Method for producing flavor producer and flavor producer

Abstract

A method of producing a flavor producer is provided. The production method includes a supplying step for supplying a flavor sheet, a dicing step for dicing at least a portion of the flavor sheet, a step for disposing the diced flavor sheet on an outer surface of a support, and a step for covering the outer surface of the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support with a covering sheet.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a smoking article and a method for producing a flavor generating body and a flavor generating body. BACKGROUND

[0002] Flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors and the like without burning materials are conventionally known. The flavor inhaler includes, for example, a chamber that accommodates a flavor generating article and a heater for heating the flavor generating article accommodated in the chamber (see, for example, PTL 1).

[0003] LIST OF CITATIONS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] PTL 1: WO 2020 / 084775 A1 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS

[0007] An object of the present application is to provide a method for producing a flavor generating body.

[0008] SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0009] The first aspect provides a smoking system including a smoking article and a flavor inhaler for heating the smoking article. The smoking article includes a flavor source that generates a flavor and a gap portion disposed adjacent to the flavor source in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction. The flavor inhaler includes a chamber that accommodates the smoking article and a support portion that supports a tip of the smoking article when the smoking article is accommodated in the chamber. The support portion is configured to allow air to be introduced from the tip of the smoking article into the flavor source while preventing the air from flowing into the gap portion.

[0010] According to the first aspect, with respect to the flavor source that is partially disposed in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the support portion prevents the air from flowing into the gap portion, thereby allowing the air to be preferentially introduced from the tip of the smoking article into the flavor source. This allows a vapor or an aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source to be efficiently delivered to a user. It should be noted that, in the present specification, the “longitudinal direction” can refer to a direction of air flow, a longitudinal direction of the smoking article, a direction in which the smoking article is inserted into the flavor inhaler, or a longitudinal direction of the chamber.

[0011] The essence of the second aspect is that, in the first aspect, the support portion overlaps at least a portion of the gap portion when viewed from the longitudinal direction of the smoking article when the smoking article is accommodated in the chamber.

[0012] According to the second aspect, the arrangement in which the support portion overlaps at least a portion of the gap portion in the longitudinal direction makes it possible to prevent the air from flowing directly from the tip of the smoking article into the gap portion.

[0013] The third aspect is based on the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the flavor source is tubular, and the void portion is located inside the flavor source.

[0014] According to the third aspect, since the flavor source is located on the outside of the smoking article and the void portion is located on the inside of the smoking article, the flavor source can be efficiently heated when the smoking article is heated from the outside in the flavor inhaler. Further, when using the flavor inhaler that heats the smoking article from the outside, since the flavor source is not provided on the inside of the smoking article, which is a location that is not favorable for heat transfer and is not easy to contribute to vapor or aerosol generation, it is possible to save the amount of the flavor source while suppressing the reduction in the amount of vapor or aerosol.

[0015] The fourth aspect is based on the third aspect, wherein if a thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is T, and a size of a gap between an outer edge of the support portion and an outer periphery of the smoking article, as viewed from the longitudinal direction, when the smoking article is accommodated in the chamber, is R, then T > R.

[0016] According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to suppress the inward diffusion of air flowing in from the vicinity of the outer periphery of the smoking article, thereby allowing more efficient supply of air to the aerosol source. It should be noted that if a tip plug is provided upstream of the flavor source, air can be more reliably supplied to the flavor source even if the air diffuses in the tip plug.

[0017] The fifth aspect is based on the third aspect, wherein if a thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is T, and a size of a gap between an outer edge of the support portion and an outer periphery of the smoking article, as viewed from the longitudinal direction, when the smoking article is accommodated in the chamber, is R, then R > T.

[0018] According to the fifth aspect, the proportion of the amount of air flowing into the void portion with respect to the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article can be increased, thereby making it possible to suppress the reduction in the temperature of the flavor source. Further, since the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article can be increased, it is possible to supply more aerosol generated from the flavor source. It should be noted that if a tip plug is provided upstream of the flavor source, it is preferable to use a thick filter paper as the tip plug. In this case, the diffusion of air in the tip plug is suppressed, and air can be more reliably supplied to the flavor source located in the vicinity of the outer periphery of the smoking article.

[0019] The sixth aspect is based on any one of the third aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein a thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm.

[0020] If the thickness is less than 1.0 mm, there is a risk that the aerosol source will be exhausted too quickly when the flavor source is heated. If the thickness is greater than 2.5 mm, there is a risk that heat will not be sufficiently transferred when the flavor source is heated. According to the sixth aspect, the aerosol source can be sufficiently supported by the flavor source, and the aerosol source contained in the flavor source can be sufficiently heated, thereby achieving good aerosol supply. It should be noted that, in this case, the outer diameter of the smoking article is preferably, for example, 7 mm, and the inner diameter of the flavor source (the diameter of the hollow portion) is preferably 3.5 mm. Meanwhile, the inner diameter of the flavor source can be approximately 2.0 mm. If the inner diameter of the flavor source is too small, the thickness of the flavor source increases, and the distance between the heat source located at the outer periphery of the flavor source and the innermost surface of the flavor source increases, making it difficult to heat efficiently. It should be noted that, if the flavor source is made of a single sheet, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the thickness of the sheet. Meanwhile, if the flavor source is, for example, crimped and has a three-dimensional thickness, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the height of the flavor source in the radial direction (the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter if the flavor source is cylindrical). For example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 0.1 mm or greater, more preferably 0.3 mm or greater, even more preferably 0.5 mm or greater. Similarly, for example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less.

[0021] The seventh aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the ratio between the amount of air passing through the flavor source in a predetermined time and the amount of air passing through the hollow portion in the predetermined time is between 1 : 0 and 1 : 3.

[0022] According to the seventh aspect, air can be reliably supplied to the flavor source. Furthermore, since air is allowed to pass through the hollow portion, the air passing through the hollow portion can be used to cool or dilute the vapor or aerosol. It should be noted that, if the proportion of air passing through the flavor source is 100% of the total (i.e., the above ratio is 1 : 0), it is preferable to provide a separate air introduction opening (vf) in the smoking article for adding a vapor or aerosol cooling function.

[0023] The eighth aspect is based on the fact that, in the first to seventh aspects, the area of the support portion, as viewed from the longitudinal direction, is greater than the area of the hollow portion, as viewed from the longitudinal direction, when the smoking article is accommodated in the chamber.

[0024] According to the eighth aspect, since the area of the support portion is larger than the area of the void portion, by ensuring that the support portion sufficiently overlaps with the void portion when viewed from the longitudinal direction, inflow of air that has flowed in from the end of the smoking article into the void portion can be suppressed (prevented). It should be noted that the area of the support portion referred to here can be the area of the portion that is in contact with the smoking article.

[0025] The essence of the ninth aspect lies in that, in the first aspect to the eighth aspect, the smoking article has an end plug located upstream of the flavor source, and the support portion is configured to be in contact with the end plug to support the smoking article.

[0026] According to the ninth aspect, since the end of the flavor source is covered by the end plug, the flavor source can be prevented from falling out of the smoking article. Further, since the support portion can be prevented from coming into contact with the relatively fragile flavor source, the flavor source can be prevented from being damaged.

[0027] The essence of the tenth aspect lies in that, in the ninth aspect, the length of the end plug in the longitudinal direction is 10 mm or less.

[0028] According to the tenth aspect, reducing the length of the end plug makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed in from the end of the smoking article in the end plug. Thus, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has been prevented from flowing into the void portion by the support portion in the end plug and into the void portion. It should be noted that the length of the end plug is more preferably 8 mm or less, and even more preferably 5 mm or less.

[0029] The essence of the eleventh aspect lies in that, in the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect, the length of the end plug in the longitudinal direction is 1 mm or more.

[0030] During production, the end plug can be produced to a predetermined length, and then cut to any length. If the length of the end plug is less than 1 mm, there is a risk that the shape cannot be maintained during cutting, and there is a risk of, for example, deformation such as crushing. According to the eleventh aspect, the end plug can be relatively easily produced. It should be noted that the length of the end plug is more preferably 3 mm or more from the viewpoint of ease of manufacture.

[0031] The essence of the twelfth aspect lies in that, in the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, the end plug includes filter paper.

[0032] According to the twelfth aspect, compared to the case where an acetate fiber filter or the like is used as the end plug, it is possible to reduce the environmental load. In particular, when filter paper having a lower density than an acetate fiber filter is used, compared to the case where an acetate fiber filter is used as the end plug, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed into the end plug. For example, for filter paper having an outer diameter of 7 mm, the basis weight of the paper sheet is preferably 35 g / m 2 to 40 g / m2 The width of the paper sheet is preferably 140 mm to 240 mm. When the paper sheet is crimped, the diffusion of air can be effectively prevented by setting the crimping depth to a maximum value of about 0.3 mm.

[0033] The essence of the 13th aspect lies in that, in any one of the first aspect to the 12th aspect, the smoking article includes a support body located between the flavor source and the interstitial space.

[0034] The essence of the 14th aspect lies in that, in any one of the first aspect to the 13th aspect, the flavor inhaler includes a tubular member that extends into the interstitial space portion when the smoking article is housed in the chamber, and that is configured to introduce air into the interstitial space portion.

[0035] According to the 14th aspect, since air can be introduced into the interstitial space portion by the tubular member, cooling of the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor source can be facilitated. It should be noted that the tubular member can be configured to communicate with the outside of the chamber to introduce air from the outside of the chamber into the interstitial space portion, or can be configured to communicate with a space inside the chamber to introduce air from the inside of the chamber into the interstitial space portion.

[0036] The essence of the 15th aspect lies in that, in the first aspect to the 14th aspect, the support portion has a protruding portion that extends in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, and that, when the smoking article is housed in the chamber, overlaps a portion of an outer periphery of the smoking article as viewed in the longitudinal direction.

[0037] If the support portion only supports the flavor source (or tip plug), pressure is applied locally, and thus there is a risk that the flavor source (or tip plug) deforms. According to the 15th aspect, since the protruding portion is in contact with the outer periphery of the smoking article (e.g., the wrapper), the support portion can more stably support the smoking article, and prevent deformation of the flavor source (or tip plug) to a greater extent, as compared to the case where the support portion only supports the flavor source (or tip plug).

[0038] According to the 16th aspect, a smoking article is provided. The smoking article includes: a flavor source that generates a flavor; an interstitial space portion that is disposed adjacent to the flavor source in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction; and a blocking portion that is located upstream of the flavor source, and that blocks the flow of air into the interstitial space portion while allowing air to be introduced from a tip of the smoking article into the flavor source.

[0039] According to the 16th aspect, with the flavor source partially disposed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the blocking portion blocks the inflow of air into the gap portion, thereby allowing air to be preferentially introduced from the tip of the smoking article into the flavor source. This allows vapor or aerosol containing a flavor generated by the flavor source to be efficiently delivered to the user. Note that in the present specification, the "longitudinal direction" can refer to the direction of air flow, the longitudinal direction of the smoking article, or the direction in which the smoking article is inserted into the flavor inhaler.

[0040] The 17th aspect is based on the 16th aspect, in which the blocking portion overlaps at least a portion of the gap portion as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the smoking article.

[0041] According to the 17th aspect, the arrangement in which the blocking portion overlaps at least a portion of the gap portion in the longitudinal direction makes it possible to block the direct inflow of air from the tip of the smoking article into the gap portion.

[0042] The 18th aspect is based on the 16th aspect or the 17th aspect, in which the flavor source is tubular, and the gap portion is located inside the flavor source.

[0043] According to the 18th aspect, since the flavor source is located on the outside of the smoking article and the gap portion is located on the inside of the smoking article, the flavor source can be efficiently heated when the smoking article is heated from the outside in the flavor inhaler. Furthermore, when using a flavor inhaler that heats the smoking article from the outside, since the flavor source is not disposed on the inside of the smoking article, which is a location that is not conducive to heat transfer and is not easily conducive to vapor or aerosol generation, it is possible to save the amount of flavor source while suppressing a reduction in the amount of vapor or aerosol.

[0044] The 19th aspect is based on the 18th aspect, in which if the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is T, and the size of the gap between the blocking portion and the outer periphery of the smoking article as viewed in the longitudinal direction is R, then T > R.

[0045] According to the 19th aspect, it is possible to suppress the inward diffusion of air that has flowed in from the vicinity of the outer periphery of the smoking article, thereby allowing air to be more efficiently supplied to the aerosol source. Note that if a tip plug is disposed upstream of the flavor source, air can be more reliably supplied to the flavor source even if the air diffuses in the tip plug.

[0046] The 20th aspect is based on the 18th aspect, in which if the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is T, and the size of the gap between the blocking portion and the outer periphery of the smoking article as viewed in the longitudinal direction is R, then R > T.

[0047] According to the 20th aspect, the proportion of the amount of air flowing into the gap portion with respect to the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article can be increased, whereby it is possible to suppress a decrease in the temperature of the flavor source. Further, since the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article can be increased, it is possible to supply more aerosol generated from the flavor source. It should be noted that if the tip plug is provided upstream of the flavor source, it is preferable to use thick filter paper as the tip plug. In this case, the diffusion of air in the tip plug is suppressed, and air can be more reliably supplied to the flavor source located near the outer periphery of the smoking article.

[0048] The 21st aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 18th to 20th aspects, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm.

