Smoking system

Abstract

A smoking system is provided, which includes a consumable having a smokable and a device that heats and atomizes the smokable. The device includes a chamber that houses the consumable, a heating portion that heats the consumable housed in the chamber, and 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 consumable has a first site having a first hardness and a second site having a second hardness, the second site being a site different from the first site in an insertion direction of the consumable. When the consumable is positioned at a desired position of the chamber, the consumable is positioned in such a manner that at least a portion of the first site is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion and at the same time at least a portion of the second site is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to smoking systems. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, fragrance extractors were known for absorbing fragrances without burning materials. Fragrance extractors, for example, have a chamber for storing fragrance-generating articles and a heater for heating the fragrance-generating articles stored in the chamber (see, for example, Patent Documents 1-3).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

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

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

[0007] Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2016 / 207407 Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a smoking system is provided comprising a consumable having a smokeable substance and a device for heating and atomizing the smokeable substance. The device includes a chamber for receiving the consumable substance and a heating portion for heating the consumable substance received in the chamber. The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable substance and a holding portion for holding the consumable substance. The holding portion includes a pressing portion for pressing a portion of the consumable substance 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. The inner surface of the pressing portion is also referred to as the pressing surface for pressing the consumable substance, and the inner surface of the non-pressing portion is also referred to as the non-pressing surface for not pressing the consumable substance.

[0009] According to the first method, the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing part), thus enabling efficient heat transfer from the heating part to the consumable. It should be noted that the consumable includes both tobacco and non-tobacco smokeable substances. The consumable may or may not have a mouthpiece. As a consumable with a mouthpiece, it can be a stick-type consumable similar in appearance to existing cigarettes containing tobacco or other smokeable substances. As a consumable without a mouthpiece, it can be a consumable in which the main body of the tobacco or other smokeable substance is fixed in the shape of a tablet, or a consumable in which the smokeable substance is rolled using a breathable component such as non-woven fabric or a sheet component such as paper. Furthermore, the heating part may have a heating element. The chamber can be, for example, a bottomed cylindrical container or a bottomless cylindrical body. The chamber is preferably made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel. This allows for efficient heating. The wall thickness of the chamber is preferably uniform (including substantially uniform cases). This allows for 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 element is preferably disposed without gaps on the outer surface of the pressing element (there is no gap between the outer surface of the pressing element and the heating element). Here, "without gaps" also includes the meaning of being substantially without gaps. Therefore, the heating element is in close contact with the outer surface of the pressing element, thus enabling more efficient heat transfer from the heating element to the consumable. It should be noted that the heating element may also include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating element including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed without gaps on the outer surface of the pressing element.

[0011] The opening is preferably designed to allow consumables to be inserted without pressing. This allows consumables to be easily inserted into the chamber. The shape of the chamber opening in a plane 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 it extends as a side of the chamber (hereinafter, only the length direction of the chamber will be referred to) can be polygonal or elliptical, but is preferably circular. This allows consumables to be easily inserted into the opening.

[0012] The inner circumference length of the holding portion is preferably the same as the outer circumference length of the consumable before it is pressed by the pressing portion. It should be noted that "same" here includes substantially the same. "Substantially the same" means that the difference between the inner circumference length of the holding portion and the outer circumference length of the consumable before it is pressed by the pressing portion is, for example, within ±6% of the inner circumference length of the holding portion, preferably within ±4%, and more preferably within ±2%. As described above, the holding portion has a pressing portion and a non-pressing portion. When the inner circumference length of the holding portion is substantially the same as the outer circumference length of the consumable, by pressing a portion of the consumable by the pressing portion, the outer circumference shape of the consumable is substantially consistent with the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the holding portion. Compared to the case where the inner circumference length and inner circumference shape of the holding portion are the same as the outer circumference length and outer circumference shape of the consumable, in this smoking system, the portion of the consumable pressed by the pressing portion is formed, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating portion to the consumable. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer perimeter of the consumable is shorter than the inner perimeter of the retainer, the unpressed portion of the outer perimeter of the consumable is in substantial contact with the inner perimeter (non-pressed surface) of the retainer, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating element to the consumable. Additionally, compared to the case where the outer perimeter of the consumable is longer than the inner perimeter of the retainer, the consumable can be smoothly inserted into the retainer, and changes in the density of the outer perimeter of the consumable and its interior (e.g., tobacco, as an example of a smokeable substance) can be suppressed. As a result, uneven heating or variations in the airflow resistance of each consumable that may be caused by changes in the density inside the consumable can be suppressed. Furthermore, it is preferable that the inner perimeter of the retainer is substantially the same as the outer perimeter of the consumable in the pressed state, or that the inner perimeter of the retainer can be the inner perimeter of the retainer's chamber in a plane orthogonal to the length direction. Furthermore, the term "outer perimeter length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing part" can be the outer perimeter length of the consumable before being pressed by the pressing part, located in the length direction of the chamber when pressed by the pressing part, at a position corresponding to the inner perimeter length of the holding part being compared. Additionally, "outer perimeter length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the pressing part" can be the outer perimeter length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the pressing part, located in the length direction of the chamber, at a position corresponding to the inner perimeter length of the holding part being compared.

[0013] The outer peripheral surface of the retaining part preferably has the same shape and size along the entire length of the chamber (the outer peripheral length of the retaining part in the plane orthogonal to the length of the chamber). This prevents the heating part from being loosely disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part of the retaining part, and consequently, allows the heating part to be easily disposed substantially without gaps on the outer surface of the pressing part.

[0014] Preferably, when the consumable is positioned at the desired location within the chamber, the non-pressing portion contacts the consumable in a non-pressing state. This non-pressing state includes a substantially non-pressing state. Therefore, there is essentially no gap between the consumable and the retaining 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 has an inner surface connected to the opposing pressing portion, which has a planar inner surface; this inner surface may be curved.

[0015] Preferably, the inner surface of the non-pressing part of the holding part has a curved surface connecting the circumferential ends of the chambers of the inner surface of the pressing part. This simplifies the structure of the smoking system and makes cleaning the non-pressing part easier compared to cases where the inner surface has an angle. When the gap, described later, is formed within the chamber, cleaning the gap is easier compared to cases where the inner surface has an angle. Preferably, the shape of the surface of the inner surface of the non-pressing part orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber and the shape of the opening on the surface orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber are the same at any position along the length direction of the chamber. In other words, preferably, the inner surface of the non-pressing part is formed by extending the inner surface of the chamber with the opening in the length direction. This simplifies the structure of the chamber and, when the gap, described later, is formed within the chamber, prevents obstruction of airflow entering from the opening of the chamber. Furthermore, cleaning the gap is easier. It should be noted that "circumferential direction of the chamber" can be considered as "the direction of rotation about the length direction of the chamber."

[0016] The outer surface of the pressing part can be curved or uneven, but is preferably flat. It should be noted that "flat" here includes cases where it is substantially flat. "The outer surface of the pressing part is substantially flat" means that, from the viewpoint of the proportion of the flatness of the outer surface of the pressing part as a whole, the proportion 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 part flat, bending of the strip electrode can be suppressed when it is connected to the heating part disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part, thus making it easier to wrap around the electrode within the device. In addition, compared with the case where the outer surface of the pressing part is curved or uneven, the heating part can be positioned with good precision, and the heating part can be easily disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part without gaps.

[0018] The inner surface of the pressing part is preferably flat. This facilitates the insertion of consumables. "Flat" here includes the case of being substantially flat. Furthermore, the thickness of the pressing part is preferably uniform. This allows for more uniform heating. "Uniform thickness" here includes the case of being substantially uniform. The thickness of the pressing part 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, more preferably 0.05 mm or more and 0.10 mm or less. This prevents the effective heat transfer to the consumable from being hindered due to an excessively large volume of the pressing part, and ensures the required strength of the pressing part.

[0019] When the inner surface of the pressing part is flat, the chamber may have only one pressing part, but it is preferable to have two or more pressing parts in the circumferential direction of the chamber. As a result, since there are two or more pressing parts for the consumable in the circumferential direction of the chamber, the consumable can be heated more comprehensively and evenly.

[0020] Preferably, the retaining portion has two opposing pressing portions, and the distance between at least a portion of the inner surfaces of the two pressing portions is smaller than the width of the portion of the consumable inserted into the chamber disposed between the pressing portions. The inner surfaces of the two opposing pressing portions of the retaining portion may also be planar.

[0021] When the inner surface of the pressing part is flat, there can be three or more pressing parts in the circumferential direction of the chamber. Each pressing part can be arranged opposite to each other or opposite to each non-pressing part. When arranged opposite to each non-pressing part, the distance between the point where the lines extending perpendicularly from the center of the inner surface of each pressing part intersect on a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber and the center of the inner surface of each pressing part can be smaller than the radius of the inserted consumable with a circular cross-section. Here, "circular" includes substantially circular.

[0022] Preferably, the inner surface of the pressing part has a pair of planar pressing surfaces facing each other, and the inner surface of the non-pressing part has a pair of curved non-pressing surfaces facing each other, connecting the two ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces. The curved non-pressing surfaces may have an overall arc-shaped cross-section on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber. The holding part may be constructed of a metal cylindrical body with a uniform thickness. Here, uniform thickness includes substantially uniform thickness. As a result, the structure of the chamber is simplified and high-precision manufacturing becomes easier. In addition, this allows for a well-balanced and uniformly arranged position of the pressing part and the non-pressing part, making heating more uniform. It is also easier to position the heating part with high accuracy and without gaps on the outer surface of the pressing part, thereby improving heating efficiency. The thickness of the holding part 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. This prevents the retention part from being too large, which would hinder effective heat transfer to the consumable and ensure the required strength of the retention part.

