of the particles included in the aerosol is as follows: Fig.48 As shown in the experimental results, peak values ​​appear near 10 microns (hereinafter referred to as coarse particles) and submicron particles (hereinafter referred to as submicron particles). Fig.54 In the nozzle 1001D shown, the aerosol containing coarse particles in the aerosol passing through the first flow path 1016a collides with the wall surface of the first conduit 1016 and is collected. Thus, the aerosol containing coarse particles can be removed from the aerosol passing through the first flow path 1016a, and the aerosol containing particles of a desired particle size can be supplied to the user's mouth. In order to retain the particles of the colliding aerosol, it is preferred that a porous material such as a fiber filling layer, a particle filling layer, a sponge, a sintered body, etc. is provided on the wall surface of the first conduit 1016, or the wall surface itself is formed of a porous material.

[0406] In addition, it was found that when the second liquid contained a flavoring component, when the second liquid was atomized using the SAW generated by the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, the particle size distribution of the particles included in the aerosol showed a peak near 10 microns. Fig.54 In the nozzle 1001D shown, the second conduit 1018 defining the second flow path 1018a and the third conduit 1020 defining the third flow path 1020a are formed substantially linearly. Thus, even if the particles of the aerosol generated from the second liquid are coarse particles, the aerosol can be prevented from being collected on the walls of the second conduit 1018 and the third conduit.

[0407] Fig.55 FIG. 1 is a side sectional view showing another example of the suction nozzle 1001D. Fig.54 Compared with the nozzle 1001D shown, Fig.55 The suction nozzle 1001D shown is different in that it includes an air inlet 1022 communicating with the first flow path 1016a. Fig.55 In the nozzle 1001D shown, at least a portion of the first conduit 1016 is also bent, and the second conduit 1018 is formed in a substantially straight line. Therefore, among the aerosols passing through the first flow path 1016a, the aerosols containing coarse particles collide with the wall surface of the first conduit 1016 and are collected. In addition, even if the particles of the aerosol generated from the second liquid are coarse particles, it is possible to suppress the aerosol from being collected on the wall surfaces of the second conduit 1018 and the third conduit. In order to retain the particles of the colliding aerosol, it is preferred that a porous material such as a fiber filling layer, a particle filling layer, a sponge, a sintered body, etc. is provided on the wall surface of the first conduit 1016, or the wall surface itself is formed using a porous material.

[0408] Fig.56 1001D is a three-dimensional diagram showing another example of the suction nozzle 1001D. Fig.56 As shown, the nozzle 1001D has: Fig.51 The base 1024 connected to the atomizing unit 1100 shown in the figure, the air flow path portion 1026 extending upward from the base 1024, the separation portion 1028 connected to the air flow path portion 1026, and the air outlet 1030. The air flow path portion 1026 is formed with an air inlet 1024A for supplying air to the air flow path of the air flow path portion 1026 (not shown).

[0409] Fig.56 The nozzle 1001D shown has a flow path that allows the aerosol flowing into the nozzle 1001D to rotate and pass through as the user inhales, and is guided to the air outlet 1030. Specifically, the air flowing in from the air inlet 1024A as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated in the atomization unit 1100, passes through the air flow path (not shown) in the air flow path section 1026, and reaches the separation section 1028. In addition, the first aerosol from the first liquid generated in the atomization unit 1100 can pass through the air flow path (not shown) of the air flow path section 1026. In the separation section 1028, the aerosol containing coarse particles is collected by rotating the aerosol, and the aerosol containing submicron particles flows out from the air outlet 1030.

[0410] in addition, Fig.56 The nozzle 1001D shown has a second conduit 1018 through which the second aerosol generated from the second liquid in the atomizing unit 1100 can pass. In this modification, the second conduit 1018 extends at a right angle from the base 1024. The second conduit 1018 is fluidly connected to the air outlet 1030, and the aerosol containing submicron particles in the first aerosol flows into the second conduit 1018 from the air outlet 1030. The third conduit 1020 extends from the second conduit 1018, and the aerosol containing submicron particles in the first aerosol and the second aerosol pass through.

[0411] Fig.57Yes Fig.56 The separation section 1028 and the air outlet 1030 shown are schematic diagrams of the nozzle 1001D represented in cross section. The separation section 1028 has: a conical portion 1032 connected to the air flow path 1026A of the air flow path section 1026, a collecting portion 1034 connected to the front end side (small diameter side) of the conical portion 1032, and an outflow portion 1036 connected to the rear end side (large diameter side) of the conical portion 1032. The aerosol flowing into the separation section 1028 from the air flow path 1026A rotates in the conical portion 1032. At this time, the aerosol containing coarse particles is separated from the flow of air and collected on the wall surface of the conical portion 1032, and the collected liquid eventually drips into the collecting portion 1034 and is retained. On the other hand, even if the aerosol including submicron particles rotates in the conical portion 1032 , it does not adhere to the wall surface of the conical portion 1032 , but flows into the second duct 1018 from the air outlet 1030 along the flow of air.

[0412] Also available in Figure 54 to Figure 56 The nozzle 1001D shown is appropriately set Fig.46 The collision plate 721 and Fig.47 At least one of the filter elements 725 described in the above description (equivalent to an example of a collecting component) can be used. Thus, coarse particles can be collected more appropriately. As the collision plate 721, in order to retain the particles of the colliding aerosol, it is preferably formed of a porous material such as a fiber filling layer, a particle filling layer, a sponge, a sintered body, etc.

[0413] Fig.58 It is a side sectional view showing still another example of the suction nozzle 1001D. Fig.59 Yes means through Fig.58 A schematic side view of the flow of air through the suction nozzle 1001D is shown. Fig.59 , the flow of air flowing in from the first air inlet 1016b and the second air inlet 1018b is indicated by arrows. Fig.58 and Fig.59 The nozzle 1001D shown is Fig.54 The nozzle 1001D shown in FIG. 1 has a first conduit 1016 that is at least partially curved, a second conduit 1018 that is substantially straight, and a third conduit 1020. The first conduit 1016 and the third conduit 1020 are similar. Fig.51 The first opening 1102 of the first cover 1106 is shown in communication, and the second pipe 1018 is communicated with the second opening 1104. That is, the first pipe 1016 defines a first flow path 1016a through which the first aerosol generated by atomization of the first liquid mainly passes. In addition, the second pipe 1018 defines a second flow path 1018a through which the second aerosol generated by atomization of the second liquid mainly passes. In addition, the first aerosol and the second aerosol merge and pass through the third flow path 1020a defined by the third pipe 1020.

[0414] in addition, Fig.58 and Fig.59 In the first flow path 1016a of the nozzle 1001D shown, an airflow acceleration component 1037 and a collecting component 1038 on the downstream side of the airflow acceleration component 1037 are provided. The airflow acceleration component 1037 can narrow the flow path of the first flow path 1016a, and as a result, the flow velocity of the first aerosol toward the collecting component 1038 can be increased. The collecting component 1038 is provided at a position where the first aerosol passing through the airflow acceleration component 1037 collides, and is configured in a manner having a gap relative to the cross section of the first flow path 1016a. In the example shown in the figure, the airflow acceleration component 1037 is formed by a porous fiber layer filter (hollow filter) having a through hole in the center, and the collecting component 1038 is formed by a porous fiber layer filter (ultrafine filter) having a solid center.

[0415] The second flow path 1018a is provided with an airflow acceleration member 1039 having a hole at the center. The airflow acceleration member 1039 is disposed over the entire length of the second flow path 1018a, for example, and has a larger inner diameter than the airflow acceleration member 1037.

[0416] like Fig.59 As shown by the arrow, from the first air inlet 1016b ( Fig.58 The air flowing in (not shown) is mixed with Fig.51 The first aerosol of the first opening 1102 shown in FIG. 1104 flows into the first flow path 1016a. The air flowing in from the second air inlet 1018b is mixed with the air from Fig.51 The second aerosol flows into the second opening 1104 shown and flows into the second flow path 1018a.

[0417] A portion of the aerosol containing coarse particles in the first aerosol flowing into the first flow path 1016a can be collected on the inner surface of the airflow acceleration member 1037 when passing through the airflow acceleration member 1037 formed by the filter. In addition, the first aerosol passing through the airflow acceleration member 1037 has its flow velocity increased by the airflow acceleration member 1037 and collides with the collecting member 1038. Thus, the aerosol containing coarse particles in the first aerosol is collected by the collecting member 1038, while the aerosol containing submicron particles is not collected by the collecting member 1038, but passes through the gap between the collecting member 1038 and the wall surface of the first pipe 1016 and reaches the third flow path 1020a. By increasing the flow velocity of the first aerosol by the airflow acceleration member 1037, the inertial collection efficiency of the aerosol containing coarse particles by the collecting member 1038 can be improved.

[0418] As shown in the figure, the second pipeline 1018 is formed in a substantially straight line, so that the second aerosol containing coarse particles flowing into the second flow path 1018a can be prevented from being collected on the wall surface of the second pipeline 1018 (the inner surface of the airflow acceleration component 1039) and reaching the third pipeline 1020. In addition, the airflow acceleration component 1037, the collection component 1038, and the airflow acceleration component 1039 can also be formed using porous materials such as a fiber filling layer, a particle filling layer, a sponge, and a sintered body.

