Flavor inhaler and flavor inhalation system

Abstract

There is provided a flavor inhaler comprising: a first enclosure containing consumable material and a heating unit that heats the consumable material; and a second enclosure housing a power source that supplies power to the heating unit. The first enclosure has a proximal end proximate the mouth of the inhaling user and a distal end positioned on an opposite side from the proximal end. The first and second enclosures are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source. When the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, a prescribed portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap with the second enclosure when viewed from the proximal end side along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flavor inhaler and a flavor inhalation system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Flavor inhalers conventionally employ a movement mechanism to move a capsule that houses a heating unit for heating a consumable material and a capsule that houses a power supply (see, for example, PTLs 1 and 2). However, if a novel flavor inhaler configuration is introduced, a new movement mechanism suitable for such a configuration is required.

[0003] LIST OF CITATIONS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] PTL 1: JP 2022-515366 A

[0006] PTL 2: JP 2022-524742 A SUMMARY

[0007] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0008] The present disclosure provides a flavor inhaler and a flavor inhalation system that include a novel relative movement mechanism.

[0009] SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler including: a first capsule that houses a consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second capsule that houses a power supply for supplying power to the heating unit, wherein the first capsule includes: a proximal end that is close to a mouth of an inhalation user; and a distal end that is positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein the first capsule and the second capsule are configured to be able to perform relative movement between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power supply, and when the first capsule and the second capsule are in the second relative position, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first capsule does not overlap with the second capsule as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0011] In a first aspect, the first enclosure housing the heating unit and the second enclosure housing the power source are relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source. Then, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, at least a portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap with the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side of the first enclosure along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler. Accordingly, the first aspect enables relative movement of the two enclosures in a manner such that the distal end of the first enclosure is not obstructed by the second enclosure, which improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler. This degree of freedom can be utilized in various ways, especially in a flavor inhaler having a novel configuration.

[0012] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first aspect, wherein, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the first relative position, at least a portion of a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure overlaps with the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0013] According to the second aspect, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the first relative position, at least a portion of the portion of the distal end of the first enclosure that does not overlap in the second relative position overlaps with the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side of the first enclosure along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler. Accordingly, the second aspect enables relative movement of the two enclosures between the second relative position, in which a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure is open without being obstructed by the second enclosure, and the first relative position, in which at least a portion of the predetermined portion is obstructed by the second enclosure, which further improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler.

[0014] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first and second aspects, wherein the first enclosure further includes a cap portion constituting at least a portion of the distal end and configured to open / close a space housing the consumable material, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, the cap portion is open such that the consumable material is removable from the first enclosure.

[0015] In the third aspect, the cap portion configured to open / close the space housing the consumable material is provided at the distal end of the first enclosure, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, the cap portion can then be open such that the consumable material is removable from the first enclosure. Accordingly, since the third aspect has a configuration in which the cap portion is provided at the distal end of the first enclosure, the flavor inhaler can be configured to allow access to the cap portion when the first enclosure and the second enclosure have moved to the second relative position.

[0016] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third aspect, wherein the first capsule further includes an air intake hole provided at the distal end and inhaling outside air, and an air communication path is formed in the first capsule that enables communication from the air intake hole through the consumable material to the proximal end in a state in which the cover portion is closed.

[0017] In the fourth aspect, the air intake hole for inhaling outside air is provided at the distal end of the first capsule together with the cover portion. In a state in which the cover portion is closed, an air communication path is then formed in the first capsule that enables communication from the air intake hole through the consumable material to the proximal end. According to the fourth aspect, when the first capsule and the second capsule have moved to the second relative position, the distal end of the first capsule that constitutes a distal end portion of the air communication path through the consumable material can thus be accessible. In particular, since debris such as dust from the consumable material is liable to accumulate at the distal end of the first capsule provided with the air intake hole, such debris can be cleaned by exposing the distal end of the first capsule in the second relative position.

[0018] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third aspect and the fourth aspect, wherein the cover portion includes a transparent portion.

[0019] In the fifth aspect, the cover portion includes a transparent portion, the cover portion being provided at the distal end of the first capsule and being configured to open / close a space in which the consumable material is accommodated. According to the fifth aspect, it is thus possible to easily see from the outside whether the consumable material is accommodated inside the first capsule.

[0020] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein an inclined portion that exposes the consumable material is provided at a position in the first capsule that abuts the cover portion.

[0021] In the sixth aspect, the inclined portion that exposes the consumable material is provided to abut the cover portion, the cover portion being provided at the distal end of the first capsule and being configured to enable opening / closing of a space in which the consumable material is accommodated. Thus, the area exposed by the inclined portion is greater than when the exposed portion is provided parallel to the longitudinal direction. Therefore, according to the sixth aspect, it is easier to touch the consumable material when the cover portion is open, and thus it is easier to remove the consumable material.

[0022] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third aspect to the sixth aspect, wherein the second capsule includes a facing portion that faces the cover portion of the first capsule when the first capsule and the second capsule are in the first relative position, and the flavor inhaler further includes a sensing unit for sensing whether the cover portion of the first capsule and the facing portion of the second capsule are facing each other.

[0023] In a seventh aspect, the second capsule comprises a facing portion facing the cover portion of the first capsule when the first and second capsules are in the first relative position, and the flavor inhaler further comprises a sensing unit for sensing whether the cover portion of the first capsule and the facing portion of the second capsule are facing each other. According to the seventh aspect, the sensing unit can thus sense whether the cover portion provided at the distal end of the first capsule is facing the facing portion of the second capsule, or whether the cover portion is exposed without being blocked by the second capsule.

[0024] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the seventh aspect, wherein the sensing unit comprises a magnetic detection unit provided on the cover portion or the facing portion.

[0025] In an eighth aspect, the sensing unit sensing the placement of the cover portion provided at the distal end of the first capsule and the facing portion of the second capsule relative to each other comprises a magnetic detection unit provided on the cover portion or the facing portion. According to the eighth aspect, the placement of the cover portion of the first capsule and the facing portion of the second capsule relative to each other can thus be sensed magnetically.

[0026] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the seventh and eighth aspects, the flavor inhaler further comprising a control unit for controlling the heating unit, wherein the control unit controls the heating unit to prevent the heating unit from performing re-heating in the event that the sensing unit does not sense the non-facing state after the end of use of the consumable material.

[0027] In a ninth aspect, the control unit of the flavor inhaler for controlling the heating unit prevents the heating unit from performing re-heating in the event that the non-facing state, in which the cover portion does not face the facing portion of the second capsule, is not sensed after the end of use of the consumable material. Thus, when the used consumable material is replaced by a new consumable material, the cover portion should go through a process of opening in the non-facing state. According to the ninth aspect, re-heating of the used consumable material can thus be prevented.

[0028] A tenth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first to ninth aspects, the flavor inhaler further comprising a rotation mechanism rotating about a rotation axis, wherein the movement between the first relative position and the second relative position is performed by a rotational movement provided by the rotation mechanism.

[0029] In a tenth aspect, the flavor inhaler further comprises a rotation mechanism having a rotation axis, and the movement between the first relative position and the second relative position is performed by a rotational movement provided by the rotation mechanism. According to the tenth aspect, the movement of the relative positions of the two capsules can thus be achieved by a rotational movement provided by the rotation mechanism.

[0030] A 11th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th aspect, wherein the rotation axis is arranged substantially in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0031] In the 11th aspect, the rotation axis of the rotation mechanism is arranged substantially in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler. According to the 11th aspect, the movement of the relative position of the two capsules can thus be achieved by rotating the first capsule or the second capsule around the rotation axis positioned along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0032] A 12th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th aspect and the 11th aspect, wherein the rotation mechanism is a hinge connecting a distal end of the first capsule and the second capsule, and has a hollow portion through which the rotation axis passes, and a wiring portion electrically connecting the first capsule and the second capsule is provided in the hollow portion of the hinge.

[0033] In the 12th aspect, the rotation mechanism is a hinge connecting a distal end of the first capsule and the second capsule, and a wiring portion electrically connecting the first capsule and the second capsule is provided in the hollow portion of the hinge. According to the 12th aspect, the hinge provided to connect the distal end of the first capsule and the second capsule enables the movement of the relative position of the two capsules, while also accommodating the wiring portion electrically connecting the first capsule and the second capsule, thereby ensuring the electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source.

[0034] A 13th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 12th aspect, wherein the first capsule further includes a control unit for controlling the heating unit, and the hinge is arranged with respect to the first capsule to be positioned closer to the control unit than to the heating unit.