[0023] When the consumable is positioned at the desired location within the chamber, the retaining part can also provide a gap between the inner surface of the non-pressing part and the consumable. This gap connects the opening of the chamber to the end face of the consumable positioned at the desired location within the chamber, or it connects the opening of the chamber to the end face of the consumable located within the chamber and further from the opening. The gap serves as a flow path for air to flow from the opening of the chamber toward the end face of the consumable during inhalation. This eliminates the need for a separate flow path within the smoking system to introduce air supplied to the consumable, thus simplifying the system's construction. Furthermore, since a portion of the non-pressing part forming the gap is exposed, cleaning of the gap is easy. Additionally, the air passing through the gap can be efficiently heated, effectively utilizing the heat from the heating element. From the viewpoint of air resistance, the height of the gap (the distance between the inner surface of the longest non-pressing part and the consumable on a line extending radially from the center of the cross-section of the consumable located 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] Preferably, for example, the holding part has at least two pressing parts separated circumferentially within the chamber. When the consumable is positioned at a desired location within the chamber, a gap is provided between the inner surface of the non-pressing part connecting the two pressing parts and the consumable. This gap connects the opening of the chamber to the end face of the consumable positioned at the desired location within the chamber, or connects the opening of the chamber to the end face of the consumable located within the chamber and further from the opening of the chamber. More preferably, two gaps are provided between the inner surfaces of the two non-pressing parts connecting the two pressing parts and the consumable. More preferably, three or more gaps are provided between the inner surfaces of three or more non-pressing parts connecting three or more pressing parts and the consumable. This further suppresses the bias of airflow within the chamber and prevents more uniform heating from being hindered.

[0025] Preferably, the two pressing parts are positioned opposite each other. In this case, the bias of airflow within the chamber can be further suppressed, and the obstruction to more uniform heating can be further suppressed.

[0026] Preferably, the retaining portion does not have a protrusion on its inner surface. When the inner surface of the retaining portion, which has a uniform thickness, has a protrusion, it is difficult to seamlessly position the heating portion on the outer surface of the pressing portion when a recess is formed on the outer surface of the retaining portion. Furthermore, the non-uniform thickness of the retaining portion due to the protrusion on its inner surface hinders uniform heating. However, by ensuring that the retaining portion does not have a protrusion on its inner surface, these problems can be avoided.

[0027] The chamber preferably has a first guide portion, which has a conical surface connecting the inner surface of the chamber forming the opening and the inner surface of the pressing portion. The first guide portion allows the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber to change continuously from the opening toward the pressing portion, thus enabling the consumable to be smoothly inserted into the chamber. Preferably, a heating portion is not disposed 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. Because the consumable is not pressed on the inner surfaces corresponding to these outer surfaces, by not disposing of heating portions on these outer surfaces, energy can be used efficiently for heating.

[0028] Preferably, the chamber has a cylindrical non-holding portion between the opening and the holding portion. When the consumable is positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the gap between the 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 heated efficiently via the non-holding portion, thus suppressing aerosol condensation inside the consumable. Furthermore, with the aforementioned gap present, air passing through the gap can be heated efficiently, thereby effectively utilizing the heat from the heating portion. Additionally, a gap of 0.4 mm or more facilitates the insertion of the consumable into the chamber. It should be noted that in this specification, "the state in which the consumable is positioned in the desired location within the chamber" refers to the state in which the consumable is correctly positioned within the chamber in order to generate aerosol (e.g., in the case where the chamber has a "bottom for inserting a consumable to abut," the consumable is abutted against at least a portion of the bottom, or in the case where the device has an "abutment portion for inserting a consumable to abut" inside or outside the chamber, the consumable abuts against at least a portion of the abutment portion).

[0029] The chamber may have a bottom. Alternatively, the device may have an abutment portion inside or outside the chamber for a consumable inserted into the chamber to abut. Preferably, the bottom or abutment portion supports a portion of the consumable, which is positioned in a desired location within the chamber such that at least a portion of the end face of the consumable is exposed. Furthermore, preferably, in the case where the smoking system has the aforementioned gap, the bottom or abutment portion supports a portion of the consumable in such a way that the exposed end face of the consumable communicates with the gap. This allows air to be drawn in from the end face of the consumable and enables positioning of the consumable in the longitudinal direction. The bottom of the chamber has a bottom wall and side walls, and the width of the bottom, defined by the side walls, may decrease towards the bottom wall. This allows the consumable to be positioned by compressing it through the side walls when it reaches the bottom of the chamber. Alternatively, the bottom or abutment portion of the chamber may have a bottom wall or abutment surface, which may have a protrusion or a groove. Alternatively, the bottom or abutment of the chamber may have a bottom wall or abutment surface, and the bottom wall or abutment surface may have a hole for taking air into the chamber.

[0030] The chamber may have a cylindrical component with an opening on at least one side. The heating element may be configured to heat all pressing parts simultaneously, or it may heat them within the same time period.

[0031] Preferably, the heating element is integrally disposed over the outer surface of the pressing element. This allows for more uniform heat transfer from the heating element to the pressing element, resulting in effective heating of the consumable item held in the holding part.

[0032] The device may have a strip-shaped electrode extending from the heating section. Because the electrode is strip-shaped, the reliability of power supply to the heating section is improved compared to a rope-shaped electrode. Preferably, the strip-shaped electrode extends from the outer surface of the flat pressing section to the outside of the outer surface of the pressing section when the heating section is disposed on the outer surface of the pressing section. As mentioned earlier, by making the outer surface of the pressing section flat, bending of the strip-shaped electrode can be suppressed, thus facilitating the winding of the electrode within the device.

[0033] Preferably, the heating part has a heating element and an electrically insulating member covering at least one side of the heating element. Furthermore, preferably, the electrically insulating member is disposed within a region of the outer surface of the retaining part. In other words, preferably, the electrically insulating member is configured not to extend beyond the outer surface of the retaining part on the side of the first guide portion in the longitudinal direction of the chamber. As described above, when a first guide portion is provided between the opening and the pressing part, the shape of the outer surface of the chamber and the outer perimeter of the chamber in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber can be changed in the first guide portion and the retaining part. Therefore, by disposing the electrically insulating member only on the outer surface of the retaining part, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0034] The device preferably includes a sheet (fixed sheet) that covers the chamber and the heating element, and fixes the heating element to the outer surface of the chamber. Examples of sheets that fix the heating element include shrinkable sheets that shrink under external action, specifically, heat-shrinkable sheets that shrink when heat is applied. Preferably, the shrinkage rate of the fixed sheet, such as the shrinkable sheet, is higher in the circumferential direction than in the length direction of the chamber when covering the chamber and the heating element. The heat-shrinkable sheet may contain polyimide, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, gelatin, polysaccharides, etc. By using a fixed sheet, the heating element can be firmly attached to the outer surface of the chamber, thus further improving heating efficiency and stabilizing the structure around the chamber. Furthermore, the sheet is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the retaining portion. In other words, the sheet is preferably disposed such that it does not extend beyond the outer surface of the retaining portion on the first guide side in the length direction of the chamber. As described above, when a first guide portion is provided between the opening and the retaining portion, the shape of the outer surface of the chamber and the outer perimeter length of the chamber in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber can be varied between the first guide portion and the retaining portion. Therefore, by disposing the sheet only on the outer surface of the retaining portion, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0035] The heating element may have a first portion and a second portion, with the first portion located on the opposite side of the opening and the second portion located on the opening side. Preferably, the heater power density of the second portion is higher than that of the first portion, or the heating rate of the second portion is higher than that of the first portion, or the heating temperature of the second portion is higher than that of the first portion at any given time. With the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the second portion preferably covers the outer surface of the holding portion corresponding to at least half of the length of the smokeable material contained in the consumable. This suppresses energy consumption and shortens the time from activating the heating element to being able to perform the first puff.

[0036] With the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the upstream end (upstream of the air or aerosol flow direction when the user inhales, hereinafter the same) of the heating element or heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part is preferably located further downstream (downstream of the air or aerosol flow direction when the user inhales, hereinafter the same) than the upstream end of the smokeable portion of the consumable. For example, the upstream end of the heating element or heating section is located 1.0 mm to 10.0 mm downstream of the upstream end of the smokeable portion of the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, preferably 3.0 mm to 6.0 mm downstream, and more preferably 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm downstream. This suppresses aerosol leakage from the upstream end of the smokeable portion. Furthermore, it can positively influence the taste.

[0037] With the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, the downstream end of the heating element or heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part is preferably located further downstream than the downstream end of the smokeable portion of the consumable. For example, the downstream end of the heating element or heating section is located 1.0 mm to 10.0 mm downstream of the downstream end of the smokeable portion of the consumable positioned in the desired location within the chamber, preferably 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm downstream, and more preferably 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm downstream. This suppresses energy consumption and aerosol condensation.

[0038] The heater power density of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part is preferably higher than that of the heating section covering the outer surface of the non-pressing part, or the heating rate of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part is preferably higher than that of the heating section covering the outer surface of the non-pressing part, or the heating temperature of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part is preferably higher than that of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the non-pressing part at any given time. Therefore, when the area of ​​the pressing part in the holding part is a certain size larger than the area of ​​the non-pressing part, the heating of the smokeable material can be performed more efficiently. The heater power density of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part may also be the same as that of the heating section covering the outer surface of the non-pressing part. The heating rate of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part may also be the same as that of the heating section covering the outer surface of the non-pressing part. The heating temperature of the heating section disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part may also be the same as that of the heating section covering the outer surface of the non-pressing part. It should be noted that "same" here includes cases where they are substantially the same.

