device

Abstract

A device that heats a smokable to atomize it is provided. The device includes a chamber that houses a consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable housed in the chamber. The chamber includes a holding portion that holds the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable. The pressing portion has an inner surface and an outer surface. The heating portion is disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion. The outer surface of the pressing portion is planar.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, a flavor suction device for sucking a flavor or the like without combusting a material has been known. The flavor suction device has, for example, a chamber that accommodates a flavor producing article, and a heater that heats the flavor producing article accommodated in the chamber (for example, refer to Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2001-521123

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 5963375

[0007] Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2016 / 207407 SUMMARY

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a smoking system including a consumable having a smokable material and a device that heats the smokable material to cause it to aerosolize. The device includes a chamber that accommodates the consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable accommodated in the chamber. The chamber includes an opening into which the consumable is inserted and a holding portion that holds the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable and a non-pressing portion. The pressing portion and the non-pressing portion each have an inner surface and an outer surface. The heating portion is disposed at the outer surface of the pressing portion. The inner surface of the pressing portion can also be said to be a pressing surface that presses the consumable, and the inner surface of the non-pressing portion can also be said to be a non-pressing surface that does not press the consumable.

[0009] According to the first aspect, the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), and thus heat from the heating portion can be efficiently transferred to the consumable. In addition, the consumable contains a smokeable material such as tobacco or a non-tobacco smokeable material. The consumable can or can not have a mouthpiece. As the consumable having a mouthpiece, it can be a rod-type consumable having an appearance similar to that of a conventional cigarette having a tobacco or the like as a smokeable material. As the consumable not having a mouthpiece, it can be a consumable in which a smokeable material such as tobacco is itself fixed in a flat plate shape or the like, or a consumable in which a smokeable material is wound with a non-woven fabric or the like air-permeable member, a sheet member, or the like. In addition, the heating portion can have a heating element. The chamber can be, for example, a bottomed cylindrical container, or a cylindrical body having no bottom. The chamber is preferably made of a material having a high thermal conductivity, such as a metal, for example, stainless steel or the like. This allows efficient heating. It is preferable that the wall thickness of the chamber be uniform (including substantially uniform). This allows more uniform heating of the entire chamber. The thickness of the chamber is, for example, 0.04 mm or more and 1.00 mm or less, preferably 0.04 mm or more and 0.50 mm or less, and more preferably 0.05 mm or more and 0.10 mm or less.

[0010] The heating portion is preferably disposed without a gap (without a gap between the outer surface of the pressing portion and the heating portion) on the outer surface of the pressing portion. The absence of a gap here also includes substantially no gap. Thus, the heating portion is in close contact with the outer surface of the pressing portion, and thus heat from the heating portion can be more efficiently transferred to the consumable. In addition, the heating portion can include an adhesive layer. In this case, it is preferable that the heating portion including the adhesive layer be disposed without a gap on the outer surface of the pressing portion.

[0011] The opening is preferably shaped so as to allow the consumable to be housed without being pressed. Thus, the consumable can be easily inserted into the chamber. The shape of the opening of the chamber on a surface orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, in other words, the direction in which the consumable is inserted into the chamber or the direction in which the entire side surface of the chamber extends (hereinafter, simply referred to as the length direction of the chamber), can be a polygonal shape or an elliptical shape, but is preferably a circular shape. Thus, the consumable can be easily inserted into the opening.

[0012] The inner circumferential length of the holding portion is preferably the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing portion. In addition, here, "the same" includes the case of being substantially the same. "Substantially the same" means that the difference between the inner circumferential length of the holding portion and the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing portion is, for example, within ±6% of the inner circumferential length of the holding portion, preferably within ±4%, and more preferably within ±2%. As described above, the holding portion has the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion. In the case where the inner circumferential length of the holding portion and the outer circumferential length of the consumable are substantially the same, by pressing a part of the consumable by the pressing portion, the outer circumferential shape of the consumable is made to substantially coincide with the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the holding portion. In the present smoking system, in the case where the inner circumferential length and the inner circumferential shape of the holding portion and the outer circumferential length and the outer circumferential shape of the consumable are the same, the portion of the consumable pressed by the pressing portion is formed, and therefore the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion to the consumable can be improved. In addition, in the case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable is shorter than the inner circumferential length of the holding portion, the portion of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable that is not pressed is also substantially in contact with the inner circumferential surface (non-pressing surface) of the holding portion, and therefore the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion to the consumable can be improved. Furthermore, in the case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable is longer than the inner circumferential length of the holding portion, the consumable can be smoothly inserted into the holding portion, and the density of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable and the inside of the consumable (for example, tobacco which is one example of a smokable material) can be inhibited from being strained. As a result, uneven heating caused by the density of the inside of the consumable being strained, and variation in the air passage resistance of each consumable can be inhibited. In addition, it can also be said that the inner circumferential length of the holding portion is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the pressing portion, and the inner circumferential length of the holding portion can be the inner circumferential length on the surface of the holding portion orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing portion" can be the outer circumferential length of the portion of the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing portion that is positioned at a position corresponding to the inner circumferential length of the holding portion being compared in the length direction of the chamber when being pressed by the pressing portion. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the pressing portion" can be the outer circumferential length of the portion of the outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the pressing portion that corresponds to the inner circumferential length of the holding portion being compared in the length direction of the chamber.

[0013] The outer circumferential surface of the holding portion preferably has the same shape and size (the outer circumferential length of the holding portion on the surface orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber) over the entire length in the length direction of the chamber. Thereby, the heating portion can be inhibited from being loosely provided on the outer surface of the pressing portion of the holding portion, and as a result, the heating portion can be easily provided on the outer surface of the pressing portion substantially without a gap.

[0014] The non-pressing portion preferably contacts the consumable in a non-pressing state when the consumable is disposed at a desired position in the chamber. The non-pressing state here substantially includes the non-pressing state. Thus, substantially no gap is generated between the consumable and the holding portion, and the heat transfer efficiency from the heating portion to the consumable can be further improved in the non-pressing portion. The non-pressing portion can have an inner surface connecting the inner surfaces of the opposing pressing portions, and the inner surface can be curved.

[0015] The inner surface of the non-pressing portion of the holding portion preferably has a curved surface connecting the end portions of the inner surfaces of the pressing portions in the circumferential direction of the chamber. Thus, the structure of the smoking system can be further simplified, and cleaning of the non-pressing portion can be performed more easily than in the case where the inner surface has a corner or the like. In the case where the gap described later is formed in the chamber, cleaning of the gap can be performed more easily than in the case where the inner surface has a corner or the like. It is preferable that the shape of the inner surface of the non-pressing portion in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber be the same as the shape of the opening in the plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber at any position in the longitudinal direction of the chamber. In other words, the inner surface of the non-pressing portion is preferably formed by extending the inner surface of the chamber in which the opening is formed in the longitudinal direction. Thus, the structure of the chamber can be simplified, and in the case where the gap described later is formed in the chamber, the flow of air entering from the opening of the chamber can be inhibited. In addition, cleaning of the gap can be performed more easily. In addition, the "circumferential direction of the chamber" can be considered as the "rotational direction about the longitudinal direction of the chamber".

[0016] The outer surface of the pressing portion can be curved or uneven, but is preferably flat. In addition, "flat" here includes the case where it is substantially flat. "The outer surface of the pressing portion is substantially flat" means that, from the viewpoint of the proportion of the flat surface to the entire outer surface of the pressing portion, the proportion of the flat surface to the entire outer surface of the pressing portion is, for example, 80% or more, preferably 90% or more, and more preferably 95% or more.

[0017] By making the outer surface of the pressing portion flat, in the case where the strip-shaped electrode is connected to the outer surface heating portion of the pressing portion in which it is disposed, the strip-shaped electrode can be inhibited from being bent, and thus the electrode can be easily routed in the device. In addition, compared to the case where the outer surface of the pressing portion is curved or uneven, the heating portion can be positioned with high accuracy, and the heating portion can be easily disposed in the outer surface of the pressing portion without a gap.

[0018] The inner surface of the pressing portion is preferably flat. Thereby, insertion of the consumable is facilitated. The "flat" here also includes a case where it is substantially flat. Further, the thickness of the pressing portion is preferably uniform. Thereby, more uniform heating can be performed. The "uniform thickness" here also includes a case where it is substantially uniform. The thickness of the pressing portion is, for example, 0.04 mm or more and 1.00 mm or less, preferably 0.04 mm or more and 0.50 mm or less, and more preferably 0.05 mm or more and 0.10 mm or less. Thereby, excessive volume of the pressing portion can be suppressed, and necessary strength of the pressing portion can be ensured, while preventing efficient heat transfer to the consumable.

[0019] In a case where the inner surface of the pressing portion is flat, the chamber can have only one pressing portion, but preferably has two or more in the circumferential direction of the chamber. Thereby, the portions that press the consumable exist two or more in the circumferential direction of the chamber, and thus the consumable can be heated more comprehensively and uniformly.

[0020] The holding portion has two pressing portions facing each other, and the distance of at least a portion between the inner surfaces of the two pressing portions is preferably smaller than the width of the portion arranged between the pressing portions of the consumable inserted into the chamber. The inner surfaces of the two pressing portions of the holding portion facing each other can also be flat.

[0021] In a case where the inner surface of the pressing portion is flat, the pressing portion can also exist three or more in the circumferential direction of the chamber. Each pressing portion can be arranged to face each pressing portion, or can be arranged to face each non-pressing portion. In a case where it is arranged to face each non-pressing portion, the distance from the point where the line vertically extending from the center of the inner surface of each pressing portion intersects on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber to the center of the inner surface of each pressing portion can also be smaller than the radius of the consumable having a circular cross section inserted. The "circular" here also includes a case where it is substantially circular.

[0022] It is preferable that the inner surface of the pressing portion has a pair of planar pressing surfaces facing each other, and the inner surface of the non-pressing portion has a pair of curved non-pressing surfaces facing each other, which connect both ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces. The curved non-pressing surfaces can have a circular arc cross section as a whole in a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber. The holding portion can be composed of a metal cylindrical body having a uniform thickness. The uniform thickness here includes a substantially uniform thickness. Thus, the configuration of the chamber can be simplified, and high-precision manufacturing becomes easy. In addition, thus, the positions of the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion can be arranged in good balance to homogenize heating, the heating portion position can be easily arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion with good precision and without gaps, and the heating efficiency can be improved. The thickness of the holding portion is, for example, 0.04 mm or more and 1.00 mm or less, preferably 0.04 mm or more and 0.50 mm or less, and more preferably 0.05 mm or more and 0.10 mm or less. Thus, it is possible to suppress hindering of efficient heat transfer to the consumable due to an excessively large volume of the holding portion, and to ensure the necessary strength of the holding portion.