[0049] If the thickness is less than 1.0 mm, there is a risk that the aerosol source will be depleted too quickly when the flavor source is heated. If the thickness is greater than 2.5 mm, there is a risk that heat will not be sufficiently transferred when the flavor source is heated. According to the 21st aspect, the aerosol source can be sufficiently supported by the flavor source, and the aerosol source contained in the flavor source can be sufficiently heated, thereby achieving good aerosol supply. It should be noted that in this case, the outer diameter of the smoking article is preferably, for example, 7 mm, and the inner diameter of the flavor source (the diameter of the gap portion) is preferably 3.5 mm. Meanwhile, the inner diameter of the flavor source can be approximately 2.0 mm. If the inner diameter of the flavor source is too small, the thickness of the flavor source increases, and the distance from the heat source located at the outer periphery of the flavor source increases, making it difficult to heat efficiently. It should be noted that if the flavor source is made of a single sheet, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the thickness of the sheet. Meanwhile, if the flavor source is, for example, crimped and has a three-dimensional thickness, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the height of the flavor source in the radial direction (the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter if the flavor source is cylindrical). For example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 0.1 mm or greater, more preferably 0.3 mm or greater, even more preferably 0.5 mm or greater. Similarly, for example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less.

[0050] The 22nd aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 16th to 21st aspects, the ratio between the amount of air that passes through the flavor source in a predetermined time and the amount of air that passes through the gap portion in the predetermined time is between 1:0 and 1:3.

[0051] According to the 22nd aspect, air can be reliably supplied to the flavor source. Further, since air is allowed to pass through the gap portion, the air passing through the gap portion can be used to cool or dilute the vapor or aerosol. It should be noted that if the proportion of air passing through the flavor source is 100% of the total (i.e., the above ratio is 1:0), it is preferable that a separate air introduction opening (vf) be provided in the smoking article for adding a vapor or aerosol cooling function.

[0052] The 23rd aspect is based on the fact that, in the 16th to 22nd aspects, the area of the blocking portion is larger than the area of the gap portion as viewed in the longitudinal direction.

[0053] According to the 23rd aspect, the area of the blocking portion is larger than the area of the gap portion in the direction of air flow. Therefore, by being arranged such that the blocking portion substantially overlaps the gap portion as viewed in the longitudinal direction, it is possible to suppress (block) the inflow of air that has flowed in from the tip of the smoking article into the gap portion. It should be noted that the area of the blocking portion or the gap portion referred to here refers to the area of the largest cross section among cross sections orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0054] The 24th aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 16th to 23rd aspects, the tip plug is located upstream of the flavor source, and the blocking portion is provided in the tip plug.

[0055] According to the 24th aspect, since the end portion of the flavor source is covered by the tip plug, it is possible to prevent the flavor source from falling out of the smoking article. Further, although the blocking portion can be provided, for example, so as to be embedded in the gap portion of the smoking article if there is no tip plug, it is easier to provide the blocking portion if the smoking article has a tip plug.

[0056] The 25th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 24th aspect, the length of the tip plug in the longitudinal direction is 10 mm or less.

[0057] According to the 25th aspect, reducing the length of the tip plug makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed in from the tip of the smoking article in the tip plug. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has been blocked by the blocking portion from flowing into the gap portion in the tip plug and flowing into the gap portion. It should be noted that the length of the tip plug is more preferably 8 mm or less, and even more preferably 5 mm or less.

[0058] The 26th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 24th or 25th aspect, the length of the tip plug in the longitudinal direction is 1 mm or more.

[0059] During production, the tip plug can be produced to a predetermined length, and then cut to any length. If the length of the tip plug is less than 1 mm, there is a risk that the shape cannot be maintained during cutting, and there is a risk of, for example, deformation such as crushing. According to the 26th aspect, the tip plug can be relatively easily produced. It should be noted that the length of the tip plug is more preferably 3 mm or greater from the viewpoint of ease of manufacture.

[0060] The 27th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 24th aspect to the 26th aspect, the tip plug includes filter paper.

[0061] According to the 27th aspect, compared to the case where a cellulose acetate filter or the like is used as the tip plug, the diffusion of air that has flowed into the tip plug can be suppressed.

[0062] The 28th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 24th aspect to the 27th aspect, the tip plug has a recessed portion, and the blocking portion fills the recessed portion.

[0063] According to the 28th aspect, since the blocking portion is suppressed from protruding from the tip plug, the blocking portion can be provided so as to have no significant difference in appearance from a conventional smoking article.

[0064] The 29th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 24th aspect to the 28th aspect, the tip plug has a high-density portion and a low-density portion, and the high-density portion constitutes the blocking portion.

[0065] According to the 29th aspect, since the flow of air from the low-density portion into the high-density portion is suppressed, the blocking portion can be configured using only the tip plug, without the need to attach another member to the tip plug. It should be noted that the blocking portion can be provided on the surface of the tip plug. Also, the ventilation resistance of the high-density portion is preferably greater than or equal to the ventilation resistance of the flavor source, more preferably greater than or equal to the ventilation resistance of the low-density portion and the flavor source.

[0066] The 30th aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 16th aspect to the 28th aspect, the blocking portion is formed of at least one substance selected from the group consisting of carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin, and modified starch.

[0067] According to the 30th aspect, a fire-retardant material is used as the blocking portion. Therefore, particularly when a flammable material such as filter paper is used for the tip plug, even if the smoking article is used in an unintended manner by the user, the combustion of the smoking article can be prevented.

[0068] The 31st aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 16th aspect to the 30th aspect, the smoking article includes a support body between the flavor source and the gap.

[0069] According to a 32nd aspect, there is provided a method for producing a smoking article. The method for producing a smoking article includes: preparing a flavor source that generates a flavor; forming a gap portion so as to be adjacent to the flavor source in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction; and forming a blocking portion that blocks air from flowing into the gap portion while allowing air to be introduced from a tip of the smoking article into the flavor source.

[0070] According to the 32nd aspect, with respect to the flavor source that is partially disposed in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the blocking portion blocks air from flowing into the gap portion, thereby allowing air to be preferentially introduced from the tip of the smoking article into the flavor source. This allows a vapor or aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source to be efficiently delivered to a user.

[0071] According to a 33rd aspect, there is provided a smoking article. The smoking article includes a tubular flavor source that generates a flavor, a tip plug located upstream of the flavor source, and a wrapper wrapped over the tip plug, wherein the wrapper is provided with an opening that penetrates between a front surface and a rear surface of the wrapper.

[0072] According to the 33rd aspect, since air is introduced through the opening provided in the wrapper, air can be easily supplied to the tubular flavor source located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article. This allows a vapor or aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source to be efficiently delivered to a user. It should be noted that an inner wrapper can be additionally provided between the tip plug and the wrapper. In this case, the inner wrapper is preferably also provided with an opening that penetrates between a front surface and a rear surface of the inner wrapper.

[0073] The essence of the 34th aspect is that, in the 33rd aspect, the opening is disposed closer to the flavor source than to the longitudinal center of the tip plug.

[0074] The greater the distance between the opening and the flavor source, the more the air introduced through the opening can diffuse before reaching the flavor source. In this case, the amount of air passing through the gap portion inside the tubular flavor source can increase. According to the 34th aspect, since the air introduced through the opening reaches the flavor source before diffusing, air can be more easily supplied to the flavor source. This allows a vapor or aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source to be efficiently delivered to a user.

[0075] The essence of the 35th aspect is that, in the 33rd aspect or the 34th aspect, a sealing member that seals an upstream end surface of the tip plug is provided.

[0076] Most of the air introduced from the upstream end surface of the tip plug can pass through the gap portion inside the tubular flavor source. According to the 35th aspect, since air is prevented from flowing from the upstream end surface of the tip plug, air can be efficiently supplied to the flavor source through the opening provided in the wrapper.

[0077] The essence of the 36th aspect lies in that, in the 35th aspect, the sealing member is formed of at least one substance selected from the group consisting of carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin, and modified starch.

[0078] According to the 36th aspect, since the sealing member is formed of a relatively non-flammable material, even if a user accidentally attempts to light the end plug of the smoking article, combustion of the end face of the end plug can be suppressed.

[0079] The essence of the 37th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 33rd aspect to the 36th aspect, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm.

[0080] If the thickness is less than 1.0 mm, there is a risk that the aerosol source will be depleted too quickly when the flavor source is heated. If the thickness is greater than 2.5 mm, there is a risk that heat will not be sufficiently transferred when the flavor source is heated. According to the 37th aspect, the aerosol source can be sufficiently supported by the flavor source, and the aerosol source contained in the flavor source can be sufficiently heated, thereby achieving good aerosol supply. It should be noted that, in this case, the outer diameter of the smoking article is preferably, for example, 7 mm, and the inner diameter of the flavor source (the diameter of the clearance portion) is preferably 3.5 mm. Meanwhile, the inner diameter of the flavor source can be approximately 2.0 mm. If the inner diameter of the flavor source is too small, the thickness of the flavor source increases, and the distance from the heat source located at the outer periphery of the flavor source increases, making it difficult to heat efficiently. It should be noted that, if the flavor source is made of a single sheet, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the thickness of the sheet. Meanwhile, if the flavor source is, for example, crimped and has a three-dimensional thickness, the thickness of the flavor source in the radial direction is the height of the flavor source in the radial direction (the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter if the flavor source is cylindrical). For example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 0.1 mm or greater, more preferably 0.3 mm or greater, even more preferably 0.5 mm or greater. Similarly, for example, when the flavor source is not crimped, the thickness of the flavor source is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less.

[0081] The essence of the 38th aspect lies in that, in the 33rd aspect to the 37th aspect, the length of the end plug in the longitudinal direction is 10 mm or less.

[0082] According to the 38th aspect, reducing the length of the end plug makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed into the end plug in the end plug. Thus, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has been introduced into the end plug from the opening in the wrapper in the end plug and the flow of the air into the clearance portion. It should be noted that the length of the end plug is more preferably 8 mm or less, even more preferably 5 mm or less.

[0083] The 39th aspect is based on the 33rd to 38th aspects, in which the length of the tip plug in the longitudinal direction is 1 mm or more.

[0084] During production, the tip plug can be produced to a predetermined length and then cut to any length. If the length of the tip plug is less than 1 mm, there is a risk that the shape cannot be maintained during cutting, and there is a risk of, for example, deformation such as crushing. According to the 39th aspect, the tip plug can be relatively easily produced. It should be noted that the length of the tip plug is more preferably 3 mm or more from the viewpoint of ease of manufacture.

[0085] The 40th aspect is based on the 33rd to 39th aspects, in which the tip plug includes filter paper.

[0086] According to the 40th aspect, compared to the case in which a cellulose acetate filter or the like is used as the tip plug, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed into the tip plug.

[0087] The 41st aspect is based on the 33rd to 40th aspects, in which the tip plug has a high-density portion and a low-density portion located around the high-density portion.

[0088] According to the 41st aspect, since the flow of air from the low-density portion into the high-density portion is suppressed, the flow of air through the radial center portion of the tip plug is suppressed. This makes it easier for air that has flowed in from the tip plug to pass around the tip plug, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article.

[0089] The 42nd aspect is based on the 33rd to 41st aspects, in which the gap portion is located inside the flavor source.

[0090] According to the 42nd aspect, since the flavor source is located on the outside of the smoking article and the gap portion is located on the inside of the smoking article, the flavor source can be efficiently heated when the smoking article is heated from the outside in a flavor inhaler. Furthermore, when a flavor inhaler that heats the smoking article from the outside is used, since the flavor source is not provided on the inside of the smoking article, which is a location that is not conducive to heat transfer and is not likely to contribute to vapor or aerosol generation, it is possible to save the amount of flavor source while suppressing a reduction in the amount of vapor or aerosol.

[0091] According to a 43rd aspect, there is provided a smoking system including the smoking article according to any one of the 34th to 42nd aspects and a flavor inhaler for heating the smoking article. The flavor inhaler includes a chamber that accommodates the smoking article, and the chamber includes a pressing portion that presses against a portion of the smoking article when the smoking article is placed in a desired position, and a non-pressing portion that is adjacent to the pressing portion in a circumferential direction. An opening is provided to face the non-pressing portion when the smoking article is placed in the desired position in the chamber.

[0092] According to the 43rd aspect, even if a portion of the smoking article is pressed by the chamber, air is introduced from a gap between the non-pressing portion and the smoking article through the opening, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article.

[0093] The essence of the 44th aspect is that, in the 43rd aspect, a plurality of openings are provided in the wrapper at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0094] According to the 44th aspect, since the plurality of openings are spaced apart at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, it is possible to suppress a case where all of the plurality of openings face the pressing portion, regardless of the orientation in the circumferential direction in which the user accommodates the smoking article in the chamber. In other words, since it is possible to suppress a case where all of the plurality of openings are blocked by the pressing portion, it is possible to introduce air through the openings, regardless of the orientation in which the user accommodates the smoking article in the chamber, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article.

[0095] The essence of the 45th aspect is that, in the 44th aspect, some of the plurality of openings are provided to face the pressing portion when the smoking article is placed in the desired position in the chamber.

[0096] According to the 45th aspect, some of the plurality of openings face the non-pressing portion, and some other of the plurality of openings face the pressing portion. Thus, at least some of the plurality of openings face the non-pressing portion, regardless of the orientation in the circumferential direction in which the user accommodates the smoking article in the chamber, thereby allowing air to be introduced.

[0097] According to a 46th aspect, there is provided a method for producing a flavor generator. The production method includes a supply step for supplying a flavor sheet, a step for disposing the flavor sheet on an outer surface of a support, and a step for covering an outer surface of the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support with a cover sheet.

[0098] According to the 46th aspect, a flavor generator can be produced in which the flavor sheet is supported by the support body and covered with the cover sheet. Thus, if a tubular support body is used, for example, a tubular flavor generator can be produced, and if a plate-like support body is used, a plate-like flavor generator can be produced. Furthermore, since the flavor sheet is disposed on the outer surface of the support body, the flavor sheet can be reliably disposed between the support body and the cover sheet. In other words, unintended penetration of the flavor sheet into the inside of the support body can be suppressed.

[0099] The 47th aspect is characterized in that, in the 46th aspect, a crimping step for applying a crimping process to at least a portion of the flavor sheet, and a step for disposing the flavor sheet that has undergone the crimping process on the outer surface of the support body are included.