[0039] The heating section has a heating element, which can be a heating track. The outer surfaces of the pressing section and the non-pressing section are connected at an angle to each other, and a boundary can be formed between the outer surfaces of the pressing section and the non-pressing section. Preferably, the heating track extends only in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the boundary, and more preferably, it extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the boundary. As a result, the heating track is difficult to break and difficult to peel off from the outer surface of the holding section. It should be noted that "right-angled direction" here also includes the case of a substantially right-angled direction.

[0040] The heating element can be, for example, a sheet heater. The sheet heater can have a structure in which, for example, a layer composed of an electrically insulating material and a layer composed of a heating track, which is an example of a heating element, are overlapped. Alternatively, the heating element can have a structure in which a layer composed of heating tracks is disposed between two layers of 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. Thus, a flexible heating structure that is easy to manufacture and has high reliability can be obtained.

[0041] The consumable has a first part having a first hardness and a second part having a second hardness. The second part is located at a position different from the first part in the insertion direction of the consumable. The first part can be disposed at an end side of the consumable further along its length direction than the second part.

[0042] When the consumable is positioned at the desired location within the chamber, it is preferably positioned by pressing at least a portion of the first part against the inner surface of the pressing portion. Furthermore, the first hardness is, for example, 65% or more and 90% or less, preferably 70% or more and 85% or less, more preferably 73% or more and 82% or less, and most preferably 77% or more and 81% or less. This allows the consumable to easily maintain its shape and facilitates insertion into the retaining portion.

[0043] When the consumable is positioned at the desired location within the chamber, it is preferably positioned such that at least a portion of the second part is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing part. Furthermore, the second hardness is, for example, 90% or more and 99% or less, preferably 90% or more and 99% or less, more preferably 92% or more and 98% or less, and most preferably 95% or more and 98% or less. This facilitates insertion and ensures the consumable is securely held.

[0044] The second hardness is preferably higher than the first hardness. This allows for both easy insertion of the consumable into the holding part and secure retention of the consumable. Furthermore, by changing the state from a state where the first part is pressed against the inner surface of the pressing part only when the consumable is inserted into the chamber to a state where the second part is also pressed against the inner surface of the pressing part, the user can feel the change in resistance during insertion. As a result, the user can know the extent to which the consumable is inserted into the chamber and how much further insertion is needed to reach the desired position, thus facilitating the positioning of the consumable. To make this change in resistance more clearly perceptible to the user, the first and second parts are preferably arranged adjacent to each other. Additionally, the difference between the first and second hardness is preferably at least 4%, more preferably at least 10%, and most preferably at least 14%.

[0045] Throughout this specification, the term "hardness" refers to the resistance to deformation. Hardness is generally expressed as a proportion. In the case of a cylindrical rod-shaped consumable, D is the diameter of the consumable before applying the load. s D is the diameter of the direction in which the load is applied to a consumable under a specified load applied in the diametrical direction. d The deformation d of the consumable under a specified load can be expressed as D s -D d Indicated. Here, hardness (%) is expressed by D d / D s ×100 (%) indicates the hardness. The harder the material that makes up the consumable, the closer the hardness is to 100%.

[0046] D dThe determination was performed according to ISO 187 at an ambient temperature of 22 ± 2 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 60%, using an apparatus sold under the trade name Hardness Tester H10 (Borgwaldt KC GmbH, Hamburg, Germany), with an applied load of 88 grams for 5 seconds.

[0047] Preferably, the length of the first portion of the consumable is less than or equal to the length of the inner surface of the pressing portion in the longitudinal direction. When the consumable is positioned in the desired position in the chamber, it is positioned such that the first portion of the consumable does not extend beyond the inner surface of the pressing portion in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, when the first portion includes a smokeable substance, the smokeable substance is pressed along its entire length, thus enabling efficient heating and atomization of the smokeable substance as a whole. Furthermore, preferably, when the consumable is positioned in the desired position in the chamber, the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable substance is covered by the holding portion. Therefore, the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable substance is directly heated by the holding portion, thus enabling uniform and efficient heating of the smokeable substance. Additionally, preferably, when the consumable is positioned in the desired position in the chamber, the consumable is positioned such that at least a portion of the first portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion, and at least a portion of the second portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion. Therefore, when the first portion includes a smokeable substance, effective heating of the smokeable substance based on the pressing portion and secure holding of the consumable can be achieved simultaneously.

[0048] When the consumable is positioned at the desired location, the distance between the second part of the consumable and the retaining part is preferably 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, more 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. This allows for both ensuring appropriate retaining force and easy insertion of the consumable.

[0049] The chamber may have a bottom or an abutment portion. Preferably, the length from the bottom wall or abutment surface of the consumable abutment at the bottom of the chamber or the abutment portion to the opening side of the pressing portion is longer than the length of the first part of the consumable in the longitudinal direction (hereinafter referred to as the length of the first part), and shorter than 1.5 times the length of the first part, more preferably shorter than 1.35 times. And / or, preferably, when the consumable is positioned in the desired position in the chamber, at least a portion of the first part of the consumable is located further towards the opening side than the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding portion. As a result, the change in resistance can be felt before the first part of the consumable abuts against the bottom wall or abutment surface of the chamber, and the insertion position that feels this change can be made to be close to the desired insertion position of a comparative consumable, thus making it easier to position the consumable in the desired position and improving the user experience.

[0050] The first part preferably includes a smokeable substance, such as tobacco as a flavor source. Additionally, the first part may have a sheet component that is wound around the smokeable substance and has ventilation, and a cap that is fixed to the sheet component and prevents the smokeable substance from falling. The cap is ventilation and can be adhered to the sheet component, for example, with adhesive. Alternatively, the cap can be fixed to the sheet component by friction. The cap can be, for example, a paper filter or a cellulose acetate filter. The second part may have a cylindrical component. The cylindrical component can be a paper tube or a hollow filter.

[0051] A hollow filter can consist of a filling layer with one or more hollow channels and a tipping paper covering the filling layer. The filling layer has a high fiber density, so during suction, air or aerosol flows only through the hollow channels and hardly flows within the filling layer. The hollow filter can have a mouthpiece composed of adjacent filter sections. For consumables, when it is desirable to reduce the reduction of aerosol content in the filter section due to filtration, shortening the length of the filter section and replacing it with a hollow filter section is effective in increasing the aerosol delivery rate.

[0052] The consumable may include a first roll of paper containing a smokeable substance. The length of the consumable in the longitudinal direction is preferably 40mm to 90mm, more preferably 50mm to 75mm, and even more preferably 50mm to 60mm. The circumference of the consumable is preferably 15mm to 25mm, more preferably 17mm to 24mm, and even more preferably 20mm to 23mm. Furthermore, the length of the smokeable substance in the consumable may be 18mm to 22mm, the length of the first roll of paper may be 18mm to 22mm, the length of the hollow filter section may be 7mm to 9mm, and the length of the filter section may be 6mm to 8mm.

[0053] The smokeable material of consumables may contain an aerosol source that is heated at a specified temperature to generate aerosols. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and substances extracted from various natural sources and / or their constituent components can be selected depending on the intended use. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. The content of the aerosol source in the smokeable material (by weight % relative to the total weight of the smokeable material) is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of sufficiently generating aerosols and providing a good taste, it is generally 5% by weight or more, preferably 10% by weight or more, and generally 50% by weight or less, preferably 20% by weight or less.

[0054] The smokeable material in the consumable can be tobacco leaves, tobacco veins, or other known plants as a flavoring source. Furthermore, the shape of the tobacco or other flavoring source can be filamentous, sheet-like, rope-like, powdery, granular, pellet-like, paste-like, or porous. The content of the tobacco or other smokeable material in the consumable ranges from 200mg to 400mg, preferably 250mg to 320mg, when the size of the smokeable material is 20mm to 23mm in circumference and 18mm to 22mm in length. The moisture content of the tobacco or other smokeable material (by weight%) is, for example, 8% to 18% by weight, preferably 10% to 16% by weight. Such a moisture content can suppress the formation of winding stains and ensure good winding properties during manufacturing. Additionally, the consumable can be easily deformed to fit the cross-sectional shape of the holding part. The size of the tobacco used as an example of the smokeable material and its preparation method are not particularly limited. For example, dried tobacco leaves can be cut into pieces 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm wide for use. Alternatively, dried tobacco leaves can be pulverized into sheets with an average particle size of approximately 20 μm to 200 μm, homogenized, and then cut into pieces 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm wide for use. Alternatively, the sheet-processed material can be aggregated without cutting for use as a smoking compound. Furthermore, the smoking compound may include one or more flavorings. The type of flavoring is not particularly limited, but menthol is preferred from the viewpoint of providing a good taste.

[0055] The consumable can be a second roll of paper different from the first roll, having a cylindrical component, a hollow filter section, and at least one filter section. The second roll may also contain a portion of the first roll containing the smoking material. Both the first and second rolls of the consumable can be made from base paper with a basis weight of, for example, 20 gsm to 65 gsm. The thickness of the first and second rolls is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of rigidity, air permeability, and ease of adjustment during papermaking, it is preferably 10 μm to 100 μm.

[0056] The first and second rolls of paper used in consumable products may include fillers. The filler content is, for example, 10% to 60% by weight relative to the total weight of the first and second rolls, preferably 15% to 45% by weight. In this embodiment, the filler content is preferably 15% to 45% by weight relative to the preferred basis weight range (25 gsm to 45 gsm). As fillers, for example, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, kaolin, etc., can be used. From the viewpoint of appearance when used as consumable paper rolls, paper including such fillers preferably exhibits a bright white color and can maintain its whiteness permanently. By containing a larger amount of such filler, the ISO whiteness of the paper roll can be, for example, 83% or more. Furthermore, from a practical viewpoint of use as consumable paper rolls, the first and second rolls preferably have a tensile strength of 8 N / 15 mm or more. Therefore, the paper roll is less likely to break when the consumable product held in the holding section is withdrawn. This tensile strength can be increased by reducing the filler content. Specifically, tensile strength can be improved by reducing the filler content to less than the upper limit of the filler content shown in the weight ranges exemplified above.