[0023] The holding portion can also be provided with a gap that communicates between the inner surface of the non-pressing portion and the consumable and the opening of the chamber and the end surface of the consumable positioned at the desired position in the chamber, or the opening of the chamber and the end surface of the consumable positioned in the chamber and positioned at a position away from the opening of the chamber when the consumable is positioned at the desired position in the chamber. The gap is a flow path through which air flows from the opening of the chamber toward the end surface of the consumable when the user takes a puff, and there is no need to additionally provide a flow path for introducing air supplied to the consumable in the smoking system, so the configuration of the smoking system can be simplified, and since the portion of the non-pressing portion that forms the gap is exposed, the gap can be easily cleaned. In addition, air passing through the gap can be efficiently heated to effectively utilize the heat energy from the heating portion. From the viewpoint of air passage resistance or the like, the height of the gap (the size of the distance between the inner surface of the non-pressing portion and the consumable on a line extending radially from the center of the cross section of the consumable positioned at the desired position in the chamber) is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less, and most preferably 0.3 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0024] For example, the holding portion preferably has at least two pressing portions separated in the circumferential direction of the chamber, and is provided with a gap that communicates between the inner surface of the non-pressing portion connecting the two pressing portions and the consumable, and the opening of the chamber and the end surface of the consumable positioned at the desired position in the chamber, or the opening of the chamber and the end surface of the consumable positioned in the chamber and positioned at a position away from the opening of the chamber, when the consumable is positioned at the desired position in the chamber. More preferably, two gaps are provided between the inner surfaces of the two non-pressing portions connecting the two pressing portions and the consumable, and further preferably, three or more gaps are provided between the inner surfaces of three or more non-pressing portions connecting three or more pressing portions and the consumable. Thus, the deflection of the air flow in the chamber can be further suppressed, and the more uniform heating can be suppressed.

[0025] The two pressing portions are preferably opposed to each other. In this case, the deflection of the air flow in the chamber can be further suppressed, and the more uniform heating can be further suppressed.

[0026] The holding portion preferably has no convex portion on the inner surface of the holding portion. In the case where the inner surface of the holding portion having a uniform thickness has a convex portion, a concave portion is formed on the outer surface of the holding portion, and it can be difficult to arrange the heating portion without a gap on the outer surface of the pressing portion. In addition, the holding portion can have a non-uniform thickness due to the convex portion on the inner surface of the holding portion, and the uniform heating can be hindered. However, by making the holding portion have no convex portion on the inner surface of the holding portion, these situations can be avoided.

[0027] The chamber preferably has a first guide portion having a tapered surface connecting the inner surface of the chamber forming the opening and the inner surface of the pressing portion. The first guide portion can continuously change the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber from the opening toward the pressing portion, and thus the consumable can be smoothly inserted into the chamber. It is preferable that the heating portion is not arranged on at least one selected from the outer surface of the chamber between the opening and the first guide portion, the outer surface of the first guide portion, and the outer surface of the non-pressing portion. Since the inner surfaces corresponding to these outer surfaces do not press the consumable, by not arranging the heating portion on these outer surfaces, the energy can be efficiently used for heating.

[0028] The chamber preferably has a non-holding portion of a cylindrical shape between the opening and the holding portion. In a state in which the consumable is positioned at a desired position of the chamber, a gap between an inner surface of the non-holding portion and the consumable is, for example, 3.0 mm or less, preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less and 0.4 mm or more. If the gap is within these ranges, the consumable can be efficiently heated via the non-holding portion, and thus, condensation of aerosol through the inside of the consumable can be suppressed. In addition, in the presence of the above gap, air passing through the gap can be efficiently heated, and thus, heat energy from the heating portion can be effectively utilized. Furthermore, by making the gap 0.4 mm or more, it is easy to insert the consumable into the chamber. In the present specification, the "state in which the consumable is positioned at a desired position of the chamber" refers to a state in which the consumable is correctly positioned at an intended position in the chamber in order to generate aerosol from the consumable (for example, in the case where the chamber has a "bottom portion that is abutted by the inserted consumable", a state in which the consumable abuts at least a portion of the bottom portion, or in the case where the device has an "abutment portion that is abutted by the inserted consumable" inside or outside the chamber, a state in which the consumable abuts at least a portion of the abutment portion).

[0029] The chamber can have a bottom portion. Alternatively, the device can have an abutment portion that is abutted by the consumable inserted into the chamber, inside or outside the chamber. The bottom portion or the abutment portion preferably supports a portion of the consumable positioned at a desired position of the chamber in such a manner that at least a portion of an end surface of the consumable is exposed. In addition, in the case where the smoking system has the aforementioned gap, the bottom portion or the abutment portion preferably supports a portion of the consumable in such a manner that the exposed end surface of the consumable communicates with the gap. Thereby, air can be taken in from the end surface of the consumable, and positioning in the length direction of the consumable can be performed. It can also be that the bottom portion of the chamber has a bottom wall and a side wall, and the width of the bottom portion divided by the side wall decreases toward the bottom wall. Thereby, when the consumable inserted into the chamber reaches the bottom portion, the consumable can be compressed by the side wall to perform positioning of the consumable. It can also be that the bottom portion or the abutment portion of the chamber has a bottom wall or an abutment surface, and the bottom wall or the abutment portion has a protrusion or a groove portion. In addition, it can also be that the bottom portion or the abutment portion of the chamber has a bottom wall or an abutment surface, and the bottom wall or the abutment surface has a hole for taking in air into the chamber.

[0030] The chamber can also have a cylindrical member having an opening at least on one side. The heating portion can also be configured to start heating all the pressing portions at the same time, and can perform heating for the same period of time.

[0031] The heating portion is preferably arranged over the entire outer surface of the pressing portion. Thereby, heat conduction from the heating portion to the pressing portion can be made more uniform, and as a result, the consumable held in the holding portion can be efficiently heated.

[0032] The device can also have an electrode in the form of a band extending from the heating portion. Since the electrode is in the form of a band, reliability of supplying power to the heating portion can be improved compared to an electrode in the form of a string. The electrode in the form of a band is preferably configured to extend from the outer surface of the pressing portion, which is a flat surface, to the outside of the outer surface of the pressing portion, with the heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion. As described above, by making the outer surface of the pressing portion a flat surface, the electrode in the form of a band can be prevented from flexing, and thus wiring within the device becomes easier.

[0033] The electrode in the form of a band can also extend from only one of the outer surfaces of the two pressing portions. In this case, since the electrode in the form of a band is concentrated, the device can be made compact. Alternatively, the electrode in the form of a band can extend from each of the outer surfaces of the two pressing portions. In this case, a plurality of independent heating portions can be provided using each of the electrodes in the form of a band, or the positive and negative electrodes can be extended separately according to the arrangement of the components of the device. The electrode in the form of a band can also extend toward the opposite side of the opening side of the chamber. In this case, since no electrode is disposed on the opening side of the chamber into which the consumable is inserted, the device can be made simple in configuration, and reliability of the device can be improved. The electrode in the form of a band can also have a configuration in which a layer composed of a conductive track is disposed between layers composed of a double layer of an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material is, for example, polyimide, and the conductive track can be formed of gold, silver, copper, nickel, an alloy containing any of these metals, or a plurality of combinations of these metals or alloys, for example. Thus, a flexible heating configuration that is easy to manufacture and has high reliability can be obtained.

[0034] The heating portion preferably has a heating element and an electrically insulating member covering at least one surface of the heating element. The electrically insulating member is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the holding portion. In other words, the electrically insulating member is preferably configured not to protrude from the outer surface of the holding portion on the side of the first guide portion in the length direction of the chamber. As described above, in the case where the first guide portion is provided between the opening and the pressing portion, the shape of the outer surface of the chamber and the outer peripheral length of the chamber on a surface orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber can be changed in the first guide portion and the holding portion. Thus, by disposing the electrically insulating member only on the outer surface of the holding portion, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0035] The device preferably further has a sheet (fixing sheet) that covers the chamber and the heating portion and fixes the heating portion to the outer surface of the chamber. As an example of the sheet that fixes the heating portion, a shrinkable sheet that shrinks by some external action can be given, and specifically, a heat-shrinkable sheet that shrinks by being supplied with heat and the like can be given. The fixing sheet such as a shrinkable sheet preferably has a higher shrinkage rate in the circumferential direction than in the length direction of the chamber in a state of covering the chamber and the heating portion. The heat-shrinkable sheet can also contain polyimide, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, gelatin, polysaccharides, and the like. With the fixing sheet, the heating portion can be firmly and tightly fixed to the outer surface of the chamber, and thus the heating efficiency is further improved, and the structure around the chamber is stabilized. In addition, the sheet is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the holding portion. In other words, the sheet is preferably disposed so as not to protrude from the outer surface of the holding portion on the side of the first guide portion in the length direction of the chamber. As described above, in the case where the first guide portion is provided between the opening and the holding portion, the shape of the outer surface of the chamber and the outer peripheral length of the chamber on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber can be changed in the first guide portion and the holding portion. Thus, by disposing the sheet only on the outer surface of the holding portion, generation of slack can be suppressed.

[0036] The heating portion can also have a first portion on the side opposite the opening and a second portion on the opening side. The heater power density of the second portion is preferably higher than the heater power density of the first portion, or the temperature increase rate of the second portion is preferably higher than the temperature increase rate of the first portion, or the heating temperature of the second portion is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the first portion in any same time. The second portion preferably covers the outer surface of the holding portion corresponding to 1 / 2 or more of the smokeable in the length direction of the smokeable contained in the consumable in a state where the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber. Thereby, it is possible to shorten the time from starting the heating portion to performing the first puff while suppressing energy consumption.

[0037] The upstream (upstream in the direction in which air or aerosol flows when the user performs suction. The same applies hereinafter.) end of the heating portion or the heating element disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion is preferably located on the downstream side (downstream in the direction in which air or aerosol flows when the user performs suction. The same applies hereinafter.) of the upstream end of the smokeable of the consumable in a state where the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber. For example, the upstream end of the heating portion or the heating element is located on the downstream end side of the upstream end of the smokeable of the consumable positioned at the desired position of the chamber by 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, preferably 3.0 mm or more and 6.0 mm or less, and further preferably 4.5 mm or more and 5.5 mm or less. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the outflow of aerosol from the upstream end of the smokeable. In addition, it is possible to have a good influence on the taste of the smoke.

[0038] In a state where the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber, it is preferable that the downstream end of the heating portion or the heating element arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion is positioned on the downstream end side than the downstream end of the smokeable of the consumable positioned at the desired position of the chamber. For example, the downstream end of the heating portion or the heating element is positioned on the downstream end side than the downstream end of the smokeable of the consumable positioned at the desired position of the chamber by 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, preferably 2.0 mm or more and 5.0 mm or less, and further preferably 2.0 mm or more and 3.0 mm or less. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the condensation of the aerosol while suppressing the energy consumption.

