Main body unit of aerosol generating device, aerosol generating device, and non-combustible inhaler

Abstract

A main unit of an aerosol generating device of one embodiment of the present application includes: an outer case having a first main surface portion and a second main surface portion opposite to the first main surface portion; and a housing member housed in the outer case, the outer case including: a first case having the first main surface portion and a first peripheral wall portion provided to a periphery of the first main surface portion; and a second case having the second main surface portion and a second peripheral wall portion provided to a periphery of the second main surface portion, the main unit of the aerosol generating device including: a first connecting portion connecting the first peripheral wall portion and the second peripheral wall portion; a second connecting portion connecting the housing member to an opposite surface of either of the first main surface portion and the second main surface portion; and a third connecting portion connecting the housing member to an opposite surface of the other of the first main surface portion and the second main surface portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the main unit of an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating device, and a non-combustion absorber. Background Technology

[0002] Non-combustible inhalers that allow the inhalation of aerosols and the enjoyment of flavors are known in the past. One such non-combustible inhaler includes: a cartridge containing an aerosol source; a main unit of an aerosol generating device that can be plugged into and detachably housing the cartridge; and a flavor source container that imparts flavor to the aerosol atomized by the main unit.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that the outer casing (outer shell) of the main unit can be disassembled into a first casing (first outer portion) and a second casing (second outer portion). The second casing has a fitting piece (locking member) that fits into the first casing (see Patent Document 1). Figure 2 ).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-22510 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention will solve

[0008] In the aforementioned prior art, the first and second housings are merely fitted together, and the user can easily disassemble the outer housing, thus raising concerns about safety.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to prevent users from dismantling the device.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, a main body unit of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an outer housing having a first main face and a second main face opposite to the first main face; and a receiving member housed within the outer housing, the outer housing comprising: a first housing having the first main face and a first peripheral wall portion disposed at the periphery of the first main face; and a second housing having a second main face and a second peripheral wall portion disposed at the periphery of the second main face, the main body unit of the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a first connecting portion connecting the first peripheral wall portion and the second peripheral wall portion; a second connecting portion connecting the receiving member to the opposite face of either the first main face or the second main face; and a third connecting portion connecting the receiving member to the opposite face of the other of the first main face and the second main face.

[0012] According to this method, since the first main face and the second main face are connected inside the outer casing, user disassembly can be prevented. Furthermore, since the first main face and the second main face are connected inside the outer casing, a strong connection at the first and second peripheral walls on the outer side of the outer casing is not required, thus reducing the thickness of the first and second peripheral walls.

[0013] In the main unit of the aforementioned aerosol generating device, the connection method of the first connecting part may include claw engagement.

[0014] According to this method, since the outer side of the outer casing is connected by a locking claw, temporary fixation of the outer casing can be performed, making subsequent assembly processes easier. Furthermore, as long as the locking claws are engaged, the outer casing can be assembled repeatedly (reversibly) and easily without the use of tools.

[0015] In the main unit of the above-mentioned aerosol generating device, the connection method of at least one of the second connecting part and the third connecting part may include welding.

[0016] According to this method, the inner side of the outer casing is permanently (irreversibly) connected by welding, thus preventing disassembly by the user. Even if the outer casing is disassembled, the irreversible connection makes reassembly difficult for the user.

[0017] In the main unit of the aforementioned aerosol generating device, the connection method of the second connecting part and the other party of the third connecting part may include threaded fastening.

[0018] According to this method, the housing component is repeatedly (reversibly) installed onto the outer housing by threaded fastening, thus making assembly easy.

[0019] In the main unit of the above-mentioned aerosol generating device, the number of connection methods for at least one of the first connecting part, the second connecting part, and the third connecting part may be different.

[0020] According to this method, because the three connecting parts of the outer casing are connected in different ways, it is difficult for the user to disassemble it. Furthermore, even if the outer casing is disassembled, it is difficult for the user to reassemble it because the three connecting parts of the outer casing 12 are connected in different ways.

[0021] In the main unit of the aforementioned aerosol generating device, the receiving component may include a retainer that retains at least a portion of the components disposed inside the outer housing.

[0022] According to this method, the first main face and the second main face can be connected inside the outer housing using a retainer, thus saving space inside the outer housing.

[0023] In the main unit of the aforementioned aerosol generating device, the retaining member may also have: a main board; and a main board intersection that extends in a direction intersecting the surface of the main board.

[0024] According to this method, the rigidity of the retainer can be improved without hindering the retainer's component retention function, and the first main face and the second main face are connected via the main board cross portion.

[0025] In the main unit of the aforementioned aerosol generating device, the main board intersection may extend to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main board.

[0026] According to this method, the cross-section of the retainer is at least L-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer.

[0027] In the main body unit of the above-mentioned aerosol generating device, a housing side protrusion for connecting the main board intersection portion may be formed on the opposing surface of at least one of the first main surface and the second main surface.

[0028] According to this method, since the motherboard cross portion does not need to be extended to the opposite surface of either the first main face or the second main face, deformation of the motherboard cross portion can be suppressed.

[0029] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a main body unit as described above; and a cartridge containing an aerosol source and capable of being pluggably inserted into the cartridge receiving portion of the main body unit.

[0030] According to this method, since it has a main unit that can prevent users from dismantling it, the overall security of the device can be improved.

[0031] One aspect of the non-combustion inhaler of the present invention comprises: the aerosol generating device described above; and a fragrance source container, which is installed at the inlet of the aerosol generating device.

[0032] According to this method, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0033] Invention Effects

[0034] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the user from dismantling the device. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the left side of the suction device according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 2This is a perspective view of the right side of the suction device according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a front view of the suction device according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a top view of an extractor according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the suction device according to one embodiment, viewed from the bottom side.

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 The view shown is a cross-sectional view A-A.

[0041] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the main unit of one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a front view showing the state in which the first housing has been removed from the main body unit of one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a rear view showing the state in which the second housing has been removed from the main body unit of one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the first plate side of the retainer according to one embodiment.

[0045] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the second plate side of the retainer according to one embodiment.

[0046] Figure 12 yes Figure 3 The B-B cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0047] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure of an oscillator according to one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure of a display cover according to one embodiment.

[0049] Figure 15 This is a top view of the retainer in one embodiment.

[0050] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The C-C cross-section shown is shown.

[0051] Figure 17 This is a front view of the smoke cartridge housing according to one embodiment.

[0052] Figure 18 This is a right-side view of the smoke cartridge housing according to one embodiment.

[0053] Figure 19 This is a left-side view of the smoke cartridge receiving section according to one embodiment.

[0054] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 The diagram shown is a D-D cross-sectional view.

[0055] Figure 21 This is a right-side view of the suction port in one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 The E-E cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0057] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the main substrate in one embodiment.

[0058] Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the protruding electrode cover has been removed from the protruding electrode of the main substrate in one embodiment.

[0059] Figure 25 yes Figure 9 The F-F cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0060] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing a cover component of one embodiment viewed from the radially outer side.

[0061] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing a cover component of one embodiment viewed from the radial inside.

[0062] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of a cover component according to one embodiment.

[0063] Figure 29 yes Figure 3 The image shown is a G-G cross-sectional view.

[0064] Figure 30 This is a diagram showing a sensor holder according to one embodiment, viewed from the radial outer side.

[0065] Figure 31 This is a diagram showing a sensor holder according to one embodiment, viewed from the radial inside.

[0066] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of a sensor holder according to one embodiment.

[0067] Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing an assembly method of the main body unit in one embodiment.

[0068] Figure 34 This is a rear view showing the configuration of the inner side of the first housing according to one embodiment.

[0069] Figure 35This is a front view showing the configuration of the inner side of the second housing according to one embodiment.

[0070] Figure 36 This is a front view of the main body unit with the suction port portion removed according to one embodiment.

[0071] Figure 37 This is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where a smoke cartridge is contained in a smoke cartridge receiving section according to one embodiment.

[0072] Figure 38 This is an explanatory diagram showing the installation of the inhalation port in the cartridge housing according to one embodiment.

[0073] Figure 39 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the suction port connection portion according to one embodiment.

[0074] Figure 40 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of a smoke cartridge receiving section according to one embodiment.

[0075] Figure 41 yes Figure 39 The H-H cross-sectional view shown is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0076] Hereinafter, a non-combustion absorber (hereinafter simply referred to as absorber) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0077] [Absorber]

[0078] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the left side of the suction device 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the right side of the suction device 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is a front view of the suction device 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a top view of the suction device 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the suction device 1 according to one embodiment, viewed from the bottom side.

[0079] Inhaler 1 is a so-called non-combustion inhaler that obtains fragrance by inhaling heated and atomized aerosol from a fragrance source.

[0080] like Figure 5 As shown, the inhaler 1 includes a main body unit 2, a cartridge 3 (also called an atomizing unit), and a flavor source container 4. The cartridge 3 is detachably housed in the cartridge housing 10 of the main body unit 2. The flavor source container 4 is detachably mounted to the inhalation port 11 (also called an interface tube) of the main body unit 2.

[0081] The main body unit 2 includes an outer casing 12. The outer casing 12 is formed into a flat box shape with rounded corners. The outer casing 12 has a pair of main faces 12A and a peripheral wall portion 12B. Here, "a pair" of main faces 12A means that one main face (first main face 12A1) and the other main face (second main face 12A2) are arranged opposite each other, and does not mean that the first main face 12A1 and the second main face 12A2 are identical in even the smallest details.

[0082] A pair of main faces 12A refers to the portion forming a pair of opposing faces (in this embodiment, the faces with the largest area) of a hexahedron when the outer housing 12 is modeled as a hexahedron surrounded by six quadrilaterals. The peripheral wall portion 12B refers to the portion forming the remaining four faces of the hexahedron besides the pair of main faces 12A. The peripheral wall portion 12B is also referred to as the portion connecting the peripheries of the opposing pair of main faces 12A to each other.

[0083] Outer casing 12 such Figure 1 As shown, the device includes a main housing 13 and a display cover 14. The main housing 13 is formed by combining a first housing 13A and a second housing 13B. The first housing 13A has a first main surface area 12A1 and a first peripheral wall portion 12B1 provided on the periphery of the first main surface area 12A1. The second housing 13B has a second main surface area 12A2 and a second peripheral wall portion 12B2 provided on the periphery of the second main surface area 12A2.

[0084] The first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A, the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B, and the display cover 14 form the peripheral wall portion 12B. A mating surface is formed between the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B in the peripheral wall portion 12B. Four corner portions 12C (corner portions) are formed in this peripheral wall portion 12B.

[0085] The four corner portions 12C have a first corner portion 12C1 with an input device 15 (button), a second corner portion 12C2 with a smoke cartridge receiving portion 10, a third corner portion 12C3 located on the diagonal of the first corner portion 12C1, and a fourth corner portion 12C4 located on the diagonal of the second corner portion 12C2.

[0086] like Figure 3 As shown, a raised portion 12D, described later, is formed on the peripheral wall portion 12B between the first corner portion 12C1 and the second corner portion 12C2. On the other hand, a flat surface is formed between the third corner portion 12C3 and the fourth corner portion 12C4 of the peripheral wall portion 12B. That is, the peripheral wall portion 12B on the side opposite to the raised portion 12D is flat. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 as well as Figure 2As shown, the raised portion 12D refers to the surface portion of the main body housing 13 that is relatively higher than the display cover 14.

[0087] The peripheral wall portion 12B has an outer surface 12b1 continuous with a pair of main surfaces 12A and a recess 12b2 recessed relative to the outer surface 12b1. A portion of the outer surface 12b1 forms a protrusion 12D. The recess 12b2 is formed by a display cover 14. A through hole 14a for arranging an input device 15 is formed in the display cover 14. That is, the input device 15 is disposed in the recess 12b2. The input device 15 may also be disposed below the outer surface 12b1. That is, at least a portion of the input device 15 may be disposed below the outer surface 12b1. Preferably, the entire input device 15 is disposed below the outer surface 12b1. In other words, it is preferable that the contact sensing portion (button surface) of the input device 15 is disposed in a position that does not reach the outer surface 12b1.

[0088] like Figure 2 As shown, a window 16 is provided between the second corner 12C2 and the third corner 12C3 of the peripheral wall portion 12B. The remaining liquid level of the aerosol source of the cartridge 3 housed inside the cartridge housing 10 can be observed through the window 16. The window 16 is formed by an opening 13a provided in the main body housing 13 and a cover member 17 covering the opening 13a.

[0089] An air inlet 18 is formed in the gap between the cover member 17 and the opening 13a to draw in external air into the interior of the outer casing 12. Additionally, an air hole 19 is formed on the inner side of the main casing 13 within the cover member 17 to allow fluid communication between the air inlet 18 and the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 (see description below). Figure 29 ).

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, a charging terminal 20 is provided between the third corner portion 12C3 and the fourth corner portion 12C4 of the peripheral wall portion 12B. An opening 13b is formed in the main body housing 13 to expose the charging terminal 20. The opening 13b is formed on the first housing 13A side of the main body housing 13.

[0091] Furthermore, in the following description, the side of the pair of main faces 12A (first main face 12A1, second main face 12A2) with the first main face 12A1 disposed thereon is referred to as the front side, and the side with the second main face 12A2 disposed thereon is referred to as the rear side. Additionally, in Figure 4 In the top view shown, the side where the input device 15 is located is referred to as the left side, and the side where the smoke cartridge housing 10 and the window 16 are located is referred to as the right side.

[0092] Smoke bomb containment section 10 Figure 3As shown, it has a cartridge insertion / removal port 10a protruding from the outer casing 12. That is, a portion of the cartridge receiving portion 10, including the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a, protrudes from the outer casing 12. The side of the cartridge receiving portion 10 that protrudes is called the upper side, and the side opposite to the side of the cartridge receiving portion 10 that protrudes is called the lower side.

[0093] Additionally, in the accompanying drawings, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is sometimes set, and the positional relationship of each component is explained with reference to this XYZ orthogonal coordinate system. The X-axis direction is the front-back direction of the suction device 1 (also known as the thickness direction), the Y-axis direction is the left-right direction of the suction device 1 (also known as the width direction), and the Z-axis direction is the up-down direction of the suction device 1 (also known as the height direction).

[0094] Furthermore, the positional relationships of each component are sometimes explained with reference to the main axis O of the cartridge receiving section 10. The main axis O is the central axis of the cartridge receiving section 10 passing through the center of the cartridge insertion port 10a. The direction in which the main axis O extends is called the main axis direction (the Z-axis direction mentioned above), the direction orthogonal to the main axis O is called the radial direction, and the direction around the main axis O is called the circumferential direction.

[0095] <Smoke cartridge>

[0096] The cartridge 3 stores a liquid aerosol source and atomizes that liquid aerosol source. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the smoke cartridge 3 is formed into a cylindrical shape and is received inside the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from the aforementioned smoke cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0097] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 The view shown is a cross-sectional view A-A.

[0098] like Figure 6 As shown, the e-cigarette cartridge 3 includes a canister 21, a gasket 22, a mesh body 23, an atomizing container 24, a heating element 25, and a heater holder 26. The canister 21 stores an aerosol source. The canister 21 is transparent, allowing the liquid level of the aerosol source to be checked.

[0099] Here, "transparency" refers to the property of a material through which light passes. It includes "transparency," which has extremely high transmittance, allowing one to see the opposite side of the material, and "transparency," which, while similar to "transparency," allows light to pass through, but differs from "transparency" in that the shape of the opposite side cannot be clearly identified through the material. In other words, even frosted glass and milky white plastic possess translucency.

[0100] The canister 21 is formed as a top-mounted cylindrical shape. A through hole 21b is formed in the top wall 21a of the canister 21. A flow path 21c (also called an inner circumferential wall) is vertically arranged in the top wall 21a and connected to the through hole 21b. The flow path 21c serves as the flow path for the atomized aerosol. The flow path 21c is connected to multiple ribs 21e via the outer circumferential wall 21d of the canister 21. The ribs 21e are arranged radially and at equal intervals along the circumference when viewed from the main axis (see below). Figure 29 ).

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown, the outer peripheral wall 21d of the can body 21 extends downward (to the -Z side) than the lower end of the flow path pipe 21c. Two engaging holes 21f are formed near the lower end of the outer peripheral wall 21d. These two engaging holes 21f are used to fix the heater holder 26 to the can body 21. The two engaging holes 21f are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the outer peripheral wall 21d, separated by the main axis O. Furthermore, when the cartridge 3 is housed in the cartridge housing 10, the central axis of the cartridge 3 coincides with the main axis O of the cartridge housing 10.

[0102] The gasket 22 is an annular plate component that covers the bottom of the annular space (liquid containment chamber 21g) formed between the outer peripheral wall 21d of the tank 21 and the flow path pipe 21c. The gasket 22 positions and maintains the posture of the mesh 23. A plurality of openings 22a are formed in the gasket 22. The openings 22a are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The mesh 23 comes into contact with and is wetted by the liquid containment chamber 21g through the openings 22a of the gasket 22.

[0103] The mesh 23 is a porous component with liquid-absorbing properties. The mesh 23 is formed, for example, from cotton fibers or glass fibers. The mesh 23 is also formed in a ring shape, approximately the same as the gasket 22. That is, a flow path tube 21c can be inserted into the radial center of the mesh 23. By sealing the opening 22a of the gasket 22 with the mesh 23, a liquid containing chamber 21g is formed inside the can 21. An aerosol source of liquid is stored in the liquid containing chamber 21g.

[0104] The atomizing container 24 is formed of a flexible component, such as a resin material like silicone resin. The atomizing container 24 is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. The upper opening edge of the peripheral wall 24a of the atomizing container 24 is connected to the outer periphery of the mesh body 23 in the main axial direction. That is, the mesh body 23 is sandwiched between the gasket 22 and the atomizing container 24. A fitting portion 24b is formed on the outer surface of the peripheral wall 24a of the atomizing container 24, which fits into the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 21d of the can body 21.

[0105] An atomizing chamber 24c is formed on the inner side of the peripheral wall 24a of the atomizing container 24. The atomizing chamber 24c is connected to the flow path pipe 21c of the can body 21. An opening 24e is formed on the bottom wall 24d of the atomizing container 24. A heating element 25 is disposed in the atomizing chamber 24c.

[0106] The heating unit 25 is used to atomize the liquid aerosol source. The heating unit 25 includes a core 25a connected to the mesh body 23 and a heating wire 25b for heating the core 25a.

[0107] The mandrel 25a is a porous, generally cylindrical component with liquid-absorbing properties. The mandrel 25a is bent into a generally U-shape. More specifically, the mandrel 25a has two axially extending protrusions extending along the main axis and a radially extending protrusion connecting the two axially extending protrusions to each other. The two axially extending protrusions are in the X-axis direction (…). Figure 6 The core 25a is arranged in an overlapping configuration (front and back direction) and connected to the mesh 23. Thus, the aerosol source absorbed by the mesh 23 is drawn onto the core 25a.