[0057] The retaining part includes a first retaining part, and the chamber includes a second retaining part located further away from the opening than the first retaining part. With the consumable held in the first and second retaining parts of the chamber, the second retaining part is configured to compress the consumable more than the first retaining part, and / or, on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, the cross-sectional area of ​​the interior of the second retaining part is smaller than that of the interior of the first retaining part. Therefore, the airflow resistance during smoking can be adjusted by pressing the second retaining part. Because the second retaining part is provided separately from the first retaining part, the shape of the second pressing part can be independently made to achieve the desired airflow resistance, separate from the shape of the first pressing part, which is most suitable for heating. A heating element may not be provided on the outer surface of the second pressing part. In particular, when the position of the consumable pressed by the second retaining part does not include the smokeable material, as in the aforementioned cap, by not providing a heating element in the second retaining part, heating that does not effectively contribute to the heating of the smokeable material can be suppressed, thereby enabling efficient use of the consumable.

[0058] The first holding portion may include a first pressing portion and a first non-pressing portion, which are part of the pressable consumable. The second holding portion may include a second pressing portion and a second non-pressing portion, which are part of the pressable consumable. Because the first holding portion has a first pressing portion, the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing portion) in the first holding portion, thus enabling efficient transfer of heat from the heating portion to the consumable.

[0059] The chamber preferably has a second guide portion, which has a conical surface connecting the inner surfaces of the first and second pressing portions. The second guide portion allows the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber to change continuously from the first pressing portion toward the second pressing portion, thus enabling the consumable to be smoothly inserted into the chamber.

[0060] The first retaining part may have a pair of first pressing surfaces facing each other, and the second retaining part may 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 may be planar. Here, "planar" includes substantially planar surfaces. In a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, when the second pressing surfaces are planar, the pressing surfaces of the second retaining part may face the same direction as the pressing surfaces of the chamber of the first retaining part. This simplifies the manufacture of the chamber and makes insertion of the consumable easier.

[0061] The second retainer can be disposed at the end of the chamber. In particular, when the smokeable material at the tip of the consumable is pressed, the smokeable material at the tip of the consumable is compressed and integrated by pressing the second retainer, which can reduce the amount of smokeable material falling into the chamber when the consumable is removed from the chamber after smoking.

[0062] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a smoking system is provided comprising a consumable having a smokeable substance and a device for heating and atomizing the smokeable substance. The device includes a chamber for receiving the consumable substance and a heating section for heating the consumable substance received in the chamber. The inner circumferential length of the chamber is the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable substance before it is received 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 orthogonal to the length direction of the consumable substance before it is received in the chamber. Here, "same" includes cases where they are substantially the same. "Substantially the same" means that the difference between the inner circumferential length of the chamber and the outer circumferential length of the consumable substance before it is received in the chamber is, for example, within ±6% of the inner circumferential length of the chamber, preferably within ±4%, and more preferably within ±2%.

[0063] According to the second method, the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the chamber), thus enabling efficient heat transfer from the heating unit to the consumable. Specifically, the inner circumference of the chamber and the outer circumference of the consumable are substantially the same, and the inner circumference shape of the chamber differs from the cross-sectional shape of the consumable inserted into the chamber. Therefore, a portion of the consumable is pressed by the inner surface of the chamber, and the outer circumference shape of the consumable is approximately consistent with the inner circumference shape of the inner surface of the holding part. Compared to the case where the inner circumference length and shape of the chamber are the same as the outer circumference length and cross-sectional shape of the consumable, this smoking system has a portion where the consumable is pressed by the chamber, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating unit to the consumable. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer circumference length of the consumable is shorter than the inner circumference length of the chamber, the unpressed portion of the outer circumference surface of the consumable is also substantially in contact with the inner circumference surface of the chamber (the non-pressed surface), thus further improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating unit to the consumable. Furthermore, compared to cases where the outer perimeter of the consumable is longer than the inner perimeter of the chamber, the consumable can be smoothly inserted into the chamber, and changes in the density of the outer perimeter and interior of the consumable (e.g., tobacco, as an example of a smokeable substance) can be suppressed. As a result, uneven heating or variations in airflow resistance of each consumable caused by changes in the internal density of the consumable can be suppressed. Additionally, it can be said that the inner perimeter of the chamber is preferably substantially the same as the outer perimeter of the consumable in its compressed state within the chamber, or the inner perimeter of the chamber can also be the inner perimeter of the chamber in a plane orthogonal to its length direction. Furthermore, the term "outer perimeter of the consumable before insertion into the chamber" can be the portion of the outer perimeter of the consumable before insertion into the chamber located at the position corresponding to the inner perimeter of the chamber in the length direction when inserted into the chamber. In addition, the so-called "outer perimeter length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the chamber" can be the outer perimeter length of the consumable in the state of being pressed by the chamber at the position corresponding to the inner perimeter length of the chamber in the length direction of the chamber.

[0064] It should be noted that, in the second method, features of other methods can be combined or applied as long as they do not impair the function or effect of the second method. Furthermore, the chamber of the second method can also have the retaining part found in other methods.

[0065] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a smoking system is provided comprising a consumable having a smokeable substance and a device for heating and atomizing the smokeable substance. The device includes a chamber for receiving the consumable. The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding portion for holding the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion for pressing a part of the consumable. The device includes an induction coil for heating at least the pressing portion. The pressing portion includes a susceptor heated by the induction coil.

[0066] According to the third method, the consumable is pressed by a heated surface (the inner surface of the pressing part), and the pressing part of the consumable is heated by an induction coil, thus enabling efficient transfer of heat from the pressing part to the consumable. The induction element may be disposed on or cover the outer or inner surface of the pressing part, or it may be included in the wall of the cavity constituting the pressing part, or the wall of the cavity constituting the pressing part may also be constituted by the induction element.

[0067] The induction coil can be composed of a single wire, but from the viewpoint of efficient heat generation, it can be a helical Litz wire. The single wire or Litz wire preferably comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of, for example, copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, and their stainless steel alloys. The outer sheath material of the Litz wire can be, for example, polyimide or polyester fiber.

[0068] The induction coil can be wound into a three-dimensional spiral (a three-dimensional helix) or a planar spiral (a two-dimensional vortex). The shape of the induction coil can be cylindrical (formed by bending a three-dimensional spiral coil or a planar spiral coil) or planar. The induction coil can be adjacent to the cavity, surround the cavity, or protrude into the cavity; however, by configuring it to surround the cavity, energy can be effectively supplied to the pressing part of the cavity. There can be one or more induction coils. As an example of a cavity-surrounding structure, the induction coil can be configured as a three-dimensional spiral surrounding the cavity, or it can be configured by bending a planar spiral coil to surround the cavity, or it can have multiple planar coils surrounding the cavity. However, by configuring it as a three-dimensional spiral surrounding the cavity, a simpler structure can reduce manufacturing costs.

[0069] 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, 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, more preferably 5 MHz or more and 7 MHz or less. These frequencies can be determined taking into account the properties of the inductor, such as its material or shape.

[0070] The device is configured to operate with a varying electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of up to about 0.5 Tesla (T) and down to about 2.0 Tesla (T).

[0071] In this specification, the term "inductor" refers to a material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat, specifically a material intended for heating a "smokeable substance." The inductor is positioned to transfer heat to the "smokeable substance." When the inductor is located within a changing electromagnetic field, the eddy currents induced within it and the hysteresis losses within it contribute to the heating process.

[0072] The inductor preferably comprises a material selected from at least one of the group consisting of aluminum, iron, nickel, and their alloys (e.g., nickel-chromium alloys or stainless steel). The inductor and the current path flowing through it preferably comprise an annular shape surrounding a space housing the consumable. This allows for efficient generation of eddy currents in the heating portion of the chamber.

[0073] The shape of the inductor can be arbitrary, such as granular, rod-shaped, strip-shaped, ring-shaped, or cylindrical. As long as the inductor has a ring-shaped circuit, it can efficiently generate eddy currents. Multiple inductors of the same shape can be configured, or inductors of different shapes can be configured.

[0074] It should be noted that, in the third method, as long as it does not hinder the function or effect of the third method, the features of other methods can also be combined or applied.

[0075] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a device is provided for heating a smokeable substance to atomize it. The device includes a chamber for receiving a consumable and a heating portion for heating the consumable in the chamber. The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding portion for holding the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion for pressing 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.

[0076] According to the fourth method, the consumable is in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing part), so that the heat from the heating part can be efficiently transferred to the consumable.

[0077] As previously described, placing the heating element on the outer surface of the pressing part is merely one example of a structure that allows heat to be efficiently transferred to the consumable via the chamber through the chamber by means of the consumable being substantially in close contact with the heating surface of the chamber. A fourth approach provides a device for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance. The device includes a chamber for storing the consumable and a heating element for heating the consumable stored in the chamber. The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding part for holding the consumable. The holding part includes a pressing part for pressing a portion of the consumable and a non-pressing part. The pressing part and the non-pressing part each have an inner surface and an outer surface, respectively. The consumable can be heated via the pressing part. Furthermore, the heating element is not particularly limited. As previously described, it can be a heating element disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part, or it can be heated by an electromagnetic field and / or magnetic lines of force, generated by an induction coil or the like, as previously described, in the pressing part.