[0039] The heater power density of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion is preferably higher than the heater power density of the heating portion covering the outer surface of the non-pressing portion, or the temperature increase rate of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion is preferably higher than the temperature increase rate of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the non-pressing portion, or the heating temperature of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the non-pressing portion at any same time. Thereby, in a case where the area of the pressing portion in the holding portion is larger than that of the non-pressing portion by a certain amount or more, it is possible to more efficiently perform the heating of the smokeable. The heater power density of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion can be the same as the heater power density of the heating portion covering the outer surface of the non-pressing portion. The temperature increase rate of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion can be the same as the temperature increase rate of the heating portion covering the outer surface of the non-pressing portion. The heating temperature of the heating portion arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion can be the same as the heating temperature of the heating portion covering the outer surface of the non-pressing portion. Note that "the same" here includes a case where they are substantially the same.

[0040] The heating portion can have a heating element, and the heating element can be a heating track. The outer surface of the pressing portion and the outer surface of the non-pressing portion can be connected to each other at an angle, and a boundary can be formed between the outer surface of the pressing portion and the outer surface of the non-pressing portion. The heating track preferably extends only in a direction intersecting the direction in which the boundary extends, and further preferably in a direction at a right angle to the direction in which the boundary extends. Thereby, the heating track is less likely to be damaged and peeled off from the outer surface of the holding portion. Note that "a direction at a right angle" here includes a case where the direction is substantially at a right angle.

[0041] The heating portion can be, for example, a sheet heater. The sheet heater can have, for example, a configuration in which a layer composed of an electrically insulating material and a layer composed of a heating track as one example of a heating element are overlapped. Note that, for example, the heating portion can have a configuration in which a layer composed of a heating track is arranged between layers composed of a double layer of an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material is, for example, polyimide, and the heating track can be, for example, a metal such as stainless steel. Thereby, a flexible heating configuration that is easy to manufacture and has high reliability can be obtained.

[0042] Alternatively, the consumable includes a first portion having a first hardness and a second portion having a second hardness, the second portion being a different portion from the first portion in the insertion direction of the consumable, the first portion being disposed on the end side in the longitudinal direction of the consumable than the second portion.

[0043] When the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber, the consumable is preferably positioned such that at least a portion of the first portion is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion. In addition, the first hardness is, for example, 65% or more and 90% or less, preferably 70% or more and 85% or less, further preferably 73% or more and 82% or less, and most preferably 77% or more and 81% or less. Thereby, the consumable itself is easily kept in shape, and the consumable is easily inserted into the holding portion.

[0044] When the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber, the consumable is preferably positioned such that at least a portion of the second portion is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion. In addition, the second hardness is, for example, 90% or more and 99% or less, preferably 90% or more and 99% or less, further preferably 92% or more and 98% or less, and most preferably 95% or more and 98% or less. Thereby, the insertion is easily performed, and the consumable is securely held.

[0045] The second hardness is preferably higher than the first hardness. Thereby, the easiness of insertion of the consumable into the holding portion and the secure holding of the consumable can be achieved at the same time. In addition, when the consumable is inserted into the chamber, the state in which only the first portion is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion changes to the state in which the second portion is also pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion, so that the user can feel the change in resistance during the insertion of the consumable. As a result, the user can know to what extent the consumable is inserted into the chamber during the insertion, become a clue to know to what extent the consumable is inserted again until the desired insertion position is reached, and position the consumable easily at the desired position. It is preferable that the first portion and the second portion are disposed adjacently to make the user feel the change in resistance more definitely. In addition, the difference between the first hardness and the second hardness is preferably at least 4% or more, further preferably 10% or more, and most preferably 14% or more.

[0046] The word "hardness" used throughout the present specification means resistance to deformation. Hardness is generally expressed as a ratio. In the case where the consumable is a cylindrical rod, if the diameter of the consumable before a load is applied is set as D s , the diameter of the consumable in the state where a prescribed load is applied in the diametrical direction is set as D d , then the deformation amount d of the consumable at the time when the prescribed load is applied can be expressed by D s - D dThe hardness (%) is represented by Dd / Ds x 100 (%). The harder the material constituting the consumable is, the closer the hardness is to 100%.

[0047] Dd / Ds is measured in accordance with ISO 187 at an ambient temperature of 22 ± 2 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 60% using a device commercially available under the trade name Hardness Tester H10 (Borgwaldt KC GmbH, Hamburg, Germany) with an applied load of 88 grams at the time of 5 seconds of application of the load. d

[0048] The length of the first portion of the consumable in the length direction is below the length of the inner surface of the pressing portion in the length direction, and it is preferable that the consumable be positioned in the chamber in such a manner that the first portion of the consumable does not protrude from the inner surface of the pressing portion in the length direction when the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber. Thereby, in the case where the first portion contains the smokeable, the smokeable is pressed in the entire length in the length direction, and thus the entire smokeable can be efficiently heated and atomized. In addition, it is preferable that the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable of the consumable be covered by the holding portion when the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber. Thereby, the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable is directly heated by the holding portion, and thus the smokeable can be uniformly and efficiently heated. In addition, it is preferable that the consumable be positioned in such a manner that at least a part of the first portion is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion and at least a part of the second portion is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing portion when the consumable is positioned at the desired position of the chamber. Thereby, in the case where the first portion contains the smokeable, efficient heating of the smokeable based on the pressing portion and firm holding of the consumable can be simultaneously achieved.

[0049] The distance by which the second portion of the consumable is inserted into the holding portion when the consumable is positioned at the desired position is preferably 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, further preferably 2.0 mm or more and 8.0 mm or less, and most preferably 4.0 mm or more and 6.0 mm or less. Thereby, appropriate holding force of the consumable and ease of insertion of the consumable can be simultaneously achieved.

[0050] ​The chamber can also have a bottom or abutment. The length from the bottom wall or abutment surface of the bottom or abutment of the chamber against which the consumable abuts to the end of the opening side of the pressing portion is preferably longer than the length of the first portion of the consumable in the lengthwise direction (hereinafter referred to as the length of the first portion) and shorter than 1.5 times the length of the first portion, further preferably shorter than 1.35 times. Also / or at least a portion of the first portion of the consumable is preferably located on the opening side from the lengthwise central portion of the holding portion when the consumable is positioned at the desired position in the chamber. Thus, a change in resistance can be felt before the first portion of the consumable abuts against the bottom wall or abutment surface of the chamber, the insertion position at which the change is felt can be made a position closer to the desired insertion position of the consumable, and thus it is easier to position the consumable at the desired position, and the user's sense of use can be improved.

[0051] The first portion preferably has a smokeable material including tobacco as one example of a flavor source. In addition, the first portion can have a sheet member that wraps the smokeable material and has air permeability, and a cap that is fixed to the sheet member and prevents the smokeable material from falling. The cap has air permeability and can be adhered to the sheet member by, for example, paste. In addition, the cap can be fixed to the sheet member by friction. The cap can be, for example, filter paper or an acetate filter. The second portion can have a tubular member. The tubular member can be a paper tube or a hollow filter.

[0052] The hollow filter can include a filler layer having one or more hollow passages and a filter plug covering the filler layer. The filler layer has a high packing density of fibers, and thus, when inhaled, air and aerosol flow only through the hollow passages and hardly flow within the filler layer. The hollow filter can also have a mouthpiece tube composed of an adjacent filter portion or the like. In the consumable, when it is desired to reduce the reduction caused by filtration of aerosol components by the filter portion, it is effective to shorten the length of the filter portion and replace it with a hollow filter portion for increasing the delivery amount of aerosol.

[0053] The consumable can also have a first paper wrapper that wraps the smokeable material. The length of the consumable in the lengthwise direction is preferably 40 mm to 90 mm, more preferably 50 mm to 75 mm, and further preferably 50 mm to 60 mm. The circumference of the consumable is preferably 15 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 17 mm to 24 mm, and further preferably 20 mm to 23 mm. In addition, the length of the smokeable material in the consumable can be 18 mm to 22 mm, the length of the first paper wrapper can be 18 mm to 22 mm, the length of the hollow filter portion can be 7 mm to 9 mm, and the length of the filter portion can be 6 mm to 8 mm.

[0054] The smokeable of the consumable can contain an aerosol source that generates an aerosol upon heating at a prescribed temperature. The kind of the aerosol source is not particularly limited, and an extract from various natural products and / or their constituent components can be selected as appropriate to the use. As the aerosol source, for example, glycerin, propylene glycol, glycerol triacetate, 1,3-butanediol, and a mixture thereof can be listed. The content of the aerosol source in the smokeable (wt% relative to the weight of the entire smokeable) is not particularly limited, but is generally 5 wt% or greater, preferably 10 wt% or greater, from the viewpoint of sufficiently generating an aerosol and providing a good flavor, and is generally 50 wt% or less, preferably 20 wt% or less.

[0055] The smokeable of the consumable can use tobacco in the form of a sheet, a stem, or the like, or another well-known plant as a flavor source. In addition, the shape of the flavor source such as tobacco can be in the form of cut tobacco, a sheet, a rope, a powder, a granule, a pellet, a slurry, or a porous material, or the like. The content of the smokeable such as tobacco in the consumable is, for example, 200 mg to 400 mg, preferably 250 mg to 320 mg, in the case where the size of the smokeable is a circumference of 20 mm to 23 mm and a length of 18 mm to 22 mm. The moisture content of the smokeable such as tobacco is, for example, 8 wt% to 18 wt%, preferably 10 wt% to 16 wt%, relative to the weight of the entire smokeable. If the moisture content is such, generation of paper dirt is suppressed, and rolling suitability at the time of manufacture is improved. In addition, the consumable is easily deformed moderately in accordance with the cross-sectional shape of the holding portion. The size of tobacco cut tobacco used as an example of the smokeable, and the method of curing thereof, are not particularly limited. For example, dried tobacco leaves can be used by being cut into a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. In addition, dried tobacco leaves can be used by being pulverized to be homogenized to an average particle diameter of about 20 μm to 200 μm, then subjected to sheet processing, and cut into a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. Furthermore, the sheet processing can be performed without cutting, and instead, pleat processing can be performed to be used as the smokeable. In addition, the smokeable can contain one or two or more kinds of flavorings. The kind of the flavoring is not particularly limited, but menthol is preferred from the viewpoint of providing a good flavor.

[0056] The consumable can also have a second paper different from the first paper that wraps at least one of the wrapped tube-shaped member, the hollow filter, and the filter portion. The second paper can also wrap a part of the first paper that wraps the smokeable. The first paper and the second paper of the consumable can be made of a base paper having a grammage of, for example, 20 gsm to 65 gsm. The thickness of the first paper and the second paper is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 μm to 100 μm from the viewpoint of rigidity, air permeability, and easiness of adjustment at the time of paper making.