[0035] In the 13th aspect, the control unit for controlling the heating unit is accommodated in the first capsule, and the hinge is arranged with respect to the first capsule to be positioned closer to the control unit than to the heating unit. According to the 13th aspect, the wiring portion accommodated in the hollow portion of the hinge and electrically connecting the first capsule and the second capsule is arranged closer to the control unit than to the heating unit, and thus the influence of the heat from the heating unit on the wiring portion can be limited.

[0036] A 14th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 13th aspect, wherein the heating unit and the control unit are separated from each other in the first capsule, and an end portion on the proximal end side and an end portion on the distal end side of the heating unit are elastically held.

[0037] In the 14th aspect, the heating unit and the control unit are separated from each other in the first enclosure, and the end portion on the proximal side and the end portion on the distal side of the heating unit are elastically held. According to the 14th aspect, it is possible to effectively limit the influence of heat from the heating unit on the control unit (and a wiring portion arranged close to the control unit), while also mitigating the impact on the heating unit if the flavor inhaler is subjected to external impact due to a fall or the like.

[0038] The 15th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th to 14th aspects, in which the operation button is provided on an external face of the first enclosure or the second enclosure, the rotation mechanism is configured to allow rotational movement from the first relative position to the second relative position in only one direction, and the pressing direction of the operation button is established so as not to produce rotational movement of the rotation mechanism in the one direction.

[0039] In the 15th aspect, the operation button is provided on an external face of the first enclosure or the second enclosure, and the rotation mechanism allows rotational movement from the first relative position to the second relative position in only one direction. The pressing direction of the operation button is then established so as not to produce rotational movement of the rotation mechanism in the one direction. That is, pressing the operation button to operate the flavor inhaler does not produce rotational movement of the rotation mechanism. According to the 15th aspect, it is thus possible to prevent unintended relative movement of the two enclosures from being produced by pressing the operation button.

[0040] The 16th aspect of the present disclosure is a consumable material including a flavor source and configured in a thin form, which is heated by the flavor inhaler according to the first to 15th aspects.

[0041] In the 16th aspect, the consumable material used in the flavor inhaler and heated by the heating unit housed in the first enclosure includes a flavor source and is configured in a thin form. According to the 16th aspect, it is thus possible to provide a consumable material having a novel structure, and a flavor inhaler having a novel structure, which employs the consumable material.

[0042] A 17th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhalation system including a consumable material and a flavor inhaler, wherein the consumable material includes a flavor source and is configured in a thin form, the flavor inhaler including: a first enclosure accommodating the consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second enclosure accommodating a power source for supplying power to the heating unit, the first enclosure including: a proximal end close to a mouth of an inhalation user; and a distal end positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein the first enclosure and the second enclosure are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position in a state of maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure is not overlapped with the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0043] In the 17th aspect, the first enclosure accommodating the heating unit and the second enclosure accommodating the power source are relatively movable between the first relative position and the second relative position in a state of maintaining the electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source. Then, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, at least a portion of the distal end of the first enclosure is not overlapped with the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side of the first enclosure along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler. Further, the consumable material heated by the heating unit accommodated in the first enclosure includes a flavor source and is configured in a thin form. Accordingly, the first aspect can achieve relative movement of the two enclosures in a manner such that the distal end of the first enclosure is not blocked by the second enclosure, which improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler. This degree of freedom can be utilized in various ways, especially in a flavor inhalation system having a novel configuration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0044] Figure 1 is an oblique view of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler.

[0046] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a consumable material.

[0047] Figure 3 is an oblique view showing an axis of rotation of the flavor inhaler.

[0048] Figure 4 shows Figure 3 the second enclosure of the flavor inhaler shown is rotated 90° clockwise.

[0049] Figure 5 is an open Figure 4A mid-way view of the operation of the flavor inhaler's lid.

[0050] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 The flavor inhaler shown is in the open position.

[0051] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The image shows a view of a flavor inhaler with consumable materials removed.

[0052] Figure 8A It is along Figure 4 Arrow AA in the diagram shows the cross-sectional view of the first shell.

[0053] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A The first sealed state is shown, with the cover open.

[0054] Figure 8C yes Figure 8B The view shown is of the first shell, in which consumable materials have been removed.

[0055] Figure 9A It is an oblique view showing the area near the far end of the first cover, with the cover open.

[0056] Figure 9B This is a perspective view showing the materials used in the consumables.

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of using magnetism to sense the placement of the lid and the second cover relative to each other.

[0058] Figure 11A This is a flowchart illustrating an example of heating control.

[0059] Figure 11B This is a flowchart illustrating an example of reheat permission control.

[0060] Figure 12A This is a front oblique view of a flavor inhaler, representing a first variant example of an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0061] Figure 12B It shows Figure 12A The first seal of the flavor inhaler shown is rotated 180° counterclockwise.

[0062] Figure 13A This is a front oblique view of a flavor inhaler, a second variant example of an embodiment according to this disclosure.

[0063] Figure 13B It shows Figure 13AThe first shell of the flavor inhaler shown is rotated 60° in a right-handed coordinate system with the positive X-axis as the direction of spiral movement. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] In the accompanying drawings described below, the same or corresponding parts are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0066] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the flavor inhaler 100 according to an embodiment. For ease of description, an orthogonal XYZ coordinate system can be applied to the figures described in this specification. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis points vertically upwards in the flavor inhaler 100 (…). Figure 1 The XY plane is arranged to bisect the flavor inhaler 100 in the horizontal direction, with the Y-axis extending from the front surface to the rear surface of the flavor inhaler 100. The Z-axis may also refer to the insertion direction of the consumable material 20 housed in the first casing 10 (described later), or the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100. Furthermore, the X-axis direction may also refer to the longitudinal direction of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the consumable material 20. The Y-axis direction may also refer to the direction of the shorter side of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the consumable material 20. Additionally, the Y-axis direction may also refer to the thickness direction of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the flavor inhaler 100 includes a first cover 10 and a second cover 50. A mouthpiece 16 protrudes from the first cover 10. The mouthpiece 16 is a component for a user of the flavor inhaler 100 to hold in their mouth for inhalation of flavor. The end portion of the first cover 10 on the side where the mouthpiece 16 is located (i.e., the end portion positioned closer to the user's mouth during flavor inhalation) will be referred to as the proximal end 10A. The side of the first cover 10 opposite to the proximal end 10A (i.e., the end portion positioned farther from the user during flavor inhalation) will be referred to as the distal end 10B. The end portion of the second cover 50 facing the distal end 10B of the first cover 10 will be referred to as the proximal end 50A. The proximal end 50A of the second cover 50 is an example of the facing portion according to this disclosure.

[0068] The first cover 10 also includes a cover 12 configured to be openable / closeable (described in detail later). Cover 12 is an example of a cover portion according to this disclosure.

[0069] The flavor inhaler 100 is configured to heat a plate-shaped consumable material 20 having, for example, a flavor source including an aerosol source (see...). Figure 2B and Figure 9BThis generates a flavored aerosol. As an example, consumable material 20 includes a smokeable substance comprising an aerosol source and a flavor source (such as chopped tobacco or components extracted from tobacco) in a central portion along the Z-axis direction, and a filter in another portion. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. A kit including flavor inhaler 100 and consumable material 20 constitutes an example of a flavor inhalation system according to this disclosure.

[0070] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 The flavor inhaler 100 shown is a cross-sectional view taken along the XZ plane. (See figure) Figure 2A As shown, consumable material 20 and chamber 14 are disposed inside the first casing 10, the chamber being configured to surround and contain the central region of consumable material 20 in the longitudinal direction.

[0071] Although not shown in detail, chamber 14 may be a container comprising an opening through which consumable material 20 is inserted, and cylindrical sidewall portions that receive at least a portion of the consumable material 20. A suitable shape can be chosen for the cylindrical shape of chamber 14 to correspond to the shape of the plate-like consumable material 20. Chamber 14 is preferably formed of a heat-resistant material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and may be, for example, formed of metal (e.g., stainless steel), resin (e.g., PEEK), glass, or ceramic. This allows for efficient heating of the consumable material 20 from chamber 14. Figure 2A In this, the consumable material 20 includes a smokeable substance contained in a portion of the chamber 14, and is configured such that a filter is disposed at two end portions, including an end portion on the proximal end 10A side and an end portion on the distal end 10B side of the portion exposed from the chamber 14.

