Cartridge, aerosol generating device, and non-combustible inhaler

Abstract

The cartridge includes a tank capable of accommodating an aerosol source, a heating unit supplied with the aerosol source from the tank and heating the aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and an electrode portion electrically connected to the heating unit, a space portion capable of receiving the aerosol source being provided in the electrode portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cigarette cartridge, an aerosol generating device, and a non-combustion inhaler.

[0002] This application claims priority based on PCT / CN2023 / 133690, filed on November 23, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Non-combustible flavor inhalers, which inhale aerosols to enjoy flavor, are conventionally known. This type of non-combustible flavor inhaler includes, for example: a cartridge for containing an aerosol source, a main unit that insertably and removably contains the cartridge for an aerosol generating device, and a flavor source container for imparting flavor to the aerosol atomized in the main unit.

[0004] The cartridge for a non-combustible inhaler disclosed in PTL 1 below is known as an example of this type of device. This cartridge includes: a canister capable of containing an aerosol source; a heating unit from which the aerosol source is supplied and heated to generate an aerosol; and an electrode portion electrically connected to the heating unit. Citation List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] PTL 1: JP 2020-65536 A Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to suppress the outflow of aerosol sources.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, a cartridge according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a canister capable of containing an aerosol source; a heating unit supplied with the aerosol source from the canister and heating the aerosol source to generate an aerosol; and an electrode portion electrically connected to the heating unit, wherein a space portion capable of receiving the aerosol source is disposed in the electrode portion.

[0011] Based on this aspect, aerosol sources that have dripped from the tank or heating unit, or aerosol sources generated due to condensation and reversion to liquid, can be contained in the space provided in the electrode section. Therefore, the outflow of aerosol sources can be suppressed.

[0012] In the e-cigarette cartridges mentioned above, the electrode portion can have a shape that opens towards the heating unit.

[0013] Based on this aspect, the aerosol source that has dripped from the canister or heating unit can be easily received by the electrode section.

[0014] In the above-described cartridge, the electrode portion may include: a bottom wall portion that forms the bottom surface of the space portion; and an outer wall portion that stands upright from the bottom wall portion and forms the side surface of the space portion.

[0015] According to this embodiment, the electrode portion has a sealed cylindrical shape, and thus a large volume of the space portion can be ensured.

[0016] The aforementioned cartridge may include a first mating portion that mates with the outer inner surface of the outer wall portion and holds the electrode portion in place.

[0017] Based on this aspect, the first mating part mates with the outer inner surface of the outer wall part, thereby sealing the inner side of the electrode part and suppressing the aerosol source from escaping from the space part.

[0018] In the aforementioned cartridge, the first mating part may be formed on the protrusion, which has a facing surface that faces the bottom wall portion and is spaced apart from the bottom wall portion.

[0019] According to this aspect, the aerosol source can be contained in a space enclosed by the bottom wall portion of the electrode portion, the opposing surfaces of the protrusions, and the outer wall portion of the electrode portion sealed by the first mating portion.

[0020] In the aforementioned cartridge, a protrusion may be formed on a holder for supporting a heating unit, the heating unit may have a lead that abuts the electrode portion, and a through hole may be formed in the facing surface that penetrates the holder and allows the lead to pass through it.

[0021] Based on this aspect, the aerosol source that has flowed out through the through hole via the lead wire of the heating unit can be contained in the space portion.

[0022] In the aforementioned cartridge, a rib can be formed on the facing surface, pointing vertically towards the bottom wall, and the fuse can be inserted between the bottom wall and the rib.

[0023] Based on this, the movement of the lead wire away from the bottom wall portion in the space section can be suppressed, thus stabilizing the power supply to the lead wire.

[0024] In the aforementioned cartridge, a groove portion can be formed in the opposing surface, on the side of the rib opposite to the through hole, and the end portion of the lead wire can be inserted into the groove portion.

[0025] Based on this aspect, the lead wire can be positioned relative to the rib before the electrode portion mates with the protrusion. Furthermore, by forming a groove, the volume of the space is increased, thus allowing a larger amount of aerosol source to be stored within the space.

[0026] In the aforementioned cartridge, a second through hole can be formed in the facing surface, which penetrates the holder at a different location than the aforementioned through hole.

[0027] Based on this aspect, when the aerosol source has flowed into the space portion through the through hole through which the lead wire passes, the air in the space portion can be discharged to the outside through the second through hole, thus facilitating the flow of the aerosol source into the space portion.

[0028] In the aforementioned cartridge, the diameter of the outer wall portion can increase towards the end portion on the side opposite to the bottom wall portion.

[0029] Based on this aspect, the protrusion can be easily inserted into the outer wall portion, and the electrode portion can be easily assembled.