[0057] The first and second rolls of paper for the consumable can contain a filler. The content of the filler can be 10 to 60% by weight, preferably 15 to 45% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the first and second rolls of paper. In the present embodiment, the filler is preferably 15 to 45% by weight with respect to the preferred range of grammage (25 to 45 gsm). As the filler, for example, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, kaolin, or the like can be used. With respect to paper containing such a filler, from the viewpoint of appearance as a roll of paper for a consumable, it is preferable to be a bright color in the white range, and the white color can be permanently maintained. By containing such a filler in a large amount, for example, the ISO whiteness of the roll of paper can be 83% or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of practicality as a roll of paper for a consumable, the first and second rolls of paper are preferably provided with a tensile strength of 8 N / 15 mm or more. Thus, when the consumable held in the holding portion is extracted, the roll of paper is also less likely to be damaged. The tensile strength can be improved by reducing the content of the filler. Specifically, by making the content of the filler less than the upper limit of the content of the filler indicated in the above-described range of each of the exemplified grammages, the tensile strength can be improved.

[0058] The holding portion includes a first holding portion, and the chamber includes a second holding portion located farther from the opening than the first holding portion. In a state in which the consumable is held in the first and second holding portions of the chamber, the second holding portion is configured to compress the consumable more than the first holding portion, and / or the cross-sectional area of the inside of the second holding portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the inside of the first holding portion in a face orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber. Thus, the air passage resistance at the time of smoking can be adjusted using the pressing of the second holding portion. Since the second holding portion is provided separately from the first holding portion, the shape of the second pressing portion can be formed into a shape that achieves a desired air passage resistance independently of the shape of the first pressing portion that is suitable for optimal heating. It is also possible not to provide a heating portion on the outer surface of the second pressing portion. In particular, in a case in which the portion of the consumable pressed by the second holding portion does not contain smokeable material as in the cap or the like described above, by not providing a heating portion to the second holding portion, heating that does not effectively contribute to heating of the smokeable material can be suppressed, and energy can be used efficiently.

[0059] The first holding portion can also include a first pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable and a first non-pressing portion. The second holding portion can also include a second pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable and a second non-pressing portion. By providing the first holding portion with the first pressing portion, in the first holding portion, the consumable substantially adheres to the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), and thus heat from the heating portion can be efficiently transmitted to the consumable.

[0060] The chamber preferably has a second guide portion having a tapered surface connecting the inner surface of the first pressing portion and the inner surface of the second pressing portion. The second guide portion can continuously change the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber from the first pressing portion toward the second pressing portion, and thus can smoothly insert the consumable into the chamber.

[0061] The first holding portion can have a pair of first pressing surfaces facing each other, and the second holding portion can have a pair of second pressing surfaces facing each other. The shortest distance between the second pressing surfaces is preferably smaller than the shortest distance between the first pressing surfaces. The second pressing surfaces can be flat surfaces. The flat surfaces herein include substantially flat surfaces. In a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, the pressing surfaces of the second holding portion can face the same direction as the pressing surfaces of the first holding portion in the case where the second pressing surfaces are flat surfaces. Thus, the chamber can be easily manufactured, and the consumable can be more easily inserted.

[0062] The second holding portion can be disposed at the end portion of the chamber. In particular, in the case of a consumable in which a smokable material is pressed at the front end portion, the smokable material at the front end portion of the consumable can be integrated by the second holding portion pressing and compressing the smokable material, and thus the smokable material can be less likely to fall into the chamber when the consumable is taken out of the chamber after smoking.

[0063] According to a second aspect of the present application, a smoking system can be provided, which includes a consumable having a smokable material and a device that heats the smokable material to atomize the smokable material. The device includes a chamber that accommodates the consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable accommodated in the chamber. The inner circumferential length of the chamber is the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being accommodated in the chamber, and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber in a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber is different from the cross-sectional shape of the consumable before being accommodated in the chamber in the plane orthogonal to the length direction. Here, the same includes substantially the same. The substantially the same means that the difference between the inner circumferential length of the chamber and the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being accommodated in the chamber is within, for example, ±6% of the inner circumferential length of the chamber, preferably within ±4%, and more preferably within ±2%.

[0064] According to the second aspect, since the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the chamber), heat from the heating section can be efficiently transferred to the consumable. Specifically, the inner circumferential length of the chamber is substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable, and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber is different from the cross-sectional shape of the consumable housed in the chamber, so a portion of the consumable is pressed against the inner surface of the chamber, and the outer circumferential shape of the consumable substantially coincides with the inner circumferential shape of the inner surface of the holding section. In the present smoking system, as compared with a case where the inner circumferential length and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber are the same as the outer circumferential length and the cross-sectional shape of the consumable, a portion of the consumable is pressed by the chamber, so the heat conduction efficiency from the heating section to the consumable can be improved. In addition, as compared with a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable is shorter than the inner circumferential length of the chamber, a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable which is not pressed is also substantially in contact with the inner circumferential surface (non-pressed surface) of the chamber, so the heat conduction efficiency from the heating section to the consumable can be improved. Furthermore, as compared with a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable is longer than the inner circumferential length of the chamber, the consumable can be smoothly inserted into the chamber, and the density of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable and the inside of the consumable (for example, tobacco which is one example of the smokable material) can be inhibited from being strained. As a result, uneven heating caused by the density of the inside of the consumable being strained, and variation in the air passage resistance of each consumable can be inhibited. In addition, it can also be said that the inner circumferential length of the chamber is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the chamber, and the inner circumferential length of the chamber can be the inner circumferential length on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable before being housed in the chamber" can be the outer circumferential length of the portion of the outer circumferential length of the consumable before being housed in the chamber which, when housed in the chamber, is positioned at a position in the length direction of the chamber corresponding to the inner circumferential length of the chamber being compared. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the chamber" can be the outer circumferential length of the portion of the outer circumferential length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the chamber which, in the length direction of the chamber, corresponds to the inner circumferential length of the chamber being compared.

[0065] In addition, in the second aspect, features of other aspects can also be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the effects and advantages of the second aspect. In addition, the chamber of the second aspect can have a holding section as in the other aspects.

[0066] According to a third aspect of the present application, there is provided a smoking system including a consumable having a smokable material and a device that heats the smokable material to cause it to aerosolize. The device includes a chamber that houses the consumable. The chamber includes an opening into which the consumable is inserted and a holding section that holds the consumable. The holding section includes a pressing section that presses a portion of the consumable. The device includes an induction coil that heats at least the pressing section. The pressing section includes a susceptor that is heated by the induction coil.

[0067] According to the third aspect, since the consumable is pressed by the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), and the pressing portion that presses the consumable is heated by the induction coil, heat from the pressing portion can be efficiently transferred to the consumable. The susceptor can be disposed on or cover the outer surface or the inner surface of the pressing portion, or can be included in the wall of the chamber that constitutes the pressing portion, and the wall of the chamber that constitutes the pressing portion can be formed of the susceptor.

[0068] The induction coil can be formed of a single wire, but from the viewpoint of efficient heat generation, can be a twisted wire in a helical shape. The single wire or the twisted wire preferably includes a material selected from at least one of the group consisting of copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, and alloys thereof, such as stainless steel. The sheath material of the twisted wire can be, for example, polyimide or polyester.

[0069] The induction coil can be wound in a helical shape or a spiral shape. The shape of the induction coil can be cylindrical (a helical coil or a spiral coil is bent) or planar. The induction coil can be adjacent to the chamber, can surround the chamber, or can protrude into the chamber, but by being disposed so as to surround the chamber, energy can be efficiently supplied to the pressing portion of the chamber. The induction coil can be one or a plurality of coils. As an example of a configuration that surrounds the chamber, the induction coil can be formed in a helical shape so as to surround the chamber, can be formed by bending a spiral coil so as to surround the chamber, or can have a plurality of planar coils that surround the chamber, but by being formed in a helical shape so as to surround the chamber, a simple structure can be achieved, and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0070] The frequency applied to the induction coil can be about 80 kHz or more and 500 kHz or less, preferably about 150 kHz or more and 250 kHz or less, and more preferably 190 kHz or more and 210 kHz or less. Alternatively, the frequency applied to the induction coil can be 1 MHz or more and 30 MHz or less, preferably 2 MHz or more and 10 MHz or less, and more preferably 5 MHz or more and 7 MHz or less. These frequencies can be determined in consideration of the material and shape of the susceptor.

[0071] The device can be configured to operate in a time-varying electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of about 0.5 Tesla (T) or more and 2.0 Tesla (T) or less at the maximum.

[0072] The term "susceptor" in this specification refers to a material that can convert electromagnetic energy into heat, and refers to a material for the purpose of heating a "smokeable article". The susceptor is disposed at a position at which heat is transferred to the "smokeable article". When the susceptor is located in a time-varying electromagnetic field, eddy currents induced in the susceptor and magnetic hysteresis loss in the susceptor become the cause of heating of the susceptor.

[0073] The susceptor preferably contains a material selected from at least one of the group consisting of aluminum, iron, nickel, and alloys thereof (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel). The susceptor and the current path through the susceptor preferably include a ring shape that surrounds the space in which the consumable is housed. Thus, eddy currents can be efficiently generated at the heat-generating portion of the chamber.

[0074] The shape of the susceptor is arbitrary, such as a granular shape, a rod shape, a bar shape, a ring shape, or a cylindrical shape, etc. If the susceptor has a ring-shaped current path, eddy currents can be efficiently generated. A plurality of susceptors of the same shape can be provided, or susceptors of different shapes can be provided.

[0075] In addition, in the third aspect, features of other aspects can be combined or applied as long as they do not interfere with the effects and advantages of the third aspect.

[0076] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, there is provided a device that heats a smokable material to cause it to aerosolize. The device includes a chamber that houses a consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable housed in the chamber. The chamber includes an opening into which the consumable is inserted and a holding portion that holds the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable and a non-pressing portion. The pressing portion and the non-pressing portion each have an inner surface and an outer surface. The heating portion is disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion.

[0077] According to the fourth aspect, since the consumable substantially adheres to the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), heat from the heating portion can be efficiently transferred to the consumable.

[0078] As described above, disposing the heating portion on the outer surface of the pressing portion is merely one example of a configuration that efficiently transfers heat to the consumable via the chamber by causing the consumable to substantially adhere to the heating surface of the chamber. The fourth aspect can also provide a device that heats a smokable material to cause it to aerosolize, the device including a chamber that houses a consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable housed in the chamber, the chamber including an opening into which the consumable is inserted and a holding portion that holds the consumable, the holding portion including a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable and a non-pressing portion, the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion each having an inner surface and an outer surface, the consumable being heated via the pressing portion. Furthermore, although the heating portion is not particularly limited, it can be a heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion as described above, or the pressing portion can include a susceptor and be heated by an electromagnetic field and / or magnetic lines of force generated by an induction coil, etc., as described above.