[0419] Fig.60 It is a side sectional view showing still another example of the suction nozzle 1001D. Fig.61 Yes means through Fig.60 A schematic side view of the flow of air through the suction nozzle 1001D is shown. Fig.60 and Fig.61 The nozzle 1001D shown is Fig.58 and Fig.59 Compared to the suction nozzle 1001D shown in FIG. 1 , the air inlet for supplying air to the suction nozzle 1001D is different. Specifically, Fig.60 and Fig.61 The suction nozzle 1001D shown has an air inlet 1025 located between the first duct 1016 and the second duct 1018 instead of the first air inlet 1016 b and the second air inlet 1018 b.

[0420] The air inlet 1025 is from the nozzle 1001D Fig.61 The paper surface and the side surface of the front side are connected to the side surface of the paper surface. Fig.61 As shown, the air inlet 1025 is connected to the first flow path 1016a of the first pipeline 1016 and the second flow path 1018a of the second pipeline 1018. A part of the air flowing in from the air inlet 1025 is mixed with the air from Fig.51 The first aerosol of the first opening 1102 shown in FIG. 1 flows into the first flow path 1016a. In addition, the remaining air flowing in from the air inlet 1025 is mixed with the air from Fig.51 The second aerosol of the second opening 1104 shown in the figure flows into the second flow path 1018a. Fig.51 and Fig.53 The first cover 1106 shown is provided with openings different from the first opening 1102 and the second opening 1104, so that the air flowing in from the air inlet 1025 flows into the first cover 1106, passes through the surface of the IDT (comb-shaped electrode pair 1033), and then flows to the first opening 1102 and the second opening 1104. By setting such an air flow, it is possible to more reliably prevent the aerosol generated at the edge 1031A and the edge 1031B from adhering to the IDT. In addition, such air flow is not limited to Fig.61The suction nozzle 1001D is shown, but other suction nozzles 1001D can also be used.

[0421] Figures 54 to 61 The suction nozzle 1001D shown is described as a suction nozzle having a third pipe 1020, but is not limited thereto. Figures 54 to 61 The nozzle 1001D shown may also be configured without the third conduit 1020, so that the first aerosol passing through the first conduit 1016 and the second aerosol passing through the second conduit 1018 reach the user's oral cavity independently. In addition, in Modification 24, the second liquid is described as a liquid atomized by the energy of the surface elastic wave of the IDT, but it is not limited to this, and it may also be atomized by other suitable methods such as the existing mesh type sprayer. In addition, Fig.51 and Fig.53 The first cover 1106 and the second cover 1107 shown may also be formed of metal in order to suppress the emission of EMC.

[0422] <Experimental Example 1>

[0423] The test was passed Fig.58 and Fig.59 The particle size distribution of the aerosol in the first flow path 1016a and the third flow path 1020a of the mouthpiece 1001D shown in FIG. 1 was performed. In the experiment, the flow rate of the aerosol was set to 55 mL / 3 s, and as the aerosol source, a solution of 96 wt% water, 2 wt% malic acid, and 2 wt% nicotine was used. The measurement equipment used was Spraytech manufactured by Malvern Co., Ltd. In addition, in the case where the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collection component 1038 were not used in the mouthpiece 1001D, an aerosol with an inner diameter of In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, an inner diameter of The experiment was carried out without the airflow acceleration component 1037.

[0424] Fig.62 : is a graph showing the measurement results of the aerosol particle size distribution of Experimental Example 1. In addition, Fig.62 The vertical axis is set to the value of the cumulative value of the volume distribution of the total aerosol particle size, which is equivalent to the weight of the aerosol inhaled each time, indicating the weight distribution converted from the volume distribution. In addition, for the weight of the aerosol inhaled each time, the aerosol flowing out when 55 ml is inhaled at a constant speed of 3 seconds is collected by a filter and evaluated based on the weight difference before and after inhalation. Fig.62 As shown, when the nozzle 1001D does not use the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collection component 1038, the peak of the particle size distribution appears near 10 microns. The case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, and the use of the collection component 1038 and the inner diameter In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, there is no distribution of particle sizes of 10 microns. More specifically, when the collecting component 1038 and the inner diameter of In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, there is almost no particle size distribution above 2 microns. In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, there is almost no particle size distribution of more than 5 microns. On the other hand, the particle size distribution of submicron particles hardly changes in each case. According to the above experimental results, when the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038 are used, the aerosol containing coarse particles is collected, and the submicron particles can reach the third flow path 1020a.

[0425] <Experimental Example 2>

[0426] Confirm that the absorption has passed Fig.58 and Fig.59 The experiment was conducted to determine the discomfort in the throat when the aerosol was drawn from the first flow path 1016a and the third flow path 1020a of the mouthpiece 1001D shown in the figure. In the experiment, a solution of 96 wt% water, 2 wt% malic acid, and 2 wt% nicotine was used as an aerosol source, and the discomfort in the throat when the mouthpiece 1001D was used was confirmed for 5 representatives. In addition, as in Experimental Example 1, when the mouthpiece 1001D did not use the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collection component 1038, an airflow acceleration component with an inner diameter of 1037 was used. In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, an inner diameter of The experiment was carried out without the airflow acceleration component 1037.

[0427] Fig.63 A graph showing discomfort in the throat and a table showing the evaluation. Fig.63 The evaluation table shown evaluates the intensity of the discomfort in the throat felt by each representative when inhaling the aerosol. Specifically, the discomfort in the throat of 5 representatives when inhaling the aerosol using the nozzle 1001D without the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collection component 1038 and in each case is evaluated. Each representative can be recorded not only in the number of the evaluation table, but also in any position, such as between 2 and 3. In the analysis of the results, the recorded position is measured with a ruler and digitized. Fig.63 The error bars in the graph represent the confidence intervals relative to the parent group mean at a 95% confidence level.

[0428] In addition, in the experiment, a solution of 2wt% nicotine, 2wt% malic acid, and 96wt% water was used, and 11W of power was supplied at a resonance frequency of 23.9MHz to atomize it. Fig.60 and Fig.61 The amount of solution supplied during atomization was set to 5 mg / sec, and the subjects inhaled the aerosol at any time and evaluated the discomfort they felt in the throat at that time.

[0429] like Fig.63 As shown in the diagram, when using an inner diameter In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, an inner diameter of In the case of the airflow acceleration component 1037, the discomfort in the throat is significantly reduced compared to the case where the suction nozzle 1001D does not use the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038, which can be said to be preferred in terms of fragrance feeling.

[0430] In addition, Fig.63 In the case of using the airflow acceleration member 1037 and the collecting member 1038, the amount of nicotine inhaled per unit time is lower than that in the case of not using them. In order to evaluate the influence, the concentration of the nicotine solution used was adjusted, and the evaluation was also performed when the amount of nicotine inhaled per unit time became the same, but Fig.63 That is, the main factor causing discomfort in the throat is the particle size, and the discomfort in the throat can be reduced by reducing the coarse particles.

[0431] As described above, according to Experimental Example 1, when the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038 are used, the aerosol containing coarse particles is collected, and the submicron particles can reach the third flow path 1020a. Therefore, it is also found in Experimental Example 2 that when the same airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038 are used, the aerosol containing coarse particles is collected, and the submicron particles can reach the third flow path 1020a, that is, the user's oral cavity. In addition, in Experimental Example 2, when the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038 are used, the discomfort to the throat can be greatly reduced, and the desired taste can be obtained. That is, the nozzle 1001D can collect the aerosol containing coarse particles by using the airflow acceleration component 1037 and the collecting component 1038, and as a result, it can be said that the discomfort to the throat can be greatly reduced.

[0432] Generally speaking, it is known that the particle size released from a burning cigarette is about 0.2 microns. On the other hand, as described above, the aerosol generated from the atomization unit 1100 of Modification 24 may contain coarse particles of about 10 microns in addition to submicron particles. Therefore, in the unit 1000 of Modification 24, by adopting Fig.58 The nozzle 1001D shown can significantly reduce the coarse particles while allowing the submicron particles to reach the user's mouth. As a result, a flavor sensation similar to that of burning cigarettes can be obtained. In addition, Fig.54 - Fig.57 The nozzle 1001D shown can also reduce the coarse particles while allowing the submicron particles to reach the user's oral cavity, thereby providing a similar Fig.58 The mouthpiece 1001D shown has a similar scent sensation.

[0433] [Example 25]

[0434] In Modification Example 25, the detection supply to Fig.52 The liquid sensor 1070 of the edge 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 is described. For example, Figure 1 The control unit 400 shown can also drive the Fig.50 The motors 1208A and 1208B of the liquid supply unit shown in the figure control the liquid supply speed and liquid supply amount of the liquid supplied from the first liquid storage unit 1200A and the second liquid storage unit 1200B to the edges 1031A and 1031B, respectively. In the case where the liquid supplied to the edges 1031A and 1031B is small, a sufficient atomization amount cannot be obtained, and in the case where a large amount of liquid is supplied, the particle size of the atomized aerosol becomes larger. Specifically, at this time, an aerosol containing extra-large particles having a particle size of about 100 microns larger than the coarse particles or particles having a particle size larger than the extra-large particles is generated. Therefore, the control unit 400 controls the drive of the liquid supply unit based on the detection result of the sensor 1070, thereby being able to supply a constant amount of liquid to the edges 1031A and 1031B of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. As a result, a sufficient atomization amount can be achieved, and the generation of aerosols having a particle size larger than the coarse particles can be prevented.

[0435] Fig.64 Yes Fig.52 The atomization unit 1100 is shown in an enlarged view of a portion of the atomization unit 1100. Specifically, Fig.64 In, it means there is Fig.52 The atomizing unit 1100 shown includes a PCB board 1109 , a piezoelectric element substrate 1031 having a comb-shaped electrode pair 1033 , a guide wall 1711A, a sealing component 1111 , and a sensor 1070 .