[0072] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of consumable material 20. (See attached image.) Figure 2BAs shown, the consumable material 20 includes a smokable substance 20A, a filter 20B, and a wrapper 20C. The smokable substance 20A and the filter 20B are disposed in close contact or spaced apart, and are wrapped with the wrapper 20C. The filter 20B includes a filler element filled with cellulose acetate fibers of high or low density, or paper, or the like. The filter 20B filters tobacco smoke (mainstream smoke) when passing after flowing from the smokable substance 20A, and preferably has at least any one of the functions of cooling the tobacco smoke to be inhaled by a user, preventing the smokable substance from dropping out, and preventing external force from crushing the consumable material 20. The filter 20B is not limited to a specific type, and it can be a general filter including a fiber bundle such as cellulose acetate, or a charcoal filter formed by dispersing a sorbent such as activated carbon in the above general filter, or the like. However, the filter can also be a filter other than the general filter or the charcoal filter.

[0073] Although not depicted, a heating element can be disposed on the outer periphery of the side wall portion of the chamber 14, covering at least a portion of the chamber. For example, the heating element can be a heating track. The heating element is configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 14 and heat the consumable material 20 housed in the chamber 14. The kit including the chamber 14 and the heating element is an example of a heating unit according to the present disclosure.

[0074] The flavor inhaler 100 is described above as a device for generating a flavor-containing aerosol by external contact heating of the chamber 14 housing the plate-shaped consumable material 20 by means of a heating element. However, the form of heating of the consumable material in the flavor inhaler according to the present disclosure is not limited only to external contact heating. For example, a flavor-containing aerosol can also be generated by inductive heating of the chamber 14 by means of an induction coil wound around the chamber 14 housing the consumable material 20, with the chamber 14 serving as a susceptor. In this case, the material and shape of the chamber 14 can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, as an example, a susceptor can be disposed inside or in the vicinity of the consumable material 20, and the heating element can also include an induction coil for inductively heating the susceptor.

[0075] Furthermore, as Figure 2A As shown, a control unit 30 for controlling each member of the flavor inhaler 100 is disposed inside the first enclosure 10. The control unit 30 includes a board, which is not depicted. For example, the board can include a microprocessor or the like, and can control the supply of electric power from a power source 52 (to be described later) to the heating element covering the chamber 14. This enables the control unit 30 to control the heating of the consumable material 20 by the chamber 14.

[0076] As Figure 2AAs shown, the power supply 52 is arranged inside the second enclosure 50. The power supply 52 is electrically connected to the board of the control unit 30, and can be, for example, a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. The power supply 52 is electrically connected to the heating element covering the chamber 14 through the board of the control unit 30. This allows the power supply 52 to supply power to the heating element of the chamber 14 to properly heat the consumable material 20.

[0077] Furthermore, as Figure 2A As shown, the hinge 40 is provided between the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50, has a hollow portion and is formed so as to extend across the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50. The hinge 40 is configured to allow the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 to relatively rotate around a rotation axis 42 (a straight line forming a rotation center indicated by a single-dot chain line) substantially parallel to the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the hinge 40 is configured to allow rotation between the first state and the second state, which will be described later. Furthermore, the hollow portion of the hinge 40 is provided at a position through which the rotation axis 42 passes, and the hollow portion joins a space inside the first enclosure 10 and a space inside the second enclosure 50. A wiring portion 44 electrically connecting the control unit 30 in the first enclosure 10 and the power supply 52 in the second enclosure 50 is arranged in the hollow portion. As shown in FIG. 2, the hinge 40 is arranged so that the distance with respect to the control unit 30 is smaller than the distance with respect to the chamber 14 (and the heating element). The hinge 40 is an example of a rotation mechanism according to the present disclosure.

[0078] Furthermore, as Figure 2A As shown, the chamber 14 (and the heating element) and the control unit 30 are separated from each other by a rib inside the first enclosure 10. Although not shown in detail, an end portion of the chamber 14 on the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 (referred to as a first end portion 16A) and an end portion on the distal end 10B side (referred to as a second end portion 17) are elastically held inside the first enclosure 10 by means of elastic bodies 15A and 15B, respectively (see FIG. 1). The first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17 are elastically held by the elastic bodies 15A and 15B, respectively, so as to be able to move in the Z-axis direction. Figure 8A). Specifically, for example, since the first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17 of the chamber 14 contact the front surface and the rear surface of the first enclosure 10 through the elastic bodies 15A and 15B, the first end portion 16A or the second end portion 17 of the chamber 14 can be elastically held. Furthermore, the first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17 are each formed of a resin such as PEEK, and the elastic bodies 15A and 15B that elastically hold the first end portion and the second end portion are formed of a silicone rubber or an EPDM rubber, a urethane rubber, a silicone sponge or an EPDM sponge, or a urethane sponge, or the like, which has a lower thermal conductivity than the resin that forms the first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17. Thus, the first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17 of the chamber 14 are less likely to transmit heat to the first enclosure 10 even if subjected to heat from the heating element. Furthermore, a hole (or a cutout) that is penetrated by a power supply member for supplying electric power from the control unit 30 to the heating element is provided in the rib. The space close to the control unit 30 and the space close to the heating element are linked through the hole, and thus convection of heat generated by the heating element can cause the temperature of the control unit 30 to rise through the hole. Operating many electronic components mounted inside the control unit 30 in a high-temperature environment will result in a shortened lifespan. Thus, the hole provided in the rib is formed as a hole that is small enough such that only the power supply member can pass therethrough, so that convection is less likely to occur.

[0079] Next, the relative rotation of the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 about the rotation axis 42 by means of the hinge 40 will be described with the aid of Figure 3 and Figure 4 Fig. 6. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the rotation axis 42 of the flavor inhaler 100. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the rotation axis 42 of the flavor inhaler 100. Figure 3 The flavor inhaler 100 shown, in which the second enclosure 50 is rotated forward by 90° relative to the first enclosure 10 in a right-handed coordinate system in which the positive direction of the Z-axis is the helical advancement direction (also described below as a clockwise rotation by 90°).

[0080] Figure 3 The state of the hinge 40 shown will be referred to as the first state. In the first state, the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are aligned in the flavor inhaler 100. In other words, if the flavor inhaler 100 in Figure 3 Fig. 6 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, then substantially the entire surface of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 overlaps the second enclosure 50. The entire surface of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 particularly faces the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50. The first state of the hinge 40 is an example of the first relative position according to the present disclosure.

[0081] Figure 4 The state of the hinge 40 shown will be referred to as the second state. In the second state, the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are misaligned in the flavor inhaler 100. In other words, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, only the position at which the hinge 40 is formed at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 overlaps with the second enclosure 50, and another portion (referred to as a predetermined portion of the distal end 10B) does not overlap with the second enclosure 50. That is, in this case, it can be seen that a large portion of the second enclosure 50 protrudes in the positive direction of the Y-axis from the first enclosure 10. The second state of the hinge 40 is an example of the second relative position according to the present disclosure. Figure 4

[0082] The case where the hinge 40 is transitioned from the second state to the first state will be considered. In the transition from the second state to the first state, the second enclosure 50 is rotated 90° in the right-handed coordinate system in which the positive direction of the Z-axis is taken as the helical advancing direction. Figure 4 In the second state of the hinge 40 shown, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, the predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 does not overlap with the second enclosure 50. Meanwhile, in the first state of the hinge 40 shown, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, the predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 overlaps with the second enclosure 50. In other words, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction, the area of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 that overlaps with the second enclosure 50 is smaller in the second state than in the first state. Figure 3 In the second state of the hinge 40 shown, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, the predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 does not overlap with the second enclosure 50. Meanwhile, in the first state of the hinge 40 shown, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, the predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 overlaps with the second enclosure 50. In other words, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction, the area of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 that overlaps with the second enclosure 50 is smaller in the second state than in the first state.

[0083] As described above, the wiring portion 44 for electrically connecting the control unit 30 in the first enclosure 10 and the power supply 52 in the second enclosure 50 is disposed in the hollow portion of the hinge 40. Therefore, the rotational movement of the hinge 40 does not hinder the electrical connection between the two enclosures. That is, during the rotational movement of the hinge 40 between the first state and the second state, the electrical connection between the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 is maintained.

[0084] It should be noted that the rotation provided by the hinge 40 constitutes a relative rotation between the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50. In the transition from Figures 3 to 4 the first state to the second state, the transition to the second state is achieved by the second enclosure 50 being rotated 90° in the right-handed coordinate system in which the positive direction of the Z-axis is taken as the helical advancing direction, but the transition to the second state can also be achieved by the second enclosure 50 being rotated 90° in the right-handed coordinate system in which the negative direction of the Z-axis is taken as the helical advancing direction. Figure 3 The first enclosure 10 of the flavor inhaler 100 shown is rotated 90° in the right-handed coordinate system in which the negative direction of the Z-axis is taken as the helical advancing direction (hereinafter also referred to as a 90° counterclockwise rotation). ​

[0085] However, in this embodiment, hinge 40 is configured to allow rotation in only one direction, i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise; that is, the second cover 50 cannot rotate in either direction. Figure 3 The flavor inhaler 100 shown is rotated counterclockwise. Similarly, the first cover 10 cannot be rotated counterclockwise. Figure 3 The flavor inhaler 100 shown is rotated clockwise.