[0108] The heating wire 25b is wound in a spiral shape around the radially extending protrusion of the core 25a. Both ends of the heating wire 25b extend and protrude along the main axis toward the heater holder 26. The two ends of the heating wire 25b are electrically connected to two planar electrodes 26h respectively located on the lower surface of the bottom wall 26d of the heater holder 26. When the heating wire 25b is energized via the two planar electrodes 26h, the core 25a is heated. When the core 25a is heated, the aerosol source absorbed by the core 25a is atomized.

[0109] The heater holder 26 is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. The peripheral wall 26a of the heater holder 26 is inserted into the outer side of the peripheral wall 24a of the atomizing container 24 and the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 21d of the can body 21. The upper opening edge of the peripheral wall 26a abuts against the fitting portion 24b of the atomizing container 24 in the main axial direction. Two engaging tabs 26b are formed at the upper end of the peripheral wall 26a, which engage with two engaging holes 21f of the outer peripheral wall 21d of the can body 21. Between the can body 21 and the heater holder 26, a washer 22, a mesh body 23, and the atomizing container 24 are sequentially assembled in the main axial direction.

[0110] The lower side of the peripheral wall 26a of the heater holder 26 protrudes from the canister 21. The lower side of this peripheral wall 26a has an outer diameter approximately the same as the outer peripheral wall 21d of the canister 21. Furthermore, two radially penetrating air inlets 26c are formed on the lower side of this peripheral wall 26a. The two air inlets 26c are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the peripheral wall 26a, separated by the main axis O. The two air inlets 26c communicate between the exterior of the cartridge 3 (the interior of the cartridge housing 10) and the atomizing chamber 24c. Alternatively, an air inlet 26e penetrating along the main axis may not be formed on the bottom wall 26d of the heater holder 26. The air inlet 26e also communicates between the exterior of the cartridge 3 (the interior of the cartridge housing 10) and the atomizing chamber 24c.

[0111] A plate-shaped isolation wall 26f is erected along the main axis on the bottom wall 26d of the heater holder 26. The isolation wall 26f extends radially, with its two ends connected to the inner surface of the peripheral wall 26a. Two slits 26g are formed in the bottom wall 26d, extending along the main axis. The two slits 26g are positioned with the isolation wall 26f between them. Bent portions of two planar electrodes 26h are inserted into the two slits 26g. The isolation wall 26f prevents short circuits between the two planar electrodes 26h and the two ends of the heating wire 25b connected to the two planar electrodes 26h.

[0112] return Figure 5 The bottom wall 26d of the heater holder 26 has three engaging grooves 26i. The three engaging grooves 26i are equally spaced circumferentially (at 120° intervals). The engaging grooves 26i are formed with openings on the radially outer side and the lower side in the main axis direction. When viewed radially, the engaging grooves 26i are formed in an isosceles trapezoidal shape, having tapered legs (sloping surfaces) that gradually widen circumferentially towards the lower side in the main axis direction. Furthermore, the number of engaging grooves 25i can be two or more, and is not limited to three. For example, there can also be six engaging grooves 25i.

[0113] <Fragrance Source Container>

[0114] The flavor source container 4 contains a flavor source and adds flavor to the aerosol atomized by the cartridge 3. The raw material for the flavor source can be a granular form of tobacco or tobacco raw materials. Alternatively, the flavor source can be composed of plants other than tobacco (such as mint, herbal medicine, or vanilla). Furthermore, flavorings such as menthol can be imparted to the flavor source. Moreover, the flavor source can also be a flavor source formed by carrying flavorings on a plant-derived carrier (such as cellulose) or other carriers (including carriers containing inorganic substances). The flavor source container 4 is installed at the inhalation port 11 of the main unit 2.

[0115] like Figure 6As shown, the fragrance source container 4 has a cylindrical container body 27 and a filter nozzle 28 covering the opening of the container body 27. The peripheral wall 27a of the container body 27 is inserted into the inner side of the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction port 11. The upper side of the peripheral wall 27a of the container body 27 protrudes from the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction port 11. The upper side of the peripheral wall 27a has an outer diameter that is approximately the same as that of the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction port 11. A step 27b is formed on the outer surface of the peripheral wall 27a to abut against the upper opening edge of the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction port 11.

[0116] A fragrance source containment chamber 27c is formed on the inner side of the peripheral wall 27a of the container body 27. Multiple micro-holes 27e are formed on the bottom wall 27d of the container body 27, which extend along the main axis.

[0117] The filter tip 28 is made of, for example, nonwoven fabric. The filter tip 28 is disposed on the inner side of the peripheral wall 27a of the container body 27. By sealing the opening of the container body 27 with the filter tip 28, a fragrance source receiving chamber 27c is formed inside the fragrance source container 4. The fragrance source described above is received in the fragrance source receiving chamber 27c.

[0118] <Main Unit>

[0119] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the main body unit 2 of one embodiment. Figure 8 This is a front view showing the state in which the first housing 13A has been removed from the main body unit 2 of one embodiment. Figure 9 This is a rear view showing the state in which the second housing 13B has been removed from the main body unit 2 of one embodiment.

[0120] like Figure 7 As shown, in addition to the aforementioned cartridge receiving part 10, suction mouth part 11, outer casing 12 and input device 15, the main body unit 2 also includes a holder 30, a main substrate 31, a sub-sub substrate 32, a display device 33, a sensor 34, a sensor holder 35, an oscillator 36 and a power supply 37.

[0121] The power supply 37 is formed in a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape with the Z-axis as its length direction. The power supply 37 is electrically connected to the main substrate 31, which has a charging terminal 20, via wiring. The power supply 37 is a rechargeable battery (secondary battery) and can be charged via the charging terminal 20. However, the power supply 37 is not limited to a rechargeable secondary battery; it can also be a supercapacitor, etc. Alternatively, the power supply 37 can also be a primary battery. Furthermore, if the power supply 37 is a primary battery, the charging terminal 20 is not required.

[0122] The retainer 30 has a main plate 41 and a secondary plate 42. The main plate 41 has a first plate surface 41a facing the +X side and a second plate surface 41b facing the opposite side (-X side). The main plate 41 is formed as a generally elongated plate with the Z-axis as its length direction, the Y-axis as its short side direction, and the X-axis as its thickness direction. The secondary plate 42 extends from the end of the main plate 41 in a direction intersecting the plate surfaces (first plate surface 41a, second plate surface 41b) of the main plate 41 (in this embodiment, the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the main plate 41).

[0123] A main substrate 31 and a sub-substrate 32 are held on the first surface 41a side of the main board 41. An opening 41c is formed on the upper side (+Z side) of the length direction of the main board 41. A tray 44 engages with the opening 41c. The sub-substrate 32 is bonded to the tray 44 via an adhesive sheet 32a and held on the main board 41 via the tray 44. On the other hand, a power supply 37 is held on the second surface 41b side (-X side) of the main board 41. The power supply 37 is held on the main board 41 via an adhesive sheet 46.

[0124] Sub-board 42 has a first sub-board 42A for holding the display device 33 and a second sub-board 42B for holding the input device 15. The display device 33 is an organic EL display or a liquid crystal display, etc. The display device 33 is disposed on the lower side (-Z side) of the display cover 14. The display cover 14 is light-transmitting, allowing the display surface of the display device 33 to be seen. The display device 33 has a display device body 33a, a display device holder 33b, and a cushioning material 33c.

[0125] The display device holder 33b supports the display device body 33a and holds the first sub-plate 42A in a front-to-back direction (X-axis direction). Furthermore, the display device holder 33b is bonded to the display device body 33a via an adhesive sheet 45. The cushioning material 33c is a frame-shaped sponge surrounding the display surface of the display device body 33a and is disposed between the display cover 14 and the display device body 33a.

[0126] Input device 15 is a button. Input device 15 has a switch button 15a, a switch substrate 15b, and a switch holder 15c. Switch substrate 15b is held on the second sub-board 42B. Switch button 15a is disposed on switch substrate 15b. Switch button 15a is assembled to the display cover 14 side via switch holder 15c (see below). Figure 14 Alternatively, the input device can also be a touch panel. That is, the input device 15 can be a touch sensing unit.

[0127] Additionally, the retainer 30 has a receiving portion 43 at the end of the receiving cartridge receiving portion 10. The receiving portion 43 is formed in the short side direction (Y-axis direction) end of the main board 41 as a bottomed cylindrical shape that extends parallel to the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the main board 41.

[0128] A cover member 17 is bonded to the periphery of the cartridge receiving section 10 via an adhesive sheet 47. Additionally, a sensor holder 35 is bonded to the periphery of the cartridge receiving section 10 via an adhesive sheet 48.

[0129] Sensor holder 35 holds sensor 34. Sensor 34 is a so-called suction sensor that senses the user's suction. Examples of sensors 34 include pressure sensors that detect pressure, airflow sensors that sense air flow, and temperature sensors that sense temperature.

[0130] The main substrate 31 is provided with the aforementioned charging terminal 20 and a protruding electrode 50 inserted into the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (more specifically, the interior space formed by the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the receiving portion 43) via the receiving portion 43. Furthermore, the oscillator 36 is not held on the main substrate 31 or the sub-substrate 32, but is held on the side of the first housing 13A (see below). Figure 13 ).

[0131] The main body unit 2, excluding the first housing 13A, the second housing 13B, and the oscillator 36, is assembled around the retainer 30. The retainer 30 has two through holes 30a extending in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction). Two screws 40 are inserted into the two through holes 30a. The two screws 40 secure the retainer 30 to the first housing 13A. That is, the retainer 30 is threadedly fastened to the side of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0132] <Retaining component>

[0133] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the first plate surface 41a side of the retainer 30 according to one embodiment. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the second plate surface 41b side of the retainer 30 according to one embodiment.

[0134] like Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown, in addition to the main board 41, sub-board 42, and receiving part 43 mentioned above, the retaining member 30 also has a first rib 42C, a second rib 42D, and a housing fitting part 42E.

[0135] The first rib 42C and the second rib 42D are the same as those on the sub-board 42, extending from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the surfaces of the main board 41 (first surface 41a, second surface 41b) (in this embodiment, the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the main board 41). The first rib 42C and the second rib 42D extend parallel to the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the main board 41 and are arranged opposite each other in the short side direction (Y-axis direction) of the main board 41. In addition, the sub-board 42 is the same as the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D in that it extends from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the surfaces of the main board 41 as a "main board intersection," but it differs from the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D in that it holds components such as the input device 15 and the display device 33.

[0136] like Figure 10 As shown, multiple substrate support pieces 41d are formed on the motherboard 41 along the periphery of the first board surface 41a. The substrate support pieces 41d support the main substrate 31 (see reference). Figure 7 The periphery of the plate forms a space between it and the first plate surface 41a. Thus, the retainer 30 can hold the main substrate 31 on which electronic components are mounted on both sides.

[0137] On the first rib 42C surrounding the first plate surface 41a (although not shown, the second rib 42D is the same), a clamping piece 42a is formed to clamp the main substrate 31 supported on the substrate support piece 41d in the thickness direction (X-axis direction). Additionally, near the second rib 42D, a substrate support piece 41d is also formed in the same configuration as the first rib 42C. Furthermore, on the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43, a substrate support piece 43e supporting the main substrate 31 and a clamping piece 43f clamping the main substrate 31 in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) are also formed.

[0138] An opening 41c is formed on the upper side (+Z side) of the first plate surface 41a in the longitudinal direction, which allows the tray 44 to engage with the main plate 41 (see reference). Figure 7 The two engaging claws 41f are arranged opposite each other along the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the main plate 41 at the periphery of the opening 41c. Furthermore, the tray 44 is formed into a rectangular shape extending along the Z-axis direction when viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0139] Figure 12 yes Figure 3 The B-B cross-sectional view shown is shown. Figure 12 A cross-section is shown through the two engaging claws 41f and the tray 44.

[0140] like Figure 12As shown, the two engaging claws 41f engage with the peripheral portions of the tray 44 on its upper (+Z side) and lower (-Z side) sides along its length. Additionally, the peripheral portions of the tray 44 on its right (+Y side) and left (-Y side) sides along its short side, which are not engaged with the two engaging claws 41f, are placed on the first plate surface 41a.

[0141] The tray 44 is recessed towards the -X side relative to the first plate surface 41a of the main plate 41 to avoid the thickness of the oscillator 36 along the X-axis direction. A sub-board 32 is disposed in the recessed portion of the tray 44. The sub-board 32 is electrically connected to a connection terminal (not shown) of the oscillator 36. Furthermore, an opening 32b is formed in the sub-board 32 to avoid interference with the eccentric hammer 36a of the oscillator 36. Additionally, as... Figure 12 As shown, it is not necessary for the sub-substrate 32 to contact the oscillator 36; only the connection terminals of the oscillator 36 (not shown) need to be electrically connected to the sub-substrate 32.

[0142] The main substrate 31 extends along the Z-axis in such a way that it overlaps with a portion of the sub-substrate 32 (tray 44) in the X-axis direction. That is, a portion of the main substrate 31 and a portion of the sub-substrate 32 are arranged to overlap in the Z-axis direction. A connection terminal 32c is provided at the overlapping portion of the main substrate 31 and the sub-substrate 32. The connection terminal 32c electrically connects the main substrate 31 and the sub-substrate 32.

[0143] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure of the oscillator 36 according to one embodiment.

[0144] like Figure 13 As shown, a mounting portion 13D for mounting the oscillator 36 is formed in the first housing 13A. The mounting portion 13D is formed in the first main portion 12A1 of the first housing 13A on a opposing surface 13a1 opposite to the second main portion 12A2. The opposing surface 13a1 is an inner wall surface facing the inner side (-X side) of the outer housing 12.

[0145] The mounting portion 13D has a mounting wall 13d1 surrounding the main body (motor portion) of the oscillator 36 and a notch 13d2 through which a portion of the mounting wall 13d1 is cut away to allow the rotation axis of the oscillator 36 to pass. The mounting wall 13d1 surrounds the main body of the oscillator 36 on both sides in the Y-axis direction and both sides in the Z-axis direction. The notch 13d2 is formed on the Z-side wall portion of the mounting wall 13d1. The eccentric hammer 36a is disposed on the outer side of the mounting wall 13d1.

[0146] The main body of the oscillator 36 is fitted into the inner side of the mounting wall 13d1. Alternatively, an adhesive sheet or adhesive may be sandwiched between the main body of the oscillator 36 and the first housing 13A. Furthermore, to facilitate the transmission of vibrations from the oscillator 36 to the first housing 13A, a portion or all of the main body of the oscillator 36 may be in direct contact with the first housing 13A.

[0147] return Figure 10 The sub-plate 42 extends in a direction orthogonal to the surfaces of the main plate 41 (first surface 41a, second surface 41b) along the X-axis. In this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to both sides (+X side and -X side) in a direction orthogonal to the surfaces of the main plate 41 (see reference). Figure 12 Therefore, the cross-section of the retainer 30 becomes T-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0148] like Figure 10 As shown, the sub-board 42 has a first sub-board 42A with a first end edge 41h1 located at the end of the main board 41 and a second sub-board 42B with a second end edge 41h2 located at the end of the main board 41 and adjacent to the first end edge 41h1. The end of the first end edge 41h1 on the side (+Z side) of the length direction of the main board 41 extends parallel to the X-Y plane.

[0149] The second end edge 41h2 is inclined at approximately 45° about the Z-axis relative to the X-Y plane from the left (-Y side) end of the first end edge 41h1. The left (-Y side) end of the second end edge 41h2 is located on the lower side (-Z side) of the main board 41 along its length direction than the right (+Y side) end of the second end edge 41h2. The second end edge 41h2 can also be described as not being in contact with... Figure 1 The notch shown is obliquely extended in a manner that interferes with the first corner portion 12C1 with rounded corners.

[0150] like Figure 11 As shown, a first sub-plate 42A located at the first end edge 41h1 and a second sub-plate 42B located at the second end edge 41h2 are connected to each other. By connecting the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B, which have a T-shaped cross-section, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be further improved. The first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected at an obtuse angle. As a result, the second sub-plate 42B can be tilted in a manner opposite to the first corner portion 12C1 with rounded corners, and the input device 15 can be retained.

[0151] Furthermore, the angle between the first sub-board 42A and the second sub-board 42B is the angle between the first end edge 41h1 and the second end edge 41h2 in the main board 41. That is, the first sub-board 42A and the second sub-board 42B are connected at an obtuse angle of approximately 135°. However, the connection between the first sub-board 42A and the second sub-board 42B is not limited to an approximately 135° angle, as long as the angle is greater than 90° and less than 180°.

[0152] like Figure 11 As shown, a positioning protrusion 42a1 is formed on the first sub-plate 42A. The positioning protrusion 42a1 serves to hold the aforementioned frame-shaped display device holder 33b (see reference). Figure 7 The protrusion is positioned accordingly. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the positioning protrusion 42a1 and the display device retainer 33b form the same plane (X-Y plane). This facilitates the adhesion of the adhesive sheet 45, which is used to bond the display device body 33a.

[0153] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, a sub-plate extension protrusion 42a2 is formed on the first sub-plate 42A. The sub-plate extension protrusion 42a2 is located at the end of the first sub-plate 42A opposite to the end connected to the second sub-plate 42B. The sub-plate extension protrusion 42a2 extends and protrudes towards the +Y side beyond the second rib 42D. Figure 8 As shown, the extension protrusion 42a2 of the sub-plate engages with the engagement claw 14b1 of the display cover 14.

[0154] like Figure 11 As shown, a wiring groove 42b1 and a substrate holding piece 42b2 are formed on the second sub-board 42B. The substrate holding piece 42b2 holds the aforementioned switch substrate 15b (see reference). Figure 7 The four L-shaped protrusions at the four corners of the switch substrate 15b. The wiring groove 42b1 is a groove through which the wiring connecting the switch substrate 15b to the main substrate 31 passes. The wiring groove 42b1 is formed to traverse the area surrounded by the four substrate holding pieces 42b2.

[0155] Additionally, a sub-plate extension protrusion 42b3 is also formed on the second sub-plate 42B. The sub-plate extension protrusion 42b3 is located at the end of the second sub-plate 42B opposite to the end connected to the first sub-plate 42A. The sub-plate extension protrusion 42b3 extends and protrudes towards the -Y side beyond the first rib 42C. Figure 8 As shown, the extension protrusion 42b3 of the sub-plate engages with another engaging claw 14b2 of the display cover 14.

[0156] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure of the display cover 14 according to one embodiment.

[0157] like Figure 14As shown, the display cover 14 has a curved shape that convexes upwards (+Z side). The aforementioned engaging claw 14b1 is disposed at the right (+Y side) end of the display cover 14. The aforementioned engaging claw 14b2 is disposed at the left (-Y side) end of the display cover 14 on the opposite side of the engaging claw 14b1.