[0030] The aforementioned cartridge may include a second mating portion that mates with the outer peripheral surface of the outer wall portion and holds the electrode portion in place.

[0031] Based on this aspect, the second mating part mates with the outer surface of the outer wall part, thereby sealing the outer side of the electrode part and suppressing the aerosol source from escaping from the space part.

[0032] The aforementioned cartridge may include an annular groove portion, an outer wall portion inserted into the annular groove portion, and the outer wall of the annular groove portion may form a second mating portion.

[0033] Based on this aspect, the outflow path of the aerosol source from the space portion to the outside is formed into a swirling path through the annular groove portion, and the outflow of the aerosol source through the electrode portion can be suppressed.

[0034] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a cartridge as described above; and a power supply unit for supplying power to a heating unit of the cartridge to generate aerosol.

[0035] Based on this aspect, the aerosol generating device includes the aforementioned smoke cartridge, thus preventing the power supply unit from being wetted by the aerosol source.

[0036] A non-combustion inhaler according to one aspect of the invention includes: an aerosol generating device as described above; and a flavor source container attached to the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol generating device.

[0037] Based on this, flavor can be added to aerosols.

[0038] Advantages of the present invention

[0039] One aspect of the present invention makes it possible to suppress the outflow of aerosol sources. Attached Figure Description

[0040] [ Figure 1 [Illustration] is a perspective view of an inhaler according to an embodiment.

[0041] [ Figure 2 [This is an exploded perspective view of the inhaler according to an embodiment, viewed from the bottom side.]

[0042] [ Figure 3 [Illustration] is an internal configuration diagram of an inhaler according to an embodiment.

[0043] [ Figure 4 [This is a perspective view of the tobacco cartridge from the bottom side according to an embodiment.]

[0044] [ Figure 5 [This is a perspective view of the tobacco cartridge from the top side according to an embodiment.]

[0045] [ Figure 6 [This is an exploded perspective view of the tobacco cartridge from the bottom side according to an embodiment.]

[0046] [ Figure 7 ] is along Figure 4 The view of section VII-VII shown.

[0047] [ Figure 8 ] is along Figure 4 The view of section VIII-VIII shown.

[0048] [ Figure 9 [Illustration 1] is a bottom view of the holder according to an embodiment.

[0049] [ Figure 10 [This is a perspective view of the heating unit and the holder according to an embodiment.]

[0050] [ Figure 11 [Illustration 1] is a plan view of the holder according to an embodiment.

[0051] [ Figure 12 [This is a bottom view of the holder according to an embodiment after the electrode portion has been removed.]

[0052] [ Figure 13 [This is an exploded perspective view of the holder according to an embodiment after the electrode portion has been removed.]

[0053] [ Figure 14 [ ] is a perspective view of the electrode portion according to an embodiment.

[0054] [ Figure 15] is along Figure 9 The view of section XV-XV shown.

[0055] [ Figure 16 [Illustration] is an exploded perspective view showing a variant example of the holder according to an embodiment after the electrode portion has been removed.

[0056] [ Figure 17 [Illustration 1] is a plan view showing a variant example of the holder according to an embodiment.

[0057] [ Figure 18 [This is a bottom view of a variant example of the holder according to the embodiment after the electrode portion has been removed.]

[0058] [ Figure 19 [Illustration 1] is a cross-sectional view showing a variant example of the holder according to an embodiment after the electrode portion has been removed. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The following description will use reference to the accompanying drawings to illustrate a non-combustion inhaler (hereinafter referred to as "inhaler") according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] [Inhaler]

[0061] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the inhaler 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the inhaler 1 according to an embodiment, viewed from the bottom side. Figure 3 This is an internal configuration diagram of the inhaler 1 according to an embodiment.

[0062] Inhaler 1 is a so-called non-combustion inhaler, in which an aerosol that is atomized by heating passes through a flavor source and is inhaled to obtain flavor.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, the inhaler 1 includes a main body unit 2, a cartridge 3 (also called an atomizing unit), a flavor source container 4, and a mouthpiece 5. The cartridge 3 is inserted into and removably housed in the cartridge receiving portion 10 of the main body unit 2. The flavor source container 4 is detachably mounted to the heating module 11 of the main body unit 2. The mouthpiece 5 is detachably mounted to the flavor source container 4.

[0064] The main body unit 2 includes a shell portion 12. The shell portion 12 is formed into the overall shape of a flat box with rounded edges. The shell portion 12 includes a pair of main surface portions 12A and an outer wall portion 12B. This "pair" of main surface portions 12A means, here, that one main surface portion (first main surface portion 12A1) and the other main surface portion (second main surface portion 12A2) are arranged facing each other, but is not limited to meaning that the first main surface portion 12A1 and the second main surface portion 12A2 have exactly the same detailed shape. In addition, the word "pair" also appears in the description of other components, but in the same manner as above, it is not limited to meaning that such components have exactly the same detailed shape.