[0086] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the operation button 54 can be located on the back of the first housing 10 or on an external surface other than the distal end 10B. The operation button 54 cooperates with the control unit 30 and is configured to start or stop heating of the chamber 14 when the heating element is pressed. It should be noted that the operation button can also be located on the external surface of the second housing 50, instead of the operation button 54 located on the first housing 10. For simplified electrical connections, the operation button 54 is preferably located near the control unit 30.

[0087] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the operation button 54 can be specifically located near the end portion of the first cover 10 on the negative X-axis side. When pressed... Figure 3 When the operating button 54 of the flavor inhaler 100 is pressed (when force is applied in the positive Y-axis direction), the point of force (the pressed operating button 54) is located above or near the support point (rotation axis 42), so the rotational torque generated by the pressing force at each point of the first cover 10 is zero or small. Furthermore, clockwise rotation of the first cover 10 is initially restricted, as described above. Therefore, pressing the operating button 54 does not produce rotation of the hinge 40. Meanwhile, if the operating button 54 is positioned near the end portion of the first cover 10 in the positive X-axis direction, a larger distance will exist between the point of force and the support point, and the rotational torque generated by the pressing force at each point of the first cover 10 will increase. Furthermore, counterclockwise rotation of the first cover 10 is unrestricted. Therefore, in this case, pressing the operating button 54 can produce counterclockwise rotation of the first cover 10 (which the user does not intend to do). Although not described in detail, this also applies if the operating button is located on the outer surface of the second cover 50. In other words, the operation button is preferably located near the negative X-axis end portion of the front surface of the second cover 50.

[0088] Next, we will refer to Figures 5 to 7 Describes the opening / closing of cover 12 and the removal of consumable material 20. Figure 5 Is it open? Figure 4 A mid-way view of the operation of the cover 12 of the flavor inhaler 100 shown. Figure 6 It shows Figure 4An open state of the lid 12 of the flavor inhaler 100 shown. Figure 7 is Figure 6 A view of the flavor inhaler 100 shown, in which the consumable material 20 is removed.

[0089] The lid 12 forms a part of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10, and also can open / close one end portion of a space in which the consumable material 20 is housed. The consumable material 20 can be removed from the first enclosure 10 by opening the lid 12 (or a new consumable material 20 can be loaded in the first enclosure 10). As Figures 5 to 7 As shown, when the hinge 40 is in the second state, the position of the lid 12 provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is open without being blocked by the second enclosure 50. In this case, the consumable material 20 housed in the first enclosure of the flavor inhaler 100 can be removed by opening the lid 12.

[0090] Specifically, as Figure 5 shown, the lid 12 fixed in the closed state can be unlocked by sliding the lid 12 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100. It should be noted that, when the hinge 40 is in the first state, the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 faces the second enclosure 50, and thus the lid 12 cannot be slid. When the lid 12 is in the open state as Figure 6 shown, the consumable material 20 housed in the inner space of the first enclosure 10 is exposed. Here, the user can remove the consumable material 20 from the first enclosure 10. As Figure 7 shown, when the consumable material 20 is removed, the inner space of the first enclosure 10, particularly, a slanted portion 32 which will be described later, is exposed.

[0091] The inner space of the first enclosure 10 housing the consumable material 20 and the consumable material 20 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 8A to 9B Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of the first enclosure 10 seen along the arrow A-A in Figure 4 Figure 8B shown, the state of the first enclosure 10 in which the lid 12 is open. Figure 8A Figure 8C is a view of the first enclosure 10 shown, in which the consumable material 20 is removed. Figure 8B Figure 9A is an oblique view showing the vicinity of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10, in which the lid 12 is open. Figure 9B is an oblique view showing the consumable material 20.

[0092] As Figure 8A ​​​​As shown, the first air inlet 24 is located near the proximal end 10A of the first cover 10. Simultaneously, the second air inlet is located on the portion of the cover 12 that forms the distal end 10B. When the user inhales with the mouthpiece 16 held in their mouth, external air flows into the interior space of the first cover 10 through the first air inlet 24 and the second air inlet, forming an air communication path. This allows air to pass through the interior of the consumable material 20 via the second air inlet, through the proximal end 10A of the first cover 10, and the mouthpiece 16, reaching the user's mouth. When the consumable material 20 is heated by the heating element and the chamber 14, the flavor produced by the consumable material 20 is delivered to the user's mouth through this air communication path. It should be noted that the placement of the second air inlet is not limited to... Figure 8A As shown, the placement can be appropriately selected near the distal end 10B of the first enclosure, provided that an air communication path can be appropriately formed.

[0093] In addition, such as Figure 8A As shown, the cover 12 is configured to have an outer cover 12A and an inner cover 12B. The consumable material 20 is contained within the first cover 10 from its head end to its rear end, so transparent portions can be provided in the outer cover 12A and the inner cover 12B to make it easy to distinguish whether the consumable material 20 is contained, thereby allowing the user to see the interior of the closed cover 12 from the outside.

[0094] When cover 12 is opened, as Figure 8B As shown, the end portion of the consumable material 20 on the distal end 10B side of the first cover 10 (the end portion on the negative Z-axis direction) is exposed. Figure 8B It can also be seen from different angles and positions. Figure 6 The diagram shows a view of the first cover 10. With the cover 12 open, the consumable material 20 is exposed within a predetermined angle range.

[0095] like Figure 8C As shown, the inclined portion 32 is disposed in the internal space of the first casing 10, from which the consumable material 20 has been removed. The inclined portion 32 is formed as an inclined surface, rather than a surface parallel to the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the flavor inhaler 100. Figure 8C It can also be seen from different angles and positions. Figure 7 A view of the first cover 10 shown. Figure 8A As shown, the inclined portion 32 is the component facing the inner cover 12B when the cover 12 is closed. The inclined portion 32 increases the exposed area of ​​the consumable material 20 when the cover 12 is open, making it easier for the user to touch the consumable material 20 and making it easier to remove and place the consumable material 20 in the appropriate position.

[0096] It should be noted that the form of the abutment of the lid 12 and the inclined portion 32 is not limited, and a structure in which an elastic body such as rubber or a cushion is interposed between the lid 12 and the inclined portion 32, in which the elastic body is sandwiched in a compressed manner, can also be adopted.

[0097] Figure 9A The vicinity of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is shown, in which the lid 12 is open. The opening 18 for receiving the hinge 40 is provided in the vicinity of the X-axis negative direction side end portion of the distal end 10B.

[0098] As Figure 9B shown, the consumable material 20 according to this embodiment is shaped in a thin form.

[0099] Further, the flavor inhaler 100 can be provided with a mechanism for sensing the rotation state of the hinge 40 and the open / close state of the lid 12. Figure 10 is a schematic view showing an example in which magnetism is used to sense the placement of the lid 12 and the second enclosure 50 relative to each other.

[0100] As Figure 10 shown, a magnet can be mounted on the lid 12 of the first enclosure 10, and a magnetic detection element 56 can be mounted at a position on the second enclosure 50 facing the lid 12. The magnetic detection element 56 is connected to the control unit 30 housed in the first enclosure 10, for example, via a wiring portion 44. Note that a magnet can be mounted on the lid 12 of the first enclosure 10, and a magnetic detection element 56 can be mounted at a position on the second enclosure 50 facing the lid 12. The magnet and the magnetic detection element 56 are examples of the sensing unit according to the present disclosure.

[0101] When the hinge 40 is in the first state and the lid 12 is also closed (1), Figure 10 , the magnet provided on the lid 12 is adjacent to the magnetic detection element 56, and the magnetic detection element 56 thus detects a magnetic property of a certain magnitude greater than a predetermined threshold. In this case, the control unit 30 determines, based on the detection result of the magnetic detection element 56, that the hinge 40 is in the first state and the lid 12 is in the closed state.

[0102] When the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is also closed (2), Figure 10 , the magnet and the magnetic detection element 56 are separated from each other, and the magnetic property detected by the magnetic detection element 56 thus drops below the above-mentioned threshold. In particular, in this case, the control unit 30 can determine, based on the detected magnetic property, that the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is in the closed state.