[0158] The engaging claw 14b1 engages with the sub-plate extension protrusion 42a2 of the first sub-plate 42A. Additionally, the engaging claw 14b2 engages with the sub-plate extension protrusion 42b3 of the second sub-plate 42B. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the assembled display cover 14 is engaged with the retainer 30 in a state that extends from the ends of the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B to the ends.

[0159] like Figure 14 As shown, a through hole 14a is formed in the display cover 14 for arranging the switch button 15a of the input device 15. The switch button 15a has a base portion 15a1 that abuts against the switch substrate 15b and a cylindrical button portion 15a2 that protrudes from the base portion 15a1. The button portion 15a2 is arranged by inserting through the through hole 14a.

[0160] The button portion 15a2 is formed, for example, from a rigid resin material. An elastic body (such as a spring, not shown) is provided inside the button portion 15a2, which returns to its original position when the button portion 15a2 is released. Alternatively, the button portion 15a2 may be an elastic body capable of elastic deformation upon pressing. In this case, a rigid body (such as a pressing post for the auxiliary switch substrate 15b) that can be displaced upon pressing may also be included inside the elastic body. An insertion hole 15a3 is formed on the peripheral surface of the button portion 15a2. The insertion hole 15a3 is formed at the root of the button portion 15a2 (near the connection portion where the button portion 15a2 connects to the base portion 15a1).

[0161] The switch retainer 15c is formed in an annular shape that can be externally fitted into the button portion 15a2. The switch retainer 15c is made of a flexible material that can deform upon pressing into the button portion 15a2. Alternatively, the switch retainer 15c may be made of a material that can be elastically deformed. An inner diameter protrusion 15c1 is formed on the inner diameter side of the switch retainer 15c, which can be inserted into the insertion hole 15a3 of the button portion 15a2. In addition, two outer diameter protrusions 15c2 are formed on the outer diameter side of the switch retainer 15c, protruding to both sides in the X-axis direction. The inner diameter protrusion 15c1 and the two outer diameter protrusions 15c2 are offset by 90° around the central axis of the switch retainer 15c. The switch retainer 15c covers the base portion 15a1 of the switch button 15a. Therefore, the base portion 15a1 can be prevented from being seen from the display cover 14 side.

[0162] Sidewalls 14c are perpendicularly provided on both sides of the through hole 14a in the X-axis direction near the display cover 14. Two insertion holes 14c1 are formed in the sidewalls 14c for inserting two outer diameter side protrusions 15c2 of the switch holder 15c. The switch holder 15c and the switch button 15a, in other words, the components of the input device 15 except for the switch substrate 15b, are assembled on the display cover 14. If the display cover 14, with the switch holder 15c and the switch button 15a assembled, engages with the holder 30, the switch button 15a is placed on the switch substrate 15b, completing the assembly of the input device 15.

[0163] return Figure 11 The first rib 42C of the retainer 30 extends along the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the end on the -Y side of the main plate 41. The upper (+Z side) end of the first rib 42C in the longitudinal direction is connected to the second sub-plate 42B. The first rib 42C, which has a T-shaped cross-section, is connected to the second sub-plate 42B together with the main plate 41, thereby further improving the rigidity of the retainer 30. A housing fitting portion 42E is provided on the side of the first rib 42C facing the opposite side (-Y side) to the main plate 41.

[0164] A first fitting hole 42e1 and a second fitting hole 42e2 are formed in the housing fitting portion 42E. Both the first fitting hole 42e1 and the second fitting hole 42e2 open towards the -Y side. The first fitting hole 42e1 is located on the +X side of the housing fitting portion 42E. The first housing 13A engages with the first fitting hole 42e1 using a latch. The second fitting hole 42e2 is located on the -X side of the housing fitting portion 42E. The second housing 13B engages with the second fitting hole 42e2 using a latch.

[0165] Two housing fitting portions 42E are formed separately along the length direction of the first rib 42C. The housing fitting portion 42E located on the lower side (-Z side) of the first rib 42C along the length direction has one set of first fitting holes 42e1 and a second fitting hole 42e2. The housing fitting portion 42E located on the upper side (+Z side) of the first rib 42C along the length direction has multiple sets of first fitting holes 42e1 and second fitting holes 42e2 formed separately along the length direction. Additionally, the housing fitting portion 42E located on the +Z side has a through hole 30a for threaded fastening of the retainer 30.

[0166] A clamping piece 42e3 protrudes from the housing fitting portion 42E located on the +Z side, linearly separating the first fitting hole 42e1 and the second fitting hole 42e2. The clamping piece 42e3 is clamped between the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B. Additionally, as... Figure 1As shown, the clamped piece 42e3 is not exposed on the outer surface 12b1 of the peripheral wall portion 12B of the outer housing 12. That is, steps for clamping the clamped piece 42e3 are formed on the inner sides of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2.

[0167] like Figure 11 As shown, the second rib 42D of the retainer 30 extends along the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the end on the +Y side of the main plate 41. The upper (+Z side) end of the second rib 42D in the length direction is connected to the first sub-plate 42A. By connecting the T-shaped second rib 42D together with the main plate 41 to the first sub-plate 42A, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be further improved.

[0168] The second rib 42D has an L-shaped branch 42D1 that bends toward the side opposite to the main plate 41 (+Y side). The branch 42D1 is connected to the peripheral wall 43a of the receiving portion 43. This improves the rigidity of the connection between the main plate 41 and the receiving portion 43. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown, a through hole 30a for threaded fastening of the retainer 30 is formed at the connection portion between the main board 41 and the receiving part 43.

[0169] A stepped notch 42d is formed in the second rib 42D. The notch 42d has a first notch 42d1 and a second notch 42d2. The first notch 42d1 extends from the +X side end of the second rib 42D toward the -X side end to the front of the main board 41. The second notch 42d2 is disposed on the -Z side of the first notch 42d1. The second notch 42d2 extends from the +X side end of the second rib 42D toward the -X side end to the back side of the main board 41 (above the second board surface 41b) (see reference). Figure 11 ).

[0170] The first notch 42d1 is to avoid contact with the light source 52 (described later) provided on the main substrate 31. Figure 29 This is caused by interference with the light path. The light source 52 is, for example, an LED light. Figure 29 As shown, the second notch 42d2 is formed to avoid interference with the sensor holder 35 installed in the smoke cartridge housing 10 and the sensor 34 held in the sensor holder 35.

[0171] Figure 15 This is a top view of the retainer 30 according to one embodiment. Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The C-C cross-section shown is shown.

[0172] like Figure 15As shown, the receiving portion 43 of the retainer 30 is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. Two protruding electrodes 50 are formed on the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43 for arranging inside the cartridge receiving portion 10 (see reference). Figure 7 The two insertion holes 43c.

[0173] Two insertion holes 43c are arranged separately in the Y-axis direction, separated by the spindle O. The two insertion holes 43c penetrate the bottom wall 43b along the spindle direction (Z-axis direction). Figure 10 As shown, an annular wall 43d protrudes from the lower surface (-Z side) of the bottom wall 43b. The annular wall 43d surrounds the two insertion holes 43c. When viewed from below, the annular wall 43d is formed as an elongated hole connecting the two ends of two parallel lines extending along the Y-axis direction with an arc.

[0174] like Figure 16 As shown, a step 43g (annular receiving surface) is formed on the inner side of the peripheral wall 43a of the receiving portion 43, abutting against the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 in the main axial direction (Z-axis direction). The peripheral wall 43a, which is lower (-Z side) than the step 43g, is narrower than the upper (+Z side) of the step 43g. Figure 15 As shown, the peripheral wall 43a, which is lower than the step 43g, has an inner diameter D1. The inner diameter D1 corresponds to the inner diameter of the smoke bomb receiving part 10.

[0175] On the upper surface (+Z side) of the bottom wall 43b of the receiving part 43, there is an engaging groove 26i that engages with the aforementioned tobacco cartridge 3 (see reference). Figure 5 The engaging protrusion 43h and engaging groove 26i together form a positioning mechanism 90 for positioning the cigarette cartridge 3 in the circumferential and radial directions. Three engaging protrusions 43h are formed at equal intervals (120° intervals in the circumferential direction) along the circumferential direction. However, the number of engaging protrusions 43h is not limited to the same number as the number of engaging grooves 26i. The number of engaging protrusions 43h may also be less than the number of engaging grooves 26i.

[0176] like Figure 16 As shown, the engaging protrusion 43h has a curved shape that protrudes upwards (towards the +Z side) in the main axis direction. That is, the circumferential width of the engaging protrusion 43h decreases as it moves upwards in the main axis direction. Furthermore, as long as the circumferential width of the engaging protrusion 43h decreases as it moves upwards in the main axis direction, it can also be an isosceles trapezoid or an isosceles triangle, similar to the engaging groove 26i. Alternatively, the engaging protrusion 43h can also be an asymmetrical shape such as a right-angled triangle. For example, if the engaging protrusion 43h is a right-angled triangle, when connecting the inhalation port 11 to the cartridge receiving portion 10, it is preferable that the side opposite the rotation direction of the inhalation port 11 is the right-angled side. Therefore, when connecting the inhalation port 11 to the cartridge receiving portion 10, the cartridge receiving portion 10 is less likely to pass over the engaging protrusion 43h.

[0177] like Figure 15 As shown, the outer diameter D2 of the cartridge 3 housed inside the cartridge receiving section 10 is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving section 10. It is preferable that the gap between the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving section 10 (in other words, the inner diameter D1 from the step 43g of the receiving section 43 downwards) and the outer diameter D2 of the cartridge 3 is greater than 2.6% of the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving section 10. This increases the gap between the cartridge receiving section 10 and the cartridge 3, making it easier to introduce the engaging protrusion 43h into the engaging groove 26i during the installation of the cartridge 3, as described later. The gap between the cartridge receiving section 10 and the cartridge 3 is calculated based on the difference between the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving section 10 and the outer diameter D2 of the cartridge 3. For example, if the inner diameter D1 is 11.8 mm and the outer diameter D2 is 11.5 mm, the gap is 0.3 mm. This gap is equivalent to 2.54% of the inner diameter D1, a situation excluded from the above conditions.

[0178] More preferably, the gap between the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer diameter D2 of the cartridge 3 is larger than 7.0% of the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving portion 10. This results in a larger gap between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the cartridge 3, making it easier to introduce the engaging protrusion 43h via the engaging groove portion 26i when the cartridge 3 is installed (described later). For example, when the inner diameter D1 is 12.4 mm and the outer diameter D2 is 11.5 mm, the gap is 0.9 mm. This gap is equivalent to 7.26% of the inner diameter D1, and in this case, the above conditions are met.

[0179] The radial dimension D3 of the engaging protrusion 43h is preferably greater than the gap generated between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the cartridge 3. Furthermore, if the above two conditions are defined by the radial dimension D3 of the engaging protrusion 43h, it is as follows: It is preferable that the engaging protrusion 43h extends radially from the inner peripheral wall of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (in other words, the inner peripheral wall of the peripheral wall 43a lower than the step 43g) toward the inner side of the cartridge receiving portion 10 with a dimension D3 greater than 2.6% of the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving portion 10. More preferably, the engaging protrusion 43h extends radially from the inner peripheral wall of the cartridge receiving portion 10 toward the inner side of the cartridge receiving portion 10 with a dimension D3 greater than 7.0% of the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0180] like Figure 15 As shown, a locking protrusion 43i for circumferential positioning of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is formed on the step 43g of the receiving part 43. The locking protrusion 43i is formed on the inner wall surface of the front side (+X side) of the peripheral wall 43a of the receiving part 43. The locking protrusion 43i does not protrude radially inward from the step 43g of the receiving part 43, but is formed with the same degree of protrusion as the lower peripheral wall 43a of the step 43g. Figure 16As shown, the engaging protrusion 43i is the same as the engaging protrusion 43h, having a curved shape that protrudes upwards (towards the +Z side) in the main axis direction. That is, the circumferential width of the engaging protrusion 43i decreases as it moves upwards in the main axis direction.

[0181] <Smoke Bomb Containment Department>

[0182] Figure 17 This is a front view of the smoke cartridge housing 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 18 This is a right-side view of the smoke cartridge housing 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 19 This is a left-side view of the smoke cartridge housing 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 20 yes Figure 18 The diagram shown is a D-D cross-sectional view.

[0183] like Figure 17 As shown, the cartridge housing 10 is a cylindrical component that extends along the main axis (Z-axis direction). Compared to the outer casing 12, retainer 30, etc., which are made of resin, the cartridge housing 10 is formed of a metal cylindrical component.

[0184] A cartridge insertion / removal port 10a is formed at the upper (+Z side) end of the cartridge receiving section 10 in the main axial direction. On the other hand, a locking groove 10b is formed at the lower (-Z side) end of the cartridge receiving section 10 in the main axial direction, which engages with the aforementioned locking protrusion 43i. One locking groove 10b is formed at the front (+X side) of the lower end of the cartridge receiving section 10.

[0185] like Figure 18 As shown, a through hole 10c and two air communication holes 10e are formed on the right side (+Y side) of the peripheral surface of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10. A cover member 17 (see reference 10e) is inserted into the through hole 10c. Figure 7 The side protrusion 17C of the smoke bomb housing (described later) Figure 29 The two air communication holes 10e communicate with the two air holes 19 provided on the cover component 17 (see below). Figure 29 ).

[0186] like Figure 18 As shown, the through hole 10c is an elongated hole extending along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction). A rectangular groove 10c1 is formed at the end edge of the through hole 10c on the -X side. The rectangular groove 10c1 is designed to prevent assembly errors of the cover component 17 relative to the smoke cartridge receiving part 10, thus making the shape of the through hole 10c asymmetrical in the X-axis direction. Two air communication holes 10e are arranged across the through hole 10c in the X-axis direction. The air communication holes 10e are described later. Figure 29It is formed as shown to be larger than the air hole 19. This prevents the air hole 19 from shifting away from the air communication hole 10e, thus avoiding a narrowing of the flow path area. In other words, the air hole 19 is difficult to block during the assembly of the main body unit 2.

[0187] like Figure 19 As shown, another through hole 10d is formed on the left side (-Y side) of the peripheral surface of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10. A sensor holder 35 (see reference 35) is inserted into the through hole 10d. Figure 7 The side protrusion 35D of the smoke bomb housing (described later) Figure 29 The through hole 10d is an elongated hole extending along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction). The through hole 10d is located on the left oblique front side (+X side) of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10, as described later. Figure 29 As shown, relative to the through hole 10c on the right side (+Y side), there is no point symmetry relationship with the main axis O as the center.

[0188] like Figure 20 As shown, in the cartridge receiving section 10, an insert ring 10A is pressed into the upper part (+Z side) of the main axis direction of the through hole 10c and the through hole 10d. The insert ring 10A is a cylindrical component made of resin. A suction port 11 (see reference) is formed in the insert ring 10A. Figure 5 The inhalation connection portion 10B is connected to the cartridge insertion port 10a. In addition, a recess 10f is formed on the inner wall surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 on the upper side (+Z side) of the main axis direction so that the inner diameter does not become smaller due to the insertion ring 10A.

[0189] Two suction port connecting portions 10B are formed at equal intervals (180°) in the circumferential direction of the insert ring 10A. The suction port connecting portions 10B are grooves (notches) formed in the insert ring 10A. The suction port connecting portions 10B have a first groove portion 10b1, a second groove portion 10b2, and a third groove portion 10b3. The width of the first groove portion 10b1 increases in the circumferential direction as it moves upward (+Z side) toward the main axis. The second groove portion 10b2 extends from the lower end of the first groove portion 10b1 toward the lower side (-Z side) of the main axis with a certain width. The third groove portion 10b3 bends 90° circumferentially from the lower end of the second groove portion 10b2 and surrounds the insert ring 10A with a certain width for approximately 1 / 4 turn.

[0190] <Suction nozzle>

[0191] Figure 21 This is a right-side view of the suction port 11 according to one embodiment. Figure 22 yes Figure 21 The E-E cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0192] like Figure 21As shown, the inhalation port 11 has a protrusion 11b1 that engages with the inhalation port connecting portion 10B of the aforementioned cartridge receiving portion 10. The inhalation port 11 comprises a resin inhalation port body 11A and a... Figure 22 The metal cylinder 11B is formed with two protrusions 11b1 as shown.

[0193] like Figure 22 As shown, the main body 11A of the suction port is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. The aforementioned fragrance source container 4 (see reference) is inserted into the inner side of the peripheral wall 11a1 of the main body 11A of the suction port. Figure 6 A flange portion 11a2 extending radially outward is provided in a ring shape on the outer surface of the peripheral wall 11a1. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the flange portion 11a2 abuts against the upper opening edge of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (the opening edge of the cartridge insertion port 10a) in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0194] A through hole 11a4 extending along the main axis is formed in the bottom wall 11a3 of the inhalation body 11A. A cartridge contact portion 60 (see reference) is embedded within the through hole 11a4. Figure 6 The cartridge contact portion 60 is, for example, an elastomer formed of a resin material such as silicone resin. The cartridge contact portion 60 includes a first ring portion 60a, a cylindrical portion 60b, and a second ring portion 60c.

[0195] The first ring portion 60a is disposed on the upper side (+Z side) of the main axis direction of the bottom wall 11a3 of the suction body 11A. The outer diameter of the first ring portion 60a is larger than that of the through hole 11a4, and extends to the inner wall surface of the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction body 11A. The first ring portion 60a abuts against the bottom wall 27d of the fragrance source container 4 on the inner side of the peripheral wall 11a1. The side of the first ring portion 60a facing the bottom wall 27d of the fragrance source container 4 can be a flat surface, or it can be formed with a groove in the shape of a leg of the bottom wall 27d. The first ring portion 60a serves as a circumferential anti-slip member of the fragrance source container 4 and a sealed chamber for the fine holes 27e of the fragrance source container 4. Alternatively, the first ring portion 60a may not abut against the bottom wall 27d of the fragrance source container 4. In this case, a sealing portion that prevents external air from entering can be formed at the contact portion between the fragrance source container 4 and the suction portion 11 in the step 27b. The cylindrical portion 60b is configured to pass through the through hole 11a4 in the bottom wall 11a3. The cylindrical portion 60b connects the inner diameter side of the first ring portion 60a and the inner diameter side of the second ring portion 60c in the main axis direction.

[0196] The second ring portion 60c is disposed on the lower side (-Z side) of the bottom wall 11a3 of the inhalation body 11A in the main axis direction. The outer diameter of the second ring portion 60c is a large through hole 11a4, which extends to the inner wall surface of the tube 11B. An annular protrusion 61 is formed on the second ring portion 60c, protruding downward toward the cartridge 3 in the main axis direction. Through the annular protrusion 61, the contact between the second ring portion 60c and the cartridge 3 is no longer a planar contact, and the contact pressure relative to the cartridge 3 increases, making it easier to exhibit the circumferential friction force and the pressing force in the main axis direction, which will be described later.