[0436] Fig.64In the embodiment, the sensor 1070 has a pair of sensor electrodes (detection parts) 1070A and 1070B facing each other. The sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B are made of metal such as copper plated with gold. In addition, the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B are mounted on the PCB board 1109 and are electrically connected to the contacts provided on the PCB board 1109. Here, the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B are arranged above the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 via the sealing member 1111. For example, the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B are arranged 0.1 mm (±0.05 mm) apart from the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. When the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B are provided on the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031, there is a possibility that the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B may be peeled off or the relative positions of the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B may be deviated due to the vibration of the SAW propagating through the piezoelectric element substrate 1031. Therefore, by separating the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B from the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate 1031, it is possible to prevent the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B from being peeled off and the relative positions of the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B from being deviated, thereby obtaining an accurate detection result.

[0437] The sensor electrode 1070A has a rectangular base 1071A whose one end is electrically connected to a contact provided on the PCB board 1109, and a convex portion 1072A protruding from the other end of the base 1071A toward the sensor electrode 1070B. In addition, the sensor electrode 1070B has a rectangular base 1071B whose one end is electrically connected to a contact provided on the PCB board 1109, and a convex portion 1072B protruding from the other end of the base 1071B toward the sensor electrode 1070A. In addition, the bases 1071A and 1071B may have shapes other than the rectangular shape. The convex portion 1072A and the convex portion 1072B are adjacent to the edge 1031A where liquid is supplied, and are electrically connected through the liquid supplied from the edge 1031A. The sensor 1070 outputs the conductivity of an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of liquid between the convex portion 1072A and the convex portion 1072B as a detection result. The conductivity of the electrical signal output by the sensor 1070 increases as more liquid is supplied to the edge 1031A. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether an appropriate amount of liquid is supplied to the edge 1031A, whether an excessive amount of liquid is supplied to the edge 1031A, or whether the amount of liquid supplied to the edge 1031A is insufficient based on the conductivity of the electrical signal.

[0438] When the control unit 400 determines that an excessive amount of liquid is supplied to the edge 1031A based on the conductivity of the electrical signal output from the sensor 1070, the control unit 400 drives the motor 1208A in a manner that reduces the liquid supply speed or the liquid supply amount of the liquid supplied from the first liquid storage unit 1200A to the edge 1031A. In addition, when the control unit 400 determines that the amount of liquid supplied to the edge 1031A is insufficient based on the conductivity of the electrical signal output from the sensor 1070, the control unit 400 drives the motor 1208A in a manner that increases the liquid supply speed or the liquid supply amount of the liquid supplied from the first liquid storage unit 1200A to the edge 1031A. Thus, an appropriate constant amount of liquid can be supplied to the edge 1031A, a sufficient amount of atomization can be achieved, and the generation of aerosols having a particle size larger than coarse particles can be prevented. In addition, Fig.64 In the figure, the edge 1031A side is extracted and shown, but the edge 1031B side also has the same structure. The control unit 400 drives the motor 1208B based on the detection result of the sensor 1070 in the same way as the case of the edge 1031A side.

[0439] Next, the positional relationship between the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 and the sensor electrodes 1070A and 1070B, and the positional relationship between the piezoelectric element substrate 1031 and the guide wall 1711A will be described with reference to experimental results. Fig.64 As shown, the interval between the front end of the protrusion 1072A and the front end of the protrusion 1072B is set to C1, the interval between the edge 1031A and the edge on the edge 1031A side of the protrusion 1072A and the protrusion 1072B is set to C2, and the interval between the edge 1031A and the end surface on the edge 1031A side of the guide wall 1711A is set to L1.

[0440] First, the interval C1 was set to 4 mm, the interval L1 was set to 0.4 mm, and the atomization amount of the aerosol generated in the atomization unit 1100 was measured while changing the interval C2. In addition, the interval C1 can also be set according to the output width of the SAW, that is, the width of the generated aerosol, in a manner equivalent to the overlap length of the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033. In this measurement, 10 W of power was supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, and the atomization amount was measured when the test liquid was atomized with the top cover 1710 removed. Fig.65 It is a graph which shows the relationship between the interval C2 and the atomization amount. Fig.65 In FIG. 1 , the horizontal axis represents the interval C2 (mm), and the vertical axis represents the atomization amount TPM / puff (mg) per puff. In addition, a negative value of the interval C2 means that the convex portion 1072A and the convex portion 1072B cross the edge 1031A and are provided on the guide wall 1711A. Fig.65It can be seen that the mist amount is the largest when the interval C2 is around 0.15 mm. Therefore, it is desirable that the interval C2 be set to 0.15 mm (±0.05 mm).

[0441] Next, the interval C1 was set to 4 mm, the interval C2 was set to 0.15 mm, and while changing the interval L1, the atomization amount of the aerosol generated in the atomization unit 1100 was measured. In this measurement, 10 W of power was supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 1033, and the atomization amount was measured when the test liquid was atomized with the top cover 1710 removed. Fig.66 It is a graph which shows the relationship between the interval L1 and the atomization amount. Fig.66 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents the interval L1 (mm), and the vertical axis represents the atomization amount TPM / puff (mg). Fig.66 It is known that the amount of mist increases in a region where the interval L1 is 0.25 mm or more. Therefore, it is desirable that the interval L1 be 0.25 mm or more.

[0442] In addition, in this modification example, the case where the sensor 1070 is a conductivity sensor is described, but it is not limited to this. As a sensor for detecting liquid, it is also possible to use Fig. 22 - Fig.25 The transmitter and receiver shown, or a capacitive sensor.

[0443] [Amendment 26A]

[0444] Hereinafter, a modification 26A of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0445] In Modification 26A, the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage (hereinafter referred to as “high-frequency voltage” in the description of Modification 26A) applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 will be described.

[0446] Specifically, in Modification 26A, the control unit 400 periodically changes the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. When the amplitude is set constant and the high-frequency voltage is applied, the power consumption increases, which may cause overheating of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. As a result, according to the structure of periodically changing the amplitude, the power consumption can be reduced, and the piezoelectric element substrate 31 can be prevented from being damaged by high temperature. In addition, according to this structure, it is possible to suppress the scattering of liquid droplets from the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 as large droplets by SAW. Fig.67This is a photograph of an example of droplets 3210 that are scattered as large droplets. In addition, 3220 represents microparticles, and 3230 represents droplets that adhere to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 after scattering. By suppressing the scattering of droplets as large droplets, the liquid can be effectively utilized, and stable aerosol atomization can be achieved. In detail, when a high voltage is applied, the aerosol is atomized in the liquid (thin film portion) on the side close to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, and when a low voltage is applied, the supply of liquid that is reduced due to atomization to the thin film portion is promoted. By periodically repeating these phenomena, the generation of particles larger than a specified size can be suppressed, and the atomization amount of microparticles can be increased (also refer to Figure 5 And related descriptions thereof.) In addition, it is preferred to repeat the high voltage and low voltage at a cycle of about 50 Hz to 500 Hz, more preferably about 100 Hz, that is, it is preferred to repeat the increase and decrease of the amplitude of the high frequency voltage.

[0447] The periodic change of the amplitude of the high frequency voltage can be achieved by setting the high frequency voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33 as a modulated wave and performing amplitude modulation based on a modulation signal of a predetermined waveform. The control unit 400 may include a modulation signal generation circuit and a modulation circuit to periodically change the amplitude of the high frequency voltage.

[0448] The periodic change of the amplitude of the high frequency voltage can be realized by the control unit 400 changing the amplitude of the high frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 so that the amplitude has a predetermined waveform. In this case, the control unit 400 does not need to include a modulation signal generation circuit and a modulation circuit.

[0449] For example, Fig.68 As shown, the periodic amplitude of the high-frequency voltage and the above-mentioned modulation signal forming such periodic amplitude may also describe a sine wave shape, a rectangular wave shape, a triangular wave shape, or a sawtooth wave shape. It is particularly preferred to apply the high-frequency voltage in such a manner that the periodic amplitude of the high-frequency voltage describes a rectangular wave shape. The control unit 400 can change the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 so that the change in the amplitude over time becomes a rectangular wave shape by alternately setting the period of applying the high-frequency voltage and the period of not applying the high-frequency voltage.

[0450] When a sine wave is used, the period of the sine wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to prevent damage caused by high temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. In addition or instead of this, the period of the sine wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to suppress the generation of particles larger than a specified size generated by atomization.

[0451] When using a rectangular wave, the duty cycle of the rectangular wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to prevent one or both of the damage caused by the high temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization.

[0452] When a triangular wave is used, the inclination of the triangular wave during the rise and the inclination of the triangular wave during the fall can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to prevent damage to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 caused by the high temperature when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, and to suppress the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization, or both.

[0453] In addition, more generally, the “rising slope” of a triangular wave can be determined according to the first direction parallel to the amplitude (e.g., the slope of the first direction) in one cycle of the triangular wave. Fig.68 In addition, more generally, the "falling slope" of the triangular wave can be determined by the ratio of the length of the period (equivalent to the same as pSin-.) during which the triangular wave changes in a second direction opposite to the first direction in one cycle of the triangular wave and the amplitude.

[0454] When using a sawtooth wave, the inclination of the sawtooth wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to prevent damage to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 caused by the high temperature when a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, and to suppress the generation of particles larger than a specified size caused by atomization, or both.