[0103] Further, when the hinge 40 is in the first state and the lid 12 is also open (3), Figure 10(3) The magnet and the magnetic detection element 56 are also separated from each other, and the magnetic amplitude detected by the magnetic detection element 56 thus drops below the aforementioned threshold. In the same case, the control unit 30 can determine that the hinge 40 is in the first state and the cover 12 is in the open state based on the detected magnetic amplitude.

[0104] Additionally, when hinge 40 is in the second state and cover 12 is also open ( Figure 10 (4) The magnet and the magnetic detection element 56 are also separated from each other, and therefore the magnetic amplitude detected by the magnetic detection element 56 drops below the aforementioned threshold. In the same case, the control unit 30 can determine that the hinge 40 is in the second state and the cover 12 is in the open state based on the detected magnetic amplitude.

[0105] In other words, the control unit 30 can be in all Figure 10 In cases (2) to (4), the state is not determined to be... Figure 10 (1) state (where cover 12 is closed and the first cover 10 and the second cover 50 are in a first relative position). Additionally, if it is necessary to... Figure 10 If any one of (2) to (4) is distinguished, the second magnetic detection element used to detect the magnetism of the magnet should be placed at a certain position inside the first cover 10, at which the magnetism of the magnet is detected when the cover 12 is closed, and the magnetism of the magnet is not detected when the cover 12 is open.

[0106] It should be noted that the magnetic properties of the magnet and the detection sensitivity of the magnetic detection element 56 are appropriately selected so that the control unit 30 can identify the four situations mentioned above. Hall elements or MR elements are suitable as magnetic detection elements 56.

[0107] Then, only when hinge 40 is in the first state and cover 12 is in the closed state ( Figure 10 (1) Heating should only be performed in the flavor inhaler 100 when the temperature is high. The cover 12 is in... Figure 10 In cases (3) and (4), the circuit is open, therefore heating should obviously not be implemented. Meanwhile, in Figure 10 In case (2), the cover 12 is closed, so the user can pull it out. However, considering the ease of grip for the user, this embodiment is described under the assumption that the user only pulls it out when the hinge 40 is in the first state and the cover 12 is also closed.

[0108] The detection results from the magnet and magnetic detection element 56 can also be used by the control unit 30 to control heating. For example, control can be executed such that the cover 12 is closed only when the hinge 40 is in the first state. Figure 10 Heating is enabled only when (1) is activated, and heating is restricted in the other three cases.

[0109] In addition, control can be executed so that after it has been identified that the consumable material 20 has run out, re-heating is not permitted unless the consumable material 20 has been removed and replaced with new material. Specifically, if the control unit 30 identifies that the use of the consumable material 20 is over, the control unit 30 does not implement re-heating unless the detection result from the magnetic detection element 56 indicates that the hinge 40 is in the second state (S2) and the lid 12 is closed (S3) (i.e., the state (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. Figure 10 (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. Figure 10 (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. Figure 10 (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. Figure 10 (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. Figure 10 (2) or (3)). This is because the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, as long as the hinge 40 remains in the first state, the control unit 30 determines that the replacement of the consumable material 20 is not complete and prohibits re-heating. More precise control is also possible. For example, when the consumable material 20 has run out, the control unit 30 can also execute control so that re-heating is not permitted unless the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is closed (S2) has elapsed, then the state in which the hinge 40 is in the second state and the lid 12 is open (S3) has elapsed, then the state in (2) is reached again, and finally the state returns to (1). This is because the above-described steps need to be taken in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20.

[0110] The above describes a detection method that employs a magnet and a magnetic detection sensor 56, but the method for detecting the rotational state of the hinge 40 and the open / closed state of the lid 12 in the flavor inhaler 100 is not limited to a magnetic system. The design can be modified so that detection is appropriately performed by using electrical, optical, or mechanical means, etc. As an example, an engagement mechanism can be provided between the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50, and the rotational state of the hinge 40 can be detected by detecting the engagement state of the engagement mechanism.

[0111] Examples of the heating control and the re-heating permission control implemented by the control unit 30 will be described with reference to Figure 11A and Figure 11B . Figure 11A is a flowchart showing an example of the heating control. Figure 11B is a flowchart showing an example of the re-heating permission control.

[0112] The control unit 30 is configured as a computer that includes a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM, which stores a program for executing the heating control routine and the re-heating permission control routine (these components are not depicted).

[0113] When the user inhales the consumable material 20, the CPU of the control unit 30 reads out the program stored in the ROM to execute Figure 11A the heating control routine shown in Fig. 7.

[0114] First, in step S102, it is determined whether or not a press operation button 54 has been sensed. If a press has been sensed, the routine proceeds to step S104. Meanwhile, if a press has not been sensed, the determination of step S102 is repeated.

[0115] In step S104, heating of the consumable material 20 by the heating element that covers the outer periphery of the side wall portion of the chamber 14 is started.

[0116] In step S106, it is determined whether or not the side wall portion of the chamber 14 has reached a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature is a temperature suitable for heating the consumable material 20 for inhalation by the user. If the determination is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, step S106 is repeated until the determination is affirmative.

[0117] In step S108, a display unit provided on the outer face of the first enclosure 10 of the second enclosure 50 displays that inhalation is possible, thereby prompting the user to start inhalation. For example, the display unit can display a message by means of an LED that emits a predetermined color of light. The routine then proceeds to step S110.

[0118] In step S110, it is determined whether or not the hinge 40 has been sensed to be in the first state. As an example of such sensing, the sensing method described above can be used, which employs a magnet provided on the lid 12 and the magnetic detection element 56 provided on the second enclosure 50. If the determination is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, i.e., if it is determined that the hinge 40 is not in the first state (i.e., the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are not aligned), the heating control routine ends, and the heating of the heating element is forcibly terminated.

[0119] In step S112, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of heating. The predetermined time is a time until the source of flavor in the consumable material 20 has been reduced so that the user can no longer perform a proper inhalation. If the determination is affirmative, the heating control routine ends, and the heating of the heating element is terminated.

[0120] Further, when the user finishes inhaling the consumable material 20, the CPU of the control unit 30 reads out a program stored in the ROM to execute Figure 11B the re-heating permission control routine shown.

[0121] First, in step S122, it is determined whether or not the heating of the chamber 14 by the heating element has ended. If the determination is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step S124.

[0122] In step S124, it is determined whether the lid 12 has been sensed to be closed. If the determination is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the routine proceeds to step S130. In step S130, the display unit displays that the lid 12 is open, prompting the user to close the lid 12, and the routine returns again to step S124. As described above, the display unit can display the message by means of an LED that emits light of a predetermined color.

[0123] In step S126, it is determined whether the hinge 40 has been sensed to be in the first state. As an example of such sensing, the sensing method described above can be used, which employs the magnet provided on the lid 12 and the magnetic detection element 56 provided on the second enclosure 50. If the determination is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step S128. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the routine proceeds to step S132. In step S132, the display unit displays that the hinge is not in the first state (i.e., the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are not aligned), prompting the user to rotate the hinge 14 to reach the first state, and the routine returns again to step S126.

[0124] In step S128, it is determined whether the hinge 14 that is in the first state has been sensed to have passed through the second state. As described above, the hinge 40 must be in the second state and the lid 12 must be open in order to remove and replace the consumable material 20. That is, if the hinge 40 remains in the first state after the heating ends, re-heating should not be allowed because the consumable material 20 has not been replaced. Accordingly, if the determination is negative, the display unit displays a message prompting the user to replace the used consumable material, and the routine returns again to step S124. On the other hand, if the determination is affirmative, the re-heating permission control routine ends. In this case, the user presses the operation button 54 so that re-heating can be performed.

[0125] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described above. In the description given above, if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100 in the first state of the hinge 40, substantially the entire surface of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 overlaps with the second enclosure 50. That is, in the description given above, all portions (predetermined portions) that do not overlap with the second enclosure 50 in the second state of the hinge 40 overlap with the second enclosure 50 in the first state. However, the configuration of the first enclosure and the second enclosure according to the present disclosure is not limited to that described above. For example, there is a recess at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10, and thus even in the first state of the hinge 40, a portion of the second enclosure 50 can not overlap with the second enclosure 50 if the flavor inhaler 100 is viewed from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10. In this case, only a portion (not all) of the portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 that does not overlap with the second enclosure 50 in the second state of the hinge 40 (presumed to be predetermined portions) overlaps with the second enclosure 50 in the first state.