[0197] A connecting hole 62 is formed at the center of the first ring portion 60a, the cylindrical portion 60b, and the second ring portion 60c. The connecting hole 62 connects the through hole 21b of the canister 21 of the cartridge 3 with the fine hole 27e of the flavor source container 4. The annular protrusion 61 of the second ring portion 60c is formed into a double ring shape. This annular protrusion 61 abuts against the top wall 21a of the canister 21 surrounding the through hole 21b of the cartridge 3, thereby forming a double seal with high airtightness.

[0198] return Figure 22 The cylinder 11B is pressed into the peripheral wall 11a1, which is located below the flange portion 11a2, of the suction port body 11A. Two protrusions 11b1 are arranged at equal intervals (180°) along the circumferential surface of the cylinder 11B. The cylinder 11B extends downward (to the -Z side) in the main axis direction from the peripheral wall 11a1 of the suction port body 11A. The aforementioned second ring portion 60c is arranged in the space below the bottom wall 11a3 surrounded by the cylinder 11B. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown, the inner diameter of the cylinder 11B is larger than the outer diameter of the smoke cartridge 3. Therefore, even in the later description... Figure 37 In the state shown, the inhalation port 11 is forcefully pressed toward the cartridge 3, the second ring 60c is elastically deformed in the direction of crushing in the main axis, and the tube body 11B will not interfere with the cartridge 3.

[0199] <Main PCB>

[0200] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the main substrate 31 according to one embodiment. Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the protruding electrode cover 51 has been removed from the protruding electrode 50 of the main substrate 31 in one embodiment.

[0201] like Figure 23As shown, the main substrate 31 has a plate shape extending along the Y-Z plane, and has a first plate surface 31a facing the front (+X side) and a second plate surface 31b facing the rear (-X side). On the second plate surface 31b of the main substrate 31, a protruding electrode 50 is disposed, inserted into the internal space formed by the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the receiving portion 43, i.e., the cartridge receiving chamber; and a light source 52 that illuminates the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Furthermore, the protruding electrode 50 can reach the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10 within the cartridge receiving chamber, or it can only reach the interior of the receiving portion 43. Additionally, when the receiving portion 43 is flat, the protruding electrode 50 can easily reach the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0202] Here, "main substrate" refers to the largest substrate housed inside the outer casing 12. The main substrate 31 is larger than the aforementioned sub-substrate 32, the switch substrate 15b of the input device 15, etc. Furthermore, when only one substrate is housed inside the outer casing 12, that substrate is designated as the "main substrate." Additionally, when two substrates of the same size are housed inside the outer casing 12, the substrate housing the arithmetic unit with electronic control functions such as a CPU or microcomputer is designated as the "main substrate."

[0203] The main substrate 31 has a first portion 31A extending along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) and a second portion 31B extending in a direction intersecting the first portion 31A. The second portion 31B extends in a Y-axis direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first portion 31A extends. That is, the main substrate 31 is formed in an L-shape when viewed from the X-axis direction. Furthermore, the second portion 31B can extend as far as possible... Figure 10 The lower side (-Z side) of the receiving portion 43 shown does not necessarily need to be bent at a right angle relative to the first portion 31A. That is, the shape of the main substrate 31 is not limited to an L-shape.

[0204] Part 1, 31A, is related to... Figure 10 The portion of the main board 41 of the retainer 30 shown overlaps with the main board 41. The first portion 31A is held on the main board 41 by the substrate support piece 41d and the clamping piece 42a. The first portion 31A extends along the main board 41 in the main axis direction. That is, the first portion 31A extends parallel to the cartridge receiving portion 10. The light source 52 is disposed on the cartridge receiving portion 10 side (+Y side) of the first portion 31A (see reference). Figure 23 ).

[0205] Part 2, 31B, is from Figure 10The second portion 31B is a portion of the main board 41 of the holder 30 that protrudes towards the receiving portion 43 (+Y side). The second portion 31B is held by the substrate support piece 43e and the clamping piece 43f of the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43. The second portion 31B and the receiving portion 43 (i.e., the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10) are arranged opposite each other in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction). In other words, the second portion 31B and the receiving portion 43 are arranged in a axial configuration in the main axis direction. A protruding electrode 50 is disposed on the side of the second portion 31B opposite to the receiving portion 43 (+Z side) (see reference). Figure 23 ).

[0206] like Figure 24 As shown, the protruding electrode 50 is supported on a pedestal portion 50A provided on the second plate surface 31b of the main substrate 31. The pedestal portion 50A supports the protruding electrode 50 in a manner parallel to the plate surfaces (first plate surface 31a, second plate surface 31b, in other words, the Y-Z plane) of the main substrate 31. That is, the two terminals of the protruding electrode 50, which are positive and negative, supported on the pedestal portion 50A, extend parallel to the Y-Z plane.

[0207] A protruding electrode cover 51 is provided on the main substrate 31 to cover the portion where the protruding electrode 50 is disposed. The portion where the protruding electrode 50 is disposed includes a pedestal portion 50A. Specifically, the portion where the protruding electrode 50 is disposed includes the pedestal portion 50A, the root of the protruding electrode 50, and the peripheral region of the pedestal portion 50A in the second plate surface 31b. The protruding electrode cover 51 is formed into a generally box-shaped structure with an opening on one side opposite to the second plate surface 31b. The protruding electrode cover 51 has a cover end wall 51a disposed on the -X side of the pedestal portion 50A and a cover peripheral wall 51b surrounding the pedestal portion 50A on all four sides in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction.

[0208] Two through holes 51c are formed on the +Z side of the peripheral wall 51b for the protruding electrode 50 to pass through. Furthermore, the front end portion of the protruding electrode 50 is received by a spring member (not shown) at the root of the protruding electrode 50, which applies force towards the +Z side, allowing it to move freely in the Z-axis direction. That is, the protruding electrode 50 extends toward the cartridge 3 and moves in the -Z direction when the cartridge 3 is inserted. In this state, because the protruding electrode 50 is applied force in the +Z direction, it can reliably contact the cartridge 3. The inner wall surface of the through hole 51c is in close contact with the portion that does not restrict the displacement of the front end portion of the protruding electrode 50, in this embodiment, for example, the outer periphery of the root of the protruding electrode 50.

[0209] Figure 25 yes Figure 9 The F-F cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0210] like Figure 25As shown, the protruding electrode cover 51 abuts against the receiving portion 43 of the retainer 30, which has an insertion hole 43c. The protruding electrode 50 is inserted into the insertion hole 43c. The +Z side wall portion of the peripheral wall 51b of the protruding electrode cover 51 abuts against the annular wall 43d of the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43 in the main axial direction. The protruding electrode cover 51 is formed of silicone resin. The +Z side wall portion of the peripheral wall 51b elastically deforms through abutment against the annular wall 43d.

[0211] A substrate abutment portion 43j is provided on the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43. The substrate abutment portion 43j is disposed on the +X side of the annular wall 43d. The substrate abutment portion 43j is provided to protrude from the bottom wall 43b of the receiving portion 43 towards the -Z side and abuts against the main substrate 31 in the main axis direction. The substrate abutment portion 43j is as follows: Figure 10 As shown, the substrate support piece 43e and the clamping piece 43f disposed on the bottom wall 43b extend in a straight line along the Y-axis direction.

[0212] like Figure 25 As shown, the annular wall 43d extends towards the -Z side compared to the substrate abutment portion 43j. The elastic deformation of the protruding electrode cover 51 caused by the annular wall 43d is limited to a certain amount by the contact between the substrate abutment portion 43j and the main substrate 31. That is, the contact pressure between the annular wall 43d and the protruding electrode cover 51 can be managed by the substrate abutment portion 43j. Therefore, the protruding electrode cover 51 is not excessively pressed against the annular wall 43d, and the sealing between the annular wall 43d and the protruding electrode cover 51 can be ensured.

[0213] The protruding electrode cover 51 is provided together with the protruding electrode 50 on the main substrate 31. That is, the protruding electrode cover 51 is not held in a structure (such as the outer casing 12) outside the main substrate 31. Furthermore, as... Figure 25 As shown, the protruding electrode cover 51 is assembled to the outer housing 12 in a non-contact state. This prevents the protruding electrode cover 51 from contacting the outer housing 12 and deforming or shifting in position, thus avoiding damage to the housing performance.

[0214] <Cover Components>

[0215] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing the cover component 17 of one embodiment viewed from the radially outer side. Figure 27 This is a diagram showing the cover component 17 of one embodiment viewed from the radial inside. Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the cover component 17 according to one embodiment.

[0216] like Figure 26 As shown, the cover member 17 has a main body housing side protrusion 17A on its radially outer side, in other words, on the right side (+Y side) facing the main body housing 13. The main body housing side protrusion 17A is as follows... Figure 2It is inserted into the opening 13a of the main body housing 13 as shown. The cover member 17 is light-transmitting, and the liquid balance of the aerosol source of the smoke cartridge 3 contained in the smoke cartridge housing 10 can be seen through the side protrusion 17A of the main body housing.

[0217] The side protrusion 17A of the main housing is identical to the opening 13a of the main housing 13, and is formed as an elongated hole extending along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction). The side protrusion 17A is slightly smaller than the opening 13a. An air inlet 18 is formed in the gap between the side protrusion 17A and the opening 13a. In addition, a portion of the side protrusion 17A may also contact the inner wall surface of the opening 13a. The air inlet 18 is the inlet of the airflow path that draws external air into the interior of the outer housing 12 through the user's suction.

[0218] The air intake 18 is formed in an annular shape along the opening edge of the opening 13a of the main body housing 13 (also referred to as the periphery of the side protrusion 17A of the main body housing). The size of the air intake 18 is preferably such that it will not be completely blocked by the user's fingers. For example, the dimension of the air intake 18 in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) is preferably greater than or equal to the width of the first joint of the thumb of an average adult (e.g., 2.0 cm or more). Furthermore, the spacing in the X-axis direction of the two slits extending parallel to the main axis direction of the air intake 18 can also be greater than or equal to the width of the first joint of the thumb of an average adult.

[0219] Furthermore, the air intake 1 can be one or two slits extending parallel to the main axis, as long as it is large enough not to be blocked by the user's fingers. That is, the air intake 18 can also be formed as a slit along the opening edge of the opening 13a of the main body housing 13.

[0220] like Figure 28 As shown, the cover member 17 has a plate portion 17B that supports the protrusion 17A on the side of the main body housing. The plate portion 17B is configured to overlap with the inner side of the main body housing 13. The plate portion 17B is sandwiched between the main body housing 13 and the cartridge receiving portion 10. The cartridge receiving portion 10 side (-Y side) of the plate portion 17B is bent along the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10. In addition, the main body housing 13 side (+Y side) of the plate portion 17B is bent along the peripheral wall portion 12B (see reference). Figure 2 The inner wall surface of the plate 17B is curved. The curvature (curvature, etc.) of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 side (-Y side) is different from that of the main body shell 13 side (+Y side).

[0221] Furthermore, the plate portion 17B bends upward (+Z) along the inner wall surface of the second corner portion 12C2 of the peripheral wall portion 12B in the main axis direction on the side of the main housing 13. That is, the thickness of the plate portion 17B decreases as it moves upward (+Z) in the main axis direction. The aforementioned air hole 19, air groove 70, and housing fitting hole 17b1 are formed in the plate portion 17B. Two air holes 19 are formed in the X-axis direction, separated by the main housing side protrusion 17A.

[0222] Figure 29 yes Figure 3 The image shown is a G-G cross-sectional view.

[0223] like Figure 29 As shown, the air vent 19 is located at the overlap between the cover member 17 and the main body housing 13. That is, the air vent 19 is located inside the main body housing 13 and is covered by the main body housing 13. Therefore, the air vent 19 cannot be visually confirmed from the outside of the main body housing 13. In addition, the air vent 19 cannot be directly blocked with a finger without removing the main body housing 13.

[0224] The air hole 19 provides fluid communication between the air inlet 18 and the interior of the cartridge housing 10. The air hole 19 is the main airflow path for drawing external air into the interior of the outer casing 12. In this embodiment, the air hole 19 communicates with the air communication hole 10e formed in the cartridge housing 10, allowing the air inlet 18 to maintain short-distance fluid communication with the interior of the cartridge housing 10. Furthermore, in the absence of the air communication hole 10e, air drawn into the interior of the outer casing 12 from the air hole 19 flows into the interior of the cartridge housing 10 through all gaps in the cartridge housing 10.

[0225] return Figure 26 The housing fitting holes 17b1 are formed on the plate portion 17B, with two holes each on the upper and lower sides of the air hole 19, and two sets formed in the X-axis direction across the main housing side protrusion 17A. The claws engage with the main housing 13 in a total of four housing fitting holes 17b1. Specifically, the claws in the two housing fitting holes 17b1 located on the +X side of the main housing side protrusion 17A engage with the fitting claws 13E of the first housing 13A (see below). Figure 34 Additionally, the two housing engagement holes 17b1 on the X side of the main housing protrusion 17A engage with the engagement claws 13I of the second housing 13B (see below). Figure 35 ).

[0226] The air trough 70 forms a space connecting the air inlet 18 and the air hole 19. For example... Figure 28As shown, the air duct 70 has an annular groove 71 and two stepped grooves 72. The annular groove 71 is formed in an annular shape around the main body housing side protrusion 17A in the plate portion 17B. The annular groove 71 is recessed from the outer surface of the main body housing 13 side (+Y) of the plate portion 17B towards the -Y side. Figure 29 As shown, it is preferable that the width of the annular groove 71 is larger than the width of the air inlet 18 (the distance from the inner periphery to the outer periphery).

[0227] Two stepped grooves 72 are formed at the +X and -X end edges of the annular groove 71. The stepped groove 72 has a lower bottom surface than the annular groove 71. That is, the stepped groove 72 is recessed towards the -Y side compared to the annular groove 71. An air hole 19 is formed on the bottom surface of the stepped groove 72. The bottom surface of the stepped groove 72 is formed to have an opening area larger than that of the air hole 19.

[0228] like Figure 27 As shown, the cover member 17 has a cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 17C on the cartridge receiving portion 10 side (-Y side) of the plate portion 17B. The cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 17C is inserted into a through hole 10c formed on the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (see reference). Figure 18 The side protrusion 17C of the smoke cartridge receiving part is the same as the through hole 10c of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10, and is formed as an elongated hole extending along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0229] In addition, such as Figure 27 As shown, the cover member 17 has a cover positioning protrusion 17D on the side (-Y side) of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 of the plate portion 17B. The cover positioning protrusion 17D is disposed on the -X side of the smoke cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 17C. The cover positioning protrusion 17D is a rectangular protrusion extending along the X-axis direction. The cover positioning protrusion 17D is inserted into... Figure 18 The rectangular groove 10c1 of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 is shown. This prevents errors in the assembly of the cover component 17 relative to the smoke cartridge receiving section 10.

[0230] <Sensor Holder>

[0231] Figure 30 This is a view of the sensor holder 35 according to one embodiment, viewed from the radial outside. Figure 31 This is a view of the sensor holder 35 of one embodiment, viewed from the radial inside. Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the sensor holder 35 according to one embodiment.

[0232] like Figure 32 As shown, the sensor holder 35 has a curved plate portion 35A with a shape that follows the circumferential surface of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10. The curved plate portion 35A is as follows... Figure 29As shown, the adhesive sheet 48 is airtightly connected to the periphery of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The curved plate portion 35A is disposed in the narrow gap between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the retainer 30.

[0233] like Figure 29 As shown, on the sensor holder 35, a holder-side protrusion 35B is provided on the outer surface of the curved plate portion 35A opposite to the cartridge receiving portion 10, protruding toward the holder 30. The holder-side protrusion 35B is formed in a cylindrical shape. The sensor 34 is held inside the holder-side protrusion 35B. The holder-side protrusion 35B (and the sensor 34) are configured to be inserted into the second notch 42d2 of the second rib 42D of the holder 30.

[0234] An airflow path 80 is formed on the retainer side protrusion 35B, connecting the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10 to the sensor 34. The airflow path 80 extends radially from the sensor 34 to the inner wall surface of the curved plate portion 35A. A retaining portion 35C for holding the sensor 34 is provided on the cartridge receiving portion 10 side of the airflow path 80. Figure 31 As shown, the retaining parts 35C are arranged in pairs on the inner wall surface of the airflow path 80, which is radially inward of the sensor 34. The sensor 34 abuts against the retaining parts 35C, thereby preventing the sensor 34 from falling into the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0235] The cartridge housing 10 side of sensor 34 serves as a detection unit. The detection unit detects, for example, the movement of a diaphragm deformed according to pressure changes as a change in electrostatic capacitance. The detection unit is covered by a waterproof and breathable component 81. The waterproof and breathable component 81 is formed from a material that is both waterproof and breathable. Numerous tiny pores, each the size of a pore, are formed in the material of the waterproof and breathable component 81, allowing air to pass through but preventing water droplets from passing through. This waterproof and breathable component 81 separates the space between the interior of the cartridge housing 10 and the sensor 34. That is, the waterproof and breathable component 81 prevents liquid from passing from the interior of the cartridge housing 10 to the sensor 34, allowing only air to pass through.

[0236] like Figure 32 As shown, a cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 35D is provided on the inner wall surface of the curved plate portion 35A on the side of the cartridge receiving portion 10, protruding towards the cartridge receiving portion 10. The cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 35D is as follows... Figure 31 As shown, it is roughly C-shaped when viewed from the radial inside. The protrusion 35D of the cartridge receiving part is inserted into the through hole 10d formed on the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving part 10 (see reference). Figure 19 ).

[0237] The sensor holder 35 is light-transmitting and also serves as a holder for... Figure 6The light from the light source 52 shown is guided to a light guide component inside the smoke cartridge housing 10. The sensor holder 35 is formed, for example, of polycarbonate resin. The polycarbonate resin provides the sensor holder 35, which holds the sensor 34, with appropriate rigidity and good light transmittance for functioning as a light guide component. Regarding the light transmittance of the sensor holder 35, a transmittance that is lower than transparency, where the transmitted light diffuses, is preferred.

[0238] like Figure 6 As shown, the sensor holder 35 is clamped between the light source 52 and the cartridge receiving portion 10. The light source 52 is positioned above the sensor 34 (+Z side) in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) of the cartridge receiving portion 10, without overlapping with the sensor 34. The light source 52 is positioned on the side opposite to the cartridge insertion port 10a in the main axis direction of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Furthermore, "the side opposite to the cartridge insertion port" refers to the area within a range of L / 2 from the end opposite the cartridge insertion port 10a when the dimension in the main axis direction of the cartridge receiving portion 10 is set to L.

[0239] The light source 52 is configured to overlap with the window 16 by at least a portion. That is, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the window 16 and the light source 52 are configured to overlap. Furthermore, the canister 21 of the smoke cartridge 3 is disposed between the window 16 and the light source 52. The light source 52 illuminates at least the lower half of the liquid containing chamber 21g inside the canister 21. Additionally, a cover member 17, a through hole 10c of the smoke cartridge containing section 10, the canister 21, the through hole 10d of the smoke cartridge containing section 10, a sensor holder 35, and a first notch 42d1 of the second rib 42D of the holder 30 are disposed between the window 16 and the light source 52.