[0065] When assuming that the shell portion 12 is a hexahedron defined by six quadrilaterals, the pair of main face portions 12A refers to the portion forming a set of opposing faces (in this embodiment, the faces with the largest area) of the hexahedron. Furthermore, the peripheral wall portion 12B refers to the portion forming the remaining four faces of the hexahedron besides the pair of main face portions 12A. The peripheral wall portion 12B also refers to the portion connecting the peripheral edges of the pair of opposing main face portions 12A.

[0066] It should be noted that the pair of main surface portions 12A (first main surface portion 12A1 and second main surface portion 12A2) are described below as follows: the side where the first main surface portion 12A1 is arranged is referred to as the front side, and the side where the second main surface portion 12A2 is arranged is referred to as the rear side. Furthermore, when viewed in a plan view, the side where the heating module 11 is arranged is referred to as the left side, and the input device 15 (see...) Figure 1 The side on which the heating module 11 is arranged is called the right side. In addition, the side from which the heating module 11 protrudes is called the upper side, and the opposite side is called the lower side.

[0067] Furthermore, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is set in the attached drawings, and the positional relationship of the components can be described with reference to this XYZ orthogonal coordinate system. The X-axis direction is the front-back direction of the inhaler 1 (also known as the thickness direction), the Y-axis direction is the lateral direction of the inhaler 1 (also known as the width direction), and the Z-axis direction is the vertical direction of the inhaler 1 (also known as the height direction).

[0068] Furthermore, the positional relationship of the components can be described based on the main axis O of the cartridge 3 and the cartridge receiving portion 10. The main axis O is the central axis of the cylindrical cartridge 3 and the cartridge receiving portion 10. The direction in which the main axis O extends can be called the axial direction (the Z-axis direction mentioned above), the direction orthogonal to the main axis O can be called the radial direction, and the direction around the main axis O can be called the circumferential direction.

[0069] like Figure 1As shown, the housing portion 12 includes an outer shell 13, a display cover 14, and an inner shell 20. The outer shell 13 is formed by combining a first shell 13A and a second shell 13B. The first shell 13A includes a first main surface portion 12A1 and a first peripheral wall portion 12B1 disposed on the peripheral edge of the first main surface portion 12A1. Furthermore, the second shell 13B includes a second main surface portion 12A2 and a second peripheral wall portion 12B2 disposed on the peripheral edge of the second main surface portion 12A2.

[0070] The first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first shell 13A, the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second shell 13B, the display cover 14, and the inner shell 20 form the peripheral wall portion 12B. The surfaces of the first peripheral wall portion 12B1 of the first shell 13A and the second peripheral wall portion 12B2 of the second shell 13B facing each other are formed on the peripheral wall portion 12B.

[0071] Four corner portions 12C are formed on the outer wall portion 12B. The four corner portions 12C include: a first corner portion 12C1, on which the heating module 11 is disposed; a second corner portion 12C2, which is the opening of the cartridge receiving portion 10 (see...). Figure 2 The charging terminal 21 (see the third corner section 12C3) is located on the second corner section; Figure 2 ) is arranged on the third corner portion; and the fourth corner portion 12C4, input device 15 (see Figure 1 It is placed on the fourth corner section.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the display cover 14 extends from the heating module 11 arranged on the first corner portion 12C1 to the fourth corner portion 12C4. A through hole is formed in the display cover 14, and the input device 15 (button) is arranged in the through hole. The outer surface of the display cover 14 is lower than the outer surface of the housing 13. That is, the input device 15 is disposed in a recess.

[0073] The input device 15 may also be located below the outer surface of the housing 13. That is, at least a portion of the input device 15 should be located below the outer surface of the housing 13. The entire input device 15 should preferably be located below the outer surface of the housing 13. In other words, the contact sensing part (button surface) of the input device 15 should be located in a position that does not reach the outer surface of the housing 13.

[0074] like Figure 2As shown, the opening of the cartridge receiving portion 10 is located on the second corner portion 12C2. The opening of the cartridge receiving portion 10 can be opened / closed by means of the cartridge receiving cover 50 located on the bottom portion (inner shell 20) of the housing portion 12. The charging terminal 21 is located on the third corner portion 12C3.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the window portion 16 is disposed between the first corner portion 12C1 and the second corner portion 12C2 of the outer wall portion 12B. The remaining liquid level in the aerosol source of the cartridge 3 contained inside the cartridge container portion 10 can be checked through the window portion 16. The window portion 16 is formed by an opening portion 13a disposed in the housing 13 and a cover member 17 covering the opening portion 13a. A first air inlet 18A for drawing air (external air) into the housing portion 12 is disposed in the gap between the opening portion 13a and the cover member 17.