[0079] The heating portion is preferably arranged without a gap on the outer surface of the pressing portion. The absence of a gap here also includes the meaning of substantially no gap. As a result, the consumable substantially adheres to the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), and thus heat from the heating portion can be more efficiently transferred to the consumable. In addition, the heating portion can also include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating portion including the adhesive layer is preferably arranged without a gap on the outer surface of the pressing portion.

[0080] Preferably, the inner surface of the pressing portion has a pair of planar planar pressing surfaces facing each other, the inner surface of the non-pressing portion has a pair of curved curved non-pressing surfaces facing each other connecting both ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces, and further preferably the thickness of the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion is uniform (including substantially uniform) and the same (including substantially the same). As a result, the structure of the chamber is simplified, high-precision manufacturing becomes easy, the positions of the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion can be arranged in good balance, heating is uniformized, it is easy to arrange the heating portion on the outer surface of the pressing portion with good positional accuracy and without a gap, and heating efficiency is improved.

[0081] In addition, in the fourth aspect, features of other aspects can be combined or applied as long as they do not interfere with the effects and advantages of the fourth aspect.

[0082] According to a fifth aspect of the present application, a consumable for use in any of the smoking systems described above is provided. The consumable has a first portion pressed by a pressing portion of a chamber, a mouthpiece, and a second portion between the first portion and the mouthpiece.

[0083] In addition, in the fifth aspect, features of other aspects can be combined or applied as long as they do not interfere with the effects and advantages of the fifth aspect.

[0084] According to a sixth aspect of the present application, a device for heating a smokable material provided in a consumable to vaporize the smokable material is provided. The device includes a chamber that houses the consumable. The chamber includes an opening into which the consumable is inserted and a holding portion that holds the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable. The device includes at least an induction coil that heats the pressing portion. The pressing portion includes a susceptor that is heated by the induction coil.

[0085] In addition, in the sixth aspect, features of other aspects can be combined or applied as long as they do not interfere with the effects and advantages of the sixth aspect.

[0086] According to a seventh aspect of the present application, a device for heating a smokable material to vaporize the smokable material is provided. The device includes a chamber that houses the consumable and a heating portion that heats the consumable housed in the chamber. The chamber includes a holding portion that holds the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion that presses a portion of the consumable. The pressing portion has an inner surface and an outer surface. The heating portion is arranged on the outer surface of the pressing portion. The outer surface of the pressing portion is planar.

[0087] According to the seventh aspect, since the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion), heat from the heating portion can be efficiently transmitted to the consumable. In addition, by making the outer surface of the pressing portion a flat surface, in the case where the heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion is connected to a band-shaped electrode, the band-shaped electrode can be inhibited from being bent, and thus the electrode can be easily routed within the device. In addition, compared to the case where the outer surface of the pressing portion is a curved surface or a surface having unevenness, the heating portion can be positioned with high precision, and the heating portion can be easily disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion without a gap.

[0088] In addition, in the seventh aspect, features of other aspects can be combined or applied as long as the effects of the seventh aspect are not hindered. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0089] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a smoking system according to a first embodiment.

[0090] Figure 2 shows Figure 1 is a perspective view of a heater assembly shown in FIG. 1.

[0091] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a chamber.

[0092] Figure 4 shows Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along line 4-4 shown in FIG. 1.

[0093] Figure 5A shows Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along line 5A-5A shown in FIG. 1.

[0094] Figure 5B shows Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along line 5B-5B shown in FIG. 1.

[0095] Figure 5C shows Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along line 5C-5C shown in FIG. 1.

[0096] Figure 6A is a longitudinal sectional view of a chamber including a non-pressing portion in which a consumable is positioned at a desired position.

[0097] Figure 6B is a longitudinal sectional view of a chamber including a pressing portion in which a consumable is positioned at a desired position.

[0098] Figure 7A is Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along line 7A-7A shown in FIG. 1.

[0099] Figure 7B is Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0100] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0101] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0102] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0103] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0104] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0105] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0106] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0107] Figure 15A is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B. Figure 14

[0108] is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B. Figure 15B Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0109] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0110] Figure 17 Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0111] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0112] Figure 19A is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0113] Figure 19B is a cross-sectional view of the chamber in view 7B-7B.

[0114] ​​Figure 20A is Figure 19B a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along the line 23A-23A.

[0115] Figure 20B is Figure 19B a cross-sectional view of the chamber taken along the line 23B-23B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] <First Embodiment>

[0117] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repetitive description is omitted. Figure 1 is a view showing a smoking system 100 of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1 the smoking system 100 has a consumable 110 having a smokable, and a device 120 that heats the smokable to atomize it. In the first embodiment, a case where a user performs a smoking action with the consumable 110 held in the mouth is exemplified. Air inhaled by the user is introduced into the user's mouth, for example, in the order of air flow 100A, air flow 100C, and air flow 100B.

[0118] The consumable 110 is a substrate containing a smokable such as tobacco that can generate a smokable flavor, and has, for example, a columnar shape extending in the length direction. The consumable 110 can be, for example, a tobacco rod.

[0119] The device 120 has a battery 10, a control circuit 20, and a heater assembly 30. The battery 10 stores electric power used in the device 120. The battery 10 is, for example, a lithium ion battery. The battery 10 can also be one that can be charged by an external power source.

[0120] The control circuit 20 is constituted by a CPU and a memory, and the like, and controls the operation of the device 120. For example, the control circuit 20 starts heating of the consumable 110 in accordance with a user operation of an input device such as a button, a slide switch, and the like, which is not shown, and ends the heating of the consumable 110 once a certain time elapses. In a case where the number of smoking actions by the user exceeds a certain value, the control circuit 20 can end the heating of the consumable 110 before a certain time elapses from the start of heating of the consumable 110. The smoking action is detected by a sensor, which is not shown, for example.

[0121] Alternatively, the control circuit 20 can also start heating of the consumable 110 in accordance with the start of the smoking action, and end heating of the consumable 110 in accordance with the end of the smoking action. The control circuit 20 can also end heating of the consumable 110 in a case where a certain time has elapsed from the start of the smoking action, even before the end of the smoking action. In an embodiment, the control circuit 20 is disposed between the battery 10 and the heater assembly 30, and suppresses heat transfer from the heater assembly 30 to the battery 10.

[0122] The heater assembly 30 is an assembly that heats the consumable 110. Figure 2 A perspective view of the heater assembly 30 is shown. Figure 1 A perspective view of the heater assembly 30 is shown. As Figure 2 As shown, the heater assembly 30 has a top cap 32, a heating portion 40, and a chamber 50. The chamber 50 is configured to accommodate the consumable 110. The heating portion 40 is configured to heat the consumable 110 accommodated in the chamber 50. The top cap 32 can also be configured to have a function of a guide when the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, and to fix the chamber 50 with respect to the device 120.

[0123] Figure 3 A perspective view of the chamber 50 is shown. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 4-4 is shown. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5A-5A is shown. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5B-5B is shown. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5C-5C is shown. As Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5C-5C is shown. As Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5C-5C is shown. As Figure 5C A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5C-5C is shown. As Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 taken along line 5C-5C is shown. As Figure 3 As shown, the chamber 50 can be a bottomed cylindrical member that includes an opening 52 into which the consumable 110 is inserted, and a holding portion 60 that holds the consumable 110. Alternatively, the chamber 50 can be a cylindrical body without a bottom. The chamber 50 is preferably composed of a metal having a high thermal conductivity, and can be formed of stainless steel or the like, for example. Thus, efficient heating from the chamber 50 to the consumable 110 can be performed. Figure 4 As shown, the holding portion 60 includes a pressing portion 62 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a non-pressing portion 66. The pressing portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. As

[0124] As shown, the holding portion 60 includes a pressing portion 62 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a non-pressing portion 66. The pressing portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. As Figure 4 As shown, the holding portion 60 includes a pressing portion 62 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a non-pressing portion 66. The pressing portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. As Figure 5C As shown, the holding portion 60 includes a pressing portion 62 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a non-pressing portion 66. The pressing portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. As Figure 2As shown, the heating element 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing element 62. Preferably, the heating element 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing element 62 without gaps. Alternatively, the heating element 40 may include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating element 40 including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the pressing element 62 without gaps.

[0125] The opening 52 of the chamber 50 is preferably designed to accommodate the consumable 110 without pressing it. The shape of the opening 52 of the chamber 50, which is on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50, in other words, the direction in which the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, or the direction in which the entire side of the chamber 50 extends, can also be polygonal or elliptical, but is preferably circular.

[0126] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 is a plane. By making the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 a plane, as... Figure 2 As shown, when the strip electrode 48 is connected to the heating portion 40 disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62, deflection of the strip electrode 48 can be suppressed. As a result, winding of the electrode 48 within the device 120 becomes easier. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 is curved or uneven, the heating portion 40 can be positioned with high precision, and the heating portion 40 can be easily disposed without gaps on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 is a plane. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the thickness of the pressing part 62 is uniform.

[0127] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5C As shown, in the first embodiment, the chamber 50 has two or more pressing portions 62 in the circumferential direction of the chamber 50. For example... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the two pressing portions 62 of the holding portion 60 are positioned opposite each other. Preferably, the distance between at least a portion of the inner surfaces 62a of the two pressing portions 62 is smaller than the width of the portion of the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50 positioned between the pressing portions 62. As shown, the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 is planar.

[0128] like Figure 5CAs shown, the inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 has a pair of opposing planar pressing surfaces, and the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66 has a pair of opposing curved non-pressing surfaces connecting the two ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces. As shown, the curved non-pressing surfaces can have an overall arc-shaped cross-section on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50. Figure 5C As shown, the retaining part 60 is composed of a metal cylindrical body with a uniform thickness.

[0129] Figure 6A This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber 50, including the non-pressing part 66, with the consumable 110 positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50. Figure 6B This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber 50, including the pressing part 62, with the consumable 110 positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50. Figure 7A yes Figure 6B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 shown in view 7A-7A. Figure 7B yes Figure 6B The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in view of 7B-7B. Additionally, in... Figure 7B In order to make it easier to understand how the consumable 110 is pressed in the pressing part 62, a cross-section of the consumable 110 in the state before pressing is shown.

[0130] Figure 7B The gap 67 between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66 and the consumable 110 is substantially maintained even when the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired position in the chamber 50 and deformed by being pressed by the pressing part 62. This gap 67 can accommodate the opening 52 of the chamber 50 and the end face of the consumable 110 positioned within the chamber 50. Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B The lower end face of the consumable 110 can also communicate with the opening 52 of the chamber 50 and the end face of the consumable 110 located within the chamber 50 and away from the opening 52 of the chamber 50. Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B The lower end face is connected. Therefore, there is no need to separately provide a flow path for introducing air supplied to the consumable 110 in the smoking system 100, thus simplifying the structure of the smoking system 100. Furthermore, since a portion of the forming gap 67 of the non-pressable part 66 is exposed, the flow path can be easily cleaned. From the viewpoint of airflow resistance, the height of the gap 67 between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressable part 66 and the consumable 110 is preferably 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm and more preferably 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm and most preferably 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0131] like Figure 3As shown in Figure 6, chamber 50 has a bottom 56. The bottom 56 is as follows... Figure 6B As shown, a portion of the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50 is supported in such a way that at least a portion of the end face of the consumable 110 is exposed. Additionally, the bottom 56 can support a portion of the consumable 110 in such a way that the exposed end face of the consumable 110 communicates with the gap 67.