[0078] The heating element is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the pressing element without any gaps. Here, "without gaps" also means substantially without gaps. This ensures that the consumable is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface of the pressing element), thus enabling more efficient transfer of heat from the heating element to the consumable. It should be noted that the heating element may also include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating element including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the pressing element without any gaps.

[0079] Preferably, the inner surface of the pressing part has a pair of planar pressing surfaces facing each other, and the inner surface of the non-pressing part is connected to both ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces and has a pair of curved non-pressing surfaces facing each other. More preferably, the thickness of the pressing part and the non-pressing part are 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 easier, the positions of the pressing part and the non-pressing part can be well balanced and configured to achieve uniform heating, and the heating part can be easily positioned with good accuracy and without gaps on the outer surface of the pressing part, thereby improving heating efficiency.

[0080] It should be noted that, in the fourth method, as long as it does not hinder the function or effect of the fourth method, features of other methods can also be combined or applied.

[0081] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a consumable is provided for use in any of the above-described smoking systems. The consumable has a first portion that is pressed by a portion of a pressing part of a chamber, an inhalation port, and a second portion located between the first portion and the inhalation port.

[0082] It should be noted that, in the fifth method, as long as it does not hinder the function or effect of the fifth method, the features of other methods can also be combined or applied.

[0083] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a device is provided for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance disposed on a consumable. The device includes a chamber for receiving the consumable. The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding portion for holding the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion for pressing a portion of the consumable. The device includes an induction coil for heating at least the pressing portion. The pressing portion includes a sensor heated by the induction coil.

[0084] It should be noted that, in the sixth method, as long as it does not hinder the function or effect of the sixth method, the features of other methods can also be combined or applied.

[0085] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a smoking system is provided, comprising a consumable having a smokeable substance and a device for heating and atomizing the smokeable substance. The device includes a chamber for receiving the consumable, a heating portion for heating the consumable in the chamber, the chamber including an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding portion for holding the consumable. The holding portion includes a pressing portion and a non-pressing portion for pressing a portion of the consumable. The pressing portion and the non-pressing portion each have an inner surface and an outer surface. The consumable has a first portion having a first hardness and a second portion having a second hardness, the second portion being a portion different from the first portion in the insertion direction of the consumable. When the consumable is positioned at a desired position in the chamber, the consumable is positioned such that at least a portion of the first portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion, and simultaneously positioned such that at least a portion of the second portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion.

[0086] According to the seventh method, when the first part contains a smokeable substance, it is possible to simultaneously achieve effective heating of the smokeable substance by the pressing part and secure retention of the consumable. It should be noted that features of other methods can also be combined or applied in the seventh method, as long as they do not impede the function or effect of the seventh method. Attached Figure Description

[0087] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the smoking system of the first embodiment.

[0088] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A perspective view of the heater assembly shown.

[0089] Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of the chamber is shown.

[0090] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 4-4 shown.

[0091] Figure 5A Show Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 5A-5A.

[0092] Figure 5B Show Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 5B-5B.

[0093] Figure 5C Show Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 5C-5C.

[0094] Figure 6A It is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber, including the non-pressable portion, where the consumable is positioned in the desired location within the chamber.

[0095] Figure 6BIt is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber, including the pressing part, in which the consumable is positioned at the desired location within the chamber.

[0096] Figure 7A yes Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 7A-7A.

[0097] Figure 7B yes Figure 6B The cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 7B-7B shown.

[0098] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the pressing part of the chamber.

[0099] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the pressing part of the chamber.

[0100] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the pressing part of the chamber.

[0101] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the pressing part of the chamber.

[0102] Figure 12 It is a rough side sectional view of the consumable.

[0103] Figure 13 The diagram shows cross-sections of the consumables before and after the application of load.

[0104] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the chamber of the device provided in the smoking system of the second embodiment.

[0105] Figure 15A yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 18A-18A.

[0106] Figure 15B yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 18B-18B.

[0107] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater assembly of the device provided in the smoking system of the third embodiment.

[0108] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 20-20.

[0109] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the smoking system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0110] Figure 19AThis is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber, including the non-pressing portion, showing the state in which the consumable is positioned in the desired location within the chamber according to the fourth embodiment.

[0111] Figure 19B This is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber, including the pressing part, showing the state in which the consumable is positioned in the desired location within the chamber according to the fourth embodiment.

[0112] Figure 20A yes Figure 19B The cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 23A-23A shown.

[0113] Figure 20B yes Figure 19B A cross-sectional view of the chamber in the direction of arrow 23B-23B. Detailed Implementation

[0114] <First Implementation>

[0115] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or equivalent constituent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals and repeated descriptions are omitted. Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the smoking system 100 according to the first embodiment. (As shown) Figure 1 As shown, the smoking system 100 includes a consumable 110 and a device 120. The consumable 110 contains a smokeable substance, and the device 120 heats and atomizes the smokeable substance. In a first embodiment, a case is shown where a user is holding the consumable 110 in their mouth and performing a suction action. The air inhaled by the user is introduced into the user's mouth, for example, in the order of airflow 100A, airflow 100C, and airflow 100B.

[0116] Consumable 110 is a substrate comprising a smokeable substance such as tobacco that can produce a smokeable aroma, and for example, has a columnar shape extending along its length. Consumable 110 is, for example, a tobacco stick.

[0117] Device 120 includes a battery 10, a control circuit 20, and a heater assembly 30. The battery 10 stores the electricity used by device 120. For example, the battery 10 is a lithium-ion battery. The battery 10 can be charged by an external power source.

[0118] The control circuit 20, consisting of a CPU and memory, controls the operation of the device 120. For example, the control circuit 20 starts heating the consumable 110 based on the user's operation of an input device such as a button or slide switch (not shown), and stops heating the consumable 110 after a certain period of time. The control circuit 20 can also stop heating the consumable 110 before a certain period of time has elapsed if the number of suction actions by the user exceeds a certain value. For example, the suction action is detected by a sensor (not shown).

[0119] Alternatively, the control circuit 20 may start heating the consumable 110 upon the start of the suction action and stop heating the consumable 110 upon the end of the suction action. The control circuit 20 may also stop heating the consumable 110 before the end of the suction action after a certain period of time has elapsed since the start of the suction action. In this embodiment, the control circuit 20 is disposed between the battery 10 and the heater assembly 30 to suppress heat transfer from the heater assembly 30 to the battery 10.

[0120] The heater assembly 30 is a component of the heating consumable 110. Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A perspective view of the heater assembly 30 shown. Figure 2 As shown, the heater assembly 30 has a top cover 32, a heating section 40, and a chamber 50. The chamber 50 is configured to hold a consumable 110. The heating section 40 is configured to heat the consumable 110 held in the chamber 50. The top cover 32 is configured to guide the consumable 110 when it is inserted into the chamber 50 and to fix the chamber 50 relative to the device 120.

[0121] Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of chamber 50 is shown. Figure 4 Show Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 4-4 shown. Figure 5A Show Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 5A-5A shown. Figure 5B Show Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 5B-5B shown. Figure 5C Show Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 5C-5C. (See image.) Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the chamber 50 can be a bottomed cylindrical component including an opening 52 for inserting the consumable 110 and a holding portion 60 for holding the consumable 110. It should be noted that the chamber 50 can also be a bottomless cylindrical body. The chamber 50 is preferably made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, for example, stainless steel. This allows for efficient heating of the consumable 110 from the chamber 50.

[0122] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the retaining part 60 includes a pressing part 62 that presses against a portion of the consumable 110, and a non-pressing part 66. The pressing part 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing part 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. Figure 2As shown, the heating part 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62. Preferably, the heating part 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 without gaps. It should be noted that the heating part 40 may also include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating part 40 including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface of the pressing part 62 without gaps.

[0123] Preferably, the opening 52 of the chamber 50 allows for the insertion of the consumable 110 without pressing. The shape of the opening 52 of the chamber 50, which is 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 side of the chamber 50 extends as a whole, can be polygonal or elliptical, but is preferably circular.

[0124] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 5C As shown, the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 is a plane. Because the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 is a plane, in situations such as... Figure 2 When the strip-shaped electrode 48 is connected to the heating portion 40 disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62, bending of the strip-shaped electrode 48 can be suppressed. As a result, it becomes easier to wrap the electrode 48 within the device 120. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 is curved or has uneven surfaces, the heating portion 40 can be positioned with good precision, and the heating portion 40 can be easily disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 without gaps. 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.

[0125] 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. The distance between at least a portion of the inner surfaces 62a of the two pressing portions 62 is preferably smaller than the width of the position where the consumable 110 of the insertion chamber 50 is positioned between the pressing portions 62. As shown, the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 is planar.

[0126] like Figure 5CAs shown, the inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 has a pair of planar pressing surfaces facing each other. The inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66 is connected to both ends of the pair of planar pressing surfaces and has a pair of curved non-pressing surfaces facing each other. As shown, the curved non-pressing surfaces, in the plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50, can have an overall arc-shaped cross-section. Figure 5C As shown, the retaining part 60 is composed of a metal cylindrical body with a uniform thickness.

[0127] Figure 6A This is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50, including the non-pressable part 66, showing the state in which the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location within the chamber 50. Figure 6B This is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50, including the pressing part 62, showing the state in which the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50. Figure 7A yes Figure 6B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 7A-7A shown. Figure 7B yes Figure 6B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 7B-7B is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 7B In order to make it easier to understand that the consumable 110 is pressed in the pressing part 62, a cross-section of the consumable 110 in the state before pressing is shown.