[0126] In addition, in the present disclosure, the first relative position and the second relative position are not necessarily explicitly set, and various cases can be taken. For example, Figure 3 The state in which the hinge 40 in the flavor inhaler 100 has been rotated clockwise by a predetermined angle of less than 90° can be conceived as the first relative position according to the present disclosure. Meanwhile, Figure 4 The state in which the hinge 40 in the flavor inhaler 100 has been rotated counterclockwise by a predetermined angle of less than 90° can be conceived as the second relative position according to the present disclosure. The degree to which the positions can be referred to as the first relative position and the second relative position can be determined by a person skilled in the art as appropriate based on the opening / closing ability of the lid portion. Specifically, in the second relative position, the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is released to the extent that the user can remove or replace the consumable material 20 by operating the lid 12 from the outside.

[0127] Further, in this embodiment, in order to allow the user to inhale the mainstream smoke generated from the consumable material 20 while holding the mouthpiece 16 in his mouth, the above-described configuration enables the consumable material 20 to be inserted into and extracted from the chamber 14 from the distal end 10B side of the first enclosure 10, but a configuration in which the user can inhale the consumable material 20 while holding the consumable material directly in his mouth without passing through the mouthpiece 16 can also be adopted, so that the consumable material can be inserted and extracted from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10. In this mode, a lid should also be provided at the distal end 10B in order to allow the interior of the chamber 14 to be cleaned. Further, the consumable material 20 is exposed in this mode, so that the reheat permission control can be performed without sensing that the hinge 40 has passed through the second state at least once. This is because the consumable material 20 is replaced without rotating the hinge 40 or opening / closing the lid in this mode.

[0128] First variant example

[0129] A first variant example of the embodiment will be described below Figure 12A and Figure 12B with reference to the drawings. Figure 12A is a front oblique view of a flavor inhaler 200 according to the first variant example. Figure 12B is a front view of the flavor inhaler 200 shown in Figure 11A The first enclosure 210 of the flavor inhaler 200 shown in is rotated by 180° (also described below as a 180° counterclockwise rotation) about a rotation axis 242 substantially parallel to the Y axis in a right-handed coordinate system in which the negative direction of the Y axis is taken as the helical advancement direction. Note that components identical or corresponding to those of the above-described embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals, and a repeated description will not be given.

[0130] As shown in Figure 12A , the flavor inhaler 200 according to the first variant example includes a first enclosure 210 and a second enclosure 250. The first enclosure 210 houses a consumable material 20 and a heating device for heating the consumable material 20, while also being provided with a lid 12. The second enclosure 250 houses a power supply 52, while also including a hinge 240. The hinge 240 is a mechanism that allows the first enclosure 210 and the second enclosure 250 to be relatively rotated about a rotation axis 242 substantially parallel to the Y axis direction.

[0131] Figure 12A A first state of the hinge 240 is shown. In this case, if the flavor inhaler 200 is viewed from the proximal end 210A side (from the mouthpiece 16 side) of the first enclosure 210 along the Z axis (i.e., along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200), the entire surface of the distal end 210B of the first enclosure 210 overlaps with the second enclosure 250 (and the hinge 240 forming a part thereof). In this case, the user cannot touch the lid 12 to operate the lid.

[0132] Figure 11B The second state of the hinge 240 is achieved by rotating the first enclosure 210 180° around the rotation axis 242 of the hinge 240 in a right-handed coordinate system with the Y-axis negative direction as the screw advancing direction. In the second state of the hinge 240, the position at which the lid 12 is provided at the distal end 210B of the first enclosure 210 is open and not blocked by the second enclosure 250 (and the hinge 240 forming a part thereof). In this case, the user can open / close the lid 12 and can also remove and replace the consumable material 20.

[0133] Second variant example

[0134] A second variant example of the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 13A and Figure 13B . Figure 13A is a front oblique view of a flavor inhaler 300 according to the second variant example. Figure 13B is a front view of the flavor inhaler 300. Figure 13A The first enclosure 310 of the flavor inhaler 300 shown is rotated 60° around a rotation axis 342 substantially parallel to the X-axis in a right-handed coordinate system with the X-axis positive direction as the screw advancing direction. Note that components identical or corresponding to those of the above-described embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals and a repetitive description will not be given.

[0135] As shown in Figure 13A , the flavor inhaler 300 according to the second variant example includes a first enclosure 310 and a second enclosure 350. The first enclosure 310 houses a consumable material 20 and a heating device for heating the consumable material 20, while also being provided with a lid 12. The second enclosure 350 houses a power supply 52. A hinge 340 is provided between the first enclosure 310 and the second enclosure 350. The hinge 340 is a mechanism that allows the first enclosure 310 and the second enclosure 350 to relatively rotate along a rotation axis 342 substantially parallel to the Y-axis direction.

[0136] Figure 13A A first state of the hinge 340 is shown. In this case, if the flavor inhaler 300 is viewed from the proximal end 310A side (from the mouthpiece 16 side) of the first enclosure 310 along the Z-axis (i.e., along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 300), the entire surface of the distal end 310B of the first enclosure 310 overlaps with the second enclosure 350. In this case, the user cannot touch the lid 12 to operate the lid.

[0137] Figure 13BThe second state of the hinge 340 shown is achieved by rotating the first casing 310 by 60° around the rotation axis 342 of the hinge 340 in a right-handed coordinate system with the positive direction of the X axis as the screwing forward direction. In the second state of the hinge 340, the position at the distal end 310B of the first casing 310 where the cap 12 is provided is open and not blocked by the second casing 350. In this case, the user can open / close the cap 12 and can also remove and replace the consumable material 20.

[0138] When the first casing 210 (310) and the second casing 250 (350) are joined in a manner of rotation around the Y axis or the X axis, as in the first variant example shown in Figure 12A Figure 13A The hinge 240 (340) must be made to protrude from the first casing 210 (310) and the second casing 250 (350) as in the first variant example shown and the second variant example shown. Therefore, when the hinge is to protrude, the rotation direction of the first casing and the second casing should be selected as rotation around the X axis or the Y axis, or when the hinge does not protrude (when the hinge is embedded inside the first casing and the second casing) the rotation direction around the Z axis should be selected. It should be noted that when there is a protrusion like a mouthpiece protruding on the surface of the casing, if the user drops the flavor inhaler, this protrusion can be impacted and the part inside the protruding object needs to be elastically held in the same way as the above-mentioned method of holding the heating unit so that such a part is not easily damaged. Considering avoiding damage due to dropping, from the perspective of avoiding increasing costs due to more elastic bodies, the rotation direction around the Z axis is preferably selected.

[0139] Effects of the embodiments

[0140] ​In an embodiment, the first enclosure 10 housing the chamber 14 connected to the heating element and the second enclosure 50 housing the power source 52 are capable of relative movement between the first state and the second state while maintaining the electrical connection between the heating element and the power source 52. Then, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second state, as seen from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, at least a portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 does not overlap with the second enclosure 50. Therefore, this embodiment enables relative movement of the two enclosures in a manner such that the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is not obstructed by the second enclosure 50, which improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler 100. This degree of freedom can be utilized in various ways, especially in a flavor inhaler 100 with a novel configuration. Increased temperature of the power source 52 results in performance degradation and deterioration, so it is desirable to limit the current at high temperatures, but this current limitation prolongs the time required for heating the consumable material 20. This results in the user performing an operation such that the time between when the current is supplied to the heating element and when the user is able to inhale the flavor is longer, and the user can feel the length of this waiting time. In addition, if the power source 52 is being charged, the current limitation prolongs the charging time. Performance degradation and deterioration of the power source 52 and longer charging time can be avoided because the heating element and the power source 52 are housed in different enclosures, so heat transfer from the heating element to the power source 52 is less likely to occur.

[0141] Furthermore, in an embodiment, when the hinge 40 is in the first state, as seen from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, the portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 that does not overlap in the second state of the hinge 40 (the portion where the hinge 40 is not disposed) overlaps with the second enclosure 50. Therefore, this embodiment enables relative movement of the two enclosures between the second state, in which a predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is not obstructed by the second enclosure 50, and the first state, in which the predetermined portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is obstructed by the second enclosure 50, which further improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0142] Further, in an embodiment, a lid 12 configured to open / close a space in which the consumable material 20 is accommodated is provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10, and when the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are in the second state, the lid 12 can then be opened so that the consumable material 20 can be removed from the first enclosure 10. Accordingly, since this embodiment has a configuration in which the lid 12 is provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10, the flavor inhaler 100 can be configured to allow access to the lid 12 when the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 have moved to the second state. Further, when the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are in the first relative position in which inhalation action is possible, even if the user accidentally drops the flavor inhaler on the floor, the lid 12 will not open, so the consumable material 20 will not be displaced. As a result, the user who has picked up the flavor inhaler 100 can continue the inhalation action.