[0100] According to the 47th aspect, the surface area of the flavor sheet can be increased by curling the flavor sheet to form a pleat by means of the crimping process, so that the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generator can be increased.

[0101] The 48th aspect is characterized in that, in the 47th aspect, a width suppression step for suppressing an increase in the width of the flavor sheet associated with the crimping process is included.

[0102] According to the 48th aspect, an increase in the width of the flavor sheet associated with the crimping process can be suppressed. Thus, if a tubular support body is used, for example, overlapping of the flavor sheet when the flavor sheet is wrapped around the support body can be suppressed. Also, if a plate-like support body is used, for example, an increase in the size of the flavor sheet and an increase in the size of the flavor generator can be suppressed.

[0103] The 49th aspect is characterized in that, in the 47th aspect, the width suppression step is performed after the crimping process.

[0104] According to the 49th aspect, the width suppression step can be prevented from affecting the crimping process, and thus the flavor sheet can undergo a desired crimping process in the crimping step.

[0105] The 50th aspect is characterized in that, in the 47th aspect, the width suppression step is performed simultaneously with the crimping process.

[0106] According to the 50th aspect, the time required to perform the width suppression step can be reduced.

[0107] The 51st aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the 46th aspect to the 50th aspect, a shaping step for shaping the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet into a tubular shape is included.

[0108] According to the 51st aspect, a tubular flavor generating body can be produced. It should be noted that the tubular flavor generating body can be produced by wrapping the flavor sheet and the cover sheet on a tubular support body, or can be produced by overlapping the flavor sheet and the cover sheet on a flat support body and forming them into a tubular shape.

[0109] The 52nd aspect is characterized in that, in the 51st aspect, a step for cutting the shaped body into a predetermined length is included, the shaped body including the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet shaped in the shaping step.

[0110] According to the 52nd aspect, a flavor generating body having a certain length for a smoking article can be produced.

[0111] The 53rd aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the 46th aspect to the 52nd aspect, a step for applying an adhesive to the cover sheet, and a step for covering the outer surface of the flavor sheet with the cover sheet and then drying the adhesive are included.

[0112] According to the 53rd aspect, the cover sheet can be fixed with respect to the flavor sheet. It should be noted that, for example, when a tubular flavor generating body is produced, the cover sheet can be wrapped on the flavor sheet, and the layers of the cover sheet can be adhered to each other using an adhesive. Also, for example, when a plate-shaped flavor generating body is produced, the cover sheet can be adhered to the flavor sheet using an adhesive.

[0113] The 54th aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the 46th aspect to the 53rd aspect, the supplying step includes supplying a plurality of flavor sheets.

[0114] According to the 54th aspect, the plurality of flavor sheets are provided in the flavor generating body so that the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body can be increased, or the time (number of puffs) during which aerosol can be supplied can be increased.

[0115] The 55th aspect is characterized in that, in the 54th aspect, each of the plurality of flavor sheets contains a different flavor ingredient.

[0116] According to the 55th aspect, a flavor generating body that provides a user with a plurality of flavor ingredients can be produced. Further, according to this aspect, a flavor source can be designed by combining a plurality of flavor sheets according to the intended purpose.

[0117] The 56th aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the 46th aspect to the 55th aspect, the support body is tubular, and the supplying step includes supplying a flavor sheet having a width smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support body.

[0118] If the ends of the flavor sheet wrapped on the support body overlap, it is less likely that flavor or aerosol is generated from the overlapping portion. According to the 56th aspect, since the flavor sheet has a width that is smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support body, overlapping of the ends of the flavor sheet wrapped on the tubular support body can be suppressed.

[0119] According to the 57th aspect, there is provided a flavor generating body. The flavor generating body includes a support body, a flavor sheet provided on an outer surface of the support body, and a cover sheet covering an outer surface of the flavor sheet.

[0120] According to the 57th aspect, it is possible to provide a flavor generating body in which the flavor sheet is supported by the support body and covered with the cover sheet. Thus, if a tubular support body is used, for example, it is possible to provide a tubular flavor generating body.

[0121] The gist of the 58th aspect is that, in the 57th aspect, the flavor sheet is crimped.

[0122] According to the 58th aspect, it is possible to increase the surface area of the flavor sheet by crimping the flavor sheet, so that it is possible to increase the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body. In addition, since the voids are formed by crimping the flavor sheet, the voids act as air flow channels, so that it is possible to efficiently deliver the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body.

[0123] The gist of the 59th aspect is that, in the 57th aspect or the 58th aspect, the flavor sheet is provided on the outer surface of the support body and formed in a tubular shape, and the length of the region in which the flavor sheet overlaps itself on the outer surface of the support body in the circumferential direction is 30% or less of the circumferential length of the flavor sheet.

[0124] When the ends of the flavor sheet provided on the outer surface of the support body overlap, it is less likely that flavor or aerosol is generated from the overlapping portion. In particular, when the flavor sheet is crimped, overlapping of the flavor sheet can occur due to the crimping. According to the 59th aspect, since the length of the region in which the flavor sheet overlaps itself in the circumferential direction is limited, it is possible to reduce the decrease in the amount of flavor or aerosol generation associated with the overlapping of the flavor sheet. It should be noted that the length of the region in which the flavor sheet overlaps itself on the outer surface of the support body in the circumferential direction is more preferably 20% or less, and even more preferably 10% or less, of the circumferential length of the flavor sheet, and most preferably, such a region is not present.

[0125] The gist of the 60th aspect is that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 59th aspect, a plurality of flavor sheets are arranged in a laminated manner on the outer surface of the support body.

[0126] According to the 60th aspect, providing a plurality of flavor sheets in the flavor generating body makes it possible to increase the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body.

[0127] The essence of the 61st aspect lies in that, in the 60th aspect, each of the plurality of flavor pieces contains a different flavor ingredient.

[0128] According to the 61st aspect, a plurality of flavor ingredients can be provided to a user.

[0129] The essence of the 62nd aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 61st aspect, the flavor piece is a piece containing tobacco.

[0130] According to the 62nd aspect, a flavor ingredient contained in tobacco can be provided to a user.

[0131] The essence of the 63rd aspect lies in that, in the 62nd aspect, the piece containing tobacco is a paper piece, a cast piece, or a laminated piece.

[0132] According to the 63rd aspect, a paper piece, a cast piece, or a laminated piece can be used as a flavor piece. Further, according to this aspect, a designer can select the type of the piece according to the intended purpose.

[0133] The essence of the 64th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 61st aspect, the flavor piece is a non-tobacco piece containing an aerosol source.

[0134] According to the 64th aspect, a flavor contained in an aerosol source can be provided by a flavor piece. This allows a free flavor design that does not depend on a tobacco flavor.

[0135] The essence of the 65th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 64th aspect, the filling amount of the flavor piece is 50 mg to 300 mg.

[0136] If the filling amount of the flavor piece is less than 50 mg, there is a risk that the filling amount will be too low to generate sufficient flavor. Meanwhile, if the filling amount of the flavor piece is more than 300 mg, there is a risk that the size of the flavor generator will become too large or it will not be possible to provide sufficient air flow passages to efficiently release the flavor. According to the 65th aspect, it is possible to generate sufficient flavor while limiting the size of the flavor generator.

[0137] The essence of the 66th aspect lies in that, in the 57th aspect to the 65th aspect, the support is formed of a material that is impervious to air.

[0138] According to the 66th aspect, vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor piece does not pass through the support, and thus the vapor or aerosol can be delivered in the desired direction. In particular, if the support is tubular, it is possible to suppress vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor piece disposed on the outer surface of the support from entering the inside of the support. In addition, it is possible to suppress the unintended inflow of air through the support.

[0139] The essence of the 67th aspect lies in that, in the 66th aspect, the material forming the support has an air permeability of 0 c.u.

[0140] According to the 67th aspect, the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor sheet does not pass through the support, and thus the vapor or aerosol can be delivered in a desired direction. In particular, if the support is tubular, the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support can be inhibited from entering the inside of the support.

[0141] The essence of the 68th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 67th aspect, the support is a hollow tube.

[0142] According to the 68th aspect, compared to the case where the support is solid, the support can be inhibited from absorbing heat from the flavor sheet.

[0143] The essence of the 69th aspect lies in that, in the 68th aspect, the support includes a paper tube.

[0144] According to the 69th aspect, since the support is formed of paper, the support can be easily processed or shaped, and the smoking article can be easily disposed of after use.

[0145] The essence of the 70th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 69th aspect, the cover sheet has an air permeability of 0 c.u to 60 c.u.

[0146] According to the 70th aspect, the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor sheet can be inhibited from passing through the cover sheet, thereby allowing the vapor or aerosol to be efficiently delivered to the user. In particular, when the support is tubular, the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor sheet can be inhibited from leaking to the outside of the cover sheet.

[0147] The essence of the 71st aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 70th aspect, the cover sheet has a basis weight of 10 gsm to 100 gsm.

[0148] If the basis weight of the cover sheet is less than 10 gsm, the cover sheet is air-permeable, and there is a risk of aerosol leakage. Meanwhile, if the basis weight of the cover sheet is greater than 100 gsm, it can be difficult to process the cover sheet. Accordingly, according to the 71st aspect, aerosol leakage and difficulty in processing the cover sheet can be inhibited.

[0149] The essence of the 72nd aspect lies in that, in any one of the 57th aspect to the 71st aspect, the cover sheet has a density of 0.5 gsm to 1.5 gsm.

[0150] If the density of the cover sheet is less than 0.5 gsm, the cover sheet is permeable to air, and there is a risk of leakage of aerosol. Meanwhile, if the density of the cover sheet is greater than 1.5 gsm, it can be difficult to process the cover sheet. Thus, according to the 72nd aspect, leakage of aerosol and difficulty in processing the cover sheet can be suppressed.

[0151] The 73rd aspect is based on the fact that, in the 57th to 72nd aspects, the porosity of the space between the support and the cover sheet is 20% to 50%.

[0152] If the porosity is less than 20%, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet will have difficulty passing through the space, and there is a risk that the vapor or aerosol will not be efficiently delivered to the user. Meanwhile, if the porosity is greater than 50%, the volume of the flavor sheet in the space will be too small, and there is a risk that it will not be possible to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. According to the 70th aspect, the generated vapor or aerosol can be efficiently delivered to the user while generating sufficient vapor or aerosol.

[0153] The 74th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 57th to 73rd aspects, the ratio of the surface area of the flavor sheet to the surface area of the outer surface of the support is greater than 2 and equal to or less than 16.

[0154] If the ratio is less than or equal to 2, there is a risk that the flavor sheet will not be able to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. Meanwhile, if the ratio is greater than 16, there is a risk that the flavor sheet will be packed too densely, resulting in a decrease in the amount of aerosol delivered. Thus, according to the 74th aspect, a decrease in the amount of aerosol delivered can be suppressed while generating sufficient vapor or aerosol. It should be noted that the ratio can be the ratio of the surface area of the flavor sheet to the surface area of the outer surface of the support when the flavor sheet is not crimped or before crimping. When the flavor sheet is crimped, the surface area of the flavor sheet can be considered to be a value obtained by multiplying the linear area when observing the cross section of the sheet from the longitudinal direction (a direction perpendicular to the crimping direction) by the length of the flavor source. In this case, the ratio of the surface area of the flavor sheet after crimping to the surface area of the outer surface of the support is preferably greater than 2 and equal to or less than 30.

[0155] According to the 75th aspect, a method for producing a flavor generating body is provided. The method includes a supply step for supplying a flavor sheet; a slit cutting step for slit cutting at least a portion of the flavor sheet; a step for disposing the slit cut flavor sheet on the outer surface of a support; and a step for covering the outer surface of the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support with a cover sheet.

[0156] According to the 75th aspect, a flavor generating body can be produced in which the flavor sheet is supported by the support body and covered with the cover sheet. Thus, if a tubular support body is used, for example, a tubular flavor generating body can be produced, and if a plate-like support body is used, a plate-like flavor generating body can be produced. Furthermore, the surface area of the flavor sheet can be increased by slit cutting to form slits in the flavor sheet, so that the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body can be increased. When a portion of the flavor sheet is slit cut, the portions of the flavor sheet remain connected to each other, so that excessive separation of the portions of the flavor sheet can be inhibited when the flavor generating body is produced.

[0157] The 76th aspect is characterized in that, in the 75th aspect, a width inhibiting step for inhibiting an increase in the width of the flavor sheet associated with the slit cutting is included.

[0158] According to the 76th aspect, an increase in the width of the flavor sheet associated with the slit cutting can be inhibited. Thus, if a tubular support body is used, for example, overlapping of the flavor sheet when the flavor sheet is wrapped on the support body can be inhibited. Also, if a plate-like support body is used, for example, an increase in the size of the flavor sheet and an increase in the size of the flavor generating body can be inhibited.

[0159] The 77th aspect is characterized in that, in the 76th aspect, the width inhibiting step is performed after the slit cutting.

[0160] According to the 77th aspect, the width inhibiting step can be prevented from affecting the slit cutting, and thus the flavor sheet can be slit cut as desired in the slit cutting step.

[0161] The 78th aspect is characterized in that, in the 77th aspect, the width inhibiting step is performed simultaneously with the slit cutting.

[0162] According to the 78th aspect, the time required to perform the width inhibiting step can be reduced.

[0163] The 79th aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the 75th aspect to the 78th aspect, a shaping step for shaping the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet into a tubular shape is included.

[0164] According to the 79th aspect, a tubular flavor generating body can be produced. It should be noted that the tubular flavor generating body can be produced by wrapping the flavor sheet and the cover sheet wrapping on a tubular support body, or can be produced by covering the flavor sheet and the cover sheet on a flat support body and shaping them into a tubular shape.

[0165] The 80th aspect is characterized in that, in the 79th aspect, a step for cutting the shaped body into a predetermined length is included, the shaped body including the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet shaped in the shaping step.

[0166] According to the 80th aspect, a flavor generating body having a length for a smoking article can be produced.