[0240] <Assembly method of main unit>

[0241] Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing the assembly method of the main body unit 2 in one embodiment. Figure 34 This is a rear view showing the configuration of the inner side of the first housing 13A according to one embodiment. Figure 35 This is a front view showing the configuration of the inner side of the second housing 13B according to one embodiment.

[0242] like Figure 33 As shown, the main body unit 2 is assembled by threading a retainer unit 100, which is assembled with various components around a retainer 30, onto a first housing 13A on which the oscillator 36 is mounted. Next, the first housing 13A is combined with the second housing 13B, and finally a welding process is performed. In this welding process, ultrasonic welding is preferred.

[0243] The retaining unit 100 includes the main body unit 2, excluding the first housing 13A, the second housing 13B, and the oscillator 36. Specifically, the retaining unit 100 includes a retainer 30, a cartridge receiving portion 10, an inhalation portion 11, a display cover 14, an input device 15, a main substrate 31, a sub-sub substrate 32, a display device 33, a sensor 34, a sensor retainer 35, and a power supply 37. Alternatively, the inhalation portion 11 can be removed from the cartridge receiving portion 10 during the assembly of the main body unit 2.

[0244] like Figure 34 As shown, on the first main surface 12A1 of the first housing 13A, on the opposing surface 13a1 opposite to the second housing 13B, there are the above-mentioned mounting portion 13D of the oscillator 36, two boss portions 13C for threading the retainer 30, a plurality of housing side protrusions 13G abutting against the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D of the retainer 30, and a groove portion 13H abutting against the receiving portion 43 of the retainer 30.

[0245] Threaded holes are formed in the two bosses 13C. Two screws 40 (see reference) are screwed into the two bosses 13C through the two through holes 30a of the retainer 30. Figure 33 The side protrusion 13G of the housing abuts against the first rib 42C, as shown. Figure 34 As shown, the parts are arranged on the opposing surface 13a1 on the Y side closer to the mounting part 13D, and are distributed in the main axis direction (Z axis direction).

[0246] The housing-side protrusion 13G, which abuts against the second rib 42D, is positioned on the opposing surface 13b1 on the +Y side, and is distributed in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the housing-side protrusion 13G1, located at the lower end (-Z side) in the main axis direction, is bent into an L-shape corresponding to the branch portion 42D1 of the second rib 42D. The groove 13H is recessed along the circumference of the receiving portion 43 towards the +X side.

[0247] The inner wall surface of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A is provided with mating claws 13E on the left and right sides and a mating claw 13F on the lower side. The two mating claws 13E on the +Y side of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 fit into the housing fitting hole 17b1 of the cover component 17 (see reference). Figure 26 , Figure 28 ) Claw engagement.

[0248] Additionally, the three engaging claws 13E located on the Y-side of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 engage with the first engaging hole 42e1 of the aforementioned retainer 30 (see reference). Figure 11 , Figure 29 The claws engage. Additionally, the two engaging claws 13F located on the -Z side of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 engage with the claw receiving portion 13K of the second housing 13B (described later). Figure 35) Claw engagement.

[0249] like Figure 35 As shown, on the second main surface 12A2 of the second housing 13B, a plurality of housing side protrusions 13J that abut against the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D of the retainer 30 and a groove 13L that abuts against the receiving portion 43 of the retainer 30 are formed on the opposing surface 13b1 opposite to the first housing 13A.

[0250] The housing-side protrusion 13J abutting the first rib 42C is distributed along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) on the Y-side of the opposing surface 13b1. The housing-side protrusion 13J abutting the second rib 42D extends linearly along the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) approximately at the center of the Y-axis direction of the opposing surface 13b1. The groove 13L is recessed along the circumference of the receiving portion 43 towards the X-side.

[0251] The inner wall surface of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B is provided with engaging claws 13I on the left and right sides and a claw receiving portion 13K on the lower side. The two engaging claws 13I on the +Y side of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 engage with the housing engaging hole 17b1 of the cover component 17 (see reference). Figure 26 , Figure 28 ) Claw engagement.

[0252] Additionally, the three engaging claws 13I located on the Y-side of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 engage with the second engaging hole 42e2 of the aforementioned retainer 30 (see reference). Figure 11 , Figure 29 The claws engage. Additionally, the two claw receiving portions 13K located on the Z-side of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 engage with the aforementioned engaging claws 13F of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 34 ) Claw engagement.

[0253] The main body unit 2 has a first connecting portion 91 that connects the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A to the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B, a second connecting portion 92 that connects the retainer 30 to the opposing surfaces 13a1 and 13b1 of either the first main surface portion 12A1 or the second main surface portion 12A2, and a third connecting portion 93 that connects the retainer 30 to the opposing surfaces 13a1 and 13b1 of the other main surface portion 12A1 or the second main surface portion 12A2.

[0254] The first connecting portion 91 includes the engagement claw 13F of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 34 ) and the claw receiving part 13K of the second housing 13B (refer to Figure 35 The first connecting part 91 is connected by the locking claws.

[0255] The second connecting portion 92 includes a boss portion 13C of the retainer 30 relative to the opposing surface 13a1 (one opposing surface) of the first main surface portion 12A1 of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 34 ) threaded fasteners (refer to) Figure 33 Thus, the connection method of the second connecting part 92 includes threaded fastening.

[0256] The third connecting portion 93 includes a housing side protrusion 13J (see reference) provided on the opposing surface 13b1 (the other opposing surface) of the second main surface 12A2 of the second housing 13B. Figure 35 The welding of the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D provided on the retaining member 30 (refer to) Figure 29 Thus, the connection method of the third connecting part 93 includes welding. Additionally, the peripheral surface of the receiving part 43 is also welded to the groove 13L of the second housing 13B (see reference). Figure 35 ).

[0257] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first rib 42C and the second rib 42D are also fused with the housing-side protrusion 13G of the opposing surface 13a1 (one opposing surface) of the first main part 12A1 of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 29 Thus, the connection method of the second connecting part 92 also includes welding. Furthermore, the peripheral surface of the receiving part 43 is also welded to the groove 13H of the first housing 13A (see reference). Figure 34 ).

[0258] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the engaging claw 13E (refer to) provided on the Y-side of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A Figure 34 ) and the first fitting hole 42e1 provided in the retainer 30 (refer to Figure 11 The claws engage. Thus, the connection method of the second connecting part 92 also includes the engagement of the claws.

[0259] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the engaging claw 13E (refer to) provided on the Y-side of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B Figure 35 ) and the second fitting hole 42e2 provided in the retainer 30 (refer to Figure 11 The claws engage. Thus, the connection method of the third connecting part 93 also includes the engagement of the claws.

[0260] That is, the first connecting part 91 is connected by one type of claw engagement. The second connecting part 92 is connected by three types of claw engagement, threaded fastening, and welding. The third connecting part 93 is connected by two types of claw engagement and welding. Therefore, the number of connection methods for the first connecting part 91, the second connecting part 92, and the third connecting part 93 is different.

[0261] Thus, by varying the number of connection methods among the three connecting parts (first connecting part 91, second connecting part 92, and third connecting part 93) of the main body unit 2, it becomes difficult for the user to disassemble the unit. Furthermore, even if the number of connection methods among the three connecting parts is the same, as long as the types of connection methods differ, it can still be difficult for the user to disassemble the unit. For example, the first connecting part 91 could only be connected by a claw engagement, the second connecting part 92 could only be connected by a threaded fastening, and the third connecting part 93 could only be connected by welding.

[0262] Furthermore, even if two of the three connecting parts have the same number or type of connection methods, as long as the remaining connecting part has a different number or type of connection methods, it will be difficult for the user to decompose the connection. That is, at least one of the three connecting parts needs to have a different number of connection methods. Alternatively, at least one of the three connecting parts can contain connecting parts with different types of connection methods.

[0263] Furthermore, the main body unit 2 of this embodiment has a fourth connecting portion 94 that connects the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B via a cover member 17. The fourth connecting portion 94 includes a housing fitting hole 17b1 provided in the cover member 17 (see reference). Figure 26 ) and the engaging claw 13E (refer to) provided on the +Y side of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first housing 13A. Figure 34 ) and the engaging claw 13E provided on the +Y side of the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second housing 13B (see reference) Figure 35 The fourth connecting part 94 is connected by the engagement of the claws.

[0264] <Appearance of the main unit>

[0265] Figure 36 This is a front view of the main body unit 2 with the suction port 11 of one embodiment removed.

[0266] like Figure 36 As shown, the main body unit 2 includes a cartridge receiving portion 10 having a cartridge insertion / removal port 10a protruding from the outer casing 12. That is, a portion of the cartridge receiving portion 10, including the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a, protrudes from the outer casing 12, making it easy to visually identify the location for inserting or removing the cartridge 3.

[0267] A portion of the cartridge receiving portion 10 protruding from the outer casing 12 includes a mouthpiece connection portion 10B for connecting the mouthpiece 11 to the cartridge insertion port 10a (see reference). Figure 6 , Figure 20 That is, at least a portion of the inhalation port connection 10B protrudes from the outer casing 12. As a result, the first groove 10b1 and the like of the inhalation port connection 10B can be easily visually confirmed from the cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0268] On the outer casing 12, a raised portion 12D is provided on the upper side (+Z side) in the main axis direction. The smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 protrudes upward in the main axis direction from the deformable transition portion 12D1 of the raised portion 12D. The deformable transition portion 12D1 is the portion from the second corner portion 12C2 to the top P of the raised portion 12D. The deformable transition portion 12D1 can also be described as the portion where the size of the outer casing 12 increases in the Z-axis direction from the second corner portion 12C2 to the top P of the raised portion 12D. In addition, the deformable transition portion 12D1 can also be described as the portion inclined relative to the main axis direction. Furthermore, the deformable transition portion 12D1 is not limited to Figure 36 The curved surface shown can also be an inclined surface.

[0269] Through the deformation transition portion 12D1, a portion (+Y side) and a smaller portion (-Y side) protruding from the outer casing 12 are formed in the cartridge receiving portion 10. The larger protruding portion of the cartridge receiving portion 10 ensures the visibility of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The smaller protruding portion of the cartridge receiving portion 10 allows the outer casing 12 to effectively protect the area of ​​the cartridge receiving portion 10. Furthermore, the increased contact length between the edge of the outer casing 12 and the peripheral surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 facilitates strong bonding when the two are glued together.

[0270] like Figure 36 As shown, the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a is positioned below the top P of the raised portion 12D in the main axial direction (Z-axis direction) extending from the cartridge receiving portion 10. That is, the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a descends downwards (towards the -Z side) in the main axial direction relative to the top P of the raised portion 12D. When the raised portion 12D, for example, falls upside down in the main body unit 2, it contacts the ground or the like before the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a, thus protecting the cartridge insertion / removal port 10a.

[0271] The raised portion 12D has a deformable transition portion 12D2 on the side opposite to the deformable transition portion 12D1 (-Y side), separated from the top P, where the input device 15 is disposed. The input device 15 is disposed below the top P of the raised portion 12D in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) extending from the cartridge housing portion 10. For example, when the main body unit 2 falls upside down, the raised portion 12D contacts the ground or the like before the input device 15, preventing the input device 15 from malfunctioning.

[0272] The input device 15 is positioned at an acute angle relative to the main axis O of the cartridge receiving portion 10, which passes through the center of the cartridge insertion port 10a. Specifically, the angle θ between the main axis O and the diagonal O1 connecting the first corner portion 12C1 (input device 15) and the third corner portion 12C3 is less than 90°. With this configuration, the user can easily place their fingers on the input device 15 while holding the mouthpiece 11 installed in the cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0273] The main body unit 2, serving as a means of removing the cartridge receiving section 10 that protrudes from the outer casing 12, includes movement limiting members (cover member 17, sensor holder 35) that restrict the movement of the cartridge receiving section 10. The movement limiting members at least restrict the movement of the cartridge receiving section 10 in the removal direction from the outer casing 12. Here, "removal direction" refers to a direction towards the upper side (+Z side) in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0274] like Figure 6 As shown, the outer casing 12 has a main casing 13 with an opening 13a. The cover member 17 (movement restriction member) has a main casing side protrusion 17A that is inserted into the opening 13a. The main casing side protrusion 17A is locked to the outer casing 12 at least in the pull-out direction, restricting the movement of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0275] Additionally, the cover component 17 has a cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 17C that inserts into the through hole 10c of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Even if the cover component 17 peels off from the peripheral surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 due to the user's removal, the cartridge receiving portion side protrusion 17C remains engaged with the cartridge receiving portion 10, preventing the cartridge receiving portion 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0276] Additionally, the cover component 17 has a plate portion 17B sandwiched between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer casing 12. The thickness of the plate portion 17B decreases as it moves toward the pull-out direction of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (see reference). Figure 28 The plate portion 17B is inserted into the wedge-shaped space between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer casing 12 (more specifically, the rounded inner wall surface of the second corner portion 12C2 of the outer casing 12 gradually approaches the space around the periphery of the cartridge receiving portion 10). That is, the plate portion 17B acts as a wedge to prevent the cartridge receiving portion 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0277] like Figure 29 As shown, a second notch 42d2 is formed on the second rib 42D of the retainer 30 fixed to the outer housing 12. The sensor retainer 35 (movement limiting member) has a retainer-side protrusion 35B that inserts into the second notch 42d2. The retainer-side protrusion 35B is locked to the retainer 30 at least in the pull-out direction, restricting the movement of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0278] Additionally, the sensor holder 35 has a cartridge-receiving side protrusion 35D that inserts into the through hole 10d of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Even if the sensor holder 35 peels off from the peripheral surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 due to the user's removal, the cartridge-receiving side protrusion 35D will still engage with the cartridge receiving portion 10 to prevent the cartridge receiving portion 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0279] <Assembly Method of Suction Device>

[0280] Figure 37 This is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where a smoke cartridge 3 is housed in a smoke cartridge housing 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 38 This is an explanatory diagram showing the installation of the suction port 11 on the cartridge housing 10 in one embodiment.

[0281] like Figure 37 As shown, during the assembly of the suction device 1, the smoke cartridge 3 is housed in the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2. The smoke cartridge 3 is as follows... Figure 5 As shown, with the planar electrode 26h facing the main body unit 2, it is inserted into the cartridge insertion port 10a of the cartridge receiving part 10 protruding from the outer casing 12.

[0282] The cartridge 3 is shorter than the cartridge receiving part 10, so it falls freely when inserted. At this time, there are no parts around the cartridge 3 that would obstruct its rotational movement, and the cartridge 3 falls with the corresponding momentum. Therefore, even if the circumferential position of the engaging protrusion 43h of the positioning mechanism 90 and the engaging groove 26i of the cartridge 3 is not consistent, the cartridge 3 can still bounce and rotate by colliding with the engaging protrusion 43h, or the cartridge 3 can slide down along the curved surface of the engaging protrusion 43h, so that the engaging protrusion 43h enters the engaging groove 26i.

[0283] In this embodiment, the gap between the inner diameter D1 of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer diameter D2 of the cartridge 3 is greater than 2.6% of the inner diameter of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Therefore, the larger gap between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the cartridge 3 facilitates the introduction of the engaging protrusion 43h into the engaging groove 26i. That is, even if the circumferential positions of the engaging protrusion 43h and the engaging groove 26i are not aligned when the cartridge 3 is inserted, the cartridge 3 is assembled in the correct position. Consequently, the planar electrode 26h of the cartridge 3 contacts the protruding electrode 50.

[0284] Furthermore, when inserting the aforementioned cartridge 3, sometimes the cartridge 3 is not assembled in the correct position. In this case, the cartridge 3 becomes stuck on the engaging protrusion 43h (hereinafter referred to as the "stuck state"). In the stuck state, the movement of the cartridge 3 in the lower (-Z side) direction along the main axis is restricted. Therefore, the planar electrode 26h separates from the protruding electrode 50 in the main axis direction, and the conduction between the cartridge 3 and the main body unit 2 cannot be ensured.

[0285] If the inhalation port 11 is installed on the cartridge receiving portion 10 while the cartridge 3 is in the ascended state, the cartridge abutment portion 60 abuts against the cartridge 3 before the inhalation port 11 is installed. Specifically, the cartridge abutment portion 60 abuts against the cartridge 3 while the protrusion 11b1 of the inhalation port 11 passes through the first groove 10b1 or the second groove 10b2 of the inhalation port connecting portion 10B. Thus, the cartridge abutment portion 60 is compressed in the main axis direction, and the cartridge 3 is pressed against the engaging protrusion 43h. The engaging protrusion 43h has a curved shape, so even if the center of the engaging protrusion 43h and the center of the engaging groove 26i are not in the same circumferential position, as long as the engaging groove 26i is engaged at the front end of the engaging protrusion 43h, the cartridge 3 will slide obliquely along the curved surface of the engaging protrusion 43h, and the cartridge 3 will be assembled in the correct position.

[0286] Furthermore, if the aforementioned cartridge 3 is pressed and remains in the ascending state, such as Figure 38 As shown, the inhalation port 11 is rotated while the cartridge contact portion 60 is abutting against the cartridge 3. Thus, the cartridge 3 rotates together with the protrusion 11b1 as it passes through the third groove 10b3 of the inhalation port connection portion 10B. The cartridge 3 rotates due to the friction generated between it and the cartridge contact portion 60. If the front end (apex) of the engaging protrusion 43h aligns with the engaging groove 26i due to the rotation of the cartridge 3, the cartridge 3 slides down along the curved surface of the engaging protrusion 43h, and the engaging protrusion 43h enters the engaging groove 26i. As described above, in this embodiment, the cartridge 3 can be assembled into the correct position in three stages: the free fall of the cartridge 3, the pressing of the cartridge 3, and the rotation of the cartridge 3.

[0287] If the inhalation nozzle 11 is rotated to its final position and installed on the cartridge receiving portion 10, the cartridge contact portion 60 is compressed in the main axis direction, the planar electrode 26h is pressed against the protruding electrode 50, and the cartridge 3 is positioned. Thus, by installing the inhalation nozzle 11, the cartridge 3 is positioned, and electrical connection is established between the cartridge 3 and the main unit 2. Furthermore, the annular protrusion 61 of the cartridge contact portion 60 is compressed in the main axis direction, thereby sealing the gap between the cartridge 3 and the inhalation nozzle 11.

[0288] The assembly of suction device 1 is now complete through the above steps. Additionally, as... Figure 37 as well as Figure 38As shown, the flavor source container 4 can be inserted into the mouthpiece 11 beforehand. However, if this is not the case, after installing the mouthpiece 11 into the cartridge housing 10, the flavor source container 4 is inserted into the mouthpiece 11 to complete the assembly of the inhaler 1.