[0455] Furthermore, and more generally, the "tilt" of a sawtooth wave may be specified according to the ratio of the length and amplitude of one cycle of the sawtooth wave.

[0456] In addition, the above-mentioned "liquid droplets" scattered as large droplets include extra-large particles having a particle size of about 100 microns larger than coarse particles and particles having a particle size larger than extra-large particles, but are not necessarily limited to this. Therefore, the "predetermined size" in the above-mentioned "particles of a predetermined size or larger" may also be, for example, 100 microns.

[0457] At least a part of the control unit 400 according to Modification 26A may be realized by a processor. For example, the control unit 400 may include a processor and a memory storing a program that causes the processor to function as at least a part of the control unit 400 according to Modification 26A.

[0458] [Amendment 26B]

[0459] Modification 26B of the embodiment will be described below. Modification 26B is an example in which modification 26A is modified, and the following mainly describes the differences from modification 26A.

[0460] In modification example 26A, the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is periodically changed, but in modification example 26B, the frequency of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is periodically changed. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the droplets from being affected by SAW and scattering as large droplets from the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. As a result, the liquid can be effectively utilized and stable aerosol atomization can be achieved. In detail, when the high-frequency voltage is applied at a frequency relatively close to the resonance frequency, the aerosol is atomized in the liquid (thin film portion) on the side close to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33, and when the high-frequency voltage is applied at a frequency relatively far from the resonance frequency, the supply of the liquid reduced by atomization to the thin film portion is promoted. By periodically repeating these phenomena, the generation of particles larger than a specified size can be suppressed, and the atomization amount of fine particles can be increased (also refer to Figure 5 And related descriptions thereof.) In addition, the frequency of the high-frequency voltage is preferably changed repeatedly at a cycle of about 50 Hz to 500 Hz, more preferably at a cycle of about 100 Hz.

[0461] The periodic change of the frequency of the high-frequency voltage can be achieved by setting the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 as a modulated wave and performing frequency modulation based on a modulation signal of a predetermined waveform. The control unit 400 may also include a modulation signal generation circuit and a modulation circuit in order to periodically change the frequency of the high-frequency voltage. In addition, the modulation signal may also be a sine wave shape, a rectangular wave shape, a triangular wave shape, or a sawtooth wave shape.

[0462] When a sine wave is used, the period of the sine wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment so as to suppress the generation of particles larger than the predetermined size generated by atomization.

[0463] When a rectangular wave is used, the duty ratio of the rectangular wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment so as to suppress the generation of particles larger than the predetermined size generated by atomization.

[0464] When a triangular wave is used, the inclination of the triangular wave during the rise and fall can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment so as to suppress the generation of particles larger than the predetermined size caused by atomization.

[0465] When a sawtooth wave is used, the inclination of the sawtooth wave can be set by numerical calculation or by experiment so as to suppress the generation of particles larger than the predetermined size caused by atomization.

[0466] At least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26B may be realized by a processor. For example, the control unit 400 may include a processor and a memory storing a program, and the program may cause the processor to function as at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26B.

[0467] [Example 26C]

[0468] Modification 26C is a combination of Modification 26A and Modification 26B. That is, in Modification 26C, the amplitude and frequency of the high-frequency voltage applied to comb-shaped electrode pair 33 are periodically changed. The period of changing the amplitude and the period of changing the frequency may be the same or different.

[0469] At least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26C may be realized by a processor. For example, the control unit 400 may include a processor and a memory storing a program, and the program may cause the processor to function as at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26C.

[0470] [Amendment Example 26D]

[0471] Hereinafter, a modification 26D of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0472] In Modification 26D, the relationship between the liquid supply rate (μl / sec) of the liquid guided to the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and the output (W) of the SAW generated by applying a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a high frequency is described.

[0473] First, if Fig.69 As shown, the control unit 400 gradually increases the output of the SAW from time tStart in such a manner that the output of the SAW reaches a desired level at time t2. The control unit 400 sets the output of the SAW to zero at time tEnd. On the other hand, the control unit 400 increases the liquid supply rate to a desired level at time t1. The control unit 400 sets the liquid supply rate to zero at time tEnd. Time t1 may also be between time tStart and time t2.

[0474] Then, if Fig.70As shown, the control unit 400 gradually increases the output of the SAW from time tStart in such a manner that the output of the SAW reaches a desired level at time t2. The control unit 400 sets the output of the SAW to zero at time tEnd. On the other hand, the control unit 400 gradually increases the liquid supply speed from time t1 in such a manner that the liquid supply speed reaches a desired level at time t3. The control unit 400 sets the liquid supply speed to zero at time tEnd. Time t1 may also be between time tStart and time t2. Time t3 may also be after time t2.

[0475] In addition, time tStart may be the timing when the sensor 300 detects the start of the puff action or the timing when the button for the puff action is pressed. Time tEnd may be the timing when the sensor 300 detects the end of the puff action or the timing when the button for the puff action is not pressed.

[0476] like Fig.69 and Fig.70 As shown in FIG. 1 , the output of the SAW gradually increases from time tStart, and the liquid supply speed starts to increase at time t1 after time tStart. Therefore, in the initial stage of increasing the output (W) of the SAW, it is possible to suppress the scattering of large-diameter droplets from the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 as large droplets by the SAW. Fig.70 As shown, by gradually increasing the liquid supply rate, it is possible to suppress the scattering of large droplets of large diameter.

[0477] In addition, it should be noted that Modification Example 26D also addresses the problem of increased power consumption when the amplitude is set to be constant and a high-frequency voltage is applied. That is, in Modification Example 26D, the SAW output is zero at time tStart and gradually increases to a desired level. This can be achieved by changing the amplitude of the high-frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 in a manner that becomes a desired SAW output. Therefore, according to Modification Example 26D, compared with the case where a high-frequency voltage with a constant amplitude is applied in a manner that a SAW output of a specified level is obtained from the time point of time tStart, power consumption becomes smaller.

[0478] Fig.71 3000A is a flowchart of an example for realizing the above-mentioned processing. Each step included in this flowchart may be a step executed by the control unit 400.

[0479] In addition, flowchart 3000A is equivalent to one suction (pumping), and the same process can be performed in each suction. Therefore, after the process represented by flowchart 3000A ends, the process can be immediately restarted, and in flowchart 3000A, the process can enter "START" after reaching "END". In this case, the process represented by flowchart 3000A constitutes a loop, but the loop can also start from "START" when the control unit 400 receives a specified signal (for example, a signal indicating that the power is on), and end when the control unit 400 receives another specified signal (for example, a signal indicating that the power is off).

[0480] 3010A indicates a step of determining whether the start of the puff action is detected. If the start of the puff action is detected, the process proceeds to step 3020A, and if not, step 3010A is repeated. In addition, the time point when the start of the puff action is detected in this step may be set to the above-mentioned time tStart.

[0481] 3020A indicates a step of initializing the amplitude of the high frequency voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the parameters A and v respectively indicating the liquid supply speed to the SAW module 30 , more specifically, the piezoelectric element substrate 31 , to zero.

[0482] 3030A indicates a step of generating a signal for applying a high frequency voltage with an amplitude of A to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 to supply liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 at a liquid supply speed of v. This signal may be a signal sent to the atomizing unit 100 .

[0483] 3040A indicates a step of determining whether the time t after the start of the puff action is detected in step 3010A is longer than the first prescribed time, in other words, whether the first prescribed time has passed since the start of the puff action was detected. If it is determined that the first prescribed time has passed, the process proceeds to step 3050A, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3060A. The first prescribed time is a time equivalent to the above-mentioned time t1 - time tStart.

[0484] 3050A indicates a step of setting the parameter v to a predetermined value. The predetermined value is a value corresponding to a desired level of the liquid supply rate.

[0485] 3060A indicates a step of determining whether the elapsed time t is less than the second predetermined time, in other words, whether the second predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the puffing action was detected. If it is determined that the second predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step 3070A, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3080A. The second predetermined time is a time equivalent to the above-mentioned time t2 - time tStart.

[0486] 3070A indicates a step in which the parameter A is added with a predetermined value ΔA. The predetermined value ΔA is equivalent to a value corresponding to the expected level of the amplitude of the high frequency voltage divided by the value of the above-mentioned time t2-time tStart multiplied by the time when the current step 3070A is executed-the time when the previous step 3070A was executed. If the execution interval of step 3070A is constant, ΔA is regarded as a constant. In addition, when step 3070A is executed for the first time, ΔA may also be zero.

[0487] 3080A shows a step of determining whether the end of the puff action is detected. If the end of the puff action is detected, the process proceeds to step 3090A, and if not, the process returns to step 3030A.

[0488] 3090A indicates a step of generating a signal for stopping the application of high frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the supply of liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31. This signal may be a signal sent to the atomizing unit 100. In addition, the execution time of this step may be set to the above-mentioned time tEnd.

[0489] Fig.72 3000B is another example of a flowchart for realizing the above-mentioned process. Each step included in the flowchart 3000B may be a step executed by the control unit 400. In addition, the flowchart 3000B corresponds to one suction (pumping), and the same process as the flowchart 3000A may be executed in each suction.

[0490] 3010B, 3020B, 3030B, 3060B, 3070B, 3080B, and 3090B respectively represent the same steps as steps 3010A, 3020A, 3030A, 3060A, 3070A, 3080A, and 3090A included in flowchart 3000A.