[0167] The 81st aspect is based on any one of the 75th aspect to the 80th aspect, including a step for transporting the flavor sheet, wherein the slitting step includes forming the slit along the transport direction of the flavor sheet.

[0168] According to the 81st aspect, since the slit is formed along the transport direction of the flavor sheet, the slit can be formed while the flavor sheet is transported, and the flavor sheet can be continuously slit.

[0169] The 82nd aspect is based on the 81st aspect, wherein the slitting step includes forming the slit over the entire length of the flavor sheet in the transport direction.

[0170] According to the 82nd aspect, in the slitting step, the flavor sheet is divided in a direction orthogonal to the transport direction, and thus the flavor sheet is divided into a plurality of sheets extending in the transport direction.

[0171] The 83rd aspect is based on any one of the 75th aspect to the 82nd aspect, including a step for applying an adhesive to the cover sheet, and a step for covering the outer surface of the flavor sheet with the cover sheet and then drying the adhesive.

[0172] According to the 83rd aspect, the cover sheet can be fixed with respect to the flavor sheet. It should be noted that, for example, when a tubular flavor generating body is produced, the cover sheet can be wrapped on the flavor sheet, and the layers of the cover sheet can be adhered to each other using an adhesive. Also, for example, when a plate-shaped flavor generating body is produced, the cover sheet can be adhered to the flavor sheet using an adhesive.

[0173] The 84th aspect is based on any one of the 75th aspect to the 83rd aspect, wherein the supplying step includes supplying a plurality of flavor sheets.

[0174] According to the 84th aspect, the plurality of flavor sheets are arranged in the flavor generating body so that the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body can be increased, or the time (number of puffs) during which aerosol can be supplied can be increased.

[0175] The 85th aspect is based on the 84th aspect, wherein each of the plurality of flavor sheets contains a different flavor component.

[0176] According to the 85th aspect, a flavor generating body that provides a plurality of flavor components to a user can be produced. Further, according to this aspect, a flavor source can be designed by combining a plurality of flavor sheets according to the intended purpose.

[0177] The essence of the 86th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 75th to 83rd aspects, the support is tubular, and the supplying step includes supplying the flavor sheet having a width smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support.

[0178] If the ends of the flavor sheet wrapped on the support overlap, it is less likely that flavor or aerosol is generated from the overlapping portion. According to the 86th aspect, since the flavor sheet has a width smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support, overlapping of the ends of the flavor sheet wrapped on the tubular support can be suppressed.

[0179] According to the 87th aspect, there is provided a flavor generating body. The flavor generating body includes a support, a scored flavor sheet provided on an outer surface of the support, and a cover sheet provided on an outer periphery of the flavor sheet.

[0180] According to the 87th aspect, it is possible to provide a flavor generating body in which a flavor sheet is supported by a support and covered with a cover sheet. Therefore, if a tubular support is used, for example, it is possible to provide a tubular flavor generating body, and if a plate-shaped support is used, it is possible to provide a plate-shaped flavor generating body. Further, since the surface area of the flavor sheet can be increased by scoring the flavor sheet, it is possible to increase the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body. In addition, since the voids are formed by scoring the flavor sheet, the voids act as air flow channels, thereby allowing efficient delivery of the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body.

[0181] The essence of the 88th aspect lies in that, in the 87th aspect, a plurality of flavor sheets are arranged in a laminated manner on the outer periphery of the support.

[0182] According to the 88th aspect, providing a plurality of flavor sheets in the flavor generating body makes it possible to increase the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body.

[0183] The essence of the 89th aspect lies in that, in the 88th aspect, each of the plurality of flavor sheets contains a different flavor ingredient.

[0184] According to the 89th aspect, it is possible to provide a plurality of flavor ingredients to a user.

[0185] The essence of the 90th aspect lies in that, in any one of the 87th to 89th aspects, the flavor sheet is a sheet containing tobacco.

[0186] According to the 90th aspect, it is possible to provide a flavor ingredient contained in tobacco to a user.

[0187] The essence of the 91st aspect lies in that, in the 90th aspect, the sheet containing tobacco is a paper sheet, a cast sheet, or a laminated sheet.

[0188] According to the 91st aspect, a paper sheet, a cast sheet, or a laminated sheet can be used as the flavor sheet. Further, according to this aspect, a designer can select the type of sheet according to the intended purpose.

[0189] The 92nd aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 87th to 89th aspects, the flavor sheet is a non-tobacco sheet containing an aerosol source.

[0190] According to the 92nd aspect, the flavor contained in the aerosol source can be provided by the flavor sheet. This allows free flavor design that is not dependent on a tobacco flavor.

[0191] The 93rd aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 87th to 92nd aspects, the filling amount of the flavor sheet is 50 mg to 300 mg.

[0192] If the filling amount of the flavor sheet is less than 50 mg, there is a risk that the filling amount will be too low to generate sufficient flavor. Meanwhile, if the filling amount of the flavor sheet is more than 300 mg, there is a risk that the size of the flavor generator will become too large or it will not be possible to provide sufficient air flow passages to efficiently release the flavor. According to the 93rd aspect, it is possible to generate sufficient flavor while limiting the size of the flavor generator.

[0193] The 94th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 87th to 92nd aspects, the support is formed of a material that is impervious to air.

[0194] According to the 94th aspect, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet does not pass through the support, and thus the vapor or aerosol can be delivered in the desired direction. In particular, if the support is tubular, it is possible to suppress the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support from entering the inside of the support. In addition, it is possible to suppress the unintended inflow of air through the support.

[0195] The 95th aspect is based on the fact that, in the 94th aspect, the material forming the support has an air permeability of 0 c.u.

[0196] According to the 95th aspect, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet does not pass through the support, and thus the vapor or aerosol can be delivered in the desired direction. In particular, if the support is tubular, it is possible to suppress the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support from entering the inside of the support.

[0197] The 96th aspect is based on the fact that, in any one of the 87th to 95th aspects, the support is a hollow tube.

[0198] According to the 96th aspect, compared to the case where the support is solid, it is possible to suppress the support from absorbing heat from the flavor sheet.

[0199] The 97th aspect is based on the 96th aspect, in which the support includes a paper tube.

[0200] According to the 97th aspect, since the support is formed of paper, the support can be easily processed or shaped, and the smoking article can be easily disposed of after use.

[0201] The 98th aspect is based on any one of the 87th to 95th aspects, in which the cover sheet has an air permeability of 0 c.u to 60 c.u.

[0202] According to the 98th aspect, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet can be inhibited from passing through the cover sheet, thereby allowing the vapor or aerosol to be efficiently delivered to the user. In particular, when the support is tubular, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet can be inhibited from leaking to the outside of the cover sheet.

[0203] The 99th aspect is based on any one of the 87th to 98th aspects, in which the cover sheet has a basis weight of 10 gsm to 100 gsm.

[0204] If the basis weight of the cover sheet is less than 10 gsm, the cover sheet is air permeable, and there is a risk of aerosol leakage. Meanwhile, if the basis weight of the cover sheet is greater than 100 gsm, it can be difficult to process the cover sheet. Accordingly, according to the 99th aspect, aerosol leakage and difficulty in processing the cover sheet can be inhibited.

[0205] The 100th aspect is based on any one of the 87th to 99th aspects, in which the cover sheet has a density of 0.5 gsm to 1.5 gsm.

[0206] If the density of the cover sheet is less than 0.5 gsm, the cover sheet is air permeable, and there is a risk of aerosol leakage. Meanwhile, if the density of the cover sheet is greater than 1.5 gsm, it can be difficult to process the cover sheet. Accordingly, according to the 100th aspect, aerosol leakage and difficulty in processing the cover sheet can be inhibited.

[0207] The 101th aspect is based on the 87th to 100th aspects, in which the space between the support and the cover sheet has a void ratio of 20% to 50%.

[0208] If the porosity is less than 20%, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet will have difficulty passing through the space, and there is a risk that the vapor or aerosol will not be delivered to the user efficiently. Meanwhile, if the porosity is greater than 50%, the volume of the flavor sheet in the space will be too small, and there is a risk that it will be impossible to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. According to aspect 101, while generating sufficient vapor or aerosol, the generated vapor or aerosol can be delivered to the user efficiently.

[0209] The essence of aspect 102 is that, in aspects 87 to 101, the ratio of the surface area of ​​the flavor sheet to the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the support is greater than 2 and equal to or less than 16.

[0210] If the ratio is less than or equal to 2, there is a risk that the flavor sheet will not be able to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. Simultaneously, if the ratio is greater than 16, there is a risk that the flavor sheet will be packaged too densely, resulting in a reduction in the amount of aerosol delivered. Therefore, according to aspect 102, while generating sufficient vapor or aerosol, a reduction in the amount of aerosol delivered can be suppressed. It should be noted that this ratio can be the ratio of the surface area of ​​the flavor sheet when it is not rolled or before rolling to the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the support. When the flavor sheet is rolled, the surface area of ​​the flavor sheet can be considered as a value obtained by multiplying the linear area of ​​the sheet's cross-section viewed from the longitudinal direction (perpendicular to the rolling direction) by the length of the flavor source. In this case, the ratio of the surface area of ​​the rolled flavor sheet to the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the support is preferably greater than 2 and equal to or less than 30. Attached Figure Description

[0211] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a smoking system according to an embodiment.

[0212] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a smoking product.

[0213] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An oblique view of the heater assembly shown.

[0214] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the chamber.

[0215] Figure 5 Is Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the chamber as seen in the direction of arrow 5-5.

[0216] Figure 6A Is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the chamber as seen in the direction of arrow 6A-6A.

[0217] Figure 6Bis a cross-sectional view of the chamber viewed in the direction of the arrow 6B-6B. Figure 5

[0218] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view of the chamber viewed in the direction of the arrow 6C-6C. Figure 5

[0219] Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber including a non-pressed portion, in which the smoking article is positioned at a desired position in the chamber.

[0220] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the chamber viewed in the direction of the arrow 8-8. Figure 7

[0221] Figure 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the chamber of a flavor inhaler according to another embodiment.

[0222] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a smoking article according to another embodiment.

[0223] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking article according to yet another embodiment.

[0224] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing a process for producing a flavor generator.

[0225] Figure 13A is a schematic diagram showing a width suppression step.

[0226] Figure 13B is a schematic diagram showing a width suppression step. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0227] Embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding components are assigned the same reference numerals, and a repeated description will not be given.

[0228] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a smoking system 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1 , the smoking system 100 includes a smoking article 110 including a smokable material and a flavor inhaler 120 for heating the smoking article 110. Air to be inhaled by a user is guided into the user's mouth, for example, in the order of an air flow 100A, an air flow 100C, and an air flow 100B. That is, Figure 1 the smoking system 100 shown has a so-called reverse flow type air flow path.

[0229] ​​​The smoking article 110 is a substrate containing a flavor source (such as tobacco) capable of generating a smokable flavor, and has, for example, a columnar shape extending along a longitudinal direction. For example, the smoking article 110 can be a tobacco rod. The smoking article 110 can have, without limitation, a cylindrical shape, a columnar shape having a polygonal cross section, or a flat shape.

[0230] The flavor inhaler 120 includes a battery 10, a control circuit 20, and a heater assembly 30. The battery 10 stores electric power for use by the flavor inhaler 120. For example, the battery 10 is a lithium-ion battery. The battery 10 can be rechargeable by an external power source.

[0231] The control circuit 20 is configured by a CPU and a memory, and controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 120. For example, the control circuit 20 starts heating of the smoking article 110 in response to the user's operation of an input device such as a button or a slide switch (not depicted), and terminates the heating of the smoking article 110 once a given time has elapsed. When the number of puffing actions performed by the user has exceeded a fixed value, the control circuit 20 can terminate the heating of the smoking article 110 even if the given time has not yet elapsed from the start of the heating of the smoking article 110. The puffing action is detected by a sensor (not depicted), for example.

[0232] Alternatively, the control circuit 20 can start heating of the smoking article 110 in response to the start of a puffing action, and can terminate the heating of the smoking article 110 in response to the end of the puffing action. When a given time has elapsed from the start of the puffing action, the control circuit 20 can terminate the heating of the smoking article 110 even if the puffing action has not yet been completed. In the present embodiment, the control circuit 20 is disposed between the battery 10 and the heater assembly 30, and suppresses the transfer of heat from the heater assembly 30 to the battery 10.

[0233] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the smoking article 110. Specifically, Figure 2 (a) is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the smoking article 110. Figure 2 (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 2 line b-b in (a). Figure 2 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 2 line c-c in (a). As Figure 2As shown, the smoking article 110 includes a flavor source 81 for generating a flavor, and a gap portion 114 disposed adjacent to the flavor source 81 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. As shown, the flavor source 81 is tubular, and the gap portion 114 is preferably located inside the flavor source 81. In this case, since the flavor source 81 is located on the outside of the smoking article 110 and the gap portion 114 is located on the inside of the flavor source 81, the flavor source 81 can be efficiently heated when the smoking article 110 is heated from the outside in the flavor inhaler 120. Furthermore, when the flavor inhaler 120 that heats the smoking article 110 from the outside is used, since the flavor source 81 is not disposed on the inside of the smoking article 110, the inside is a position that is not conducive to heat transfer and is not easily conducive to vapor or aerosol generation, so the amount of the flavor source 81 can be saved while suppressing a reduction in the amount of vapor or aerosol. In Figure 2 In the example shown, the flavor source 81 is cylindrical. The cylindrical flavor source 81 can be formed in a cylindrical shape by, for example, rounding a sheet-like flavor source 81. In this case, both ends of the sheet-like flavor source 81 can overlap each other or can be spaced apart from each other. When both ends of the sheet-like flavor source 81 are spaced apart from each other, a slit is formed in a portion of the substantially tubular flavor source 81 along the longitudinal direction. Not being limited thereto, the gap portion 114 can be adjacent to the flavor source 81 without being located inside the flavor source 81. For example, the gap portion 114 can be positioned adjacent to a block-like or plate-like flavor source 81.