[0289] <How to use the suction device>

[0290] When using the aforementioned absorber 1, the user first presses... Figure 1 The input device 15 is shown. At this time, for example, it can also be programmed to start the main unit 2 by pressing the input device 15 multiple times.

[0291] Next, the user inhales by holding the mouthpiece 11 or the flavor source container 4 in their mouth. As a result, air flows inside the cartridge housing 10. Figure 29 The sensor 34 shown senses suction. If sensor 34 senses suction, then for Figure 6 The heating wire 25b of the shown cartridge 3 is energized and heats up. When the heating wire 25b heats up, the aerosol source of the liquid impregnated in the core 25a is heated and atomized. The atomized aerosol is then drawn up together with the air (external air) obtained through suction.

[0292] like Figure 29 As shown, air (external air) is obtained from the air inlet 18 in the gap between the main body housing 13 and the cover member 17. The air obtained from the air inlet 18 flows into the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 via the annular groove 71, stepped groove 72, air hole 19, and air communication hole 10e of the air groove 70. The air flowing into the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10... Figure 6 As shown, the air flows into the atomizing chamber 24c through the air inlet 26c and opening 24e of the cartridge 3.

[0293] The atomized aerosol fills the atomization chamber 24c and, together with the air flowing into the atomization chamber 24c, is drawn to the mouthpiece 11 through the flow path 21c, the through hole 21b, and the connecting hole 62 of the cartridge contact part 60. Then, the mixture of atomized aerosol and air enters the user's mouth through the flavor source container 4 installed in the mouthpiece 11. Thus, the user can enjoy the flavor.

[0294] <Variation Example>

[0295] In this embodiment, variations as follows may be adopted. Furthermore, in the following description, reference numerals that are the same as or equivalent to those used in the embodiments described above will be simplified or omitted.

[0296] Figure 39 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the suction port connection 10B according to one embodiment. Figure 40This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 41 yes Figure 39 The H-H cross-sectional view shown is shown.

[0297] Figure 39 In addition to the first groove 10b1, the second groove 10b2, and the third groove 10b3 described above, the suction port connection part 10B shown has a fitting hole 10b4.

[0298] The fitting hole 10b4 is disposed on the extension line of the third groove 10b3. The fitting hole 10b4 is formed separately from the third groove 10b3. That is, a portion 10A1 of the insert ring 10A is sandwiched between the fitting hole 10b4 and the third groove 10b3. When the protrusion 11b1 of the suction port 11 is installed into the suction port connecting portion 10B, it passes over the portion 10A1 of the insert ring 10A from the end of the third groove 10b3 and fits into the fitting hole 10b4. Thus, the suction port 11 is held in the suction port connecting portion 10B.

[0299] like Figure 40 As shown, the cartridge receiving portion 10 has a retraction groove 10g formed therein, which is used to retract the insert ring 10A radially outward by elastic deformation when the protrusion 11b1 passes over a portion 10A1 of the insert ring 10A. The retraction groove 10g is recessed radially outward compared to the recess 10f where the insert ring 10A is disposed. Two retraction grooves 10g are provided corresponding to the two suction port connecting portions 10B provided on the insert ring 10A. The two retraction grooves 10g are arranged opposite each other on the radial sides of the inner wall surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0300] A positioning protrusion 10h is formed in the retraction groove 10g. The positioning protrusion 10h engages. Figure 39 The positioning groove 10C of the embedded ring 10A shown. The positioning groove 10C has a tapered inclined surface 10C1 whose circumferential width gradually widens as it moves downward toward the main shaft direction (-Z side). This positioning groove 10C and Figure 40 The positioning protrusion 10h shown engages, thereby enabling the fitting hole 10b4 of the insert ring 10A to align with the recess 10g.

[0301] like Figure 41 As shown, the protrusion 11b1 of the inlet portion 11 is fitted into the fitting hole 10b4 while the insert ring 10A is bent radially outward. This allows the inlet portion 11 to be held securely in the inlet connection portion 10B without wobbling. The gap S1 between the insert ring 10A formed by the retraction groove 10g and the cartridge receiving portion 10 only needs to be large enough that the protrusion 11b1 of the inlet portion 11 can extend beyond a portion 10A1 of the insert ring 10A. Furthermore, to secure the inlet portion 11 to the inlet connection portion 10B without wobbling, in… Figure 41It is better if the gap S2 between the embedded ring 10A in its unbent state, represented by the double-dotted line, and the cylinder 11B of the suction port 11 is smaller than the protrusion T1 of the protrusion of the protrusion 11b1 relative to the cylinder 11B.

[0302] Furthermore, the gap S1 is larger than the difference T2 between the protrusion T1 and the gap S2. Additionally, the gap S1 is larger than the deflection T3 of the embedded ring 10A that maintains the state of the protrusion 11b1.

[0303] [Effects]

[0304] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes an outer housing 12 and a retainer 30 disposed inside the outer housing 12. The retainer 30 has: a main board 41 that retains at least a portion of the components disposed inside the outer housing 12; and a sub-board 42 that extends from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the board surface (first board surface 41a, second board surface 41b) of the main board 41 and retains at least one of the components (input device 15, display device 33) disposed along the outer surface of the outer housing 12.

[0305] According to this configuration, components located inside the outer housing 12 and components disposed along the outer surface of the outer housing 12 are held together by a retainer 30. In addition, the retainer 30 has a main plate 41 and a sub-plate 42 extending in a direction intersecting the main plate 41, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30 while saving space inside the device.

[0306] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0307] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is at least L-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0308] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to both sides in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0309] According to this configuration, the retainer 30 has a T-shaped cross-section, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0310] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 serves as a sub-plate 42, having a first sub-plate 42A located at the end of the main plate 41 with a first end edge 41h1 and a second sub-plate 42B located at the end of the main plate 41 with a second end edge 41h2 adjacent to the first end edge 41h1. The first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected to each other.

[0311] According to this configuration, since the first sub-plate 42A is connected to the second sub-plate 42B, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be improved.

[0312] In addition, in this embodiment, the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected at an obtuse angle.

[0313] According to this configuration, even when the outer housing 12 has a rounded corner portion 12C or an inclined corner portion 12C, it is easy to place the component in the corner portion 12C.

[0314] In addition, in this embodiment, a display device 33 is held on the sub-board 42.

[0315] According to this configuration, space can be saved by keeping the display device 33 on the sub-board 42.

[0316] In addition, in this embodiment, the display device 33 is an organic EL display or a liquid crystal display.

[0317] Based on this configuration, it is possible to install organic EL displays or liquid crystal displays in a space-saving manner.

[0318] In addition, in this embodiment, the input device 15 is held on the sub-board 42.

[0319] According to this configuration, space can be saved by keeping the input device 15 on the sub-board 42.

[0320] In this embodiment, the input device 15 is a button.

[0321] This configuration allows for space-saving button placement. Furthermore, the retainer 30 has high rigidity, enabling it to withstand the load applied to the button.

[0322] In addition, in this embodiment, the motherboard 41 has a first plate surface 41a that holds the first components (main substrate 31, sub-substrate 32) and a second plate surface 41b that holds a second component (power supply 37) that is different from the first component on the side opposite to the first plate surface 41a.

[0323] According to this configuration, space can be saved because components are held on the surface and back of the motherboard 41.

[0324] In addition, in this embodiment, either the first component or the second component (the second component) is the power supply 37, and the other component (the first component) is the electronic component first component (main substrate 31, sub-substrate 32) electrically connected to the power supply 37.

[0325] According to this configuration, by holding the power supply 37 and electronic components on the front and back sides of the motherboard 41 respectively, it is possible to simultaneously achieve a large capacity for the power supply 37 and ensure sufficient space for the electronic components.

[0326] In addition, in this embodiment, a smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is provided, at least a portion of which is covered by the outer casing 12.

[0327] According to this configuration, the smoke cartridge housing 10 can be protected by the outer casing 12.

[0328] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 has a receiving portion 43 that is integrally formed with the main board 41 and receives the end of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0329] According to this configuration, assembly becomes easy because the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is further assembled to the retainer 30.

[0330] In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving part 43 is provided with an insertion hole 43c for inserting the protruding electrode 50 into the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0331] According to this configuration, the protruding electrode 50 can be easily disposed inside the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0332] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0333] According to this configuration, since the main body unit 2 is equipped with components in a space-saving manner, it is possible to achieve miniaturization as a whole device.

[0334] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0335] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0336] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0337] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes: an outer housing 12 having a peripheral wall portion 12B connecting a pair of main faces 12A; and an input device 15 disposed on the peripheral wall portion 12B, the peripheral wall portion 12B having an outer surface 12b1 continuous with the pair of main faces 12A and a recess 12b2 recessed relative to the outer surface 12b1, the input device 15 being disposed on the recess 12b2.

[0338] According to this configuration, since the input device 15 is disposed in the recess 12b2 of the peripheral wall portion 12B, it is difficult to accidentally contact the input device 15, thus preventing malfunction of the input device 15.

[0339] In addition, in this embodiment, the input device 15 is disposed in the corner portion 12C of the outer housing 12 in the peripheral wall portion 12B.

[0340] Based on this configuration, the input device 15 is easy to operate.

[0341] In addition, in this embodiment, a retainer 30 is provided inside the outer housing 12. The retainer 30 has a sub-plate 42 (second sub-plate 42B) opposite to the corner portion 12C, and the input device 15 is held on the sub-plate 42.

[0342] Based on this configuration, the input device 15 can be easily positioned at the corner portion 12C.

[0343] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 includes a main board 41 that retains at least a portion of a component disposed inside the outer housing 12, and a secondary board 42 that extends from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the surface of the main board 41.

[0344] According to this configuration, the main board 41 and the sub-board 42 are connected crosswise, thus improving the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0345] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0346] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is at least L-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0347] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to both sides in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0348] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is T-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0349] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 serves as a sub-plate 42, having a first sub-plate 42A with a first end edge 41h1 at the end of the main plate 41 and a second sub-plate 42B with a second end edge 41h2 at the end of the main plate 41 adjacent to the first end edge 41h1, and the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected to each other.

[0350] According to this configuration, since the first sub-plate 42A is connected to the second sub-plate 42B, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be improved.

[0351] In addition, in this embodiment, the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected at an obtuse angle.

[0352] According to this configuration, even when the outer housing 12 has a rounded corner portion 12C or an inclined corner portion 12C, it is easy to place the input device 15 in the corner portion 12C.

[0353] In this embodiment, the input device 15 is a button.

[0354] This design can prevent accidental button operation.

[0355] In addition, in this embodiment, a smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is provided, at least a portion of which is covered by the outer casing 12.

[0356] According to this configuration, the smoke cartridge housing 10 can be protected by the outer casing 12.

[0357] In addition, in this embodiment, the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is disposed in the second corner 12C2 of the peripheral wall part 12B, which is closest to the first corner 12C1 of the outer casing 12 on which the input device 15 is disposed.

[0358] With this configuration, the smoke cartridge housing 10 and the input device 15 are arranged close together, thereby improving operability.

[0359] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving section 10 has a cartridge insertion port 10a for mounting the inhalation port 11, and the input device 15 is arranged at an acute angle relative to the main axis O of the cartridge receiving section 10 passing through the center of the cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0360] According to this configuration, the user can easily operate the input device 15 while holding the suction port 11 in their mouth.

[0361] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0362] According to this configuration, the main body unit 2 is provided to prevent malfunction of the input device 15, thereby improving the safety of the device.

[0363] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0364] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0365] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0366] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes a cartridge receiving portion 10 for receiving cartridge 3, an outer casing 12 surrounding at least a portion of the outer side of the cartridge receiving portion 10, and a retainer 30 housed in the outer casing 12. The retainer 30 has a main board 41 for retaining at least one component disposed inside the outer casing 12 and a receiving portion 43 integrally formed with the main board 41 and receiving the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0367] According to this configuration, since the internal components of the outer casing 12 and the smoke cartridge housing 10 are assembled in the retainer 30, assembly becomes easy.

[0368] In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving part 43 is provided with an insertion hole 43c for inserting the protruding electrode 50 into the interior of the cartridge receiving part 10.

[0369] According to this configuration, the protruding electrode 50 can be easily disposed inside the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0370] In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving part 43 is formed at the end of the main board 41 in the short side direction (Y-axis direction) as a bottomed cylindrical shape that extends parallel to the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the main board 41.

[0371] With this configuration, the main board 41 and the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 are arranged parallel to each other in the length direction, thus shortening the overall length of the main body unit 2.

[0372] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 has a subplate 42 that extends from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the surface of the main board 41 and retains at least one component disposed along the outer surface of the outer casing 12.

[0373] This configuration can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0374] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0375] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is at least L-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0376] In addition, in this embodiment, the sub-plate 42 extends to both sides in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the main plate 41.

[0377] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is T-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0378] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 serves as a sub-plate 42, having a first sub-plate 42A with a first end edge 41h1 at the end of the main plate 41 and a second sub-plate 42B with a second end edge 41h2 at the end of the main plate 41 adjacent to the first end edge 41h1, and the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected to each other.

[0379] According to this configuration, since the first sub-plate 42A is connected to the second sub-plate 42B, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be improved.

[0380] In addition, in this embodiment, the first sub-plate 42A and the second sub-plate 42B are connected at an obtuse angle.

[0381] According to this configuration, even when the outer housing 12 has a rounded corner portion 12C or an inclined corner portion 12C, it is easy to place the component in the corner portion 12C.

[0382] In addition, in this embodiment, a display device 33 is held on the sub-board 42.

[0383] According to this configuration, space can be saved by keeping the display device 33 on the sub-board 42.

[0384] In addition, in this embodiment, the input device 15 is held on the sub-board 42.

[0385] According to this configuration, space can be saved by keeping the input device 15 on the sub-board 42.

[0386] In addition, in this embodiment, the motherboard 41 has a first plate surface 41a that holds the first component and a second plate surface 41b that holds a second component that is different from the first component on the side opposite to the first plate surface 41a.

[0387] According to this configuration, components are held on the front and back sides of the motherboard 41, thus saving space.

[0388] In addition, in this embodiment, either the first component or the second component is a power supply 37, and the other component is an electronic component electrically connected to the power supply 37.

[0389] According to this configuration, by holding the power supply 37 and electronic components on the front and back sides of the motherboard 41 respectively, it is possible to simultaneously achieve a large capacity for the power supply 37 and ensure sufficient space for the electronic components.

[0390] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0391] According to this configuration, since the main body unit 2, in which various components are assembled in the retaining member 30, is equipped, the production performance of the device can be improved.

[0392] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0393] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0394] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0395] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes a smoke cartridge receiving part 10 for receiving smoke cartridges 3 and an outer casing 12 that surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10. The outer casing 12 includes a main body casing 13 with a window 16 and a light source 52 that illuminates the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from a portion other than the window 16.

[0396] According to this configuration, the liquid level can be confirmed even without a through window that allows external light to enter.

[0397] In addition, the “window” includes a simple opening 13a without the cover component 17.

[0398] In addition, in this embodiment, a light guide component is provided between the light source 52 and the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0399] According to this configuration, the interior of the smoke bomb containment section 10 can be brightly illuminated.

[0400] In addition, in this embodiment, there is a sensor 34 for sensing the user's absorption and a sensor holder 35 for holding the sensor 34, and the sensor holder 35 also serves as a light guide component.

[0401] According to this configuration, the sensor holder 35 also serves as a light guide component, thus reducing the number of components and saving space.

[0402] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving section 10 has a cartridge insertion port 10a, and the light source 52 is arranged on the side opposite to the cartridge insertion port 10a in the main axis direction of the cartridge receiving section 10 passing through the center of the cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0403] According to this configuration, the bottom of the cartridge receiving section 10 (opposite to the cartridge insertion port) can be illuminated, making it easy to check the remaining liquid level.

[0404] In addition, in this embodiment, the light source 52 is configured to overlap with the window 16 by at least a portion.

[0405] With this configuration, the light source 52 overlaps with the window 16 by at least a portion, making it easy to confirm the remaining liquid level.

[0406] In addition, in this embodiment, the window portion 16 is formed by an opening portion 13a provided in the main body housing 13 and a cover member 17 covering the opening portion 13a.

[0407] According to this configuration, the cover component 17 can be used to prevent foreign objects from entering the interior of the smoke cartridge containment section 10.

[0408] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving part 10 is a cylindrical component with a through hole 10c formed on its circumferential surface, and the cover component 17 has a cartridge receiving part side protrusion 17C that is inserted into the through hole 10c.

[0409] According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the position of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from shifting from that of the cover part 17 (window part 16).

[0410] In addition, in this embodiment, the cover member 17 has a main body housing side protrusion 17A that is inserted into the opening 13a of the main body housing 13.

[0411] According to this configuration, the cover component 17 becomes an anti-detachment component for the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 relative to the main body shell 13.

[0412] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0413] According to this configuration, since it has a main body unit 2 that can illuminate the interior of the smoke cartridge containment section 10, the liquid level can be easily determined.

[0414] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0415] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0416] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0417] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes a smoke cartridge receiving part 10 for receiving smoke cartridges 3 and an outer casing 12 surrounding at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10. The outer casing 12 includes a main casing 13 with an opening 13a and a cover member 17 provided at the opening 13a. An air inlet 18 is formed in the gap between the cover member 17 and the opening 13a. An air hole 19 is formed at the overlapping part of the cover member 17 and the main casing 13 to allow the air inlet 18 to fluidly communicate with the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0418] This configuration prevents the air hole 19 from being blocked by fingers, thus preventing difficulty in suction.

[0419] Alternatively, the cover component 17 can be disposed on the outside of the main body housing 13 and overlap it. In this case, an air hole 19 is formed on the side of the main body housing 13.

[0420] In addition, in this embodiment, the air inlet 18 is formed in an annular shape along the opening edge of the opening 13a of the main body housing 13.

[0421] According to this configuration, it is difficult to completely block the air inlet 18 with a finger, and even if a part of the air inlet 18 is blocked by a finger, it can still be drawn in.

[0422] In addition, in this embodiment, the air inlet 18 is formed as a slit along the opening edge of the opening 13a of the main body housing 13.

[0423] According to this configuration, it is difficult to completely block the air inlet 18 with a finger, and even if a part of the air inlet 18 is blocked by a finger, it can still be drawn in.

[0424] In addition, in this embodiment, an air groove 70 connecting the air inlet 18 and the air hole 19 is formed in at least one of the main housing 13 and the cover member 17.

[0425] This configuration reduces the fluid resistance between the air inlet 18 and the air hole 19, making suction easier.

[0426] In addition, in this embodiment, the cover member 17 has a main body housing side protrusion 17A that is inserted into the opening 13a of the main body housing 13 and a plate portion 17B that supports the main body housing side protrusion 17A and overlaps with the inner side of the main body housing 13. The air groove 70 has an annular groove portion 71 formed in an annular shape around the main body housing side protrusion 17A in the plate portion 17B.