[0491] 3040B indicates a step which is the same as step 3040A included in flowchart 3000A in terms of determining whether the first prescribed time has elapsed, but is different in that when it is determined that the first prescribed time has elapsed, the step enters step 3045B which is not the same step included in flowchart 3000A.

[0492] 3045B indicates a step of determining whether the elapsed time t is less than the third prescribed time, in other words, whether the third prescribed time has elapsed since the start of the puffing action was detected. If it is determined that the third prescribed time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step 3050B, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3060B. The third prescribed time is a time equivalent to the above-mentioned time t3 - time tStart.

[0493] 3050B indicates a step of adding a predetermined value Δv to the parameter v. The predetermined value Δv is equivalent to a value corresponding to the expected level of the liquid supply rate divided by the value of the above-mentioned time t3-time t1 multiplied by the time when step 3050B is executed this time-time when step 3050B is executed last time. If the execution interval of step 3050B is constant, Δv is regarded as a constant. In addition, when step 3050B is executed for the first time, Δv may also be zero.

[0494] The lengths of the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time in the flowchart described above may also be set by numerical calculation or by experiment to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size generated by atomization.

[0495] In addition, the above-mentioned "large-diameter droplets" scattered as large droplets include extra-large particles having a particle size of about 100 microns, which is larger than coarse particles, and particles having a particle size larger than extra-large particles, but are not necessarily limited to this. Therefore, the "predetermined size" of the above-mentioned "particles of a predetermined size or larger" may also be, for example, 100 microns.

[0496] Furthermore, at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26D may be realized by a processor. For example, the control unit 400 may include a processor and a memory storing a program, and the program may cause the processor to function as at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26D.

[0497] [Amendment 26E]

[0498] Hereinafter, a modification 26E of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

[0499] In variation 26E, a sensor for detecting the amount of liquid to be atomized present in the piezoelectric element substrate 31, such as the above-mentioned sensor 1070, is used to obtain the amount of liquid to be atomized present in the piezoelectric element substrate 31, and based on the amount, the supply of liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is controlled, thereby preventing droplets of large particle size from being affected by SAW and being scattered as large droplets from the liquid guided on the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31.

[0500] Fig.73 3100 is a flowchart of an example for implementing the processing of Example 26E. Each step included in the flowchart may be a step executed by the control unit 400. In addition, the flowchart 3100 corresponds to one suction (pumping), and the same processing as the flowchart 3000A may be executed in each suction.

[0501] Reference numeral 3110 indicates a step of generating a signal for supplying the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate 31. This signal may also be sent to the atomizing unit 100.

[0502] 3120 represents a step of determining whether the amount of liquid to be atomized existing on the piezoelectric element substrate 31 (more specifically, the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The same applies below) is within a first specified range. If the amount of liquid to be atomized is within the first specified range, the process proceeds to step 3130. If not, the process returns to step 3110.

[0503] According to steps 3110 and 3120, the liquid to be atomized in the first predetermined range is supplied to the piezoelectric element substrate 31. In addition, the first predetermined range of amount can also be set by numerical calculation or by experiment, so that a high-frequency voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 passing through step 3160 described later from the beginning to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size.

[0504] 3130 is a step for determining whether the start of the puff action has been detected. If the start of the puff action has been detected, the process proceeds to step 3140, and if not, step 3130 is repeated.

[0505] 3140 indicates a step of initializing an excess flag used in the following steps, that is, setting the flag to a state where the excess flag is not set. The excess flag can be realized using a memory included in the control unit 400 .

[0506] 3141 is a step for determining whether the overdose flag is set. If the overdose flag is set, the process proceeds to step 3142, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3144.

[0507] 3142 indicates a step of determining whether the amount of liquid to be atomized existing on the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is less than the lower limit of the second specified range. If the amount of liquid to be atomized is less than the lower limit of the second specified range, the process proceeds to step 3143, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3160.

[0508] 3143 is the same step as step 3140, which is the step of initializing the excess flag.

[0509] 3144 indicates a step of determining whether the amount of liquid to be atomized existing on the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is greater than the upper limit of the second specified range. If the amount of liquid to be atomized is greater than the upper limit of the second specified range, the process proceeds to step 3145, and if not, the process proceeds to step 3150.

[0510] 3145 represents the step of setting the excess flag.

[0511] 3150 represents a step of generating a signal for supplying liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 at a liquid supply speed having a magnitude of the parameter v(t). This signal may be a signal sent to the atomizing unit 100.

[0512] The parameter v(t) may also be a parameter that represents a prescribed change as a function of the time t after the start of the suction action is detected in step 3130. The value of v(t) or the average value of the prescribed time needs to be greater than the consumption rate of the liquid present in the piezoelectric element substrate 31 generated by the atomization in the later-described step 3160 after at least a constant time has passed after the start of the suction action is detected. However, the prescribed change may also be a change that temporarily becomes zero and constant after the start of the suction action is detected, and then increases from zero. In addition, the parameter v(t) may also be a prescribed value that is constant over time.

[0513] According to steps 3140 to 3150, when the amount of liquid to be atomized existing in the piezoelectric element substrate 31 becomes greater than the upper limit of the second prescribed range, step 3150 is not executed, and the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is stopped. In addition, according to steps 3140 to 3150, after the supply of the liquid to be atomized to the piezoelectric element substrate 31 is stopped, when the amount of the liquid to be atomized existing in the piezoelectric element substrate 31 becomes less than the lower limit of the second prescribed range, step 3150 is executed and the supply is restarted. Therefore, according to steps 3140 to 3150, the amount of the liquid to be atomized existing in the piezoelectric element substrate 31 can be set within the second prescribed range.

[0514] In addition, the amount in the second predetermined range can also be set by numerical calculation or by experiment, so as to suppress the generation of particles larger than a predetermined size by applying a high-frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 passing through step 3160 described later. Here, the upper limit and lower limit of the amount in the second predetermined range can also be respectively greater than the upper limit and lower limit of the amount in the first predetermined range. Therefore, the amount in the second predetermined range can also be equal to the amount in the first predetermined range.

[0515] 3160 indicates a step of generating a signal for applying a high-frequency voltage with an amplitude of parameter A(t) and a frequency of parameter f(t) to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. This signal may be a signal sent to the atomization unit 100.

[0516] Parameters A(t) and f(t) may be parameters that express a predetermined change as a function of the time t that has passed since the start of the puff action was detected in step 3130. Alternatively, one or both of parameters A(t) and f(t) may be predetermined values ​​that are constant over time.

[0517] 3170 is a step of determining whether the end of the puff action is detected. If the end of the puff action is detected, the process proceeds to step 3180, and if not, the process returns to step 3141.

[0518] 3180 indicates a step of generating a signal for stopping the application of the high frequency voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and the supply of the liquid to the piezoelectric element substrate 31. This signal may be a signal sent to the atomizing unit 100.

[0519] In addition, the above-mentioned "large-diameter droplets" scattered as large droplets include extra-large particles having a particle size of about 100 microns larger than coarse particles and particles having a particle size larger than extra-large particles, but are not necessarily limited to this. Therefore, the "predetermined size" in the above-mentioned "particles of a predetermined size or larger" may also be, for example, 100 microns.

[0520] Furthermore, at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26E may be realized by a processor. For example, the control unit 400 may include a processor and a memory storing a program, and the program may cause the processor to function as at least a part of the control unit 400 according to the modification 26E.

[0521] [Example 27]

[0522] The extractor 1 of the present invention can be configured so as to always apply a voltage at an appropriate frequency to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 of the IDT.

[0523] Fig.74 This is a flow chart of the method of operation of the suction device 1 of this modification. Here, the case where the control unit 400 of the suction device 1 executes all the steps is described. However, it should be noted that at least a part of the steps can also be executed by one or more other components of the suction device 1. In addition, it should be understood that this modification can be implemented as a program that causes a processor such as the control unit 400 to execute the method when executed by the processor, or a computer-readable storage medium storing the program. It can also be said that Fig.76 , 79 The same is true for the flow charts shown in 80A, 80B, 80C, 81A, 81B, 81C, 82 and 83.

[0524] In step 4002, the control unit 400 determines whether the requirement of atomizing the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 200 is detected. The absorber 1 may also have a power switch and a drive switch for atomizing the liquid. The power switch and the drive switch may also be separate switches, and the same switch may also have the function of the power switch and the function of the drive switch. In the case where the power switch and the drive switch are separate switches, the power switch may also be a double-row package switch. When the power switch is set to ON, the liquid may also be supplied to a constant amount until it can be absorbed. The drive switch may also be button-shaped. Electricity may also be supplied when the user presses the drive switch. In one example, the control unit 400 may also determine that the requirement of atomizing the liquid is detected when the drive switch is pressed. In another example, the control unit 400 may also be configured to determine that the requirement of atomizing the liquid is detected based on detecting the absorption of the user. For example, the absorber 1 may also have a pressure sensor, and the control unit 400 may also detect the absorption of the user based on the change of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

[0525] When the liquid atomization requirement is not detected (“N” of step 4002 ), the process returns to before step 4002 . When the liquid atomization requirement is detected (Y” of step 4002 ), the process proceeds to step 4004 .

[0526] In step 4004, the control unit 400 monitors the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The specific configuration for executing step 4004 will be described below.