[0128] Even if the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50, and the consumable 110 is deformed by the pressing part 62, Figure 7B The gap 67 between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 and the consumable 110 is also substantially maintained. This gap 67 allows the opening 52 of the chamber 50 and the end face of the consumable 110 positioned within the chamber 50 to pass through. Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B The gap 67 connects the lower end face of the chamber 50. This gap 67 also connects the opening 52 of the chamber 50 with the end face of the consumable 110 located within the chamber 50 and further from the opening 52. Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B The lower end face is connected. Therefore, it is unnecessary to provide a separate 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 gap 67 forming the non-pressing 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-pressing part 66 and the consumable 110 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.

[0129] like Figure 3As shown in Figure 6, chamber 50 has a bottom 56. (As...) Figure 6B The bottom 56 shown supports a portion of the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50 such 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 such that the exposed end face of the consumable 110 communicates with the gap 67.

[0130] 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 defined 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 retaining portion 60 is curved on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50.

[0131] Preferably, the shape of the surface orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the cavity 50 of the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 and the shape of the opening 52 of the surface orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the cavity 50 are the same at any position in the longitudinal direction of the cavity 50. In other words, the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 is preferably formed by extending the inner surface of the cavity 50 in the longitudinal direction where the opening 52 is formed.

[0132] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a cylindrical non-retaining portion 54 between the opening 52 and the retaining portion 60. When the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired position in the chamber 50, a gap can be formed between the non-retaining portion 54 and the consumable 110.

[0133] As from Figure 4 As shown in Figure 7, the outer peripheral surface of the retaining part 60 preferably has the same shape and size (the outer peripheral length of the retaining part 60 of the surface orthogonal to the length direction of the retaining part 60) throughout the length direction of the retaining part 60.

[0134] 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 and the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62.

[0135] like Figure 2 As shown, the heating section 40 has a heating element 42. The heating element 42 is, for example, 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 junction 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 extension direction of the junction 71 (the length direction of the chamber), and preferably extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the junction 71.

[0136] like Figure 2 As shown, preferably, the heating part 40, in addition to the heating element 42, also has an electrically insulating member 44 covering at least one side of the heating element 42. In this embodiment, the electrically insulating member 44 is configured to cover both sides of the heating element. Furthermore, preferably, the electrically insulating member 44 is disposed within the region of the outer surface of the holding part 60. In other words, the electrically insulating member 44 is preferably configured not to extend beyond 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 that the shape of the outer surface of the chamber 50 and the outer perimeter length of the chamber on the surface orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber can vary 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.

[0137] The device 120 preferably also includes 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, thus 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 extend beyond 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 in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50 and the outer perimeter length of the chamber in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber to vary. Therefore, by disposing the sheet on the outer surface of the holding part 60, relaxation can be suppressed.

[0138] Preferably, the heating part 40 is not disposed on at least one of the outer surfaces of the cavity 50 between the opening 52 and the first guide part 58, i.e., the outer surface of the non-holding part 54, the outer surface of the first guide part 58, and the outer surface of the non-pressing part 66. The heating part 40 is preferably disposed on the entire outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62.

[0139] In the first embodiment, such as Figure 2As shown, the device 120 has a strip-shaped electrode 48 extending from the heating part 40. Preferably, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends from the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62, which is a plane, to the outside of the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62 when the heating part 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62.

[0140] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown, the heating unit 40 has a first portion 40a located on the opposite side of the opening 52 and a second portion 40b located on the side of the opening 52. Preferably, the heater power density of the second portion 40b is higher than that of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, it is preferable that the heating rate of the second portion 40b is higher than that of the first portion 40a. Alternatively, it is preferable that the heating temperature of the second portion 40b is higher than that of the first portion 40a at any given time. Preferably, when the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50, the second portion 40b covers the outer surface of the retaining portion 60, which corresponds to more than 1 / 2 of the length of the smokeable substance contained in the consumable 110.

[0141] In the embodiments described above, the chamber 50 has a pair of pressing parts 62 facing each other, but the shape of the chamber is not limited thereto. Figures 8 to 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the pressing part 62 of the chamber 50. Figures 8 to 11 In the diagram, to facilitate understanding of the consumable 110 being pressed at the pressing part 62, a cross-section of the consumable 110 before pressing is shown in dashed lines. Figure 8 In the example shown, chamber 50 has three pressing parts 62 and one non-pressing part 66 (inner surface 66a), wherein the three pressing parts 62 have planar inner surfaces 62a. Of the three pressing parts 62, a pair of pressing parts 62 (inner surfaces 62a) are opposite each other. The remaining pressing parts 62 and non-pressing parts 66 are respectively disposed between the pairs of pressing parts 62 and are opposite each other. Figure 8 The distance between a pair of pressing portions 62 with a planar inner surface 62a is smaller than the diameter of the inserted consumable 110 with a circular cross-section. As a result, when the consumable 110 is disposed in the chamber 50, it is pressed by the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62.

[0142] exist Figure 9 In the example shown, chamber 50 has three pressing portions 62 (inner surface 62a) and three non-pressing portions 66 (inner surface 66a) disposed between the three pressing portions 62. The inner surface 62a of the pressing portions 62 is planar, and the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portions 66 is curved. Each pressing portion 62 is opposite to each non-pressing portion 66. Figure 9The distance between the point P1 where the lines extending perpendicularly from the center C1 of the inner surface 62a of each pressing part 62 intersect in the cross-section shown, i.e., in the plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber, and the center C1 of each inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62, is smaller than the radius of the inserted consumable 110 with a circular cross-section. Therefore, when the consumable 110 is disposed within the chamber 50, it is pressed by the pressing part 62.

[0143] exist Figure 10 In the example shown, chamber 50 has a pressing part 62 (inner surface 62a) and a non-pressing part 66 (inner surface 66a). The inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 is flat, and the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66 is curved. A cylindrical retaining part 60 is formed by the pressing part 62 and the non-pressing part 66.

[0144] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, 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 planar, and the inner surfaces 66a of the non-pressing portions 66 are curved to connect the inner surfaces 62a of adjacent pressing portions 62. Two of the pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) are opposite each other, and the remaining two pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) are opposite each other. At least one of the distance between the pair of opposing pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) and the distance between the other pair of opposing pressing portions 62 (inner surfaces 62a) is smaller than the diameter of the consumable 110. Thus, when the consumable 110 is disposed in chamber 50, it is pressed by the pressing portions 62.

[0145] The above, such as Figures 8 to 11 As shown, there may be only one pressing part 62, or there may be three or more in the circumferential direction of the chamber 50. Furthermore, each pressing part 62 may be configured to face another pressing part 62, or it may be configured to face another non-pressing part 66. Additionally, as... Figure 8 and Figure 10 In the example shown, when the consumable 110 is deflected in the direction of pressure from the pressing part 62 on a surface orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber (in... Figure 8 Consumable 110 is subjected to pressure from below the attached diagram towards above the attached diagram. Figure 10 (The consumable 110 is subjected to pressure from above to below the drawing). A support member can be provided between the consumable 110 and the device 120 to allow the consumable 110 to move and thus not contact the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing part 66. The support member can be provided at a position corresponding to or not corresponding to the smoke-absorbing material of the consumable 110. It should be noted that... Figures 8 to 11The consumable 110 is shown in its state before being pressed. However, even when a gap 67 is formed between the non-pressable portion 66 and the consumable 110, the gap 67 is substantially maintained between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressable portion 66 and the consumable 110, even if the consumable 110 is deformed by being pressed by the pressing portion 62. On the other hand, in the fourth embodiment described later, even when the consumable 110 is deformed by being pressed by the pressing portion 62, the inner surface 66a of the non-pressable portion 66 and the consumable 110 can still come into contact.

[0146] Next, the consumables 110 used in the smoking system 100 will be described in detail. Figure 12 This is a schematic side sectional view of consumable 110. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable 110 includes a smokeable substance 111, a cylindrical component 114, a hollow filter section 116, and a filter section 115. The smokeable substance 111 is rolled from a first roll of paper 112. The cylindrical component 114, the hollow filter section 116, and the filter section 115 are rolled from a second roll of paper 113, which is different from the first roll of paper 112. The second roll of paper 113 also rolls a portion of the first roll of paper 112 that contains the smokeable substance 111. Thus, the cylindrical component 114, the hollow filter section 116, the filter section 115, and the smokeable substance 111 are connected. However, the second roll of paper 113 may be omitted, and the first roll of paper 112 may be used to connect the cylindrical component 114, the hollow filter section 116, the filter section 115, and the smokeable substance 111. An anti-lip adhesion agent 117 is applied to the outer surface near the end of the filter section 115 side of the second roll of paper 113. The anti-lip adhesion agent 117 is used to prevent the user's lips from sticking to the second roll of paper 113. The portion of the consumable 110 coated with the anti-lip adhesion agent 117 functions as the suction port of the consumable 110.

[0147] In this embodiment, the portion corresponding to the portion of the smokeable material 111 and the portion of the first roll of paper 112 is referred to as the first portion S1. Furthermore, at least a portion of the portion corresponding to the tubular component 114 is referred to as the second portion S2. More specifically, the portion of the tubular component 114 wound onto the second roll of paper 113 that is not coated with the anti-lip adhesive 117 is referred to as the second portion S2.

[0148] The first part S1 has a smokeable substance 111, such as tobacco. Additionally, in the first part S1, the first roll of paper 112 containing the smokeable substance 111 can be a breathable sheet component. A cover can be provided at the end of the first part S1 to prevent the smokeable substance 111 from falling off. This cover can be adhered to the first roll of paper 112 by, for example, adhesive. Alternatively, the cover can be fixed to the first roll of paper 112 by friction. The cover can be, for example, a paper filter or a cellulose acetate filter. The cylindrical component 114 provided in the second part S2 can be a paper tube or a hollow filter.