[0427] According to this configuration, air can be guided to the air hole 19 from the entire circumference of the side protrusion 17A of the main body housing. In addition, the side protrusion 17A of the main body housing can prevent the position of the main body housing 13 from shifting from that of the cover member 17.

[0428] In addition, in this embodiment, the air groove 70 has a stepped groove 72 that is connected to the annular groove 71 and has a bottom surface that is lower than the annular groove 71, and the air hole 19 is formed in the stepped groove 72.

[0429] According to this configuration, the air hole 19 is formed in the stepped groove 72, so compared with the annular groove 71, the space relative to the main body shell 13 can be expanded, and air can easily enter the air hole 19.

[0430] In addition, in this embodiment, the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 is a cylindrical component, and an air communication hole 10e is formed that penetrates the circumferential surface of the cylindrical component and communicates with the air hole 19.

[0431] According to this configuration, air can be directly drawn into the interior of the smoke cartridge housing 10 from the air hole 19 via the air communication hole 10e, which can shorten the air intake path and make inhalation easier.

[0432] In addition, in this embodiment, a through hole 10c is formed on the periphery of the cartridge receiving part 10 at a position different from the air communication hole 10e, and the cover member 17 has a cartridge receiving part side protrusion 17C that is inserted into the through hole 10c.

[0433] This configuration prevents the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from shifting position relative to the cover part 17.

[0434] In addition, in this embodiment, the cover component 17 is light-transmitting.

[0435] According to this configuration, the liquid level inside the smoke cartridge containment section 10 can be checked via the cover member 17 (window 16).

[0436] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0437] According to this configuration, since it has a main body unit 2 that can prevent the air hole 19 from being blocked by fingers, it can prevent suction (absorption) from becoming difficult.

[0438] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0439] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0440] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0441] The main unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes: a cartridge receiving portion 10 for receiving cartridge 3; an outer casing 12 surrounding at least a portion of the outer side of the cartridge receiving portion 10; and a movement limiting member (cover member 17, sensor retainer 35) disposed around the periphery of the cartridge receiving portion 10, locked to the outer casing 12, and at least limiting the movement of the cartridge receiving portion 10 in the pull-out direction from the outer casing 12.

[0442] With this configuration, the cartridge housing 10 can be prevented from being pulled out of the outer casing 12 by means of components arranged around it. Since screws or other fixing devices are not required in the cartridge housing 10, miniaturization can be achieved.

[0443] In addition, in this embodiment, the outer housing 12 has a main housing 13 with an opening 13a, and the movement restriction member has a main housing side protrusion 17A that is inserted into the opening 13a.

[0444] According to this configuration, the protrusion 17A on the main housing side of the movement restriction member is inserted into the opening 13a formed in the main housing 13, which can prevent the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from being pulled out of the outer housing 12.

[0445] In addition, in this embodiment, a cover member 17 that is light-transmitting and covers the opening 13a is provided as a movement restriction member.

[0446] According to this configuration, the movement restriction component also serves as a cover component 17 (window 16) for confirming the remaining liquid level, thus reducing the number of components and saving space.

[0447] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving part 10 is a cylindrical component with a through hole 10c formed on its circumferential surface, and the movement limiting component has a cartridge receiving part side protrusion 17C that is inserted into the through hole 10c.

[0448] According to this configuration, by inserting the protrusion 17C of the cartridge receiving part of the movement restriction member into the through hole 10c formed in the cartridge receiving part 10, it is possible to prevent the cartridge receiving part 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0449] In addition, in this embodiment, a retainer 30 is fixed to the outer housing 12, a notch 42d is formed in the retainer 30, and a movement limiting member has a retainer-side protrusion 35B that is locked into the notch 42d.

[0450] According to this configuration, by inserting the retainer-side protrusion 35B of the movement restriction member into the notch 42d formed in the retainer 30, it is possible to prevent the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0451] In addition, in this embodiment, a sensor holding member 35 is provided to sense the user's absorption and to hold the sensor 34. As a movement restriction member, the sensor holding member 35 is provided.

[0452] According to this configuration, the movement restriction component also serves as a sensor holder 35 for holding the sensor 34 that senses the user's absorption, thus reducing the number of components and saving space.

[0453] In addition, in this embodiment, the movement restriction member has a plate portion 17B sandwiched between the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer casing 12, and the thickness of the plate portion 17B decreases as it moves toward the pull-out direction of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0454] According to this configuration, the plate portion 17B of the movement restriction member becomes a wedge, which can prevent the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 from being pulled out of the outer casing 12.

[0455] In addition, in this embodiment, a receiving portion 43 is provided on the outer casing 12 side at the end opposite to the pull-out direction of the cartridge receiving portion 10, and includes: a locking protrusion 43i, which is provided on either the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10 or the receiving portion 43 and protrudes toward the other; and a locking groove 10b, which is provided on the other side of the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the receiving portion 43, and restricts the rotation of the cartridge receiving portion 10 by inserting the locking protrusion 43i.

[0456] According to this configuration, the circumferential positioning of the smoke cartridge housing 10 relative to the outer casing 12 becomes easier.

[0457] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0458] According to this configuration, since the main body unit 2 can prevent the device from being pulled out of the outer casing 12 smoke cartridge receiving part 10 without the need for screws or other fixing devices, the overall device can be miniaturized.

[0459] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0460] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0461] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0462] The main unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes: a cartridge receiving portion 10 for receiving cartridges; an outer housing 12 that surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the cartridge receiving portion 10; a sensor 34, received in the outer housing 12, for sensing the user's inhalation; and a sensor holder 35, received in the outer housing 12, for holding the sensor 34, the sensor holder 35 having a shape along the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and being in airtight contact with the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0463] With this configuration, the sensor holder 35 is arranged along the circumferential surface of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10, thus allowing for space-saving assembly of the sensor 34 and the sensor holder 35. Consequently, there is no need to provide an airflow path 80 for the sensor 34 separately from the sensor holder 35, and the airflow path 80 itself can also be shorter.

[0464] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving part 10 is a cylindrical component with a through hole 10d formed on its circumferential surface, and the sensor holder 35 has a cartridge receiving part side protrusion 35D that is inserted into the through hole 10d.

[0465] According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the position of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 from shifting from that of the sensor holding part 35.

[0466] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor holder 35 has a holder-side protrusion 35B (anti-cartridge-receiving-side protrusion) on the side opposite to the cartridge receiving portion 10, and an airflow path 80 is formed on the holder-side protrusion 35B that connects the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10 with the sensor 34.

[0467] Based on this configuration, the airflow path 80 of the sensor 34 can be shortened.

[0468] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor holder 35 has a holding portion 35C for holding the sensor 34 in the air flow path 80.

[0469] According to this configuration, the sensor 34 can be held in the airflow path 80, thereby shortening the airflow path 80.

[0470] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor holder 35 is hermetically bonded to the periphery of the cartridge receiving portion 10 via an adhesive member (adhesive sheet 48).

[0471] According to this configuration, the fit between the sensor holder 35 and the cartridge receiving portion 10 is improved.

[0472] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor holder 35 has a curved plate portion 35A that is curved along the circumferential surface of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0473] According to this configuration, the sensor holder 35 can be easily disposed in the narrow gap around the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0474] In addition, in this embodiment, a light source 52 is provided to illuminate the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10, and the sensor holding member 35 also serves as a light guide member to guide the light from the light source 52 into the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving section 10.

[0475] According to this configuration, the sensor holder 35 also serves as a light guide component, thus reducing the number of components and saving space.

[0476] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor holder 35 is formed of polycarbonate resin.

[0477] According to this configuration, the sensor holder 35, which also serves as a light guide component, can be given appropriate rigidity and good light guiding properties.

[0478] In addition, in this embodiment, a waterproof and breathable component 81 is provided to separate the space between the interior of the smoke cartridge housing 10 and the sensor 34.

[0479] Based on this configuration, it is possible to address liquid leakage into sensor 34.

[0480] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0481] According to this configuration, since the main body unit 2 is equipped with a space-saving assembly of the sensor 34 and the sensor holder 35, the device can be miniaturized.

[0482] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0483] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0484] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0485] The main unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes: a cartridge receiving portion 10 for receiving cartridges; an outer casing 12 surrounding at least a portion of the outer side of the cartridge receiving portion 10; and a main substrate 31 received in the outer casing 12, wherein a protruding electrode 50 is provided on the main substrate 31 and inserted into a cartridge receiving chamber formed inside the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0486] According to this configuration, since the protruding electrode 50 is directly mounted on the main substrate 31, there is no need to prepare a separate sub-substrate for the protruding electrode 50, which saves space inside the outer casing 12.

[0487] In addition, in this embodiment, the main substrate 31 has a protruding electrode cover 51 that covers the portion where the protruding electrode 50 is provided.

[0488] This configuration protects the connection between the main substrate 31 and the protruding electrode 50.

[0489] In addition, in this embodiment, the portion where the protruding electrode 50 is provided includes a pedestal portion 50A disposed on the main substrate 31 and supporting the protruding electrode 50.

[0490] According to this configuration, the protruding electrode cover 51 can contain and protect the pedestal portion 50A that supports the protruding electrode 50.

[0491] In addition, in this embodiment, the protruding electrode cover 51 abuts against the retainer 30 which holds the cartridge receiving portion 10 and has an insertion hole 43c for inserting the protruding electrode 50.

[0492] According to this configuration, the protruding electrode cover 51 abuts against the retainer 30, thereby preventing liquid from accidentally leaking from the cartridge containment 10.

[0493] In addition, in this embodiment, a through hole 51c is formed in the protruding electrode cover 51 for the protruding electrode 50 to pass through.

[0494] According to this configuration, the portion of the protruding electrode 50 needs to be covered by the protruding electrode cover 51, thus preventing accidental leakage of liquid from the cartridge containment section 10.

[0495] In addition, in this embodiment, the protruding electrode cover 51 and the protruding electrode 50 are disposed together on the main substrate 31.

[0496] According to this configuration, since the protruding electrode 50 and the protruding electrode cover 51 are assembled on the main substrate 31, the assembly of the main body unit 2 becomes easy.

[0497] In addition, in this embodiment, the protruding electrode cover 51 is assembled to the outer housing 12 in a non-contact state.

[0498] According to this configuration, when installing the outer housing 12, etc., it is possible to prevent the protruding electrode cover 51 from contacting the outer housing 12 and deforming or shifting its position.

[0499] In addition, in this embodiment, the protruding electrode cover 51 is formed of silicone resin.

[0500] This configuration improves the fit of the protruding electrode cover 51, thus more reliably preventing liquid leakage.

[0501] In addition, in this embodiment, the protruding electrode 50 extends parallel to the surface of the main substrate 31.

[0502] According to this configuration, compared to the way the protruding electrode 50 extends perpendicularly to the surface of the main substrate 31, the thickness of the main body unit 2 can be reduced, thus saving space.

[0503] In addition, in this embodiment, the main substrate 31 has a first portion 31A extending along the cartridge receiving portion 10 and a second portion 31B extending in a direction intersecting the first portion 31A and facing the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10. A protruding electrode 50 is provided in the second portion 31B.

[0504] According to this configuration, since the first portion 31A of the main substrate 31 is arranged along the cartridge receiving portion 10, the overall length of the main body unit 2 can be shortened. In addition, by extending the second portion 31B from the first portion 31A and directly mounting the protruding electrode 50, it is easy to arrange the protruding electrode 50 at the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0505] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0506] According to this configuration, since the main body unit 2 is equipped with components that can save space, the device as a whole can be miniaturized.

[0507] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0508] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0509] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0510] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes: an outer housing 12 having a first main surface 12A1 and a second main surface 12A2 opposite to the first main surface 12A1; and a receiving member (retaining member 30) housed in the outer housing 12. The outer housing 12 includes: a first housing 13A having a first main surface 12A1 and a first peripheral wall portion 12B1 disposed on the periphery of the first main surface 12A1; and a second housing 13B having a second main surface 12A2 and a second peripheral wall portion 12B1 disposed on the periphery of the first main surface 12A1. The second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the periphery of the second main face 12A2, the main body unit 2 has: a first connecting portion 91 connecting the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2; a second connecting portion 92 connecting the receiving member to the opposing surface 13a1 of either the first main face 12A1 or the second main face 12A2; and a third connecting portion 93 connecting the same receiving member to the opposing surface 13b1 of the other side of the first main face 12A1 or the second main face 12A2.

[0511] According to this configuration, since the first main surface area 12A1 and the second main surface area 12A2 are connected inside the outer casing 12, user disassembly can be prevented. Furthermore, since the first main surface area 12A1 and the second main surface area 12A2 are connected inside the outer casing 12, a strong connection at the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 on the outer side of the outer casing 12 is not required, thus reducing the thickness of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2.

[0512] In addition, the "retaining component" is not limited to the retainer 30, but can be any component that is at least partially housed in the outer casing 12.

[0513] In addition, in this embodiment, the connection method of the first connecting part 91 includes claw engagement.

[0514] With this configuration, since the outer side of the outer housing 12 is connected by a locking claw, temporary fixing of the outer housing 12 can be performed, making subsequent assembly processes easier. Furthermore, as long as the locking claws are engaged, the outer housing 12 can be assembled repeatedly (reversibly) and easily without the use of tools.

[0515] In addition, in this embodiment, the connection method of at least one of the second connecting portion 92 and the third connecting portion 93 includes welding.

[0516] According to this configuration, the inner side of the outer casing 12 is permanently (irreversibly) connected by welding, thus preventing disassembly by the user. Even if the outer casing 12 is disassembled, the irreversible connection makes reassembly difficult for the user.

[0517] In addition, in this embodiment, the connection method of the other party of the second connecting part 92 and the third connecting part 93 includes thread fastening.

[0518] According to this configuration, the housing component is repeatedly (reversibly) installed on the outer housing 12 by threaded fastening, thus making assembly easy.

[0519] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the number of connection methods for at least one of the first connecting part 91, the second connecting part 92, and the third connecting part 93 is different.

[0520] According to this configuration, the three connecting parts of the outer casing 12 are connected in different ways, making it difficult for the user to disassemble. Furthermore, even if the outer casing 12 is disassembled, the different connecting parts make it difficult for the user to reassemble.

[0521] In addition, in this embodiment, the housing component includes a retainer 30 that holds at least a portion of a component disposed inside the outer housing 12.

[0522] According to this configuration, the first main surface 12A1 and the second main surface 12A2 can be connected inside the outer housing 12 using the retainer 30, thus saving space inside the outer housing 12.

[0523] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 has a main board 41 and a main board intersection portion (first rib 42C, second rib 42D, and receiving portion 43) extending in a direction intersecting the surface of the main board 41.

[0524] According to this configuration, the rigidity of the retainer 30 can be improved without hindering the component retention function of the retainer 30, and the first main surface 12A1 and the second main surface 12A2 are connected via the main board cross portion.

[0525] In addition, in this embodiment, the motherboard cross portion may also extend to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the motherboard 41.

[0526] According to this configuration, the cross-section of the retainer 30 is at least L-shaped, which can improve the rigidity of the retainer 30.

[0527] In addition, in this embodiment, at least one of the opposing surfaces 13a1 and 13b1 of the first main surface 12A1 and the second main surface 12A2 is provided with a housing side protrusion 13G and 13J for connection to the motherboard cross portion.

[0528] According to this configuration, since the motherboard cross portion does not need to be extended to the opposing surfaces 13a1 and 13b1 of either the first main surface 12A1 or the second main surface 12A2, deformation of the motherboard cross portion can be suppressed.

[0529] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0530] According to this configuration, since it has a main unit 2 that can prevent users from disassembling it, the overall security of the device can be improved.

[0531] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0532] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0533] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0534] The main body unit 2 of the above-described embodiment includes a cartridge receiving section 10 for receiving cartridges 3, and the cartridge receiving section 10 has a cartridge insertion / removal port 10a protruding from the outer casing 12 of the main body unit 2.

[0535] Based on this configuration, the location for inserting or removing the cartridge can be easily visually identified, making it easy to determine the top and bottom positions, thus simplifying cartridge insertion and removal.

[0536] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge receiving part 10 has a mouthpiece connecting part 10B for connecting the mouthpiece part 11 to the cartridge insertion port 10a, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece connecting part 10B protrudes from the outer casing 12.

[0537] With this configuration, the part connecting the inhalation port 11 can be easily visually identified, thus making it easy to connect the inhalation port 11 to the cartridge receiving part 10.

[0538] In addition, in this embodiment, the outer casing 12 has a raised portion 12D, and the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 protrudes from the deformed transition portion 12D1 of the raised portion 12D.

[0539] With this configuration, the cartridge housing 10 has a larger portion and a smaller portion exposed from the outer casing 12. This ensures visibility of the larger exposed portion of the cartridge housing 10 while protecting the area of ​​the smaller exposed portion. Furthermore, the increased contact length between the edge of the outer casing 12 and the peripheral surface of the cartridge housing 10 facilitates strong bonding.

[0540] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge insertion port 10a is disposed below the top P of the raised portion 12D in the main axial direction of the extension of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0541] According to this configuration, when falling or colliding, the raised portion 12D of the outer casing 12 contacts the outside before the cartridge insertion port 10a, which can prevent the cartridge insertion port 10a from deforming.

[0542] In addition, in this embodiment, an input device 15 is provided on the deformation transition portion 12D2 on the opposite side of the deformation transition portion 12D1 of the protruding ridge 12D of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The input device 15 is located below the top P of the ridge 12D in the main axial direction of the extension of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0543] According to this configuration, when falling or colliding, the raised portion 12D of the outer casing 12 contacts the outside before the input device 15, which can prevent the input device 15 from malfunctioning.

[0544] In addition, in this embodiment, the input device 15 is arranged at an acute angle relative to the main axis O of the cartridge receiving portion 10 passing through the center of the cartridge insertion port 10a.

[0545] According to this configuration, the user can easily operate the input device 15 while holding the suction port 11 in their mouth.

[0546] In addition, in this embodiment, a retainer 30 is provided and housed in the outer casing 12. The retainer 30 has: a main board 41 that holds at least one component disposed inside the outer casing 12; and a receiving portion 43 integrally formed with the main board 41 and receiving the end of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0547] According to this configuration, since the components inside the outer casing 12 and the smoke cartridge housing 10 are assembled in the retainer 30, assembly becomes easy.

[0548] In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving part 43 is provided with an insertion hole 43c for inserting the protruding electrode 50 into the interior of the cartridge receiving part 10.

[0549] According to this configuration, the protruding electrode 50 can be easily disposed inside the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0550] In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving part 43 is formed in the short side direction of the main board 41 as a bottomed cylindrical shape that extends parallel to the length direction of the main board 41.

[0551] With this configuration, the main board 41 and the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 are arranged parallel to each other in the length direction, thus shortening the overall length of the main body unit 2.

[0552] In addition, in this embodiment, the retainer 30 has a subplate 42 that extends from the end of the main board 41 in a direction intersecting the surface of the main board 41 and retains at least one component disposed along the outer surface of the outer casing 12.