[0527] Fig.75 The figure shows an example of a control circuit 4100 provided in the absorber 1. The control circuit 4100 is configured to control the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and monitor the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. In this example, the control circuit 4100 includes, in addition to the control unit 400, a MEMS oscillator 4102, a DC / DC converter 4103, a power amplifier 4104, a bidirectional coupler 4106, a power detector 4108A, and a power detector 4108B. The control unit 400 can control the oscillation frequency of the MEMS oscillator 4102 by communicating with the MEMS oscillator 4102. The MEMS oscillator 4102 outputs the indicated oscillation frequency. The DC / DC converter 4103 supplies the voltage indicated by the control unit 400 to the power amplifier 4104. The power amplifier 4104 may also be configured to be connected to the power supply 500, amplify the voltage supplied from the power supply 500 by the voltage supplied from the DC / DC converter, and modulate the voltage at the oscillation frequency received from the MEMS oscillator 4102. The control unit 400 can amplitude-modulate the voltage output from the power amplifier 4104 by changing the supply voltage from the DC / DC converter 4103. In one example, the modulation frequency of the amplitude modulation may also be 100 Hz.

[0528] The bidirectional coupler 4106 receives the output of the power amplifier 4104, supplies a part of the received output to the comb electrode pair 33 of the IDT, and outputs the other part of the received output to the power detector 4108A. That is, the power detector 4108A detects the power (or voltage) in the forward direction supplied to the comb electrode pair 33. The power value detected by the power detector 4108A is converted from analog to digital and supplied to the control unit 400. The bidirectional coupler 4106 also receives the power (or voltage) reflected and returned from the comb electrode pair 33, and supplies at least a part of the received power to the power detector 4108B. That is, the power detector 4108B detects the reverse power from the comb electrode pair 33. The power value detected by the power detector 4108B is converted from analog to digital and supplied to the control unit 400.

[0529] Fig.76 Yes means Fig.74 4. In step 4202, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a frequency selected from a plurality of different frequencies. Next, in step 4204, the control unit 400 determines the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when the power reflected from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is minimum as the resonance frequency.

[0530] Fig.77 It is a specific description Fig.76 An example of a method for determining the resonant frequency in the process of Fig.77 (a) When describing, the control unit 400 determines a plurality of different frequencies (here, f1 to f9) used for determining the resonant frequency. The control unit 400 first selects f1 from the plurality of different frequencies, and controls the MEMS oscillator 4102 in a manner that outputs a signal of the oscillation frequency f1. The power amplifier 4104 outputs a voltage that varies with the frequency f1 based on the signal received from the MEMS oscillator 4102. The voltage is applied to the comb electrode pair 33 of the IDT via the bidirectional coupler 4106. When the frequency f1 is completely inconsistent with the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair 33, a portion of the power supplied to the comb electrode pair 33 is reflected and input to the power detector 4108B via the bidirectional coupler 4106. Thus, the control unit 400 can obtain the value of the reflected power. Fig.77 (a) is a graph in which the reflected power is plotted for each of the frequencies f1 to f9. At the frequency f6, the power reflected from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is minimum, and therefore the control unit 400 determines f6 as the resonance frequency.

[0531] As about Fig.77The parameters that should be determined in advance in the method described in the above may include the number of scanning points (frequencies), the scanning frequency range, the interval between adjacent frequencies, etc. Fig.77 In (a), 9 points with frequencies of f1 to f9 are scanned. The intervals between adjacent frequencies have a certain size, so as shown in the figure, there may be a certain degree of difference between the resonant frequency f6 detected by scanning and the actual resonant frequency. Fig.77 As shown in (b), if the same frequency range is set and the number of scanned frequencies is larger, the intervals between adjacent frequencies become narrower. Therefore, the resonant frequency can be determined more accurately. In this way, the control unit 400 can flexibly cope with various precisions required for the detection of the resonant frequency by changing the settable parameters.

[0532] In one example, the control unit 400 may also detect the first power reflected from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when a voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a first frequency (for example, f1). The control unit 400 may also then detect the second power reflected from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when a voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a second frequency (for example, f2) that differs from the first frequency by a first value. When the second power is smaller than the first power, the control unit 400 may then apply a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a third frequency (for example, f3) that differs from the second frequency by a second value that is smaller than the first value. In this case, the frequency interval between f2 and f3 may also be set smaller than the frequency interval between f1 and f2. According to this example, when the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is far different from the resonant frequency, the frequency is scanned at a wider frequency interval, and as the frequency of the applied voltage approaches the resonant frequency, the frequency is scanned at a narrower frequency interval. Therefore, it is not necessary to perform a fine scan over the entire frequency range to be scanned, and thus, the time required for monitoring the resonant frequency can be shortened.

[0533] In one example, the control unit 400 may discretely increase or decrease the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 while monitoring the reflected power from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may also end the subsequent scan when the tendency of the reflected power value changes from decrease to increase, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when the reflected power is minimum as the resonance frequency. According to this example, the frequency range of the scan can be narrowed, and therefore the time required for monitoring the resonance frequency can be shortened.

[0534] In one example, the control unit 400 may also discretely increase the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 while monitoring the reflected power from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may also reduce the variation range of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and discretely reduce the frequency when the tendency of the reflected power value changes from decreasing to increasing. According to this example, it is not necessary to perform a detailed scan over the entire frequency range to be scanned, and thus the time required for monitoring the resonance frequency can be shortened.

[0535] In one example, the control unit 400 may also monitor the reflected power from the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 while discretely decreasing the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may also reduce the variation range of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and discretely increase the frequency when the tendency of the reflected power value changes from decreasing to increasing. According to this example, it is not necessary to perform a detailed scan over the entire frequency range to be scanned, and thus the time required for monitoring the resonance frequency can be shortened.

[0536] In one example, the control unit 400 may also determine as the initially selected frequency a resonance frequency monitored before the start of atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100, a resonance frequency estimated based on the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31, or a frequency closest to the resonance frequency during previous suction, among a plurality of different frequencies.

[0537] Fig.78A Indicates that it is used to Fig.77 An example of the structure of the absorber 1 of this modification example in which the resonance frequency is determined by a method different from the method described in . In addition to the IDT having a main body portion 32 and a comb-shaped electrode pair 33 (hereinafter referred to as the first IDT), a second IDT having a main body portion 4432 and a comb-shaped electrode pair 4433 is arranged on the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The second IDT may also have the same structure as the first IDT. The second IDT is arranged at a position where the SAW output from the first IDT passes. As Fig.78A As shown in FIG. 1 , the second IDT is configured such that the intersection of the second IDT overlaps at least partially with the intersection of the first IDT along the propagation direction of the SAW. The second IDT may be smaller than the first IDT or may have the same size as the first IDT. In the case where the second IDT is smaller than the first IDT, as shown in FIG. Fig.78AAs shown, the second IDT may be arranged only on one side of the first IDT, or may be arranged at least one by one on both sides of the first IDT. A part of the SAW is converted into voltage and heat by the second IDT, so when it is output from the first IDT and passes through the second IDT, the SAW is reduced. Therefore, when the second IDT has the same size as the first IDT, it cannot be said that it is efficient to arrange the second IDT on both sides of the first IDT, and it should be arranged only on one side of the first IDT.

[0538] As in the above example, when the second IDT is arranged at the position where the SAW passes, the electrode of the second IDT may be peeled off due to the vibration caused by the SAW. In order to solve this problem, in this modification, the first IDT and the second IDT may also be arranged on the piezoelectric element substrate 31 and then uniformly coated from above. In this way, the peeling of the IDT electrode caused by vibration can be avoided.

[0539] Fig.78B An example of the configuration of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown. A first IDT (supply IDT) for supplying an AC voltage and a second IDT (detection IDT) capable of detecting the frequency of the supplied voltage are configured on the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The AC voltage supply circuit 4442 is connected to the first IDT. The voltage detection circuit 4444 is connected to the second IDT. When the AC voltage supply circuit 4442 supplies a voltage to the first IDT, SAW is generated on both sides of the first IDT. Fig.78A As described above, the second IDT can have various sizes. Fig.78B In the example, the second IDT has a size comparable to that of the first IDT. Fig.78B In the embodiment, the SAW propagating in the right direction from the first IDT is used for atomization of the liquid, and the SAW propagating in the left direction is used for voltage detection by the second IDT.

[0540] Fig.78C An example of the arrangement of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown. Fig.78C In the example of , the second IDT is smaller than the first IDT. The second IDT picks up power (voltage) using a portion of the SAW propagating to the left from the first IDT. In this example, the SAW generated on both sides of the first IDT can be used to atomize the liquid.

[0541] Fig.78D An example of the configuration of the first IDT and the second IDT is shown. In this example, the first IDT and the second IDT are configured in a manner that shares a common reference potential. In this example, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs of the second IDT is smaller than the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs of the first IDT, so it is possible to suppress the reduction of SAW and pick up power (voltage).

[0542] Figure 78A to Figure 78D The SAW generating device such as the first IDT shown generates heat when a large power is supplied. In such a device, the frequency of impedance matching is a narrow area, and therefore, the matching frequency sometimes changes due to temperature changes. When used in portable devices, low power consumption is required. Therefore, when detecting the matching frequency, it is desired to detect it with low power. Therefore, when monitoring the resonance frequency of the comb electrode pair 33 of the first IDT, power smaller than the power required for atomization of the liquid can be supplied to the first IDT. Moreover, after determining the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33, a larger power required for atomization can be supplied relative to the first IDT. Thus, the power consumption when monitoring the resonance frequency can be reduced.