[0234] As Figure 2(b) As shown, the thickness T of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction (i.e., the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction) is preferably 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm. If the thickness T is less than 1.0 mm, there is a risk that the aerosol source will be exhausted too quickly when the flavor source 81 is heated. If the thickness T is greater than 2.5 mm, there is a risk that heat will not be sufficiently transferred when the flavor source 81 is heated. If the thickness T is within the above range, the aerosol source can be sufficiently supported by the flavor source 81, and the aerosol source contained in the flavor source 81 can be sufficiently heated, thereby achieving good aerosol supply. In this case, the outer diameter of the smoking article 110 is preferably, for example, about 7 mm, and the inner diameter of the flavor source 81 (the diameter of the hollow portion 114) is preferably about 3.5 mm. This is not restrictive, and the inner diameter of the flavor source 81 can likewise be about 2.0 mm. If the inner diameter of the flavor source 81 is too small, the thickness T of the flavor source 81 increases, and the distance between the heat source located at the outer periphery of the flavor source 81 and the innermost surface of the flavor source 81 increases, making it difficult to heat efficiently. It should be noted that if the flavor source 81 is made of a single sheet, the thickness of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction is the thickness of the sheet. Meanwhile, if the flavor source 81 is, for example, crimped and has a three-dimensional thickness, the thickness of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction is the height of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction (the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter if the flavor source 81 is cylindrical).

[0235] The flavor source 81 will now be described in detail. The smoking article 110 includes a flavor generating body 80 that contains the flavor source 81. The flavor generating body 80 can include a support body 82, the flavor source 81 disposed on the outer surface of the support body 82, and a cover sheet 83 that covers the outer surface of the flavor source 81. In other words, the smoking article 110 has the support body 82 located between the flavor source 81 and the hollow portion 114. In the present embodiment, a sheet-like flavor sheet 81 can be used as the flavor source 81. Thus, in the present embodiment, a flavor generating body 80 can be provided in which the flavor sheet 81 is supported by the support body 82 and covered with the cover sheet 83. If, for example, a tubular support body 82 is used, as in the present embodiment, a tubular flavor generating body 80 can be provided, and if, for example, a plate-like support body 82 is used, a plate-like flavor generating body 80 can be provided. The apparent density of the flavor sheet 81 formed into the flavor generating body 80 is, for example, 250 mg / cm 3 to 1100 mg / cm 3 , preferably 500 mg / cm 3 to 1100 mg / cm 3 .

[0236] In this embodiment, the flavor sheet 81 is preferably rolled. Alternatively, the flavor sheet 81 is preferably slit. In this case, since the surface area of ​​the flavor sheet 81 can be increased by rolling or slitting, the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generator 80 can be increased. Furthermore, since the slits are formed by rolling or slitting the flavor sheet 81, the slits act as airflow channels, thereby allowing efficient delivery of the flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generator 80. It should be noted that when the flavor sheet 81 is slit, the slits are preferably configured to extend in the longitudinal direction so that the flavor sheet 81 can easily be shaped into a cylindrical shape. The flavor sheet 81 can be slit after rolling. In this case, the surface area of ​​the flavor sheet 81 can be further increased.

[0237] Furthermore, when the flavor sheet 81 is disposed on the outer surface of the support 82 and formed into a tubular shape, such as Figure 2 As shown, the length of the region in the circumferential direction where the flavor sheet 81 overlaps itself on the outer surface of the support 82 is preferably 30% or less of the circumferential length of the flavor sheet 81. When the ends of the flavor sheet 81 disposed on the outer surface of the support 82 overlap, it is unlikely that flavor or aerosol will be generated from the overlapping portion. When the flavor sheet 81 is rolled up, the flavor sheet 81 may overlap due to the rolling. Therefore, if the length of the region in the circumferential direction where the flavor sheet 81 overlaps itself is within the above-mentioned range, the amount of flavor or aerosol generation associated with the overlap of the flavor sheet 81 can be reduced. It should be noted that the length of the region in the circumferential direction where the flavor sheet 81 overlaps itself on the outer surface of the support 82 is more preferably 20% or less of the circumferential length of the flavor sheet 81, even more preferably 10% or less, and most preferably there is no such region.

[0238] Furthermore, in the flavor generator 80, multiple flavor sheets 81 can be arranged in a laminated manner on the outer surface of the support 82. In this case, the amount of vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor generator 80 can be increased. Moreover, in this case, each of the multiple flavor sheets 81 preferably contains a different flavor component. This allows for the provision of multiple flavor components to the user. If multiple flavor sheets 81 are used, it is preferable to provide gaps between the multiple flavor sheets 81, thereby forming airflow channels between the flavor sheets 81, rather than having each flavor sheet tightly stacked together.

[0239] The flavor sheet 81 can be, for example, a sheet containing tobacco. In this case, a user can be provided with a flavor component contained in the tobacco. Specific examples of the tobacco that can be included in the flavor sheet 81 include dried cut tobacco leaves, ground tobacco leaves, or a tobacco extract (an extract obtained with water, an organic solvent, or a mixed solution thereof). The ground tobacco leaves constitute particles obtained by grinding tobacco leaves. For example, the average particle size of the ground tobacco leaves can be 30 pm to 120 pm. The grinding can be performed using a well-known grinder, and can be dry grinding or wet grinding. Thus, the ground tobacco leaves are also referred to as tobacco leaf particles. In the present embodiment, the average particle size is determined by means of laser diffraction / scattering, and the average particle size is specifically measured by using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measuring apparatus (for example, LA-950 available from HORIBA Ltd.). Furthermore, there is no limitation on the type of tobacco, and Virginia tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, or natural types, as well as other Nicotiana tabacum varieties and Nicotiana rustica varieties, and the like can be used. There is no particular limitation on the amount (dry weight) of tobacco contained in the flavor sheet 81, but the amount is at least 1 wt%, preferably at least 10 wt%, and at most 90 wt%, preferably at most 80 wt%. The flavor sheet 81 can also be formed using an extraction liquid extracted from tobacco powder or the like.

[0240] When the flavor sheet 81 contains tobacco, the tobacco can be supported on a non-tobacco sheet formed of, for example, a non-tobacco fiber such as a pulp fiber or a nonwoven fabric. Alternatively, the flavor sheet 81 can be formed of a tobacco sheet. The flavor sheet 81 can be a tobacco leaf paper sheet, a cast sheet, or a laminated sheet (wound sheet), or the like. In this case, the designer can select the type of sheet according to the intended purpose. The flavor sheet source 81 can further contain an aerosol source. In this case, the amount of aerosol delivered to the user can be increased. There is no particular limitation on the type of aerosol source, and an extract from various types of natural products and / or components thereof can be selected according to the purpose of use. The aerosol source is preferably a polyhydric alcohol, and can be, for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and a mixture thereof.

[0241] The flavor sheet 81 can be a non-tobacco sheet containing an aerosol source. That is, the flavor sheet 81 can be a non-tobacco sheet containing an aerosol source, for example, formed of a non-tobacco fiber such as a pulp fiber or a nonwoven fabric. In this case, the flavor contained in the aerosol source can be provided by the flavor sheet 81. This allows free flavor design that is not dependent on tobacco flavor.

[0242] The filling amount of the flavor sheet 81 in the flavor generator 80 is preferably 50 mg to 300 mg. If the filling amount of the flavor sheet 81 is less than 50 mg, there is a risk that the filling amount will be too low to generate sufficient flavor. Meanwhile, if the filling amount of the flavor sheet 81 is greater than 300 mg, there is a risk that the size of the flavor generator 80 will become too large or it will not be possible to provide sufficient air flow passages to efficiently release the flavor. Therefore, if the filling amount of the flavor sheet 81 is within the above range, it is possible to generate sufficient flavor while limiting the size of the flavor generator 80.

[0243] The ratio of the surface area of the flavor sheet 81 to the surface area of the outer surface of the support 82 is preferably greater than 2 and equal to or less than 16. If the ratio is less than or equal to 2, there is a risk that the flavor sheet 81 will not be able to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. Meanwhile, if the ratio is greater than 16, there is a risk that the flavor sheet 81 will be packed too densely, thereby causing a reduction in the amount of aerosol delivered. Therefore, when the surface area of the flavor sheet 81 is within the above range, it is possible to suppress a reduction in the amount of aerosol delivered while generating sufficient vapor or aerosol.

[0244] The support 82 is preferably formed of a material that is impervious to air. In this case, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet 81 does not pass through the support 82, and thus the vapor or aerosol can be delivered in the desired direction. In particular, if the support 82 is tubular, as shown in Figure 2 , it is possible to suppress the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet 81 disposed on the outer surface of the support 82 from entering the inside of the support 82. In addition, in this case, it is possible to suppress the unintended inflow of air through the support 82. Specifically, the material forming the support 82 preferably has an air permeability of 0 c.u.

[0245] As shown in Figure 2 , the support 82 preferably includes a hollow tube. In this case, compared to the case where the support 82 is solid, it is possible to suppress the support 82 from absorbing heat from the flavor sheet 81. More specifically, the support 82 preferably includes a paper tube 82. In this case, since the support 82 is formed of paper, the support 82 can be easily processed or shaped, and the smoking article 110 can be easily disposed of after use. It should be noted that the configuration is not limited thereto, and the support 82 can be solid, or can have any other shape capable of supporting the flavor sheet 81.

[0246] The cover sheet 83 preferably has an air permeability of 0 c.u to 60 c.u. In this case, it is possible to suppress the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet 81 from passing through the cover sheet 83, thereby allowing the vapor or aerosol to be efficiently delivered to the user. Specifically, when the support 82 is tubular, as shown inFigure 2 As shown, this can suppress the leakage of vapors or aerosols generated by the flavor sheet 81 to the outside of the covering sheet 83.

[0247] The covering sheet 83 preferably has a basis weight of 10 gsm to 100 gsm. If the basis weight of the covering sheet 83 is less than 10 gsm, the covering sheet 83 is breathable, and there is a risk of aerosol leakage. Meanwhile, if the basis weight of the covering sheet 83 is greater than 100 gsm, it may be difficult to process the covering sheet. Therefore, when the basis weight of the covering sheet 83 is within the above range, aerosol leakage can be suppressed and the difficulty of processing the covering sheet can be reduced. Further, the covering sheet 83 preferably has a density of 0.5 gsm to 1.5 gsm. If the density of the covering sheet 83 is less than 0.5 gsm, the covering sheet is breathable, and there is a risk of aerosol leakage. Meanwhile, if the density of the covering sheet 83 is greater than 1.5 gsm, it may be difficult to process the covering sheet. Therefore, when the density of the covering sheet 83 is within the above range, aerosol leakage can be suppressed and the difficulty of processing the covering sheet can be reduced.

[0248] The space S1 between the support 82 and the covering sheet 83 (see Figure 2 (b) The porosity is preferably 20% to 50%. That is, when only the flavor sheet 81 is disposed between the support 82 and the cover sheet 83, such as Figure 2 As shown, the porosity of the flavor sheet 81 is preferably between 20% and 50%. If the porosity is less than 20%, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor sheet 81 will have difficulty passing through the space S1, and there is a risk that the vapor or aerosol will not be delivered to the user efficiently. Meanwhile, if the porosity is greater than 50%, the volume of the flavor sheet 81 in the space S1 will be too small, and there is a risk that it will be impossible to generate sufficient vapor or aerosol. Therefore, when the porosity is within the above range, sufficient vapor or aerosol can be generated while the generated vapor or aerosol can be delivered to the user efficiently.

[0249] like Figure 2As shown, the smoking article 110 preferably includes a cooling portion 116 downstream of the flavor generating body 80 and a filter 130 downstream of the cooling portion 116. The cooling portion 116 is configured so that the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor generating body 80 passes therethrough. Thus, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor generating body 80 can be cooled by the cooling portion 116. The cooling portion 116 can be a hollow member. The cooling portion 116 can also have an opening to draw in air from the outside. A portion of the cooling portion 116 can be exposed from the flavor inhaler 120 when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 120. If the cooling portion 116 has an opening to draw in air from the outside, as described above, the opening can be provided in the portion exposed from the flavor inhaler 120. A filler to promote cooling (such as polylactic acid sheet filled in a gathered form) can be provided in the cooling portion 116. In this case, the cooling portion 116 need not have an opening to draw in outside air.

[0250] As Figure 2 As shown in (c), the cooling portion 116 preferably has a stopper 116a inside the wrapping paper 118. The stopper 116a can prevent the flavor generating body 80 from moving toward the cooling portion 116. Specifically, in the present embodiment, at least a portion of the stopper 116a is located on the same radius as the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction in the cooling portion 116. In other words, at least a portion of the stopper 116a is positioned to contact the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction. Thus, movement of the flavor generating body 80 can be prevented. In the present embodiment, the stopper 116a is a sheet of paper whose both ends are connected to different positions on the inner surface of the cylindrical wrapping paper 118, whose length between the both ends is longer than the diameter of the wrapping paper 118, and which can have an S-shaped cross section when viewed in the longitudinal direction. The configuration is not limited thereto, and the stopper 22 can take any form that can prevent the flavor generating body 80 from moving toward the cooling portion 116. Specifically, for example, a center-hole filter can be used as the stopper 22. In this case, the radial thickness of the filled portion of the center-hole filter is preferably smaller than the radial thickness of the flavor source 81 so as to suppress undesirable filtration. Further, the filled portion of the center-hole filter used as the stopper 22 can also be filled with cellulose acetate or pulp paper.