[0143] Further, in an embodiment, a second air inlet hole for inhaling external air is provided in the lid 12 located at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10. In a state in which the lid 12 is closed, an air communication path is then formed in the first enclosure 10 that enables communication from the second air inlet hole through the consumable material 20 to the proximal end 10A. According to the embodiment, when the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 have moved to the second state, the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 constituting the end portion of the air communication path that penetrates the consumable material 20 can thus be accessible. In particular, since debris such as dust from the consumable material 20 tends to accumulate near the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 provided with the second air inlet hole, such debris can be cleaned by exposing the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 in the second state. Further, the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 provided with the second air inlet hole is not covered by the user's hand gripping the flavor inhaler, so the user's hand can be prevented from blocking the second air inlet hole.

[0144] Further, in an embodiment, the lid 12 includes a transparent portion, which is provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and is configured to open / close a space in which the consumable material 20 is accommodated. According to the embodiment, it is thus possible to easily see from the outside whether the consumable material 20 is accommodated inside the first enclosure 10.

[0145] Further, in an embodiment, the inclined portion 32 exposing the consumable material 20 is provided to abut against the lid 12, which is provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and is configured to enable opening / closing of a space in which the consumable material 20 is accommodated. Thus, the area of the consumable material 20 exposed by the inclined portion 32 is greater than when the exposed portion is provided parallel to the longitudinal direction. Therefore, according to the embodiment, when the lid 12 is opened, it is easier to touch the consumable material 20, making it easier to remove the consumable material 20.

[0146] Further, in embodiments, the second enclosure 50 comprises a proximal end 50A facing the cap 12 of the first enclosure 10 when the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 are in the first state, and the flavor inhaler 100 further comprises a sensing unit for sensing whether the cap 12 of the first enclosure 10 and the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50 are facing each other. According to embodiments, the sensing unit can thus sense whether the cap 12 provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is facing the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50 or whether the cap 12 is exposed without being blocked by the second enclosure 50.

[0147] Further, in embodiments, the sensing unit sensing the placement of the cap 12 provided at the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50 relative to each other comprises a magnetic detection element 56 provided on the cap 12 or at the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50. According to embodiments, the placement of the cap 12 of the first enclosure 10 and the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50 relative to each other can thus be sensed magnetically.

[0148] Further, in embodiments, the control unit 30 of the flavor inhaler 100 for controlling the heating element of the chamber 14 prevents the heating element from performing a re-heating without sensing a non-facing state in which the cap 12 does not face the proximal end 50A of the second enclosure 50 after the use of the consumable material 20 is finished. Thus, when the used consumable material 20 is replaced by a new consumable material 20, the cap 12 should undergo a process of being opened in the non-facing state. According to embodiments, a re-heating of the used consumable material 20 can thus be prevented, and thus an unnecessary power consumption when heating a consumable material without flavor can be avoided.

[0149] Further, in embodiments, the flavor inhaler 100 further comprises a hinge 40 having a rotation axis 42, and the movement between the first state and the second state is performed by a rotational movement provided by the hinge 40. According to embodiments, the movement of the relative position of the two enclosures can thus be achieved by a rotational movement provided by the hinge 40.

[0150] Further, in embodiments, the rotation axis 42 of the hinge 40 is arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100. According to embodiments, the movement of the relative position of the two enclosures can thus be achieved by rotating the first enclosure 10 or the second enclosure 50 around a rotation axis positioned along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0151] Further, in the embodiment, the hinge 40 connects the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50, and the wiring portion 44 electrically connecting the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 is disposed in the hollow portion of the hinge 40. According to the embodiment, the hinge 40 disposed to connect the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 enables the relative positions of the two enclosures to move, while also accommodating the wiring portion 44 electrically connecting the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50, thereby ensuring the electrical connection between the heating element of the chamber 14 and the power supply 52. Further, compared to the configuration in which the hollow portion (also referred to as hollow form) and the wiring portion 44 are arranged at a position through which the rotation axis of the hinge 40 passes, if the wiring portion is arranged around the hinge without the hollow portion being provided (also referred to as solid form), the wiring portion experiences deformation due to being wound around the hinge when the hinge is rotated, and tension is applied at both ends of the wiring portion fixedly connected to the control unit 30 or the like, thereby there is a risk of releasing the fixed connection. Therefore, the configuration in which the wiring portion 44 is arranged in the hollow portion of the hinge 40 enables the wiring portion 44 to twist and deform within the hollow portion, so that the tension applied at both ends can be minimized, thereby reducing the cause of releasing the fixed connection.

[0152] Further, in the embodiment, the control unit 30 for controlling the heating element of the chamber 14 is accommodated in the first enclosure 10, and the hinge 40 is arranged with respect to the first enclosure 10 to be positioned closer to the control unit 30 than to the chamber 14 and the heating element. According to the embodiment, the wiring portion 44 accommodated in the hollow portion of the hinge 40 and electrically connecting the first enclosure 10 and the second enclosure 50 is arranged closer to the control unit 30 than to the chamber 14, and thus the heat convection path between the chamber 14 and the wiring portion 44 and between the chamber 14 and the power supply 52 can be lengthened, so that the influence of heat from the chamber 14 on the wiring portion 44 can be limited.

[0153] Further, in the embodiment, in the first casing 10, the chamber 14 and the control unit 30 are separated from each other by the ribs (shown in Fig. 2) of the first casing 10, and the first end portion 16A on the proximal end 10A side and the second end portion 17 on the distal end 10B side of the chamber 14 are elastically held by means of the elastic members 15A and 15B having lower thermal conductivity than the resin material forming the first end portion 16A and the second end portion 17. According to the embodiment, convection of heat from the chamber 14 is less likely to occur, and heat transfer to the first casing 10 is also less likely to occur, and thus it is possible to effectively limit the thermal effect on the control unit 30 (and the wiring portion 44 arranged close to the control unit 30) while also mitigating the impact on the chamber 14 if the flavor inhaler 100 is subjected to external impact due to a fall or the like. Further, the space close to the control unit 30 and the space close to the heating element are connected only via the hole in the ribs of the first casing 10, which is passed through by the power supply member for supplying power from the control unit 30 to the heating element, and which is small enough that only the power supply member can pass therethrough, and thus makes convection less likely, and thus it is possible to mitigate the temperature rise of the board.

[0154] Further, in the embodiment, the hinge 40 allows rotational movement from the first state to the second state in only one direction. Then the pressing direction of the operation button 54 provided on the outer face of the first casing 10 is established so as not to generate rotational movement of the hinge 40 in said one direction. That is, pressing the operation button 54 to operate the flavor inhaler 100 does not generate rotational movement of the hinge 40. According to the embodiment, it is thus possible to prevent pressing the operation button 54 from generating relative movement of the two casings that the user does not intend.

[0155] Further, in the embodiment, the consumable material 20 used in the flavor inhaler 100 and heated by the chamber 14 housed in the first casing 10 includes a flavor source and is configured in a thin form. According to the embodiment, it is thus possible to provide a consumable material 20 having a novel structure, and a flavor inhaler 100 employing the consumable material 20 having a novel structure.

[0156] Further, in embodiments, the first enclosure 10 housing the chamber 14 and the second enclosure 50 housing the power source 52 are relatively movable between the first state and the second state while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating element of the chamber 14 and the power source 52. Then, when the first and second enclosures are in the second state, as seen from the proximal end 10A side of the first enclosure 10 along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100, at least a portion of the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 does not overlap with the second enclosure 50. Further, the consumable material 20 heated by the chamber 14 housed in the first enclosure 10 comprises a flavor source and is configured in a thin form. Thus, this embodiment can achieve relative movement of the two enclosures in a manner such that the distal end 10B of the first enclosure 10 is not obstructed by the second enclosure 50, which improves the degree of freedom of the configuration of the flavor inhaler 100. This degree of freedom can be utilized in various ways, especially in a flavor inhalation system having a novel configuration.

[0157] Embodiments and two variant examples of the present disclosure are described above, but the present disclosure is not limited to those embodiments and variant examples, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical idea disclosed in the claims, the specification, and the drawings. Further, any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or the drawings is also within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure, as long as it exhibits the effects of the present disclosure.

[0158] Note 1

[0159] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler comprising: a first enclosure housing a consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second enclosure housing a power source for supplying power to the heating unit, wherein the first enclosure includes: a proximal end proximate to a mouth of an inhalation user; and a distal end positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein the first enclosure and the second enclosure are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap with the second enclosure.

[0160] Note 2

[0161] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first aspect, wherein when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the first relative position, as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler, at least a portion of the predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure overlaps with the second enclosure.