[0543] Fig.79 Yes means Fig.74 A flowchart of a specific example of the processing performed in step 4004. Fig.79 The processing can be done, for example, by Figure 78A to Figure 78D The structure shown is implemented by applying it to the extractor 1. In step 4502, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a frequency selected from a plurality of different frequencies (for example, f1 to f9). Next, in step 4504, the control unit 400 determines the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when the voltage generated in the second IDT is the maximum as the resonance frequency.

[0544] In one example, the control unit 400 may also detect a first voltage generated in the second IDT when a voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a first frequency (for example, f1). The control unit 400 may then detect a second voltage generated in the second IDT when a voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a second frequency (for example, f2) that differs from the first frequency by a first value. When the second voltage is greater than the first voltage, the control unit 400 may then apply a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a third frequency (for example, f3) that differs from the second frequency by a second value that is smaller than the first value.

[0545] In one example, the control unit 400 may monitor the voltage generated in the second IDT while discretely increasing or decreasing the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may terminate subsequent scanning when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 when the voltage is maximum as the resonance frequency.

[0546] In one example, the control unit 400 may monitor the voltage generated in the second IDT while discretely increasing the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may also reduce the variation range of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and discretely reduce the frequency when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing.

[0547] In one example, the control unit 400 may monitor the voltage generated in the second IDT while discretely decreasing the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The control unit 400 may also reduce the variation range of the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 and discretely increase the frequency when the tendency of the value of the voltage generated in the second IDT changes from increasing to decreasing.

[0548] In one example, the control unit 400 may determine as the initially selected frequency a resonance frequency monitored before the start of atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100, a resonance frequency estimated based on the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31, or a frequency closest to the resonance frequency during previous suction, among a plurality of different frequencies.

[0549] return Fig.74 When, through Figure 75 to Figure 79 In step 4004, the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is monitored, and the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is determined based on the monitored resonance frequency. Next, in step 4006, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at the determined frequency.

[0550] In the extractor, the IDT has manufacturing variations such as the distance between electrodes. In addition, the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair of the IDT changes depending on the temperature when the extractor is in use. For these reasons, the existing extractor cannot obtain a sufficient amount of atomization under various conditions. In contrast, according to this modification, it is possible to monitor the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair and dynamically control the frequency of the voltage to be applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair. Therefore, even if the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair changes due to manufacturing variations, temperature, etc., it is possible to apply a voltage at an appropriate frequency to the comb-shaped electrode pair, and it is possible to obtain a sufficient amount of atomization under various conditions.

[0551] Fig.80A This is a flow chart of the method of operation of the absorber 1 of this modification. In step 4604A, the control unit 400 controls the absorber 1 in a manner such that it enters a standby mode (a state in which the liquid is supplied to a suitable position for atomization and can be atomized at any time if voltage is applied). The control unit 400 may also monitor the position of the liquid surface and determine whether the liquid is supplied to a suitable position. The control unit 400 may also monitor the position of the liquid and the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. Alternatively, the control unit 400 may also monitor the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 after determining that the liquid is supplied to a suitable position.

[0552] The process proceeds to step 4607A, where the control unit determines whether a request to atomize the liquid is detected (whether the drive switch of the aspirator 1 is pressed, whether the user's aspiration is detected, etc.). If a request to atomize the liquid is not detected (N" in step 4607A), the process returns to the process before step 4607A.

[0553] When a request to atomize the liquid is detected ("Y" in step 4607A), the process proceeds to step 4608A, and the control unit 400 starts atomizing the liquid by the atomizing unit 100. That is, Fig.80A In the process 4600A, the control unit 400 is configured to monitor the resonance frequency (step 4604A) before the atomization unit 100 starts atomizing the liquid (step 4608A).

[0554] The process proceeds to step 4610A, and the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a frequency determined based on the resonance frequency monitored in step 4604A during atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100 .

[0555] Fig.80B This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 of this modification. The processing of steps 4601B, 4602B, and 4604B is the same as the processing of steps 4604A, 4607A, and 4608A, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0556] In step 4606B, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at the resonance frequency monitored in the standby mode during the first suction, and applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a frequency based on the resonance frequency determined during the previous suction during the second and subsequent suctions.

[0557] In step 4608B, after the atomization unit completes the atomization of the liquid, the control unit 400 monitors the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33. The resonance frequency determined here may also be stored in the storage unit. The resonance frequency is used to determine the frequency applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 in the atomization of the liquid during the next suction.

[0558] Right now, Fig.80B In the process 4600B, the control unit 400 is configured to monitor the resonance frequency after the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100 is completed.

[0559] Fig.80C This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 according to the present modification. The processing of step 4604C is the same as the processing of step 4604A, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0560] In step 4606C, the control unit 400 determines a frequency range that includes the monitored resonant frequency. In one example, when the monitored resonant frequency is 25 MHz, the control unit 400 may also determine 24.9 MHz to 25.1 MHz as the frequency range. In this example, the frequency range may also be determined in such a way that the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair 33 is within the frequency range even if the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 changes due to the use of the absorber 1. The absorber 1 may also include a storage unit that stores the correspondence between the resonant frequency and the range of frequencies applicable thereto. The control unit 400 may also be configured to determine the frequency range based on the monitored resonant frequency and the correspondence stored in the storage unit.

[0561] The process proceeds to step 4607C, where the control unit determines whether a request to atomize the liquid is detected (whether the drive switch of the aspirator 1 is pressed, whether the user's aspiration is detected, etc.). If a request to atomize the liquid is not detected (N" in step 4607C), the process returns to the process before step 4607C.

[0562] When a request to atomize the liquid is detected ("Y" in step 4607C), the process proceeds to step 4608C, and the control unit 400 starts atomizing the liquid by the atomizing unit 100. That is, Fig.80C In the process 4600C, the control unit 400 is configured to monitor the resonance frequency (step 4604C) before the atomization unit 100 starts atomizing the liquid (step 4608C).

[0563] The process proceeds to step 4610C, and the control unit 400 controls the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33 during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100 so that it is included in the frequency range determined in step 4606C (for example, by controlling the oscillation frequency of the MEMS oscillator 4102). The control unit 400 may also control the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33 in a manner that varies within the above-mentioned frequency range during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100. For example, the control unit 400 may also control the frequency of the applied voltage in a manner that periodically varies within the above-mentioned range. When atomizing the liquid, by varying the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33 within a predetermined range (for example, 24.9 MHz to 25.1 MHz), the resonant frequency is not monitored at each inhalation, and power can be supplied at the resonant frequency during a constant time.

[0564] According to this modification, the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair can be monitored, and the frequency of the voltage to be applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair can be dynamically controlled. Therefore, even if the resonant frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair is different from the design value due to manufacturing unevenness, the voltage can be applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair at an appropriate frequency, and a sufficient amount of atomization can be obtained under various conditions.

[0565] In addition, according to this modification, the determination of the resonance frequency is performed only once before the start of atomization of the liquid, and therefore, the processing performed by the control unit is simple. The control unit monitors the resonance frequency when entering the standby mode, determines the frequency during atomization based on the resonance frequency obtained before atomization, and applies the determined frequency during atomization. That is, the control unit 400 does not monitor the resonance frequency at each inhalation. By not monitoring the resonance frequency at each inhalation, the time the user inhales can be used for atomization of the liquid, and a sufficient amount of atomization can be ensured compared to the case where the resonance frequency is monitored at each inhalation.

[0566] Fig.81A This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 according to the present modification. The processing of step 4704A is the same as the processing of step 4604A, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0567] In step 4706A, the control unit 400 determines the initial value of the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 used in the initial suction based on the value monitored in step 4704A.

[0568] The process proceeds to step 4707A, where the control unit determines whether a request to atomize the liquid is detected (whether the drive switch of the aspirator 1 is pressed, whether the user's aspiration is detected, etc.). If a request to atomize the liquid is not detected (N" in step 4707A), the process returns to the process before step 4707A.

[0569] When a requirement to atomize the liquid is detected ("Y" in step 4707A), the process proceeds to step 4708A, and the control unit 400 sets an initial value for the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb electrode pair 33. In the case of the initial suction, the initial value is the value determined in step 4706A. In the case of the second or subsequent suction, the initial value set in step 4708A may also be the resonant frequency monitored during the previous suction. In step 4709A, the control unit 400 starts atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100. Next, in step 4710A, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb electrode pair 33 at a frequency (fixed value) determined based on the initial value.

[0570] In step 4712A, the control unit 400 monitors the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100 .

[0571] In step 4714A, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at a frequency determined based on the monitored resonance frequency. This allows fine correction of the frequency during the current or next suction. Thereafter, the processing of steps 4710A to 4714A may be repeated during the atomization of the liquid.

[0572] Fig.81B This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 according to the present modification. The processing of steps 4704B to 4709B is the same as the processing of steps 4704A to 4709A, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0573] In step 4710B, the control unit 400 controls the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 so that the voltage varies within a predetermined range including a frequency determined based on the initial value. For example, the control unit 400 may vary the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 within a narrow range including the initial value (for example, the initial value + / - 0.1 MHz).

[0574] In step 4712B, the control unit 400 monitors the resonance frequency of the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100. Fig.81B In the example of step 4710B, the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 is controlled in a manner that varies within a predetermined range. Therefore, when the liquid is atomized, the resonance frequency can be monitored at the same time. On the other hand, Fig.81A In the example above, it is necessary to stop the atomization of the liquid while monitoring the resonant frequency. At this point, Fig.81B The example has Fig.81A The examples are more prominent features.