[0251] Also, as Figure 2As shown, the smoking article 110 preferably has an end plug 140 located upstream of the flavor generator 80 (flavor source 81). In this case, since the end of the flavor source 81 is covered by the end plug 140, the flavor source 81 can be prevented from falling out of the smoking article 110. The length of the end plug 140 in the longitudinal direction is preferably 1 mm or more. During production, the end plug 140 can be produced to a predetermined length and then cut to any length. If the length of the end plug 140 is less than 1 mm, there is a risk that the shape cannot be maintained during cutting, and there is a risk of deformation (e.g., crushing). If the length of the end plug 140 in the longitudinal direction is 1 mm or more, the end plug 140 can be produced relatively easily. It should be noted that from a manufacturability point of view, the length of the end plug 140 is more preferably 3 mm or more. The end plug 140 may contain an aerosol source. Furthermore, the end plug 140 does not need to contain tobacco.

[0252] like Figure 2 As shown in (a), the wrapper 118 is wrapped around the end plug 140. In the example shown, the wrapper 118 wraps around the flavor generator 80, the cooling section 116, the filter 130, and the end plug 140. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the end plug 140, flavor generator 80, cooling section 116, and filter 130 can be wrapped with other wrapping sheets and integrally wrapped with tipping paper. Moreover, as Figure 3 As shown in (a), the wrapping 118 surrounding the end cap 140 preferably has an opening 119 for introducing air, the opening 119 penetrating between the front and rear surfaces of the wrapping 118. In other words, the opening 119 is preferably located in the wrapping 118 upstream of the flavor source 81. In this case, since air is introduced through the opening 119 in the wrapping 118, air can be easily supplied to the tubular flavor source 81 located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article 110. This allows for the efficient delivery of vapor or aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source 81 to the user. The plurality of openings 119 can be formed on the wrapping 118 in the circumferential direction. In this case, a single row of openings 119 can be formed on the wrapping 118 in the circumferential direction, or multiple rows of openings 119 can be formed on the wrapping 118 in the circumferential direction. It should be noted that an inner wrapping can be additionally provided between the end cap 140 and the wrapping 118. In this case, the inner wrapping material preferably also has an opening that penetrates between the front and rear surfaces of the inner wrapping material.

[0253] The greater the distance between the opening 119 and the flavor source 81, the more the air introduced through the opening 119 can diffuse before reaching the flavor source 81. In this case, the amount of air passing through the void portion 114 inside the tubular flavor source 81 can be increased. For this reason, asFigure 1 As shown in (a), the opening 119 is preferably positioned closer to the flavor source 81 than to the longitudinal center of the end plug 140. In this case, air can be more easily supplied to the flavor source 81 because the air introduced through the opening 119 reaches the flavor source 81 before diffusion. This allows for the efficient delivery of vapors or aerosols containing the flavor generated by the flavor source 81 to the user.

[0254] The heater assembly 30 will now be described in detail. The heater assembly 30 is an assembly used for heating the smoking article 110. Figure 3 yes Figure 4 An oblique view of the heater assembly 30 shown. Figure 5 As shown, the heater assembly 30 includes a top cover 32, a heating portion 40, and a chamber 50. The chamber 50 is configured to receive a smoking article 110. The heating portion 40 is configured to heat the smoking article 110 received in the chamber 50. The top cover 32 serves as a guide when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the chamber 50. The top cover 32 can be configured to secure the chamber 50 to the flavor inhaler 120.

[0255] Figure 4 This is an oblique view of chamber 50. Figure 6A Is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 as seen in the direction of arrow 5-5. Figure 6B Is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 as seen in the direction of arrows 6A-6A. Figure 6C Is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 as seen in the direction of arrows 6B-6B. Figure 4 Is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of chamber 50 as seen in the direction of arrow 6C-6C. (See also...) Figure 5 and Figure 6C As shown, the chamber 50 can be a bottomed tubular member, which includes an opening 52 allowing the smoking article 110 to be inserted therein and a holding portion 60 for holding the smoking article 110. It should be noted that the chamber 50 can also be a bottomless tubular body. The chamber 50 is preferably made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, and can be made, for example, of stainless steel. This allows the smoking article 110 to be effectively heated from the chamber 50.

[0256] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the holding portion 60 includes a pressing portion 62 that presses a part of the smoking article 110, and a non-pressing portion 66. The non-pressing portion 66 is arranged adjacent to the pressing portion 62 in the circumferential direction. The pressing portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. The non-pressing portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b.Figure 6C As shown, the heating part 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the pressing part 62.

[0257] The opening 52 of the chamber 50 can preferably receive the smoking article 110 without applying pressure to it. The shape of the opening 52 of the chamber 50 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50, in other words, in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the smoking article 110 is inserted into the chamber 50, can be polygonal or elliptical, but is preferably circular.

[0258] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 is planar. Because the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 is planar, if the strip electrode 48 is connected to the heating portion 40 (e.g., [the heating portion] provided on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62]... Figure 5 As shown), this can suppress the bending of the strip electrode 48. Therefore, it is beneficial for the arrangement of the electrode 48 within the flavor inhaler 120. Furthermore, compared to cases where the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 is curved or uneven, the heating portion 40 can be positioned more precisely, and the heating portion 40 can be more easily arranged on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 without gaps. Figure 4 As shown in Figure 6, the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62 is planar. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown in Figure 6, the thickness of the pressing portion 62 is uniform.

[0259] like Figure 6C , Figure 5 and Figure 6C As shown, in this embodiment, the chamber 50 has two or more pressing portions 62 in the circumferential direction of the chamber 50. Figure 6C and Figure 6C As shown, the two pressing portions 62 face each other. The distance between the inner surfaces 62a of the two pressing portions 62 is at least partially preferably less than the width of the portion of the smoking article 110 disposed between the pressing portions 62 when inserted into the chamber 50.

[0260] like Figure 4 As shown, the non-pressing portion 66 can have an integral arc-shaped cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chamber 50. For example... Figure 6B As shown, the retaining portion 60 is configured from a metal tubular body with uniform thickness.

[0261] Moreover, such as Figure 3 and Figure 3 As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a first guide portion 58, which has a conical surface 58a that connects the inner surface of the chamber 50 forming the opening 52 and the inner surface 62a of the pressing portion 62.

[0262] As Figure 3 shown, each heating portion 40 includes a heating element 42. The heating element 42 can be, for example, a heating track. As Figure 3 shown, in addition to the heating element 42, the heating unit 40 preferably includes an electrically insulating member 44 that covers at least one surface of the heating element 42. In the present embodiment, the electrically insulating member 44 is provided to cover both surfaces of the heating element. The flavor inhaler 120 of the present embodiment can have an induction coil that inductively heats the chamber 50 instead of the heating portion 40.

[0263] As Figure 3 shown, the flavor inhaler 120 has a strip-shaped electrode 48 that extends from the heating portion 40. In a state in which the heating portion 40 is provided on the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62, the strip-shaped electrode 48 preferably extends from the flat outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62 to the outside of the outer surface 62b of the pressing portion 62. As Figure 7 shown, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends from the outer surface 62b of each of the two pressing portions 62. The configuration is not limited thereto, and the strip-shaped electrode 48 can extend from only one of the outer surfaces 62b of the two pressing portions 62. Also, as Figure 8 shown, the strip-shaped electrode 48 extends to the side opposite the opening 52 side of the chamber 50. The strip-shaped electrode 48 can have a structure in which a layer composed of a conductive track is provided between two layers composed of an electrically insulating material.

[0264] In the above-described embodiment, the chamber 50 has a pair of pressing portions 62 that face each other, but the shape of the chamber is not limited thereto.

[0265] Figure 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50 including a non-pressing portion 66 in which the smoking article 110 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 50. Figure 8 is a sectional view of the chamber 50 viewed in the direction of the arrow 8-8 shown in Figure 8 In Figure 7 , for ease of description, the support portion 56 described below is shown in a dashed line. Even if the smoking article 110 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 50 and the smoking article 110 is pressed and deformed by the pressing portion 62, a gap 67 (as Figure 7 shown) between the inner surface 66a of the non-pressing portion 66 and the smoking article 110 is substantially maintained. These gaps 67 can provide a space for the opening 52 of the chamber 50 and the end surface of the smoking article 110 positioned in the chamber 50 to be deformed. Figure 8communicate between the end face on the lower side of the tobacco rod 110 and the end face on the lower side of the inner wrapper 118. This makes it possible to simplify the structure of the smoking system 100, because it is not necessary to separately provide the smoking system 100 with a flow passage for introducing air to be supplied to the smoking article 110.

[0266] As shown in Fig. 6, the opening 119 is preferably provided to face the non-pressing portion 66 when the smoking article 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50. In this case, even if a portion of the smoking article 110 is pressed by the chamber 50, air is introduced from the gap 67 (see Fig. 6) between the non-pressing portion 66 and the smoking article 110 through the opening 119, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source 81 located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article 110. Figure 7 Figure 7 As shown in Fig. 6, the opening 119 is preferably provided to face the non-pressing portion 66 when the smoking article 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50. In this case, even if a portion of the smoking article 110 is pressed by the chamber 50, air is introduced from the gap 67 (see Fig. 6) between the non-pressing portion 66 and the smoking article 110 through the opening 119, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source 81 located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article 110.

[0267] As shown in Fig. 6, the opening 119 is preferably provided to face the non-pressing portion 66 when the smoking article 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50. In this case, even if a portion of the smoking article 110 is pressed by the chamber 50, air is introduced from the gap 67 (see Fig. 6) between the non-pressing portion 66 and the smoking article 110 through the opening 119, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source 81 located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article 110. Figure 7 As shown in Fig. 6, the opening 119 is preferably provided to face the non-pressing portion 66 when the smoking article 110 is positioned at the desired position in the chamber 50. In this case, even if a portion of the smoking article 110 is pressed by the chamber 50, air is introduced from the gap 67 (see Fig. 6) between the non-pressing portion 66 and the smoking article 110 through the opening 119, thereby making it easier to supply air to the tubular flavor source 81 located in the circumferential portion of the smoking article 110.

[0268] Figure 7 ​​As shown, a portion of the cooling portion 116 can be exposed from the chamber 50. Also, as shown Figure 5 As shown, the length of the heating portion 40 in the longitudinal direction can be less than the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction. Specifically, the length of the heating portion 40 in the longitudinal direction can be 50% or more, 60% or more, 70% or more, or 80% or more of the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction. Also, the length of the heating portion 40 in the longitudinal direction can be 90% or less of the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction. The configuration is not limited thereto, and the length of the heating portion 40 in the longitudinal direction can be the same as the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction, or can be greater than the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction.

[0269] In terms of the longitudinal position, the heating portion 40 can be disposed so as to overlap with a portion or all of the flavor generating body 80 and a portion of the cooling portion. Alternatively, in terms of the longitudinal position, the heating portion 40 can be disposed so as to overlap with a portion or all of the flavor generating body 80 and a portion or all of the tip plug 140. Also, as shown Figure 7 As shown, the downstream end of the heating portion 40 and the downstream end of the flavor generating body 80 can be substantially aligned. In particular, the distance between the downstream end of the heating portion 40 and the downstream end of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction can be 2 mm or less.

[0270] For example, if the length of the heating portion 40 in the longitudinal direction is greater than the length of the flavor generating body 80 in the longitudinal direction, the heating portion 40 can overlap with the entire length of the flavor generating body 80 and a portion of the cooling portion 116. The heating portion 40 can also overlap with the entire length of the flavor generating body 80 and a portion of the tip plug 140. The heating portion 40 can also overlap with the entire length of the flavor generating body 80, and overlap with a portion of the cooling portion 116 and a portion of the tip plug 140. If the heating portion 40 overlaps with a portion of the cooling portion 116, the distance between the downstream end of the heating portion 40 and the upstream end of the cooling portion 116 in the longitudinal direction can be 2 mm or less. Also, if the heating portion 40 overlaps with a portion of the tip plug 140, the distance between the upstream end of the heating portion 40 and the downstream end of the tip plug 140 in the longitudinal direction can be 2 mm or less.

[0271] As shown Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the flavor inhaler 120 preferably has a support portion 56 that supports the end of the smoking article 110 when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50. In the present embodiment, the support portion 56 is provided as a bottom portion of the chamber 50, but the configuration is not limited thereto, and it can be provided as a member separate from the chamber 50. As shownFigure 8 As shown, the support portion 56 supports the portion of the smoking article 110 inserted into the chamber 50 so as to expose at least a portion of the end face of the smoking article 110. Further, the bottom portion 56 can support a portion of the smoking article 110 such that the exposed end face of the smoking article 110 is in communication with the gap 67.

[0272] In the present embodiment, the support portion 56 is preferably configured to allow air to be introduced from the tip of the smoking article 110 into the flavor source 81 while preventing air from flowing into the gap portion 114. In other words, by the tip of the smoking article 110 being supported by the support portion 56, the inflow of air introduced from the tip of the smoking article 110 into the gap portion 114 can be prevented. In this case, with respect to the flavor source 81 disposed partially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the support portion 56 allows air to be preferentially introduced from the tip of the smoking article 110 into the flavor source 81 while preventing air from flowing into the gap portion 114. This allows a vapor or aerosol containing a flavor generated by the flavor source 81 to be efficiently delivered to the user.

[0273] As Figure 8 shown, when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, the support portion 56 preferably overlaps at least a portion of the gap portion 114, as viewed from the longitudinal direction of the smoking article 110. In this case, the arrangement of the support portion 56 overlapping at least a portion of the gap portion 114 in the longitudinal direction makes it possible to prevent air from flowing directly from the tip of the smoking article 110 into the gap portion 114. As in the example shown in Figure 2

[0274] As Figure 2 shown, if the size of the gap between the outer edge of the support portion 56 and the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 is R, as viewed from the longitudinal direction when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, then with respect to the flavor source 81 disposed partially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the support portion 56 allows air to be preferentially introduced from the tip of the smoking article 110 into the flavor source 81 while preventing air from flowing into the gap portion 114. Figure 7 ​The thickness T of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction can satisfy the relationship R > T. In this case, the proportion of the amount of air flowing into the gap portion 114 with respect to the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article 110 can increase, thereby making it possible to suppress a decrease in the temperature of the flavor source 81. Further, since the amount of air flowing in from the tip of the smoking article 110 can increase, it is possible to supply more aerosol generated from the flavor source 81. It should be noted that the relationship R > T can also be established when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the chamber 50 (flavor inhaler 120). If R does not have a substantially constant value when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the chamber 50 (flavor inhaler 120), R can be the maximum value of the gap between the outer edge of the support portion 56 and the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 when viewed in the longitudinal direction. If T does not have a substantially constant value when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the chamber 50 (flavor inhaler 120), T can be the maximum value of the thickness T of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction.