[0553] This configuration improves the rigidity of the retainer 30 and saves space.

[0554] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment includes the main body unit 2 described above and a cartridge 3 that contains an aerosol source and can be plugged into the cartridge receiving section 10 of the main body unit 2.

[0555] With this configuration, the main body unit 2, which has a part for inserting and removing the cartridge that can be easily visually identified, is easy to use.

[0556] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0557] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0558] In addition, the following effects can also be obtained in this embodiment.

[0559] The aerosol generating apparatus of this embodiment described above includes: a cylindrical cartridge 3 that houses an aerosol source; a cylindrical cartridge receiving portion 10 that houses the cartridge 3; and a positioning mechanism 90 that positions the cartridge 3 relative to the cartridge receiving portion 10. The positioning mechanism 90 includes: a locking protrusion 43h provided on either the cartridge 3 or the cartridge receiving portion 10 (cartridge receiving portion 10), protruding toward the other (cartridge 3) in the main axis direction extending from the main axis O of the cartridge receiving portion 10, and the width in the circumferential direction around the main axis O decreasing as it moves toward the other; and a locking groove 26i provided on the other side of the cartridge 3 and the cartridge receiving portion 10, into which the locking protrusion 43h can be inserted along the main axis direction.

[0560] Based on this configuration, the positioning feel of the 3rd cartridge becomes smoother.

[0561] Alternatively, the engaging protrusion 43h may be provided on the side of the smoke cartridge 3, and the engaging groove 26i may be provided on the side of the smoke cartridge receiving part 10.

[0562] In addition, in this embodiment, the gap between the inner diameter of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer diameter of the cartridge 3 is greater than 2.6% of the inner diameter of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0563] According to this configuration, the gap between the cartridge receiving part 10 and the cartridge 3 becomes larger, making it easier to introduce the engaging protrusion 43h into the engaging groove 26i.

[0564] In addition, in this embodiment, the gap between the inner diameter of the cartridge receiving portion 10 and the outer diameter of the cartridge is greater than 7.0% of the inner diameter of the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0565] According to this configuration, the gap between the smoke cartridge receiving part 10 and the smoke cartridge 3 becomes larger, making it easier to introduce the engaging protrusion 43h using the engaging groove part 26i.

[0566] In addition, in this embodiment, multiple engagement protrusions 43h and engagement grooves 26i are formed on the same radius centered on the main shaft O.

[0567] According to this configuration, the engaging protrusion 43h is inserted into the engaging groove 26i by the relative rotation of the engaging protrusion 43h and the engaging groove 26i around the main axis O.

[0568] In addition, in this embodiment, there is a suction port 11 that engages with the cartridge receiving portion 10 and has a suction port for absorbing aerosols after atomization of the aerosol source.

[0569] According to this configuration, aerosol can be drawn from the smoke cartridge containment section 10 containing the smoke cartridge 3.

[0570] In addition, in this embodiment, the suction port 11 has a cartridge abutting portion 60 that abuts against the cartridge 3 midway when it engages with the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0571] According to this configuration, the positional displacement of the cartridge 3 can be suppressed during the engagement of the inhalation port 11 with the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0572] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge contact portion 60 presses the cartridge 3 along the main axis direction while the inhalation portion 11 is engaged with the cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0573] According to this configuration, the cartridge 3 can be positioned in the main axis direction by pressing the cartridge contact part 60.

[0574] In addition, in this embodiment, the cartridge contact portion 60 is formed of an elastic resin material.

[0575] Based on this configuration, the elastic deformation of the cartridge contact portion 60 easily generates a frictional force that drives the cartridge 3 to rotate in the circumferential direction, and also easily generates a pressing force that presses the cartridge 3 in the main axis direction.

[0576] In addition, in this embodiment, an annular protrusion 61 is formed on the opposing surface of the cartridge contact portion 60 that is opposite to the cartridge 3.

[0577] According to this configuration, by utilizing the annular protrusion 61, the contact between the cartridge contact portion 60 and the cartridge 3 is not a planar contact, thus increasing the contact pressure and making it easier to exhibit circumferential friction and axial pressing force.

[0578] In addition, in this embodiment, a retainer 30 is provided, which has a receiving portion 43 that can detachably receive the end of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10.

[0579] According to this configuration, the smoke cartridge receiving section 10 can be loaded and unloaded relative to the receiving section 43, making assembly, maintenance, etc., easier.

[0580] The absorber 1 of this embodiment includes the aerosol generating device described above and a fragrance source container 4 installed in the suction port 11 of the aerosol generating device.

[0581] Based on this composition, it is possible to add fragrance to aerosols.

[0582] <Other variations>

[0583] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications to the configuration are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. The present invention is not limited by the foregoing description, but only by the appended claims.

[0584] For example, in the above embodiment, as an example of an aerosol generating device that generates aerosols without combustion, an inhaler 1 detachably configured with a flavor source container 4 was described, but it is not limited to this configuration. Other examples of aerosol generating devices could be configurations like those in electronic cigarettes that do not have a flavor source container 4 (configurations consisting only of an interface tube that does not contain a flavor source). In this case, a flavor-containing aerosol source is contained within the cartridge 3, and a flavor-containing aerosol is generated by the aerosol generating device.

[0585] That is, in the above embodiments, the device that does not have a flavor source container 4 but has a main body unit 2 and a cartridge 3 can also be called an aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the device that does not have a flavor source container 4 and a cartridge 3 but only has a main body unit 2 can also be called the main body unit of an aerosol generating device.

[0586] Furthermore, the aerosol source is not limited to liquids and can also be solid. That is, the main unit of the aerosol generating apparatus may include: a solid aerosol source housing portion that houses the solid aerosol source; an outer casing that surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the solid aerosol source housing portion; and a retaining member housed in the outer casing, the retaining member having: a main board that holds at least one component disposed inside the outer casing; and a receiving portion integrally formed with the main board that receives the end portion of the solid aerosol source housing portion.

[0587] In the above embodiments, the case where the main body unit 2 can be separated from the suction port 11 is described, but it is not limited to this configuration. For example, the power supply 37 and the like can also be modularized and separated from the main body unit 2. In addition, the suction port 11 and the fragrance source container 4 can also be modularized as an integral unit.

[0588] In the above embodiment, the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 is described as having a cylindrical structure that surrounds the smoke cartridge 3, but it is not limited to this structure. The smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 can be configured to hold the smoke cartridge 3. That is, the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and can also be a triangular cylindrical shape, a square cylindrical shape, other polygonal cylindrical shapes, or irregular shapes other than polygonal cylindrical shapes.

[0589] In the above embodiments, the outer casing 12 is described as being integrally formed into a flat, box-shaped structure with rounded corners, but it is not limited to this structure. The shape of the outer casing 12 can also be a cube, other polyhedra, or solids other than polyhedra.

[0590] In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the main unit 2 is started by pressing the input device 15 is described. However, it is also possible to start the main unit 2 by the suction sensing of the sensor 34 without the input device 15.

[0591] Some or all of the above-described embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following.

[0592] (Postscript 1)

[0593] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0594] External housing; and

[0595] A retainer, which is located inside the outer housing,

[0596] The retainer has:

[0597] The first plate, which holds the first component;

[0598] The second plate surface, on the side opposite to the first plate surface, holds a second component that is different from the first component.

[0599] (Postscript 2)

[0600] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0601] The outer housing has a peripheral wall portion connecting a pair of main wall portions; and

[0602] The input device is configured on the peripheral wall portion.

[0603] The peripheral wall portion has:

[0604] The outer surface, which forms a surface with the outer surfaces of the pair of main wall portions; and

[0605] The recessed portion relative to the surface depression,

[0606] The input device is disposed in the recess.

[0607] (Note 3)

[0608] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0609] Smoke cartridge containment section;

[0610] A window is provided in at least a portion of the smoke cartridge receiving section;

[0611] An outer casing that exposes at least a portion of the window and is configured to surround at least a portion of the smoke cartridge housing; and

[0612] A light source, located inside the outer casing, illuminates the smoke cartridge.

[0613] (Postscript 4)

[0614] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0615] The smoke bomb containment section that holds the smoke bombs; and

[0616] An outer casing surrounding at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge housing.

[0617] A slit-shaped air inlet is formed on the outer surface of the outer casing.

[0618] The air inlet is connected to the interior of the smoke cartridge containment via a serpentine airflow path.

[0619] (Note 5)

[0620] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0621] The smoke bomb containment section is used to store smoke bombs.

[0622] An outer casing, which surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge housing and has an opening; and

[0623] An embedded component that is inserted into the opening.

[0624] An air inlet is formed in the gap between the embedded component and the opening.

[0625] An air hole is formed at the location where the embedded component overlaps with the outer housing, allowing the air inlet to communicate with the interior of the smoke cartridge housing.

[0626] (Note 6)

[0627] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0628] The smoke bomb containment section is used to store smoke bombs.

[0629] An outer casing that surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge housing; and

[0630] Embedded components are embedded in the outer housing.

[0631] The embedding component has a protrusion that extends toward the cartridge receiving portion.

[0632] The smoke cartridge receiving part has an engaging part that engages with the protrusion.

[0633] (Note 7)

[0634] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0635] External housing;

[0636] The smoke cartridge containment section, at least a portion of which is surrounded by the outer casing;

[0637] A retainer housed inside the outer casing; and

[0638] A movement limiting component, which is locked to the retaining member, at least restricts the movement of the cartridge receiving portion in the pull-out direction from the outer casing.

[0639] (Postscript 8)

[0640] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0641] The smoke bomb containment section is used to store smoke bombs.

[0642] An outer casing that surrounds at least a portion of the outer side of the smoke cartridge housing;

[0643] The sensor, housed in the outer casing, senses the user's suction.

[0644] A sensor holder, housed within the outer casing, holds the sensor.

[0645] The sensor holder is bent along the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion and is in close contact with the circumferential surface of the cartridge receiving portion.

[0646] (Note 9)

[0647] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0648] The smoke cartridge receiving section has a smoke cartridge insertion / removal port for inserting and removing smoke cartridges, and receives the smoke cartridges; and

[0649] The outer casing housing the component.

[0650] A portion of the cartridge receiving portion, including the cartridge insertion port, protrudes from the outer casing.

[0651] (Postscript 10)

[0652] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0653] A cylindrical smoke cartridge container that holds the smoke cartridge; and

[0654] The engaging protrusion positions the smoke cartridge relative to the smoke cartridge receiving portion.

[0655] The engaging protrusion extends radially from the inner peripheral wall of the cartridge housing toward the inside of the cartridge housing at a dimension greater than 2.6% of the inner diameter of the cartridge housing.

[0656] (Postscript 11)

[0657] A main unit of an aerosol generating device includes:

[0658] A cylindrical smoke cartridge container that holds the smoke cartridge; and

[0659] The engaging protrusion positions the smoke cartridge relative to the smoke cartridge receiving portion.

[0660] The engaging protrusion extends radially from the inner peripheral wall of the cartridge receiver toward the inside of the cartridge receiver by a dimension greater than 7.0% of the inner diameter of the cartridge receiver.

[0661] In addition, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the constituent elements in the above embodiments may be appropriately replaced with known constituent elements, and the above-described variations may also be appropriately combined.

[0662] Industrial availability

[0663] This invention relates to the main unit of an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating device, and a non-combustible absorber, which can prevent users from decomposing the device.

[0664] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0665] 1…Inhaler, 2…Main unit, 3…Cartridge, 4…Flavor source container, 10…Cartridge receiving part, 10a…Cartridge insertion port, 10A…Embedding ring, 10A1…Partial part, 10b…Engaging groove, 10B…Inlet connection part, 10b1…First groove, 10b2…Second groove, 10b3…Third groove, 10b4…Matching hole, 10c…Through hole, 10C…Gutter, 10c1…Rectangular groove, 10C1…Bevel, 10d…Through hole, 10e…Air communication hole, 10g…Gutter, 10h…Protrusion, 11…Inlet part, 11A…Inlet part body, 11a1…Peripheral wall, 11a2…Flange, 11a3…Bottom wall, 11a4…Through hole, 11B…Cylinder, 11b1…Protrusion 12…Outer shell, 12A…Main surface, 12A1…First main surface, 12A2…Second main surface, 12B…Peripheral wall, 12b1…Outer surface, 12B1…First peripheral wall, 12b2…Recess, 12B2…Second peripheral wall, 12C…Corner, 12C1…First corner, 12C2…Second corner, 12C3…Third corner, 12C4…Fourth corner, 12D…Raised portion, 12D1…Deformation transition portion, 12D2…Deformation transition portion, 13…Main shell, 13a…Opening, 13A…First shell, 13a1…Opposing surface, 13b…Opening, 13B…Second shell, 13b1…Opposing surface, 13C…Boss, 13D…Mounting portion, 13… d1…Mounting wall, 13d2…Notch, 13E…Matching claw, 13F…Matching claw, 13G…Housing side protrusion, 13G1…Housing side protrusion, 13H…Slot, 13I…Matching claw, 13J…Housing side protrusion, 13K…Claw receiving part, 13L…Slot, 14…Display cover, 14a…Through hole, 14b1…Clamping claw, 14b2…Clamping claw, 14c…Side wall, 14c1…Insertion hole, 15…Input device, 15a…Switch button, 15a1…Base part, 15a2…Button part, 15a3…Insertion hole, 15b…Switch substrate, 15c…Switch holder, 15c1…Inner diameter side protrusion, 15c2…Outer diameter side protrusion, 16…Window part, 17…Cover part, 1 7A…Main body shell side protrusion, 17B…Plate portion, 17b1…Shell fitting hole, 17C…Cartridge receiving portion side protrusion, 17D…Protrusion, 18…Air inlet, 19…Air hole, 20…Charging terminal, 21…Canister, 21a…Top wall, 21b…Through hole, 21c…Flow path pipe, 21d…Outer peripheral wall, 21e…Rib, 21f…Matching hole, 21g…Liquid receiving chamber, 22…Washer, 22a…Opening, 23…Mesh, 24…Atomizing container, 24a…Peripheral wall, 24b…Matching portion, 24c…Atomizing chamber, 24d…Bottom wall, 24e…Opening, 25…Heating part, 25a…Core, 25b…Heating wire, 25i…Matching groove, 26…Heater holder, 26a…Peripheral wall26b…Clamping tab, 26c…Air inlet, 26d…Bottom wall, 26e…Air inlet, 26f…Isolation wall, 26g…Slit, 26h…Planar electrode, 26i…Clamping groove, 27…Container body, 27a…Peripheral wall, 27b…Step, 27c…Fragrance source containment chamber, 27d…Bottom wall, 27e…Micropore, 28…Filter tip, 30…Holding member, 30a…Through hole, 31…Main substrate, 31a…First plate surface, 31A…First part, 31b…Second plate surface, 31B…Second part, 32…Sub-substrate, 32a…Adhesive sheet, 32b…Opening, 32c…Connecting terminal, 33…Display device, 33a…Display device body, 33b…Display device holding member, 33c…Buffer material Material, 34…sensor, 35…sensor holder, 35A…bent plate portion, 35B…side protrusion of holder, 35C…holding portion, 35D…side protrusion of smoke cartridge receiving portion, 36…oscillator, 36a…eccentric hammer, 37…power supply, 41…main board, 41a…first plate surface, 41b…second plate surface, 41c…opening, 41d…substrate support piece, 41f…clamping claw, 41h1…first end edge, 41h2…second end edge, 42…sub-plate, 42a…clamping piece, 42A…first sub-plate, 42a1…protrusion, 42a2…sub-plate extension protrusion, 42B…second sub-plate, 42b1…wiring groove, 42b2…substrate holder piece, 42b3…sub-plate extension protrusion, 42C…first rib, 42d… Notch, 42D…Second rib, 42d1…First notch, 42D1…Branch, 42d2…Second notch, 42E…Housing fitting part, 42e1…First fitting hole, 42e2…Second fitting hole, 42e3…Clamped piece, 43…Receiving part, 43a…Peripheral wall, 43b…Bottom wall, 43c…Insertion hole, 43d…Annular wall, 43e…Substrate support piece, 43f…Clamping piece, 43g…Step, 43h…Activating protrusion, 43i…Activating protrusion, 43j…Substrate abutment, 44…Pattern, 45…Approximately, 45…Adhesive sheet, 46…Adhesive sheet, 47…Adhesive sheet, 48…Adhesive sheet, 50…Protruding electrode, 50A…Base part, 51…Protruding electrode cover, 51a… 51b…shroud wall, 51c…through hole, 52…light source, 60…smoke cartridge contact part, 60a…first ring part, 60b…cylindrical part, 60c…second ring part, 61…annular protrusion, 62…connecting hole, 70…air groove, 71…annular groove part, 72…stepped groove part, 80…air flow path, 81…waterproof and breathable component, 90…mechanism, 91…first connecting part, 92…second connecting part, 93…third connecting part, 94…fourth connecting part, 100…retaining element unit, D1…inner diameter, D2…outer diameter, D3…dimension, D-D…view direction, O…main shaft, O1…diagonal, P…top, S1…gap, S2…gap, T1…protrusion amount, T2…differential, T3…deflection amount, θ…angle.

Claims

1. A main body unit of an aerosol generating device, characterized by, Possessing: an outer casing having a first main face and a second main face opposite to the first main face; and a housing member housed in the outer casing, the outer casing possesses: a first casing having the first main face and a first peripheral wall portion provided to a peripheral edge of the first main face; and a second casing having the second main face and a second peripheral wall portion provided to a peripheral edge of the second main face, the main unit of the aerosol generating device possesses: a first connecting portion connecting the first peripheral wall portion and the second peripheral wall portion; a second connecting portion threadedly fastening the housing member to an opposite face of one of the first main face and the second main face; and a third connecting portion fusion bonding the housing member to an opposite face of the other of the first main face and the second main face; the second connecting portion includes: a through hole provided to the housing member for threadedly fastening to the opposite face of the one; and a boss portion provided to the opposite face of the one for fixing a screw passing through the through hole.

2. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the connection manner of the first connecting portion includes claw fitting.

3. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number of connection manners of at least one of the first connecting portion, the second connecting portion, and the third connecting portion is different.

4. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing member includes a holder that holds at least a portion of a component provided to an inside of the outer casing.

5. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the holder has: a main plate; and a main plate intersection portion extending in a direction intersecting a plate face of the main plate.

6. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein the main plate intersection portion extends to at least one side in a direction orthogonal to the plate face of the main plate.

7. The main unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein a casing-side protrusion portion for connection of the main plate intersection portion is formed on the opposite face of at least either of the first main face and the second main face. Possessing:

8. An aerosol-generating device comprising: the main unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and a cartridge housing an aerosol source and capable of being inserted and removed in a cartridge housing portion of the main unit. Possessing:

9. A non-combustion suction device, characterized by, the aerosol generating device according to claim 8; and a flavor source container attached to a mouthpiece portion of the aerosol generating device. ​

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