[0575] In step 4714B, the control unit 400 adjusts the specified range used in step 4710B so as to include the resonance frequency monitored in step 4712B. This allows the frequency of the current suction to be fine-tuned. In the future, the processing of steps 4710B to 4714B may be repeated during the atomization of the liquid.

[0576] Fig.81C This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 according to the present modification. The processing of steps 4704C to 4712C is the same as the processing of steps 4704B to 4712B, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0577] In step 4714C, the control unit 400 determines the resonance frequency monitored in step 4712C as the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 during the next suction. The determined frequency may also be stored in the storage unit. Next, when suction is performed, the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at the frequency determined in step 4714C.

[0578] According to this modification, when the user uses the suction device to atomize the liquid, the user can appropriately set the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair, thereby enabling fine control of the state of the suction device that changes with time, and optimizing the atomization amount of the liquid.

[0579] Fig.82 This is a flowchart of the operation method of the suction device 1 according to the present modification. The processing of steps 4804 to 4810 is the same as the processing of steps 4704A to 4710A, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0580] The absorber 1 may also include a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 that contributes to the phase and amplification of the SAW. The temperature sensor may also be configured to detect the temperature of an appropriate component of the absorber 1 other than the piezoelectric element substrate 31. The temperature sensor can be arranged at an appropriate position of the absorber 1. The temperature may also be measured by bringing a thermocouple, thermistor, or the like into contact. In this case, in order to avoid a short circuit, the temperature of the substrate surface near the comb-shaped electrode 33 may also be measured. Alternatively, non-contact temperature measurement using an infrared radiation thermometer or the like may be performed. In this case, the temperature of the comb-shaped electrode 33 may also be measured.

[0581] In step 4812, the control unit 400 acquires the temperature detected by the temperature sensor during the atomization of the liquid by the atomization unit 100. The process proceeds to step 4814, and the control unit 400 determines the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 based on the temperature detected in step 4812.

[0582] Fig.83 It is a flowchart showing a specific example of the processing performed in step 4814. In step 4902, the control unit 400 predicts the change in the resonant frequency of the liquid atomization performed by the atomization unit 100 based on the temperature detected in step 4812. When the temperature rises, the propagation speed of the SAW becomes faster, so the resonant frequency tends to rise. The control unit 400 can also use this tendency to predict the change in the resonant frequency. Alternatively, the absorber 1 can also have a storage unit, which can also store information related to the correspondence between the temperature and the resonant frequency of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 (or other appropriate components). The control unit 400 can also predict the change in the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair 33 (or other appropriate components) based on the measured temperature of the piezoelectric element substrate 31 (or other appropriate components) and the above information.

[0583] The process proceeds to step 4904 , where the control unit 400 determines the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 based on the change in the resonance frequency predicted in step 4902 .

[0584] return Fig.82 In step 4816 , the control unit 400 applies a voltage to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 at the frequency determined in step 4814 .

[0585] According to this modification, the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair can be monitored, and the frequency of the voltage to be applied to the comb electrode pair can be dynamically controlled. In addition, by using the temperature detected by the temperature sensor, the change in the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair during the atomization of the liquid can be predicted. Therefore, even if the resonant frequency of the comb electrode pair changes due to manufacturing unevenness, the temperature of the suction device during use, etc., a voltage of an appropriate frequency can be applied to the comb electrode pair, and a sufficient amount of atomization can be obtained under various conditions. Fine control of the state of the suction device that changes with time can be performed, and the amount of atomization of the liquid can be optimized.

[0586] In another example, the control unit 400 may detect the temperature before the atomization unit 100 atomizes the liquid, and determine the frequency of the voltage applied to the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 based on the detected temperature. According to this structure, the temperature is detected only once before the atomization of the liquid begins, so that accurate control of the resonance frequency can be achieved by performing only relatively simple processing.

[0587] [Other Embodiments]

[0588] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments, but it should not be understood that the description and drawings constituting a part of this disclosure limit the present invention. Based on this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples, and application techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0589] In the embodiment, the liquid supply unit 60 is provided on the side of the back surface 31B of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid supply unit 60 may also be provided on the side of the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. In this case, the liquid supply unit 60 may also drip the liquid onto the surface 31F of the piezoelectric element substrate 31. In addition, the piezoelectric element substrate 31 may not have the through hole 34.

[0590] In the embodiment, the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 has a linear shape. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the comb-shaped electrode pair 33 may also have a fan-shaped shape.

[0591] In the embodiment, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 is determined based on the atomization efficiency of the aerosol atomized by SAW. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 can also be determined based on the amount of power that can be supplied to the comb-shaped electrode pairs 33. The number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 can also be determined based on the type of solute or solvent that constitutes the liquid. The number of comb-shaped electrode pairs 33 can also be determined based on the supply method and supply speed of the liquid supplied to the SAW module.

[0592] In the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 1 has the inlet 1A. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The flavor inhaler 1 may not have the inlet 1A. In this case, the user holds the mouthpiece 1D in his mouth and inhales the aerosol flowing out of the mouthpiece 1D together with the outside air.

[0593] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the amount of aerosol inhaled by the user may also be set by the user. The flavor inhaler 1 may also adjust the voltage applied to the SAW module 30 or the amount of liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit 60 to the SAW module 30 based on the amount of aerosol set by the user.

[0594] In the embodiment, the case where the flavor inhaler 1 includes one SAW module 30 is shown. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The flavor inhaler 1 may include two or more SAW modules 30 .

[0595] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the aroma absorber 1 may also have a power switch. The aroma absorber 1 may also operate in a drive mode by turning on the power switch. The drive mode is a mode in which power is supplied to each structure provided in the aroma absorber 1, for example, a mode in which the atomization operation of the atomization unit 100 can be started. The aroma absorber 1 may also operate in a standby mode when the power switch is turned off. The standby mode is a mode in which the standby power that can detect the turning on of the power switch is operated.

[0596] Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the aroma absorber 1 may also have a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature (e.g., the atmospheric temperature) of the aroma absorber 1. The aroma absorber 1 may also have a function of not performing the atomization action of the liquid when the temperature of the aroma absorber 1 is lower than the lower limit temperature. The aroma absorber 1 may also have a function of not performing the atomization action of the liquid when the temperature of the aroma absorber 1 exceeds the upper limit temperature.

[0597] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 1 may also have a residual amount sensor for detecting the residual amount of the liquid. The residual amount sensor may also be disposed in the through hole 34, and may also detect the surface water level of the liquid in the through hole 34. The surface water level of the liquid may also be controlled according to the detection result of the residual amount sensor. In the case where at least one of the atomization unit 100 and the liquid storage unit 200 is a cigarette cartridge, the flavor inhaler 1 may also have a sensing sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a cigarette cartridge. In the case where there is no cigarette cartridge, the flavor inhaler 1 may also have a function of not performing the atomization action of the liquid.

[0598] In the embodiment, the aroma absorber 1 has a sensor 300. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The aroma absorber 1 may also have a drive switch used in driving the atomizing unit 100, instead of the sensor 300. The aroma absorber 1 may also start the atomizing action of the atomizing unit 100 according to the turning on of the drive switch. The aroma absorber 1 may also stop the atomizing action of the atomizing unit 100 according to the turning off of the drive switch. The aroma absorber 1 may also stop the atomizing action of the atomizing unit 100 when a constant period has passed since the turning on of the drive switch.

[0599] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the switch provided in the aroma absorber 1 may be a switch other than the power switch and the drive switch. For example, the switch may be a switch for switching between two or more operation modes of the aroma absorber 1. The switch provided in the aroma absorber 1 may be a mechanical switch or a touch panel.

[0600] Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 1 may also have a function of returning unused liquid in the pipe for supplying liquid from the liquid storage unit 200 to the atomization unit 100 to the liquid storage unit 200. The flavor inhaler 1 may also have a liquid storage mechanism for accumulating unused liquid, a mechanism for preventing unused liquid from flowing out through the nozzle 1D and reusing the unused liquid.

[0601] Industrial Applicability

[0602] According to the embodiment, it is possible to provide an atomization unit that can improve the atomization efficiency of liquid.

Claims

1. A suction device, comprising: A piezoelectric element substrate having an IDT composed of a comb-shaped electrode pair; a liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to be atomized to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate on which the comb-shaped electrode pair is arranged; a sensor having at least a pair of detection parts facing each other and detecting the conductivity of an electric signal corresponding to the amount of the liquid supplied to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate; A control unit controls the liquid supply unit based on the detection result of the sensor so that a constant amount of the liquid is supplied to the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

2. The extractor according to claim 1, wherein: The detection section is provided apart from the surface of the piezoelectric element substrate.

3. The extractor according to claim 1, wherein: The piezoelectric element substrate has an edge to which the liquid from the liquid supply portion is supplied, The detection portion has a convex portion protruding toward the opposite detection portion, The distance between the edge and the convex portion is 0.10 mm to 0.20 mm.

4. The extractor according to claim 3, wherein: A guide wall is further provided, which is provided on the edge side of the piezoelectric element substrate. The distance between the edge and the end surface of the guide wall on the edge side is 0.25 mm or more.

5. The extractor according to claim 3, wherein: The interval between the mutually opposing convex portions of the detection portion corresponds to the overlapping length of the comb-shaped electrode pair.

6. The extractor according to claim 1, wherein: The piezoelectric element substrate has edges facing each other with the comb-shaped electrode pair sandwiched therebetween. The sensors are arranged on the edges that are opposite to each other.

7. The extractor according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor is any one of a conductivity sensor, a transmitting and receiving sensor and a static capacitance sensor.

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