[0132] like Figure 4 , Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown, the bottom 56 of chamber 50 has a bottom wall 56a, and may also have side walls 56b. The width of the bottom 56, divided by the side walls 56b, may decrease towards the bottom wall 56a. Figure 5C as well as Figure 7B As shown, the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 of the holding portion 60 is curved on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50.

[0133] The shape of the inner surface 66a of the non-pressable portion 66 on the plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50 is preferably the same as the shape of the opening 52 on the plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50 at any position in the length direction of the chamber 50. In other words, the inner surface 66a of the non-pressable portion 66 is preferably formed by extending the inner surface of the chamber 50 that forms the opening 52 along the length direction.

[0134] like Figure 2 to Figure 4 As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a cylindrical non-holding portion 54 between the opening 52 and the holding portion 60. When the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired position in the chamber 50, a gap can be formed between the non-holding portion 54 and the consumable 110.

[0135] like Figure 4 As shown in Figure 7, the outer peripheral surface of the retaining part 60 preferably has the same shape and size along the entire length of the retaining part 60 (the outer peripheral length of the retaining part 60 on the surface orthogonal to the length direction of the retaining part 60).

[0136] In addition, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5B as well as Figure 6B As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a first guide portion 58, which has a conical surface 58a that connects the inner surface of the chamber 50 forming the opening 52 with the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62.

[0137] like Figure 2 As shown, the heating unit 40 has a heating element 42. The heating element 42 may, for example, be a heating rail. Figure 5CAs shown, the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 and the outer surface 66b of the non-pressing part 66 are connected to each other at an angle, and a boundary 71 can be formed between the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 and the outer surface 66b of the non-pressing part 66. The heating track preferably extends in a direction intersecting the direction of the boundary 71 (the length direction of the chamber), and more preferably extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the boundary 71.

[0138] like Figure 2 As shown, the heating part 40 preferably has an electrically insulating member 44 that covers at least one side of the heating element 42, in addition to the heating element 42. In this embodiment, the electrically insulating member 44 is arranged to cover both sides of the heating element. Furthermore, the electrically insulating member 44 is preferably disposed in a region of the outer surface of the holding part 60. In other words, the electrically insulating member 44 is preferably configured so that it does not protrude from the outer surface of the holding part 60 on the side of the first guide portion 58 in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. As described above, the first guide portion 58 is provided between the opening 52 and the pressing part 62, so the shape of the outer surface of the chamber 50 and the outer perimeter of the chamber on the plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50 can be changed in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. Therefore, by disposing the electrically insulating member 44 on the outer surface of the holding part 60, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0139] The device 120 preferably further comprises a sheet covering the chamber 50 and the heating part 40 and fixing the heating part 40 to the outer surface of the chamber 50. This allows the heating part 40 to be securely fixed to the outer surface of the chamber 50, thereby further improving heating efficiency and stabilizing the structure around the chamber 50. Furthermore, the sheet is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the holding part 60. In other words, the sheet is preferably disposed such that it does not protrude from the outer surface of the holding part 60 on the side of the first guide portion 58 in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. As described above, the first guide portion 58 is provided between the opening 52 and the holding part 60, thus allowing the shape of the outer surface of the chamber 50 and the outer perimeter length of the chamber on the plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber to be changed in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. Therefore, by disposing the sheet on the outer surface of the holding part 60, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0140] The heating element 40 is preferably not disposed on at least one of the outer surfaces of the chamber 50 selected between the opening 52 and the first guide 58, i.e., the outer surface of the non-holding part 54, the outer surface of the first guide 58, and the outer surface of the non-pressing part 66. The heating element 40 is preferably disposed integrally over the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62.

[0141] In the first embodiment, such as Figure 2As shown, the device 120 has a strip-shaped electrode 48 extending from the heating section 40. The strip-shaped electrode 48 preferably extends from the outer surface 62b of the pressing section 62, which is flat, to the outside of the outer surface 62b of the pressing section 62 in a state where the heating section 40 is arranged on the outer surface 62b of the pressing section 62. As shown in FIG. 2, the strip-shaped electrode 48 is arranged on the outer surface 62b of the pressing section 62. The strip-shaped electrode 48 can be arranged on the inner surface 62a of the pressing section 62. Figure 2 As shown, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends from the outer surface 62b of each of the two pressing sections 62. The strip-shaped electrode 48 can extend from only one of the outer surfaces 62b of the two pressing sections 62. As shown in FIG. 3, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends from the outer surface 62b of one of the two pressing sections 62. Figure 2 As shown, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends to the side opposite the opening 52 side of the chamber. The strip-shaped electrode 48 can have a configuration in which a layer composed of a conductive track is arranged between layers composed of a double layer of electrically insulating material.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 4, the heating section 40 has a first portion 40a on the side opposite the opening 52 and a second portion 40b on the opening 52 side. The heater power density of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the heater power density of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, the temperature increase rate of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the temperature increase rate of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, the heating temperature of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the first portion 40a in any given time. The second portion 40b preferably covers the outer surface of the holding section 60 corresponding to 1 / 2 or more of the length of the smokable article contained in the consumable 110 in a state where the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired position of the chamber 50. Figure 2 Figure 6A Figure 6B As shown, the heating section 40 has a first portion 40a on the side opposite the opening 52 and a second portion 40b on the opening 52 side. The heater power density of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the heater power density of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, the temperature increase rate of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the temperature increase rate of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, the heating temperature of the second portion 40b is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the first portion 40a in any given time. The second portion 40b preferably covers the outer surface of the holding section 60 corresponding to 1 / 2 or more of the length of the smokable article contained in the consumable 110 in a state where the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired position of the chamber 50.

[0143] In the above-described embodiments, the chamber 50 has a pair of pressing sections 62 facing each other, but the shape of the chamber is not limited thereto. Figure 8 to Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of the pressing section 62 of the chamber 50. In Figure 8 to Figure 11 , the cross section of the consumable 110 before being pressed is shown by a broken line in order to facilitate understanding of the pressing of the consumable 110 in the pressing section 62. In Figure 8 the example shown, the chamber 50 includes three pressing sections 62 having a flat inner surface 62a and one non-pressing section 66 (inner surface 66a). A pair of the pressing sections 62 (inner surfaces 62a) face each other among the three pressing sections 62. The remaining pressing section 62 and the non-pressing section 66 are respectively provided between the pair of pressing sections 62 and face each other. As shown in FIG. 8, the distance between the pair of pressing sections 62 having a flat inner surface 62a is smaller than the diameter of the inserted consumable 110 having a circular cross section. Thus, the consumable 110 is pressed by the inner surfaces 62a of the pressing sections 62 when the consumable 110 is arranged in the chamber 50. Figure 8 As shown, the distance between the pair of pressing sections 62 having a flat inner surface 62a is smaller than the diameter of the inserted consumable 110 having a circular cross section. Thus, the consumable 110 is pressed by the inner surfaces 62a of the pressing sections 62 when the consumable 110 is arranged in the chamber 50. ​​

[0144] In Figure 9 the example shown, the chamber 50 has three pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) and three non-pressing portions 66 (inner surfaces 66a) provided respectively between the three pressing portions 62. The inner surfaces 62a of the pressing portions 62 are flat surfaces, and the inner surfaces 66a of the non-pressing portions 66 are curved surfaces. Each pressing portion 62 is opposed to each non-pressing portion 66. In Figure 9 the cross section shown, i.e., a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, the distance from the point Pl at which the line extending perpendicularly from the center Cl of the inner surface 62a of each pressing portion 62 intersects to the center Cl of the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 is smaller than the radius of the inserted consumable 110 having a circular cross section. Thus, the consumable 110 is pressed by the pressing portions 62 when the consumable 110 is disposed in the chamber 50.

[0145] In Figure 10 the example shown, the chamber 50 has one pressing portion 62 (inner surface 62a) and one non-pressing portion 66 (inner surface 66a). The inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 is a flat surface, and the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 is a curved surface. The holding portion 60 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the pressing portion 62 and the non-pressing portion 66.

[0146] In Figure 11 the example shown, the chamber 50 has four pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) and four non-pressing portions 66 (inner surfaces 66a). The inner surfaces 62a of the pressing portions 62 are flat surfaces, and the inner surfaces 66a of the non-pressing portions 66 are curved in a manner to connect the inner surfaces 62a of the adjacent pressing portions 62. Two pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) are opposed to each other, and the remaining two pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) are opposed to each other. At least one of the distance between the pair of pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) opposed to each other and the distance between the other pair of pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) opposed to each other is smaller than the diameter of the consumable 110. Thus, the consumable 110 is pressed by the pressing portions 62 when the consumable 110 is disposed in the chamber 50.

[0147] In the above, as shown in Figure 8 to Figure 11 , the pressing portions 62 can be only one or more than three can exist in the circumferential direction of the chamber 50. In addition, each pressing portion 62 can be disposed to be opposed to each pressing portion 62 or can be disposed to be opposed to each non-pressing portion 66. In addition, as in the example shown in Figure 8 , Figure 10 , in the case where the pressure received by the consumable 110 is biased to a certain direction in a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber (in Figure 8 , the consumable 110 receives the pressure from the lower direction of the drawing to the upper direction of the drawing, and in Figure 10 , the consumable 110 receives the pressure from the upper direction of the drawing to the lower direction of the drawing), the consumable 110 can be pressed by the pressing portions 62.In this case, the consumable 110 is pressed from the upward direction of the drawing to the downward direction of the drawing), in order not to move the consumable 110 in contact with the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66, a support member can also be provided between the consumable 110 and the device 120. The support member can be provided at a position corresponding to the smokeable of the consumable 110, or at a position not corresponding thereto. In addition, Figure 8 to Figure 11 The consumable 110 in the state before pressing is shown in the above embodiment, but in the case where the gap 67 is formed between the non-pressing portion 66 and the consumable 110, even if the consumable 110 is pressed and deformed by the pressing portion 62, the gap 67 is substantially maintained between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 and the consumable 110. On the other hand, as in the fourth embodiment described later, the consumable 110 can be pressed and deformed by the pressing portion 62, and the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 can be brought into contact with the consumable 110.