[0149] In the illustrated example, the consumable 110 includes a smokeable part 111, a cylindrical component 114, a hollow filter section 116, and a filter section 115, but the structure of the consumable 110 is not limited to this. For example, the hollow filter section 116 may be omitted, and the cylindrical component 114 and the filter section 115 may be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0150] As shown in the figure, the first part S1 of the consumable 110 is disposed at one end closer to the end of the consumable 110 along its length direction than the second part S2. The first part S1 has a first hardness, and the second part S2 has a second hardness. The first hardness is preferably 65% ​​or more and 90% or less, more preferably 70% or more and 85% or less, and most preferably 73% or more and 82% or less.

[0151] When the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, the consumable 110 is positioned such that at least a portion of the second portion S2 is pressed by the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62. The second hardness is preferably 90% or more and 99% or less, more preferably 90% or more and 98% or less, and most preferably 92% or more and 96% or less. As a result, insertion is easy and the consumable 110 is securely held in the holding portion 60.

[0152] Preferably, the second hardness is higher than the first hardness. This allows for both easy insertion of the consumable 110 into the retaining part 60 and secure retention of the consumable 110. Furthermore, by changing the state of pressure applied only to the inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 at the first part S1 to the inner surface 62a of the pressing part 62 at the second part S2 when inserting the consumable 110 into the chamber 50, the user can feel the change in resistance during insertion. As a result, the user can know the extent to which the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50 and how much further insertion is needed to reach the desired position, thus facilitating the positioning of the consumable 110. This change in resistance is as follows: Figure 12 As shown, when the first part S1 and the second part S2 are arranged adjacently, it can be felt more clearly.

[0153] As stated above, the term "hardness" as used throughout this specification refers to the resistance to deformation. Hardness is generally expressed as a proportion. Figure 13 The figure shows cross-sections of the consumable 110 before and after applying load F. As shown, the diameter D of the consumable before applying load F is... s The diameter of the direction in which the load is applied to the consumable 110 in the state after a specified load is applied is D. d The deformation d of a consumable under a specified load can be expressed as D. s -D d Here, hardness (%) is expressed as D. d / Ds ×100 (%).

[0154] The length of the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 in the longitudinal direction is less than or equal to the length of the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62. When the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, it is preferable that the consumable 110 is positioned in the chamber 50 such that the first portion S1 of the consumable 110 does not extend beyond the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 in the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. Furthermore, when the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired location in the chamber 50, the entire outer peripheral surface of the smokeable portion of the consumable 110 is preferably covered by the retaining portion 60.

[0155] When the consumable 110 is positioned at the desired location within the chamber 50, the distance between the second part S2 of the consumable 110 and the insertion holding part 60 is preferably 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, more 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.

[0156] The length from the bottom wall 56a of the chamber 50 to the end of the pressing part 62 at the opening 52 side is preferably longer than the length of the first part S1 of the consumable 110 in the longitudinal direction (hereinafter referred to as the length of the first part), and shorter than 1.5 times the length of the first part S1, more preferably shorter than 1.35 times. Furthermore, when the consumable 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, at least a portion of the first part S1 of the consumable 110 is preferably located closer to the opening 52 side than the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding part 60. In other words, the end of the second part S2 side of the first part S1 is preferably located closer to the opening 52 side than the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding part 60. Therefore, before the first position S1 of the consumable 110 abuts against the bottom wall 56a of the chamber 50, the second part S2 is inserted into the holding part 60, thus allowing a change in resistance to be felt. The insertion position at which this change is felt can be closer to the desired insertion position of the consumable 110, making it easier to position the consumable 110 in the desired position and improving the user experience.

[0157] <Second Implementation>

[0158] Next, the smoking system 100 of the second embodiment will be described. The structure of the chamber 50 of the smoking system 100 of the second embodiment is different from that of the smoking system 100 of the first embodiment. Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 of the device 120 in the smoking system 100 of the second embodiment. Figure 15A yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 18A-18A. Figure 15B yes Figure 14The image shows a cross-sectional view of the chamber 50 in the direction of arrows 18B-18B. Specifically, the chamber 50 of the second embodiment differs from the chamber 50 of the first embodiment in that it includes a first retaining portion 70 and a second retaining portion 76.

[0159] The first holding portion 70 is configured to hold the consumable 110 inserted into the chamber 50. The second holding portion 76 is located at the opening 52 of the chamber 50 further away than the first holding portion 70 and is also 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.

[0160] When the consumable 110 is held by the first holding part 70 and the second holding part 76, the second holding part 76 is configured to compress the consumable 110 more than the first holding part 70. Specifically, for example, as Figure 15A as well as Figure 15B As shown, on a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50, the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the second holding portion 76 is smaller than that of the first holding portion 70. By pressing the consumable 110 against the inner surface 72a of the first pressing portion 72, the consumable 110 is substantially in close contact with the heating surface (the inner surface 72a of the first pressing portion 72) in the first holding portion 70, thus efficiently transferring heat from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110. Simultaneously, pressing the second holding portion 76 adjusts the airflow resistance during smoking. The heating portion 40 may not be disposed on the outer surface 77b of the second pressing portion 77. In particular, when the position of the consumable 110 pressed by the second holding portion 76 is the aforementioned cap, by not disposing of the heating portion 40 in the second holding portion 76, heating that does not effectively contribute to the heating of the smokeable substance can be suppressed.

[0161] like Figure 14 As shown, the chamber 50 has a second guide portion 79, which has a conical surface 79a connecting the inner surface 72a of the first pressing portion 72 and the inner surface 77a of the second pressing portion 77. The second guide portion 79 allows the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the chamber 50 to change continuously from the first pressing portion 72 toward the second pressing portion 77, thus enabling the consumable 110 to be smoothly inserted into the second holding portion 76.

[0162] like Figure 15AAs shown, the inner surfaces 72a of the first pressing portions 72 of the first holding portion 70 are opposite to each other. That is, the inner surfaces 72a of the first pressing portions 72 form a pair of first pressing surfaces facing each other. Figure 15B As shown, the inner surfaces 77a of the second pressing portions 77 of the second holding portion 76 are opposite to each other. That is, the inner surfaces 77a of the second pressing portions 77 form a pair of facing second pressing surfaces. The shortest distance between the second pressing surfaces is preferably smaller than the shortest distance between the first pressing surfaces. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface are planar. Figure 15A as well as Figure 15B As shown, in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50, the pressing surface of the second holding part 76 faces the same direction as the pressing surface of the first holding part 70.

[0163] like Figure 14 As shown, the second retaining part 76 is disposed at the end of the chamber 50. Thus, when the smokeable material at the end of the consumable 110 is pressed, the second retaining part 76 compresses the smokeable material at the end of the consumable 110, thereby reducing the amount of smokeable material falling into the chamber 50 when the consumable 110 is removed from the chamber 50 after smoking.

[0164] The inner surface 72a and outer surface 72b of the first pressing portion 72, and even the inner surface 77a and outer surface 77b of the second pressing portion 77, may have the same features as the inner surface 62a and outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the inner surface 73a and outer surface 73b of the first non-pressing portion 73, and even the inner surface 78a and outer surface 78b of the second non-pressing portion 78, may have the same features as the inner surface 66a and outer surface 66b of the non-pressing portion 66 in the first embodiment.

[0165] <Third Implementation Method>

[0166] 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 structure of the chamber 50 and the heating unit 40. Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater assembly 30 of the device 120 of the smoking system 100 in the third embodiment. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 20-20. Figure 16 In the middle, the following was omitted. Figure 2 The top cover 32 is shown.

[0167] As shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the shape of the chamber 50 is approximately the same as that of the chamber 50 in the first embodiment. On the other hand, the heater assembly 30 of the third embodiment, instead of the heating part 40, includes an induction coil 46 for heating the chamber 50. As shown in FIG15, the induction coil 46 can be configured to surround the pressing part 62 of the chamber 50. This allows for efficient energy supply to the heating portion of the chamber 50. It should be noted that the induction coil 46 can also be cylindrical.

[0168] The pressing portion 62 of the chamber 50 includes a sensor 63 heated by an induction coil 46. The sensor 63 may be disposed on the outer surface 62b or the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62, or it may be contained within the wall of the chamber 50 constituting the pressing portion 62, and the wall of the chamber 50 constituting the pressing portion 62 may also be composed of the sensor. The sensor 63 preferably comprises a material selected from at least one of the group consisting of aluminum, iron, nickel, and alloys thereof (e.g., nickel-chromium alloys or stainless steel).

[0169] In the third embodiment, the non-pressable portion 66 of the chamber 50 also includes a sensor 63. Thus, as... Figure 17 As shown, the sensor 63 and the path of the current flowing through the sensor 63 are formed in a ring around the space (the internal space of the chamber 50) that houses the consumable 110.

[0170] As explained above, in the third embodiment, at least the pressing part 62 includes a sensor 63, which is heated by an induction coil 46.

[0171] <Fourth Implementation>

[0172] 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 airflow path and the structure of the chamber 50. Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the smoking system 100 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0173] like Figure 18 As shown, in the smoking system 100 of the fourth embodiment, the gap for drawing air from between the heater assembly 30 and the consumable 110 is substantially non-existent. Figure 18As shown, in the smoking system 100, an opening 30a for drawing in air is formed at the bottom of the heater assembly 30, and an air passage 15 for drawing in air is formed in this opening 30a. In the illustrated example, the air passage 15 extends in a manner that connects the opening 30a and 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 be of any shape connecting the opening 30a and the exterior of the smoking system 100. Thus, the air drawn in by the user is guided from the bottom of the smoking system 100 through the end of the consumable 110 into the user's mouth, as shown by the airflow 100D.