[0275] Alternatively, if the size of the gap between the outer edge of the support portion 56 and the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 is R when viewed in the longitudinal direction when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, the thickness T of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction can satisfy the relationship T > R with respect to Figure 8 The thickness T of the flavor source 81 in the radial direction can satisfy the relationship T > R. In this case, it is possible to suppress the inward diffusion of air flowing in from the vicinity of the outer periphery of the smoking article 110, thereby allowing air to be more efficiently supplied to the aerosol source. It should be noted that the size R of the gap referred to here refers to the size of the gap in the radial direction, including the center O in the cross section of the chamber 50 or the smoking article 110 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0276] As in the present embodiment, when the smoking article 110 has the tip plug 140, the support portion 56 is configured to be in contact with the tip plug 140 to support the smoking article 110, as Figure 8 In this case, since it is possible to prevent the support portion 56 from coming into contact with the relatively fragile flavor source 81, it is possible to prevent the flavor source 81 from being damaged.

[0277] Here, the length of the tip plug 140 in the longitudinal direction is preferably 10 mm or less. In this case, reducing the length of the tip plug 140 makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has flowed in from the tip of the smoking article 110 or air introduced from the opening 119 in the tip plug 140. Thus, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of air that has been prevented from flowing into the gap portion 114 by the support portion 56 or air introduced from the opening 119 in the tip plug 140 and flowing into the gap portion 114. It should be noted that the length of the tip plug 140 is more preferably 8 mm or less, and even more preferably 5 mm or less.

[0278] Further, the end plug 140 preferably includes filter paper. In this case, compared to a case where an acetate filter or the like is used as the end plug 140, diffusion of air that has flowed into the end plug 140 can be suppressed. Thus, air that has been prevented from flowing into the void portion 114 by the support portion 45 or air introduced from the opening 119 can be suppressed from diffusing in the end plug 140 and flowing into the void portion 114, thereby allowing air to be more reliably supplied to the flavor source 81 located near the outer periphery of the smoking article 110.

[0279] In a case where the flavor inhaler 120 includes the support portion 56, as described above, it is preferable that a ratio between an amount of air that passes through the flavor source 81 in a predetermined time and an amount of air that passes through the void portion 114 in the predetermined time be between 1:0 and 1:3. In this case, air can be reliably supplied to the flavor source 81. Further, since air is allowed to pass through the void portion 114, air that passes through the void portion 114 can function to cool or dilute a vapor or an aerosol. It should be noted that if the proportion of air that passes through the flavor source 81 is 100% of the total (i.e., the above ratio is 1:0), it is preferable that a separate air introduction opening (vf) be provided in the smoking article 110 for adding a vapor or an aerosol cooling function.

[0280] Also, when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, an area of the support portion 56 (i.e., the area of the support portion 56 illustrated) as viewed from the longitudinal direction is preferably larger than an area of the void portion 114 (i.e., the area of the void portion 114 illustrated) as viewed from the longitudinal direction. Figure 8 Also, when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, an area of the support portion 56 (i.e., the area of the support portion 56 illustrated) as viewed from the longitudinal direction is preferably larger than an area of the void portion 114 (i.e., the area of the void portion 114 illustrated) as viewed from the longitudinal direction. Figure 8 In this case, by being arranged so as to sufficiently overlap the support portion 56 and the void portion 114 as viewed from the longitudinal direction, air that has flowed in from the end of the smoking article 110 can be suppressed (prevented) from flowing into the void portion 114.

[0281] If the support portion 56 only supports the flavor source 81 (or the end plug 140), pressure is applied locally, and thus there is a risk that the flavor source 81 (or the end plug 140) will deform. For this reason, as illustrated in Figure 9 The support portion 56 preferably has a protruding portion 56a that extends in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. When the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50, the protruding portion 56a can overlap a portion of the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 (e.g., the wrapper 118) as viewed from the longitudinal direction.

[0282] In this case, the protruding portion 56a can support the wrapper 118 of the smoking article 110. Thus, since the protruding portion 56a is in contact with the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 (e.g., the wrapper 118), the support portion 56 can more stably support the smoking article 110, and more greatly prevent deformation of the flavor source 81 (or the tip plug 140) than in the case where the support portion supports only the flavor source 81 (or the tip plug 140). Figure 10 In the illustrated example, the protruding portion 56a extends toward the gap 67 (air flow passage), but the configuration is not limited thereto, and the protruding portion 56a can likewise extend toward the pressing portion 62. In this case, it is possible to suppress the protruding portion 56a from preventing air from flowing into the air flow passage.

[0283] Figure 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of the chamber 50 of the flavor inhaler 120 according to another embodiment. As illustrated, the flavor inhaler 120 according to another embodiment has a tubular member 59 that extends into the interstitial portion 114 when the smoking article 110 is housed in the chamber 50. This tubular member 59 is configured to introduce air into the interstitial portion 114. Thus, since air can be introduced into the interstitial portion 114 through the tubular member 59, it is possible to promote cooling of the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor source 81. In the illustrated example, one end of the tubular member 59 extends into the interstitial portion 114, and the other end is configured to communicate with the outside of the chamber 50 to introduce air from the outside of the chamber into the interstitial portion 114. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and the tubular member 59 can be configured to communicate with a space inside the chamber 50 to introduce air from inside the chamber 50 into the interstitial portion 114. The tip plug 140 can be formed such that the tubular member 59 can be inserted therein. Alternatively, the tip plug 140 can already have an opening through which the tubular member 59 is inserted. It should be noted that even if the tip plug 140 has this opening, the flavor source 81 of the flavor generating body 80 is not exposed through the opening, and thus it is possible to suppress the flavor source 81 from overflowing through the opening.

[0284] Figure 10 is a schematic sectional view of a smoking article 110 according to another embodiment. Specifically, Figure 10 (a) is a schematic sectional side view of a smoking article 110 according to another embodiment. Figure 10 (b) is a plan view observed in the direction of the arrow b-b in Figure 2 (a). Figure 2 The illustrated smoking article 110 is different from Figure 10 The illustrated smoking article 110 is different from Figure 10The illustrated smoking article 110 is identical in configuration and function to the one described above, and the description thereof is omitted. The blocking portion 142 is located upstream of the flavor source 81 and is configured to block the flow of air into the interstitial portion 114 while allowing air to be introduced from the end of the smoking article 110 into the flavor source 81. With respect to the flavor source 81 being partially disposed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the blocking portion 142 allows air to be preferentially introduced from the end of the smoking article 110 into the flavor source 81 while blocking the flow of air into the interstitial portion 114. This allows the vapor or aerosol containing the flavor generated by the flavor source 81 to be efficiently delivered to the user.

[0285] Also, as illustrated, the blocking portion 142 preferably overlaps at least a portion of the interstitial portion 114 as viewed from the longitudinal direction of the smoking article 110. In this case, the flow of air from the end of the smoking article 110 directly into the interstitial portion 114 can be blocked. The blocking portion 142 more preferably overlaps the entire interstitial portion 114 as viewed from the longitudinal direction of the smoking article 110. In this case, the flow of air from the end of the smoking article 110 directly into the interstitial portion 114 can be blocked. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the blocking portion 142 overlaps the interstitial portion 114 so as to substantially coincide with the interstitial portion 114 as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the smoking article 110.

[0286] As Figure 2 (b) If the size of the gap between the blocking portion 142 and the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 is R as viewed from the longitudinal direction, the relationship R > T can be satisfied with respect to the thickness T in the radial direction of the flavor source 81. Figure 10 In this case, since the amount of air flowing in from the end of the smoking article 110 can increase, more aerosol generated from the flavor source 81 can be supplied.

[0287] Alternatively, if the size of the gap between the support portion 56 and the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 is R as viewed from the longitudinal direction, the relationship T > R can be satisfied with respect to the thickness T in the radial direction of the flavor source 81. Figure 10 In this case, the inward diffusion of air flowing in from the vicinity of the outer periphery of the smoking article 110 can be suppressed, thereby allowing air to be more efficiently supplied to the aerosol source. It should be noted that the size R of the gap referred to here refers to the size of the gap in the radial direction, including the center O of the smoking article 110 in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0288] Also, the area of the blocking portion 142 as viewed in the longitudinal direction is preferably larger than the area of the void portion 114 as viewed in the longitudinal direction. In this case, the area of the blocking portion 142 is larger than the area of the void portion 114 in the direction of the air flow. Thus, by arranging the blocking portion 142 to sufficiently overlap the void portion 114 as viewed in the longitudinal direction, the inflow of the air that has flowed in from the end of the smoking article 110 into the void portion 114 can be suppressed (blocked). It should be noted that the area of the blocking portion 142 or the void portion 114 referred to herein refers to the area of the largest cross section among the cross sections orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0289] As shown in FIG. 1, the blocking portion 142 is preferably provided with the end plug 140 located upstream of the flavor source 81. While the blocking portion 142 can be provided, for example, to be embedded in the void portion 114 of the smoking article 110 if there is no end plug 140, it is easier to provide the blocking portion 142 if the smoking article 110 includes the end plug 140. Figure 10

[0290] As shown in FIG. 1, the end plug 140 can have a recessed portion 143. In this case, the blocking portion 142 preferably fills the recessed portion 143. Thus, since the blocking portion 142 is suppressed from protruding from the end plug 140, the blocking portion 142 can be provided to have no substantial difference in appearance from the conventional smoking article 110. It should be noted that even when the recessed portion 143 is filled with the blocking portion 142, the blocking portion 142 can be provided to protrude (or protrude) from the recessed portion 143. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the blocking portion 142 fills the recessed portion 143 so as to substantially coincide with the recessed portion 143. Alternatively, the blocking portion 142 can be provided on the surface of the end plug 140. Figure 10 Figure 10

[0291] Preferably, the material constituting the blocking portion 142 provided on the end plug 140 is a fire-retardant material. Specifically, for example, the blocking portion 142 is preferably a thermosetting or naturally hardening glue, more specifically, is preferably formed of at least one of the group consisting of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer resin, and modified starch. In this case, particularly when a flammable material such as filter paper is used for the end plug 140, the combustion of the smoking article can be blocked even if the user uses the smoking article in an unintended manner. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and if the blocking portion 142 is provided in the end plug 140, the blocking portion can be formed of a material that is more air-impermeable than the end plug 140, for example.

[0292] Meanwhile, in still another embodiment, Figure 10 ​​​The end plug 140 shown may be provided with a high-density portion 142a and a low-density portion 144. In this case, the high-density portion 142a may constitute a blocking portion 142. Therefore, since air flow from the low-density portion 144 into the high-density portion 142a is suppressed, the end plug 140 can be used alone to configure the blocking portion 142 without attaching another component to the end plug 140.

[0293] When the flavor inhaler 110 includes a blocking portion 142, as described above, it is preferable that the ratio between the amount of air passing through the flavor source 81 within a predetermined time and the amount of air passing through the gap portion 114 within a predetermined time is between 1:0 and 1:3. In this case, air can be reliably supplied to the flavor source 81. Furthermore, since air is allowed to pass through the gap portion 114, the air passing through the gap portion 114 can serve to cool or dilute the vapor or aerosol. It should be noted that if the proportion of air passing through the flavor source 81 is 100% of the total (i.e., the above ratio is 1:0), it is preferable to provide a separate air inlet opening (vf) in the smoking article 110 for adding a vapor or aerosol cooling function.

[0294] The use of production will now be described. Figure 11 The method for producing the smoking article 110 is as follows: First, a flavor source 81 for generating flavor is prepared. At this time, a void portion 114 is formed adjacent to the flavor source 81 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Next, a blocking portion 142 is formed in the smoking article 110. At this time, the blocking portion 142 can be formed in the end plug 140, such as... Figure 11 As shown. Furthermore, if the smoking article 110 does not include the end plug 140, the blocking portion 142 can be provided in the gap portion 114.

[0295] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking article 110 according to yet another embodiment. It should be noted that... Figure 2 This shows the state in which the smoking article 110 is positioned in the desired location within the chamber 50. Figure 2 The smoking product 110 shown is... Figure 11 The only difference between the smoking article 110 shown is that it includes a sealing member 146. Other configurations and functions are the same as those for... Figure 11 The smoking article 110 shown has the same configuration and function, and its description is omitted.

[0296] like Figure 11 As shown, the smoking article 110 has a sealing member 146 that seals the upstream end face of the end plug 140. Most of the air introduced from the upstream end face of the end plug 140 can pass through the void portion 114 inside the tubular flavor source 81. According to... Figure 10The illustrated smoking article 110, since air is prevented from flowing in from the upstream end face of the end plug 140, air can be efficiently supplied to the flavor source 81 through the openings 119 provided in the wrapper 118.

[0297] The sealing member 146 is preferably a heat-hardening or naturally hardening glue, and more specifically, is preferably formed of at least one of the group consisting of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer resin, and modified starch. In this case, since the sealing member 146 is formed of a relatively non-flammable material, even if the user accidentally attempts to light the end plug 140 of the smoking article 110, combustion of the end face of the end plug 140 can be suppressed. The configuration is not limited thereto, and a paper or aluminum sheet having a coating that suppresses ignition, or the like, can be used as the sealing member 146. Further, the sealing member 146 can cover the entire upstream end face of the end plug 140, or can cover only a portion thereof.