[0148] Next, the consumable 110 used for the smoking system 100 will be described in detail. Figure 12 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the consumable 110. In Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the consumable 110 has a smokeable 111, a tubular member 114, a hollow filter portion 116, and a filter portion 115. The smokeable 111 is wrapped by a first wrapping paper 112. The tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 are wrapped by a second wrapping paper 113 different from the first wrapping paper 112. The second wrapping paper 113 also wraps a portion of the first wrapping paper 112 that wraps the smokeable 111. Thus, the tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 are connected to the smokeable 111. However, the second wrapping paper 113 can be omitted, and the first wrapping paper 112 can be used to connect the tubular member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115 to the smokeable 111. The outer surface of the second wrapping paper 113 near the end portion on the side of the filter portion 115 is coated with a lip release agent 117 for making it difficult for the user's lips to stick to the second wrapping paper 113. The portion of the consumable 110 to which the lip release agent 117 is applied functions as a mouthpiece of the consumable 110.

[0149] In the present embodiment, a portion corresponding to the smokeable 111 and a portion of the first wrapping paper 112 are referred to as a first site S1. In addition, at least a portion of a portion corresponding to the tubular member 114 is referred to as a second site S2. More specifically, a portion of the tubular member 114 that is wrapped by the second wrapping paper 113 to which the lip release agent 117 is not applied is referred to as the second site S2.

[0150] The first site S1 has a smokeable 111, such as tobacco. In addition, in the first site S1, a first wrapping paper 112 that wraps the smokeable 111 can be a sheet member having air permeability. A cover that prevents the smokeable 111 from falling can also be provided at the end of the first site S1. The cover can be adhered to the first wrapping paper 112 by, for example, paste. In addition, the cover can be fixed to the first wrapping paper 112 by friction. The cover can be, for example, a filter paper or an acetate filter. The cylindrical member 114 provided at the second site S2 can be a paper tube or a hollow filter.

[0151] In the illustrated example, the consumable 110 is provided with the smokeable 111, the cylindrical member 114, the hollow filter portion 116, and the filter portion 115, but the configuration of the consumable 110 is not limited thereto. For example, the hollow filter portion 116 can be omitted, and the cylindrical member 114 and the filter portion 115 can be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0152] As illustrated, the first site S1 of the consumable 110 is arranged at the end side in the length direction of the consumable 110 than the second site S2. The first site S1 has a first hardness, and the second site S2 has a second hardness. The first hardness is preferably 65% or more and 90% or less, further preferably 70% or more and 85% or less, and most preferably 73% or more and 82% or less.

[0153] When the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, the consumable 110 is positioned such that at least a portion of the second site S2 is pressed against the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62. The second hardness is preferably 90% or more and 99% or less, further preferably 90% or more and 98% or less, and most preferably 92% or more and 96% or less. Thus, insertion is facilitated, and the consumable 110 is securely held in the holding portion 60.

[0154] The second hardness is preferably higher than the first hardness. According to this, both the ease of insertion of the consumable 110 into the holding portion 60 and the secure holding of the consumable 110 can be achieved. In addition, when the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, the state changes from a state in which only the first site S1 is pressed against the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 to a state in which the second site S2 is also pressed against the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62, and thus the user can feel a change in resistance during the insertion of the consumable 110. As a result, the user can know to what extent the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50 during the insertion, and this becomes a clue to know to what extent to further insert until the desired insertion position is reached, and the consumable 110 can be easily positioned at the desired position. As Figure 12 illustrated, in the case where the first site S1 and the second site S2 are arranged adjacent to each other, the change in resistance can be more definitely felt.

[0155] As described above, the term "hardness" used throughout the present specification means resistance to deformation. Hardness is generally expressed as a ratio. Figure 13 A cross section of the consumable 110 before the load F is applied and the state of the consumable 110 to which the load F is applied is shown. As shown in the figure, the diameter of the consumable before the load is applied is set as D s The diameter of the consumable 110 to which the prescribed load is applied in the direction of the applied load is set as D d The deformation amount d of the consumable when the prescribed load is applied can be represented by D s - D d Here, the hardness (%) is represented by Dd / Ds x 100 (%).

[0156] The length of the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 in the lengthwise direction is below the length of the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 in the lengthwise direction, and when the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, it is preferable that the consumable 110 be positioned in the chamber 50 in such a manner that the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 does not protrude from the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 in the lengthwise direction of the chamber 50. Further, when the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50, it is preferable that the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable of the consumable 110 be covered by the holding portion 60.

[0157] When the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50, the distance by which the second portion S2 of the consumable 110 is inserted into the holding portion 60 is preferably 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, further preferably 2.0 mm or more and 8.0 mm or less, and most preferably 4.0 mm or more and 6.0 mm or less.

[0158] The length from the bottom wall 56a of the chamber 50 to the end portion of the pressing portion 62 on the side of the opening 52 is preferably longer than the length of the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 in the lengthwise direction (hereinafter referred to as the length of the first portion) and shorter than 1.5 times the length of the first portion S1, and further preferably shorter than 1.35 times. Further, at least a portion of the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 is preferably located on the side of the opening 52 from the central portion in the lengthwise direction of the holding portion 60 when the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50. In other words, the end portion on the side of the second portion S2 of the first portion S1 is preferably located on the side of the opening 52 from the central portion in the lengthwise direction of the holding portion 60. Thus, before the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 abuts against the bottom wall 56a of the chamber 50, the second portion S2 is inserted into the holding portion 60, and thus a change in resistance can be felt, and since the position at which this change is felt can be made to be a position closer to the desired position of insertion of the consumable 110, it is easier to position the consumable 110 at the desired position, and the user's sense of use can be improved.

[0159] <Second Embodiment>

[0160] Next, the smoking system 100 of the second embodiment will be described. The smoking system 100 of the second embodiment differs from the smoking system 100 of the first embodiment in the configuration of the chamber 50. Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 of the device 120 provided in the smoking system 100 of the second embodiment. Figure 15A is Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 in the direction 18A-18A. Figure 15B is Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 in the direction 18B-18B. Specifically, the chamber 50 of the second embodiment differs from the chamber 50 of the first embodiment in that the first holding portion 70 and the second holding portion 76 are provided.

[0161] The first holding portion 70 is configured to hold the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50. The second holding portion 76 is located further from the opening 52 of the chamber 50 than the first holding portion 70, and is configured to hold the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50. The first holding portion 70 includes a first pressing portion 72 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a first non-pressing portion 73. The first pressing portion 72 has an inner surface 72a and an outer surface 72b. The first non-pressing portion 73 has an inner surface 73a and an outer surface 73b. The second holding portion 76 includes a second pressing portion 77 that presses a portion of the consumable 110, and a second non-pressing portion 78. The second pressing portion 77 has an inner surface 77a and an outer surface 77b. The second non-pressing portion 78 has an inner surface 78a and an outer surface 78b.

[0162] In a state where the consumable 110 is held by the first holding portion 70 and the second holding portion 76, the second holding portion 76 is configured to compress the consumable 110 more than the first holding portion 70. Specifically, for example as shown in Figure 15A and Figure 15B indicated, in a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50, the cross-sectional area of the inside of the second holding portion 76 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the inside of the first holding portion 70. The inner surface 72a of the first pressing portion 72 presses the consumable 110, so in the first holding portion 70, the consumable 110 substantially adheres to the heating surface (the inner surface 72a of the first pressing portion 72), and thus heat from the heating portion 40 can be efficiently transmitted to the consumable 110. At the same time, the air passage resistance at the time of smoking can be adjusted by the pressing of the second holding portion 76. It is also possible to arrange the heating portion 40 at the outer surface 77b of the second pressing portion 77. In particular, in the case where the portion of the consumable 110 pressed by the second holding portion 76 is the lid described above, by not arranging the heating portion 40 at the second holding portion 76, heating that does not contribute effectively to the smokable material can be suppressed.

[0163] As Figure 14 illustrated, the chamber 50 has a second guide portion 79 that has a tapered surface 79a that connects the inner surfaces 72a of the first pressing portions 72 and the inner surfaces 77a of the second pressing portions 77. The second guide portion 79 can continuously change the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber 50 from the first pressing portions 72 toward the second pressing portions 77, and thus can smoothly insert the consumable 110 into the second holding portion 76.

[0164] As Figure 15A illustrated, the inner surfaces 72a of the first pressing portions 72 of the first holding portion 70 face each other. That is, the inner surfaces 72a of the first pressing portions 72 constitute a pair of first pressing surfaces that face each other. As Figure 15B illustrated, the inner surfaces 77a of the second pressing portions 77 of the second holding portion 76 face each other. That is, the inner surfaces 77a of the second pressing portions 77 constitute a pair of second pressing surfaces that face each other. The shortest distance between the second pressing surfaces is preferably smaller than the shortest distance between the first pressing surfaces. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pressing surfaces and the second pressing surfaces are flat surfaces. As Figure 15A and Figure 15B illustrated, in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50, the pressing surfaces of the second holding portion 76 face in the same direction as the pressing surfaces of the first holding portion 70.

[0165] As Figure 14 illustrated, the second holding portion 76 is disposed at the end portion of the chamber 50. Thus, in the case where the smokable material of the end portion of the consumable 110 is pressed, the smokable material of the end portion of the consumable 110 is compressed by the second holding portion 76, and when the consumable 110 is taken out of the chamber 50 after smoking, the smokable material can be prevented from falling into the chamber 50.

[0166] The inner surfaces 72a and the outer surfaces 72b of the first pressing portions 72 and the inner surfaces 77a and the outer surfaces 77b of the second pressing portions 77 can have the same features as the inner surface 62a and the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 of the first embodiment. In addition, the inner surfaces 73a and the outer surfaces 73b of the first non-pressing portions 73 and the inner surfaces 78a and the outer surfaces 78b of the second non-pressing portions 78 can have the same features as the inner surface 66a and the outer surface 66b of the non-pressing portion 66 of the first embodiment.

[0167] <Third Embodiment>

[0168] Next, the smoking system 100 of the third embodiment will be described. The smoking system 100 of the third embodiment differs from the smoking system 100 of the first embodiment in the configuration of the chamber 50 and the heating portion 40. Figure 16is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater assembly 30 of the device 120 provided in the smoking system 100 of the third embodiment. Figure 17 is Figure 16 a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 toward the eye 20-20 in Figure 16 is Figure 2 the top cap 32 shown in

[0169] As shown in FIG. 15 and Figure 16 , the shape of the chamber 50 is substantially the same as that of the chamber 50 of the first embodiment. On the other hand, the heater assembly 30 of the third embodiment is provided with the induction coil 46 that heats the chamber 50 instead of the heating section 40. As shown in FIG. 15, the induction coil 46 can also be configured to surround the pressing section 62 of the chamber 50. Thereby, energy can be efficiently supplied to the heating portion of the chamber 50. In addition, the induction coil 46 can also be cylindrical.