[0174] Figure 19A This is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50, including the non-pressing part 66, showing the state in which the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 19B This is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50, including the pressing part 62, showing the state in which the consumable 110 is positioned in the desired location in the chamber 50 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 20A yes Figure 19B A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 23A-23A. Figure 20B yes Figure 19B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 in the direction of arrow 23B-23B is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 20B In order to make it easier to understand that the consumable 110 is pressed in the pressing part 62, a cross section of the consumable 110 in the state before pressing is shown.

[0175] like Figure 19B As shown, when the retaining part 60 is positioned in the desired position in the chamber 50, there is substantially no 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.

[0176] When the consumable 110 is disposed within the chamber 50, the non-pressing part 66 preferably contacts the consumable 110 in a non-pressing state. Here, the non-pressing state includes a substantially non-pressing state.

[0177] 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. It should be noted that "same" here includes being substantially the same.

[0178] As described above, the holding portion 60 has a pressing portion 62 and a non-pressing portion 66. When the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60 is substantially the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110, by pressing a portion of the consumable 110 by the pressing portion 62, the outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110 becomes approximately consistent with the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the holding portion 60. Compared to the case where the inner circumferential length and inner circumferential shape of the holding portion 60 are the same as the outer circumferential length and outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110, in the smoking system 100, the portion of the consumable 110 pressed by the pressing portion 62 is formed, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110. In addition, compared to the case where the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 is shorter than the inner circumferential length of the holding portion 60, the unpressed portion of the outer circumferential surface of the consumable 110 is also substantially in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the holding portion 60 (the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66), thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer perimeter of the consumable 110 is longer than the inner perimeter of the retaining portion 60, the consumable 110 can be smoothly inserted into the retaining portion 60, and changes in the density of the outer perimeter of the consumable 110 and its interior (e.g., tobacco) can be suppressed. As a result, uneven heating or variations in the airflow resistance of each consumable 110 caused by changes in the density inside the consumable 110 can be suppressed.

[0179] It should be noted that the inner circumference length of the holding portion 60 is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the pressed state by the pressing portion 62, or the inner circumference length of the holding portion 60 can be the inner circumference length of the chamber 50 of the holding portion 60 in a plane orthogonal to the length direction. Furthermore, the term "outer circumference length of the consumable 110 before being pressed by the pressing portion 62" can be the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 before being pressed by the pressing portion 62, located at a position in the length direction of the chamber 50 corresponding to the inner circumference length of the holding portion 60 compared to the one being pressed by the pressing portion 62. Additionally, the term "outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the pressed state by the pressing portion 62" can be the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the pressed state, located at a position in the length direction of the chamber corresponding to the inner circumference length of the holding portion 60 compared to the one being pressed by the pressing portion 62.

[0180] In the fourth embodiment, the inner circumferential length of the chamber 50 (holding portion 60) can be the same as the outer circumferential length of the consumable 110 before it is inserted into the chamber 50, while the inner circumferential shape of the chamber 50 (holding portion 60) in a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber can be different from the cross-sectional shape of the consumable 110 orthogonal to the length direction before it is inserted into the chamber 50. Here, "same" includes cases where they are substantially the same.

[0181] According to this 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), thus enabling efficient heat transfer from the heating portion 40 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 inserted into the chamber 50. Therefore, a portion of the consumable 110 is pressed by the inner surface of the chamber 50, thereby making the outer circumferential shape of the consumable 110 approximately consistent with the inner circumferential shape of the inner surface of the holding portion 60. Compared to the case where the inner circumferential length and inner circumferential shape of the chamber 50 are the same as the outer circumferential length and cross-sectional shape of the consumable 110, the smoking system 100 has a portion where the consumable 110 is pressed by the chamber 50, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating portion 40 to the consumable 110. Furthermore, compared to the case where the outer periphery of the consumable 110 is shorter than the inner periphery of the chamber 50, the unpressed portion of the outer periphery of the consumable 110 is in substantial contact with the inner periphery (non-pressed surface) of the chamber 50, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency from the heating unit 40 to the consumable 110. Additionally, compared to the case where the outer periphery of the consumable 110 is longer than the inner periphery of the chamber 50, the consumable 110 can be smoothly inserted into the chamber 50, and changes in the density of the outer periphery of the consumable 110 and its interior (e.g., tobacco) can be suppressed. As a result, uneven heating caused by changes in the density inside the consumable 110, or variations in the airflow resistance of each consumable 110, can be suppressed.

[0182] Furthermore, it can be said that the inner circumference length of the chamber 50 is preferably substantially the same as the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50, or the inner circumference length of the chamber 50 can be the inner circumference length on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the chamber 50. Additionally, the term "outer circumference length of the consumable 110 before being inserted into the chamber 50" can be the portion of the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 before being inserted into the chamber 50 located at a position in the length direction of the chamber 50 corresponding to the inner circumference length of the compared chamber 50 when inserted into the chamber 50. Furthermore, the term "outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50" can be the outer circumference length of the consumable 110 in the state of being pressed by the chamber 50 located at a position in the length direction of the chamber 50 corresponding to the inner circumference length of the compared chamber 50.

[0183] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, specification, and drawings. It should be noted that even any shape or material not directly described in the specification and drawings, as long as it plays a role or effect of the present invention, is within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. In addition, the shape, degree, etc., indicated at least "substantially" in the specification are not limited to "the shape, degree, etc. in a strict sense," but are intended to include "the shape, degree, etc., at least within the range of achieving the intended function."

[0184] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0185] 40: Heating section;

[0186] 40a: Part One;

[0187] 40b: Part Two;

[0188] 42: Heating element;

[0189] 44: Electrically insulating components;

[0190] 46: Induction coil;

[0191] 48: Electrode;

[0192] 50: Chamber;

[0193] 52: Opening;

[0194] 54: Non-retaining part;

[0195] 58: First guiding section;

[0196] 58a: Conical surface;

[0197] 60: Maintaining part;

[0198] 62: Pressing part;

[0199] 62a: Inner surface;

[0200] 62b: Outer surface;

[0201] 63: Sensor;

[0202] 66: Non-pressable part;

[0203] 66a: Inner surface;

[0204] 66b: Outer surface;

[0205] 67: Gap;

[0206] 70: First retaining part;

[0207] 72a: Inner surface;

[0208] 72b: Outer surface;

[0209] 73a: Inner surface;

[0210] 73b: Outer surface;

[0211] 76: Second retaining part;

[0212] 77a: Inner surface;

[0213] 77b: Outer surface;

[0214] 78a: Inner surface;

[0215] 78b: Outer surface;

[0216] 79a: Conical surface;

[0217] 100: Smoking system;

[0218] 110: Consumables;

[0219] 111: Smoking materials;

[0220] 120: Device;

[0221] S1: First part;

[0222] S2: Second part.

Claims

1. A smoking system comprising a consumable having a smokeable substance and a device for heating said smokeable substance and atomizing it. The device includes: A chamber into which the consumables are contained; A heating unit that heats the consumables contained in the chamber; The chamber includes an opening for inserting the consumable and a holding portion for holding the consumable. The retaining part includes a pair of opposing pressing parts that press a portion of the consumable, and a non-pressing part. The pressing part and the non-pressing part each have an inner surface and an outer surface, respectively. The consumable includes a first portion having a first hardness and a second portion having a second hardness, wherein the second portion is a portion that differs from the first portion in the insertion direction of the consumable. When the consumable is positioned at the desired location in the chamber, the consumable is positioned such that at least a portion of the first portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion, and simultaneously, at least a portion of the second portion is pressed by the inner surface of the pressing portion. The distance between the inner surfaces of a pair of pressing parts when pressing the first part is the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of a pair of pressing parts when pressing the second part.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first hardness is 65% or higher and 90% or lower.

3. The system as described in claim 1, wherein, The second hardness is above 90% and below 99%.

4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second hardness is higher than the first hardness.

5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first part and the second part are arranged adjacent to each other.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The difference between the first hardness and the second hardness is at least 4%.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first part has the smokeable material containing tobacco.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein, The second part has a cylindrical component. The cylindrical component is a paper tube or a hollow filter.

9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The opening allows the consumable to be inserted without pressing.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein, The inner circumference of the retaining part is substantially the same as the outer circumference of the consumable when it is pressed by the pressing part.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein, 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 further downstream than the downstream end of the smokeable part of the consumable.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein, The length of the first portion of the consumable is less than or equal to the length of the inner surface of the pressing portion in the longitudinal direction. When the consumable is positioned at the desired location in the chamber, the consumable is positioned in the chamber such that the first portion of the consumable does not extend beyond the inner surface of the pressing portion in the longitudinal direction.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein, When the consumable is positioned at the desired location, the distance by which the second part of the consumable is inserted into the retaining part is 1.0 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein, The chamber has a bottom or abutment portion. The length from the bottom of the chamber or the bottom wall or abutment surface of the abutment portion where the consumable abuts to the end of the opening side of the pressing portion is longer than the length of the first portion of the consumable in the length direction, and shorter than 1.5 times the length of the first portion, and / or When the consumable is positioned at the desired location in the chamber, at least a portion of the first part of the consumable is located closer to the opening side than the central part of the retaining part in the longitudinal direction.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein, The chamber has a first guide portion, which has a conical surface connecting the inner surface of the chamber forming the opening and the inner surface of the pressing portion.

16. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, When the consumable is positioned at the desired location in the chamber, the retaining portion provides a gap between the inner surface of the non-pressing portion and the consumable, the gap connecting the opening of the chamber and the end face of the consumable positioned at the desired location in the chamber, or connecting the opening of the chamber and the end face of the consumable located in the chamber and on the side furthest from the opening of the chamber.

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