[0298] It should be noted that, if the smoking article 110 includes the sealing member 146, the chamber 50 need not include the support portion 56, as Figure 2 illustrated, since air is not introduced from the end of the smoking article 110. The illustrated smoking article 110 can further include a blocking portion 142 or end plug 140 that includes a high-density portion 142a and a low-density portion 144, as Figure 12 illustrated.

[0299] A method for producing Figure 2 the flavor generating body 80 illustrated in FIG. 1 will now be described. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing a process for producing the flavor generating body 80. The method for producing the flavor generating body 80 according to the present embodiment includes a supply step for supplying the flavor sheet 81, a step for disposing the flavor sheet 81 on the outer surface of the support 82, and a step for covering the outer surface of the flavor sheet 81 disposed on the outer surface of the support 82 with the cover sheet 83. This makes it possible to produce the flavor generating body 80 in which the flavor sheet 81 is supported by the support 82 and covered with the cover sheet 83. Therefore, if, for example, a tubular support 82 is used, a tubular flavor generating body 80 can be produced, as Figure 13B illustrated, and if a plate-like support 82 is used, a plate-like flavor generating body 80 can be produced. Furthermore, since the flavor sheet 81 is disposed on the outer surface of the support 82, the flavor sheet 81 can be reliably disposed between the support 82 and the cover sheet 83. In other words, it is possible to suppress the flavor sheet 81 from accidentally penetrating into the inside of the support 82. The method will now be described in more detail.

[0300] First, the flavor sheet 81 is prepared. As shown in the drawing, the flavor sheet 81 is preferably prepared to be wrapped in a rolled shape. This allows the arrangement space of the flavor sheet 81 to be reduced, and also allows the flavor generating body 80 to be continuously produced. As shown in the drawing, the flavor sheet 81 is unwound in the first direction Cl and placed on the outer surface of the support body 82. At this time, it is preferable that at least a part of the flavor sheet 81 be crumpled, and the crumpled flavor sheet 81 be arranged on the outer surface of the support body 82. In this case, the surface area of the flavor sheet 81 can be increased by curling the flavor sheet 81 to form pleats by means of a crumpling process, so that the flavor or the aerosol generated from the flavor generating body 80 can be increased. Alternatively, it is preferable that at least a part of the flavor sheet 81 be slit, and the slit flavor sheet 81 be arranged on the outer surface of the support body 82. In this case, the surface area of the flavor sheet 81 can be increased by forming slits in the flavor sheet 81 by slitting, so that the flavor or the aerosol generated from the flavor generating body 80 can be increased. The flavor sheet 81 can be slit after being curled. In this case, the surface area of the flavor sheet 81 can be further increased. When a part of the flavor sheet 81 is slit, the parts of the flavor sheet 81 remain connected to each other, so that excessive separation of the parts of the flavor sheet 81 can be suppressed when the flavor generating body 80 is produced.

[0301] Specifically, as shown in Figure 13B , a pair of crumpling or slitting rollers 76 is provided downstream of the rolled flavor sheet 81. The flavor sheet 81 can be conveyed so as to pass between the pair of crumpling or slitting rollers 76, so as to be crumpled or slit.

[0302] If the flavor sheet 81 is crumpled or slit, the production method according to the present embodiment preferably includes a width suppressing step for suppressing an increase in the width of the flavor sheet 81 associated with the crumpling or slitting. Figure 13A and Figure 13B are schematic views showing the width suppressing step. When the flavor sheet 81 is crumpled or slit, the width of the flavor sheet 81 tends to increase. Therefore, by passing the flavor sheet 81 between a pair of guides 75 that extend in the conveying direction of the flavor sheet 81 and are spaced apart in the width direction, for example, as shown in Figure 13A and Figure 13A , an increase in the width of the flavor sheet 81 can be suppressed. Therefore, if a tubular support body 82 is used, for example, overlapping of the flavor sheet 81 when the flavor sheet 81 is wrapped around the support body 82 can be suppressed. Also, if a plate-like support body 82 is used, for example, an increase in the size of the flavor sheet 81 and an increase in the size of the flavor generating body 80 can be suppressed.

[0303] In Figure 13BIn the illustrated example, the width suppression step is performed after the crimping process or the slitting. In this case, it is possible to prevent the width suppression step from affecting the crimping process or the slitting, and thus it is possible to crimp or slit the flavor sheet 81 as needed in the crimping step or the slitting step. Specifically, in Figure 13B In the illustrated example, a pair of tapered portions 75a is provided upstream of the pair of guides 75, which receive the flavor sheet 81 whose width has been increased by the crimping process or the slitting. The width between the pair of tapered portions 75a gradually decreases toward the pair of guides 75.

[0304] In Figure 13A In the illustrated example, the width suppression step is performed simultaneously with the crimping process or the slitting. In this case, it is possible to reduce the time required to perform the width suppression step. Specifically, as Figure 13B As illustrated, the guide 75 extends to a position between the pair of crimping or slitting rollers 76, and sandwiches the flavor sheet 81 in the width direction before crimping or slitting the flavor sheet. It should be noted that, Figure 12 and Figure 12 The illustrated width suppression step can be performed by means other than the guide 75.

[0305] In the production method according to the present embodiment, a plurality of flavor sheets 81 can be supplied. In this case, the plurality of flavor sheets 81 is arranged in the flavor generating body 80 so that it is possible to increase the amount of flavor or aerosol generated from the flavor generating body 80, or increase the time (number of puffs) during which aerosol can be supplied. Also, each of the plurality of flavor sheets 81 can contain a different flavor ingredient. In this case, it is possible to produce a flavor generating body 80 that provides a user with a plurality of flavor ingredients. Also in this case, it is possible to design the flavor source by combining a plurality of flavor sheets 81 according to the intended purpose. When subjecting the plurality of flavor sheets 81 to at least one of the crimping and slitting processes, the process can be performed for each flavor sheet 81, or can be performed on a stack of the plurality of flavor sheets 81. The plurality of flavor sheets 81 can each have a different width.

[0306] Also, as Figure 12 As illustrated, a cover sheet 83 is prepared. As illustrated, the cover sheet 83 is preferably prepared to be wrapped in a rolled state. This allows the arrangement space of the cover sheet 83 to be reduced, and also allows the flavor generating body 80 to be produced continuously. The cover sheet 83 is supplied to cover the outer surface of the flavor sheet 81 arranged on the outer surface of the support 82. In the present embodiment, the production method preferably includes a shaping step for shaping the flavor sheet 81, the support 82, and the cover sheet 83 into a tubular shape. In this case, it is possible to produce a tubular flavor generating body 80. In Figure 12In the illustrated example, the tubular support 82 is conveyed in the first direction Cl, and the flavor sheet 81 and the cover sheet 83 are wrapped around the tubular support 82 to produce the tubular flavor generating body 80. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and the flavor sheet 81 and the cover sheet 83 can be overlaid on the flat support 82, and then wrapped around a core such as a mandrel to produce the tubular flavor generating body 80. Also, the flat support 82, the flavor sheet 81, and the cover sheet 83 need not be formed into a tubular shape, and a flat flavor generating body 80 can be produced. Furthermore, the support 82 can also be supplied as a continuous body, as Figure 12 illustrated, or a predetermined length of the support 82 can be supplied at regular intervals.

[0307] As Figure 12 illustrated, an adhesive applicator 77 can be provided downstream of the wound cover sheet 83 to apply an adhesive to the cover sheet 83. In this case, it is preferable to dry the adhesive after the outer surface of the flavor sheet 81 has been covered with the cover sheet 83. This allows the cover sheet 83 to be fixed with respect to the flavor sheet 81. It should be noted that, for example, when producing a tubular flavor generating body 80, the cover sheet 83 can be wrapped around the flavor sheet 81, and the layers of the cover sheet 83 can be adhered to each other using an adhesive. Also, for example, when producing a plate-like flavor generating body 80, the cover sheet 83 can be adhered to the flavor sheet 81 using an adhesive. Specifically, in Figure 12 the illustrated example, a dryer 78 is provided to dry the adhesive after the cover sheet 83 has been wrapped around the outer surface of the flavor sheet 81.

[0308] If the ends of the flavor sheet 81 wrapped around the support 82 overlap, it is less likely that flavor or aerosol will be generated from the overlapping portions. For this reason, if the support 82 is tubular, as Figure 12 illustrated, it is preferable to supply a flavor sheet 81 having a width that is smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support 82. In this case, since the flavor sheet 81 has a width that is smaller than the outer circumferential length of the support 82, it is possible to suppress the overlapping of the ends of the flavor sheet 81 wrapped around the tubular support 82.

[0309] Furthermore, the method preferably includes a step for cutting the shaped body into a predetermined length, the shaped body including the flavor sheet 81, the support 82, and the cover sheet 83 shaped in the shaping step. In this case, a flavor generating body 80 having a certain length for a smoking article 110 can be produced. In ​In the illustrated example, the cutter 79 is provided downstream of the dryer 78. Note that in the present embodiment, a continuous long tubular support body 82 is provided, but the configuration is not limited thereto, and a support body 82 that has been previously cut to a predetermined length can be supplied. In this case, the support body 82 can be tubular or plate-like.

[0310] In ​ In the illustrated production method, when the flavor sheet 81 is slit, the flavor sheet 81 is preferably conveyed in the first direction Cl, and the slit is formed along the conveying direction (first direction Cl) of the flavor sheet 81. In this case, since the slit is formed along the conveying direction of the flavor sheet 81, the slit can be formed while the flavor sheet 81 is being conveyed, and the flavor sheet 81 can be continuously slit. Also, the slit can be formed in the flavor sheet 81 in the conveying direction (first direction Cl) over the entire length of the flavor sheet 81. In this case, the flavor sheet 81 is divided into a plurality of sheets extending in the conveying direction.

[0311] Embodiments of the present application are described above, but the present application is not limited to those embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical concepts disclosed in the claims, the specification, and the drawings. Also, any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or the drawings is also within the scope of the technical concepts of the present application, provided that it exhibits the effects and advantages of the present application. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the flavor inhaler 120 has a configuration in which air flows in a so-called counterflow manner, but the configuration is not limited thereto, and a configuration in which air flows in a so-called underflow can also be adopted, i.e., the air flow arrangement can be in an underflow manner. The present application can also be applied to a so-called center heating type (internal heating type) flavor inhaler 120. In this case, a plug-type or blade-type heating portion of the flavor inhaler 120 can be inserted into the interstitial portion 114 of the smoking article 110. The heating method of the flavor inhaler 120 employed in the present application is not limited to an electric resistance heating method, but can be an induction heating method or a microwave heating method, etc.

[0312] List of Reference Signs

[0313] 80: flavor generating body

[0314] 81: flavor sheet

[0315] 82: support body

[0316] 83: cover sheet

[0317] S1: space.

Claims

1. A flavor generator production method, comprising: a supplying step for supplying a flavor sheet; a slitting step for slitting at least a portion of the flavor sheet; a step for disposing the slit flavor sheet on an outer surface of a support body; and a step for covering an outer surface of the flavor sheet disposed on the outer surface of the support body with a cover sheet.

2. The production method according to claim 1, comprising: a width suppressing step for suppressing an increase in width of the flavor sheet associated with the slitting.

3. The production method according to claim 2, wherein the width suppressing step is implemented after the slitting.

4. The production method according to claim 2, wherein the width suppressing step is implemented simultaneously with the slitting.

5. The production method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a shaping step for shaping the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet into a tubular shape.

6. The production method according to claim 5, comprising: a step for cutting a shaped body into a predetermined length, the shaped body including the flavor sheet, the support body, and the cover sheet shaped in the shaping step.

7. The production method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a step for transporting the flavor sheet, wherein the slitting step includes forming a slit in a transport direction of the flavor sheet.

8. The production method according to claim 7, wherein the slitting step includes forming a slit over an entire length of the flavor sheet in the transport direction.

9. The production method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a step for applying an adhesive to the cover sheet; and a step for covering an outer surface of the flavor sheet with the cover sheet and then drying the adhesive.

10. The production method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the supplying step includes supplying a plurality of the flavor sheets.

11. The production method according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of flavor sheets contains a different flavor component.

12. The production method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the support body is tubular; and the supplying step includes supplying the flavor sheet having a width smaller than an outer circumferential length of the support body. a support body; 13. A flavor generator comprising: a slit flavor sheet disposed on an outer surface of the support body; and a cover sheet disposed on an outer periphery of the flavor sheet.

14. The flavor generator according to claim 13, wherein a plurality of the flavor sheets are arranged in a laminated manner on the outer periphery of the support body.

15. The flavor generator according to claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of flavor sheets contains a different flavor component.

16. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the flavor sheet is a sheet containing tobacco.

17. The flavor generator according to claim 16, wherein the sheet containing tobacco is a paper sheet, a cast sheet, or a laminated sheet.

18. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the flavor sheet is a non-tobacco sheet containing an aerosol source. ​ ​ 19. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein, the filling amount of the flavor sheet is 50 mg to 300 mg.

20. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein, the support is formed of a material that is impermeable to gas.

21. The flavor generator according to claim 20, wherein, the material forming the support has a gas permeability of 0 c.u.

22. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein, the support is a hollow tube.

23. The flavor generator according to claim 22, wherein, the support includes a paper tube.

24. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 23, wherein, the cover sheet has a gas permeability of 0 c.u. to 60 c.u.

25. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 24, wherein, the cover sheet has a basis weight of 10 gsm to 100 gsm.

26. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 25, wherein, the cover sheet has a density of 0.5 gsm to 1.5 gsm.

27. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 26, wherein, the porosity of the space between the support and the cover sheet is 20% to 50%.

28. The flavor generator according to any one of claims 13 to 27, wherein, the ratio of the surface area of the flavor sheet to the surface area of the outer surface of the support is greater than 2 and equal to or less than 16.

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