[0170] The pressing section 62 of the chamber 50 contains the susceptor 63 that is heated by the induction coil 46. The susceptor 63 can be configured on the outer surface 62b or the inner surface 62a of the pressing section 62, can be contained in the wall of the chamber 50 that constitutes the pressing section 62, or the wall of the chamber 50 that constitutes the pressing section 62 can be composed of the susceptor. The susceptor 63 is preferably composed of a material selected from at least one of the group consisting of aluminum, iron, nickel, and alloys thereof (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel).

[0171] In the third embodiment, the non-pressing section 66 of the chamber 50 also contains the susceptor 63. Thereby, as shown in Figure 17 , the susceptor 63 and the path of the current flowing through the susceptor 63 are formed in a ring shape that surrounds the space in which the consumable 110 is accommodated (the inner space of the chamber 50).

[0172] As described above, in the third embodiment, at least the pressing section 62 contains the susceptor 63 that is heated by the induction coil 46.

[0173] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0174] Next, the smoking system 100 of the fourth embodiment will be described. The smoking system 100 of the fourth embodiment differs from the smoking system 100 of the first embodiment in the configuration of the air flow path of the smoking system 100 and the chamber 50. Figure 18 is a view showing the smoking system 100 of the fourth embodiment.

[0175] As shown in Figure 18 , in the smoking system 100 of the fourth embodiment, there is substantially no gap for taking in air between the heater assembly 30 and the consumable 110. As shown in Figure 18As shown, in the smoking system 100, an air intake opening 30a is formed at the bottom of the heater assembly 30, and an air passage 15 for intake air is formed in this opening 30a. In the illustrated example, the air passage 15 extends in a manner that connects the opening 30a to the bottom of the smoking system 100 (opposite to the opening 52 of the chamber 50 of the heater assembly 30 into which the consumable 110 is inserted). The air passage 15 can take any shape connecting the opening 30a to the outside of the smoking system 100. Thus, the air inhaled by the user is introduced into the user's mouth from the bottom of the smoking system 100 through the end of the consumable 110, as shown by the airflow 100D.

[0176] Figure 19A This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber 50, including the non-pressing part 66, in which the consumable 110 in the fourth embodiment is positioned at the desired location. Figure 19B This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber 50, including the pressing part 62, in which the consumable 110 in the fourth embodiment is positioned at the desired location in the chamber 50. Figure 20A yes Figure 19B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 shown in view 23A-23A is shown. Figure 20B yes Figure 19B The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in view of 23B-23B. Additionally, in Figure 20B In order to make it easier to understand the pressing of the consumable 110 in the pressing part 62, a cross-section of the consumable 110 in the state before pressing is shown.

[0177] like Figure 19B As shown, when the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired position in the chamber 50, the retaining part 60 has no substantial gap between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66 and the consumable 110. Furthermore, as... Figure 19A as well as Figure 19B As shown, an opening 30a is formed in the bottom wall 56a of the bottom 56 of the chamber 50 to allow air to flow into the chamber 50.

[0178] The non-pressing part 66 preferably contacts the consumable 110 in a non-pressing state when the consumable 110 is disposed in the chamber 50. The non-pressing state here substantially includes the non-pressing state.

[0179] In the fourth embodiment, the inner circumference length of the retaining part 60 is the same as the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 before it is pressed by the pressing part 62. Furthermore, "same" here includes cases where they are substantially the same.

[0180] As described above, the holding portion 60 has the pressed portion 62 and the non-pressed portion 66. In a case where the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 is substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110, a portion of the consumable 110 is pressed by the pressed portion 62 so that the outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110 substantially coincides with the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the holding portion 60. In comparison with a case where the inner circumferential length and the inner circumferential shape of the holding portion 60 are the same as the outer circumferential length and the outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110, a portion of the consumable 110 pressed by the pressed portion 62 is formed in the smoking system 100, and thus the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110 can be improved. In addition, in comparison with a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 is shorter than the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60, a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable 110 that is not pressed is also substantially in contact with the inner circumferential surface (the inner surface 66a of the non-pressed portion 66) of the holding portion 60, and thus the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110 can be improved. Furthermore, in comparison with a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 is longer than the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60, the consumable 110 can be smoothly inserted into the holding portion 60, and the density of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable 110 and the inside of the consumable 110 (for example, tobacco) can be inhibited from being strained. As a result, uneven heating caused by the density of the inside of the consumable 110 being strained and a variation in the air passage resistance of each consumable 110 can be inhibited.

[0181] In addition, it can also be said that the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in a state where the pressed portion 62 presses the consumable 110, and the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 can be the inner circumferential length on a surface of the holding portion 60 orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being pressed by the pressed portion 62" can be the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being pressed by the pressed portion 62, among the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being pressed by the pressed portion 62, that is positioned in a position corresponding to the compared inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 in the length direction of the chamber 50 when being pressed by the pressed portion 62. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in a state where the pressed portion 62 presses the consumable 110" can be the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in a state where the pressed portion 62 presses the consumable 110, among the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in a state where the pressed portion 62 presses the consumable 110, that is in a position corresponding to the compared inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 in the length direction of the chamber.

[0182] In the fourth embodiment, the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 (the holding portion 60) is the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being housed in the chamber 50, and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber 50 (the holding portion 60) on a surface orthogonal to the length direction can also be different from the cross-sectional shape orthogonal to the length direction of the consumable 110 before being housed in the chamber 50. Here, the same includes a case where they are substantially the same.

[0183] According to the present embodiment, the consumable 110 is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 of the chamber 50), and thus heat from the heating portion 40 can be efficiently transferred to the consumable 110. Specifically, the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 is substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110, and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber 50 is different from the cross-sectional shape of the consumable 110 housed in the chamber 50, and thus a portion of the consumable 110 is pressed against the inner surface of the chamber 50, and the outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110 is substantially the same as the inner circumferential shape of the inner surface of the holding portion 60. In the smoking system 100, a portion where the consumable 110 is pressed by the chamber 50 is formed, as compared to a case where the inner circumferential length and the inner circumferential shape of the chamber 50 are the same as the outer circumferential length and the cross-sectional shape of the consumable 110, and thus the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110 can be improved. In addition, a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable 110 that is not pressed is in substantial contact with the inner circumferential surface (non-pressed surface) of the chamber 50, as compared to a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 is shorter than the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50, and thus the heat conduction efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110 can be improved. Furthermore, the consumable 110 can be smoothly inserted into the chamber 50, as compared to a case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 is longer than the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50, and the density of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable 110 and the inside of the consumable (e.g., tobacco) can be inhibited from being strained. As a result, uneven heating caused by the density of the inside of the consumable 110 being strained and variation in the air passage resistance of each consumable 110 can be inhibited.

[0184] In addition, it can also be said that the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50, and the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 can be the inner circumferential length on a surface of the chamber 50 orthogonal to the length direction. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being housed in the chamber 50" can be the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being housed in the chamber 50, among the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before being housed in the chamber 50, that is positioned at a position corresponding to the compared inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 in the length direction of the chamber 50 when housed in the chamber 50. In addition, the "outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50" can be the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50, among the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50, at a position corresponding to the compared inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 in the length direction of the chamber 50.

[0185] The above describes an embodiment of the present application, but the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical idea recited in the claims and the specification and drawings. Also, even if any shape, material, etc. is not directly recited in the specification and drawings, as long as it functions and effects of the present application are exerted, it is within the scope of the technical idea of the present application. Also, in the shape, degree, etc., at least the shape, degree, etc. indicated as "substantially" in the specification is not limited to "strictly speaking, the shape, degree, etc.", but is intended to include "a shape, degree, etc. of at least a range in which the intended effects are exerted".

[0186] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0187] 40: heating portion

[0188] 40a: first portion

[0189] 40b: second portion

[0190] 42: heating element

[0191] 44: electrically insulating member

[0192] 46: induction coil

[0193] 48: electrode

[0194] 50: chamber

[0195] 52: opening

[0196] 54: non-holding portion

[0197] 58: first guide portion

[0198] 58a: tapered surface

[0199] 60: holding portion

[0200] 62: pressing portion

[0201] 62a: inner surface

[0202] 62b: outer surface

[0203] 63: base

[0204] 66: non-pressing portion

[0205] 66a: inner surface

[0206] 66b: outer surface

[0207] 67: gap

[0208] 70: first holding portion

[0209] 72a: inner surface

[0210] 72b: outer surface

[0211] 73a: inner surface

[0212] 73b: outer surface

[0213] 76: second holding portion

[0214] 77a: inner surface

[0215] 77b: outer surface

[0216] 78a: inner surface

[0217] 78b: outer surface

[0218] 79a: tapered surface

[0219] 100: smoking system

[0220] 110: consumable

[0221] 111: smokable

[0222] 120: device

[0223] S1: first site

[0224] S2: second site

Claims

1. A device for heating a smokeable substance to atomize it, characterized in that, The device includes: A chamber that contains consumables; and A heating unit that heats the consumables contained in the chamber. The chamber includes a holding part for holding the consumable. The retaining part includes a pressing part that presses a portion of the consumable. The pressing part has an inner surface and an outer surface. The heating element is disposed on the outer surface of the pressing element. The outer surface of the pressing part is a plane. The heating element has a heating track. The retaining portion includes a non-pressing portion having an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the pressing portion and the outer surface of the non-pressing portion are connected to each other at an angle, forming a boundary between the outer surfaces of the pressing portion and the non-pressing portion. The heating track extends in a direction that intersects with the direction in which the boundary extends.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a strip-shaped electrode extending from the heating part.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The retaining part has two pressing parts. The strip electrode extends only from the outer surface of one of the two pressing portions.

4. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The retaining part has two pressing parts. The strip-shaped electrode extends from the outer surface of each of the two pressing portions.

5. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The chamber has an opening for inserting the consumable. The strip-shaped electrode extends toward the side of the chamber opposite to the opening side.

6. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The strip electrode has a structure in which a layer of conductive tracks is disposed between layers of a double-layered electrically insulating material.

7. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, With the heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion, the strip electrode extends from the outer surface of the pressing portion, which is a plane, to the outside of the outer surface of the pressing portion.

8. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating section has a structure in which a layer of electrically insulating material is overlapped with a layer of heating rails.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heating section has a structure in which a layer of heating tracks is disposed between layers of the double-layered electrically insulating material.

10. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, With the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the upstream end of the heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion is located downstream of the upstream end of the smokeable part of the consumable.

11. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, With the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the downstream end of the heating portion disposed on the outer surface of the pressing portion is located downstream of the downstream end of the smokeable part of the consumable.

12. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retaining part has two pressing parts. The two pressing parts are positioned opposite each other.

13. The device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The distance between at least a portion of the inner surfaces of the two pressing parts is smaller than the width of the portion of the consumable inserted into the chamber positioned between the pressing parts.

14. The device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, The retaining portion includes a non-pressing portion having an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the pressing part has a pair of opposing planar pressing surfaces. The inner surface of the non-pressing portion has a pair of curved non-pressing surfaces that connect the two ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces and face each other.

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