[0162] Note 3

[0163] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first and second aspects, wherein the first enclosure further includes a cover portion constituting at least a portion of the distal end and configured to open / close a space in which the consumable material is accommodated, and the cover portion is opened when the first and second enclosures are in the second relative position, so that the consumable material is removable from the first enclosure.

[0164] Note 4

[0165] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third aspect, wherein the first enclosure further includes an air inlet hole provided at the distal end and inhaling external air, and an air communication path is formed in the first enclosure so as to be communicable from the air inlet hole through the consumable material to the proximal end in a state in which the cover portion is closed.

[0166] Note 5

[0167] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third and fourth aspects, wherein the cover portion includes a transparent portion.

[0168] Note 6

[0169] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third to fifth aspects, wherein a slanted portion exposing the consumable material is provided in the first enclosure at a position adjacent to the cover portion.

[0170] Note 7

[0171] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the third to sixth aspects, wherein the second enclosure includes a facing portion facing the cover portion of the first enclosure when the first and second enclosures are in the first relative position, and the flavor inhaler further includes a sensing unit for sensing whether the cover portion of the first enclosure and the facing portion of the second enclosure are facing each other.

[0172] Note 8

[0173] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the seventh aspect, wherein the sensing unit includes a magnetic detection unit provided on the cover portion or the facing portion.

[0174] Note 9

[0175] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the seventh and eighth aspects, further including a control unit for controlling the heating unit, wherein the control unit controls the heating unit to prevent the heating unit from performing re-heating in a case where the sensing unit does not sense the non-facing state after use of the consumable material is ended.

[0176] Note 10

[0177] A 10th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the first to ninth aspects, further comprising a rotation mechanism that rotates about a rotation axis, wherein the movement between the first relative position and the second relative position is performed by a rotational movement provided by the rotation mechanism.

[0178] Note 11

[0179] A 11th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th aspect, wherein the rotation axis is arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0180] Note 12

[0181] A 12th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th and 11th aspects, wherein the rotation mechanism is a hinge that connects a distal end of the first enclosure and the second enclosure, and has a hollow portion through which the rotation axis passes, and a wiring portion that electrically connects the first enclosure and the second enclosure is provided in the hollow portion of the hinge.

[0182] Note 13

[0183] A 13th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 12th aspect, wherein the first enclosure further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating unit, and the hinge is arranged with respect to the first enclosure to be positioned closer to the control unit than to the heating unit.

[0184] Note 14

[0185] A 14th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 13th aspect, wherein the heating unit and the control unit are separated from each other in the first enclosure, and the heating unit is elastically held at an end portion on the proximal side and at an end portion on the distal side.

[0186] Note 15

[0187] A 15th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhaler according to the 10th to 14th aspects, wherein an operation button is provided on an outer face of the first enclosure or the second enclosure, the rotation mechanism is configured to allow rotational movement from the first relative position to the second relative position in only one direction, and a pressing direction of the operation button is established so as not to generate rotational movement of the rotation mechanism in said one direction.

[0188] Note 16

[0189] A 16th aspect of the present disclosure is a consumable material including a flavor source and configured in a thin form, the consumable material being heated by the flavor inhaler according to the first to 15th aspects.

[0190] Note 17

[0191] A 17th aspect of the present disclosure is a flavor inhalation system including a consumable material and a flavor inhaler, wherein the consumable material includes a flavor source and is configured in a thin form, the flavor inhaler including: a first enclosure accommodating the consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second enclosure accommodating a power source for supplying power to the heating unit, the first enclosure including: a proximal end close to a mouth of an inhalation user; and a distal end positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein the first enclosure and the second enclosure are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0192] List of Reference Signs

[0193] 10 first enclosure

[0194] 10A proximal end

[0195] 10B distal end

[0196] 12 cover

[0197] 12A outer cover

[0198] 12B inner cover

[0199] 14 chamber

[0200] 15A elastomer

[0201] 15B elastomer

[0202] 16 mouthpiece

[0203] 16A first end portion

[0204] 17 second end portion

[0205] 18 opening

[0206] 20 consumable material

[0207] 20A smokeable substance

[0208] 20B filter

[0209] 20C wrapping paper

[0210] 24 first air inlet hole

[0211] 30 control unit

[0212] 32 inclined portion

[0213] 40 hinge

[0214] 42 rotation axis

[0215] 44 wiring portion

[0216] 50 second housing

[0217] 50A proximal end

[0218] 52 power supply

[0219] 54 operation button

[0220] 56 magnetic detection element

[0221] 100 flavor inhaler

[0222] 200 flavor inhaler

[0223] 210 first housing

[0224] 240 hinge

[0225] 242 rotation axis

[0226] 250 second housing

[0227] 300 flavor inhaler

[0228] 310 first housing

[0229] 340 hinge

[0230] 342 rotation axis

[0231] 350 second housing

Claims

1. A flavour inhaler comprising: a first enclosure accommodating a consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second enclosure accommodating a power source for supplying power to the heating unit, wherein the first enclosure includes: a proximal end close to a user's mouth in inhalation; and a distal end positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein the first enclosure and the second enclosure are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side along a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

2. The flavor inhaler of claim 1, wherein, when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the first relative position, at least a portion of the predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure overlaps the second enclosure as seen from the proximal end side along the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

3. The flavor inhaler of claim 1 or 2, wherein, the first enclosure further includes a lid portion constituting at least a portion of the distal end and configured to open / close a space accommodating the consumable material, and when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, the lid portion is open so that the consumable material can be removed from the first enclosure.

4. The flavor inhaler of claim 3, wherein, the first enclosure further includes an air inlet hole provided at the distal end and inhaling external air, and an air communication path that enables communication from the air inlet hole through the consumable material to the proximal end is formed in the first enclosure in a state where the lid portion is closed.

5. A flavour inhaler as claimed in claim 3 or 4 wherein, the lid portion includes a transparent portion.

6. The flavor inhaler of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, an inclined portion exposing the consumable material is provided at a position adjacent to the lid portion in the first enclosure.

7. A flavour inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 6 wherein, the second enclosure includes a facing portion facing the lid portion of the first enclosure when the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the first relative position, and the flavor inhaler further includes a sensing unit for sensing whether the lid portion of the first enclosure and the facing portion of the second enclosure are facing each other.

8. The flavor inhaler of claim 7, wherein, the sensing unit includes a magnetic detection unit provided on the lid portion or the facing portion.

9. The flavor inhaler of claim 7 or 8, further comprising a control unit for controlling the heating unit, wherein, the control unit controls the heating unit to prevent the heating unit from performing re-heating in a case where the sensing unit does not sense a non-facing state after use of the consumable material is ended.

10. The flavor inhaler of any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a rotation mechanism rotating around a rotation axis, wherein the movement between the first relative position and the second relative position is performed by a rotational movement provided by the rotation mechanism.

11. The flavor inhaler of claim 10, wherein, the rotation axis is arranged substantially in parallel to a longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

12. The flavor inhaler of claim 10 or 11, wherein, the rotation mechanism is a hinge connecting the distal end of the first enclosure and the second enclosure and having a hollow portion through which the rotation axis passes, and a wiring portion electrically connecting the first enclosure and the second enclosure is provided in the hollow portion of the hinge.

13. The flavor inhaler of claim 12, wherein, The first enclosure further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating unit, and The hinge is arranged relative to the first enclosure to be positioned closer to the control unit than to the heating unit.

14. The flavor inhaler of claim 13, wherein, The heating unit and the control unit are separated from each other in the first enclosure, and The heating unit is elastically held at an end portion on the proximal side and at an end portion on the distal side.

15. The flavor inhaler of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein, An operation button is provided on an outer face of the first enclosure or the second enclosure, The rotation mechanism is configured to allow rotational movement from the first relative position to the second relative position in only one direction, and A pressing direction of the operation button is established so as not to cause rotational movement of the rotation mechanism in said one direction.

16. A consumable material comprising a flavour source and being configured in a thin form, the consumable material being heated by a flavour inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A flavour inhalation system comprising a consumable material and a flavour inhaler, wherein The consumable material comprises a flavour source and is configured in a thin form, The flavour inhaler comprises: a first enclosure accommodating the consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material; and a second enclosure accommodating a power source for supplying power to the heating unit, The first enclosure comprises: a proximal end proximal to a mouth of an inhalation user; and a distal end positioned on a side opposite to the proximal end, and wherein The first enclosure and the second enclosure are configured to be relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position while maintaining an electrical connection between the heating unit and the power source, and When the first enclosure and the second enclosure are in the second relative position, a predetermined portion of the distal end of the first enclosure does not overlap with the second enclosure as seen along a longitudinal direction of the flavour inhaler from the proximal side.

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