[0076] The first air inlet 18A draws air into the cartridge housing 10 from the window portion 16 between adjacent corner portions 12C (in this embodiment, the first corner portion 12C1 and the second corner portion 12C2) of the outer wall portion 12B. The first air inlet 18A is the inlet of the first airflow path 70 that draws in external air by means of the user's inhalation. The first air inlet 18A is formed in an annular shape along the opening edge of the opening portion 13a of the housing 13.

[0077] The first air inlet 18A should be sized to be partially obstructed by the user's fingers. For example, the dimension of the first air inlet 18A in the main axis direction (Z-axis direction) should be at least the average interdigital width of a typical adult thumb (e.g., at least 2.0 cm). Furthermore, the X-axis gap between two slits extending parallel to the main axis direction of the first air inlet 18A should be equal to or greater than the average interdigital width of a typical adult thumb.

[0078] It should be noted that the first air inlet 18A can simply be one or two slits extending parallel to the main axis, as long as their size is not obstructed by the user's fingers. That is, the first air inlet 18A can be formed as a slit extending along the opening edge of the opening portion 13a of the housing 13.

[0079] A connecting hole 17a is formed in the cover member 17. The connecting hole 17a allows fluid communication between the first air inlet 18A and the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The connecting hole 17a is located at the overlap between the cover member 17 and the outer casing 13. That is, the connecting hole 17a is located on the inside of the outer casing 13 and is also covered by the outer casing 13. Therefore, the connecting hole 17a is not visible from the outside of the outer casing 13. Furthermore, the connecting hole 17a cannot be directly blocked with a finger unless the outer casing 13 is removed.

[0080] The outer casing 13 has an exposed portion 13b for exposing a portion of the inner casing 20 at the second corner portion 12C2. A second air inlet 18B for drawing air (outer air) into the interior of the casing portion 12 is provided in the gap between the inner casing 20 and the outer casing 13 at the exposed portion 13b.

[0081] The second air inlet 18B draws air from the second corner portion 12C2 of the outer wall portion 12B into the interior of the smoke cartridge receiving portion 10. The second air inlet 18B is formed in the gap between the inner shell 20 and the outer shell 13 at the exposed portion 13b. The second air inlet 18B opens towards the -Z side. That is, the second air inlet 18B is located in a different position from the first air inlet 18A, and also has a 90° difference in opening orientation from the first air inlet 18A facing the -Y side.

[0082] The housing portion 12 has a protrusion 90 surrounding the second air inlet 18B. The protrusion 90 is formed by the outer shell 13. The protrusion 90 is formed by a step between the inner shell 20 and the outer shell 13. That is, even if a user's finger touches the area around the second air inlet 18B, the second air inlet 18B is not easily blocked because the protrusion 90 (outer shell 13) surrounding the exposed portion 13b constitutes a step that creates a gap with the user's finger. Furthermore, the protrusion 90 is not limited to the outer shell 13, and can also be formed by making a portion of the inner shell 20 protrude.

[0083] The housing portion 12 includes a first airflow path 70 and a second airflow path 80. The first airflow path enables communication between a first air inlet 18A and a connecting hole 17a, and the second airflow path enables communication between a second air inlet 18B and a connecting hole 17a. The first airflow path 70 forms a gap between the outer shell 13 and the cover member 17 and is formed in an annular shape along the opening edge of the opening portion 13a. The second airflow path 80 forms a gap between the outer shell 13 and the inner shell 20, extends from the exposed portion 13b at the second corner portion 12C2 to the +Z side, and thus extends to the connecting hole 17a via a portion of the first airflow path 70.

[0084] The first airflow path 70 has a shorter flow path length to the connecting hole 17a than the second airflow path 80. In other words, the first airflow path 70 has less airflow resistance than the second airflow path 80. This means that more air flows through the first airflow path 70 than through the second airflow path 80. Therefore, during normal use, the first air inlet 18A serves as the main air inlet, and the second air inlet 18B serves as a sub-air inlet when the first air inlet 18A is blocked.

[0085] The connecting hole 17a has a smaller flow path cross-sectional area than both the first air inlet 18A and the second air inlet 18B. Accordingly, even if either the first air inlet 18A or the second air inlet 18B is blocked, the flow rate and velocity of the air drawn into the smoke cartridge containment space 10A can still remain largely constant because the flow path cross-sectional area is ultimately narrowed at the connecting hole 17a. In other words, the connecting hole 17a acts as a speed-limiting part for air resistance.

[0086] <Flavor Source Container>

[0087] Figure 2 The flavor source container 4 (also known as a tobacco capsule) shown contains the flavor source and adds flavor to the aerosol atomized by the tobacco cartridge 3. Cut tobacco or a molding material obtained by shaping tobacco raw materials into granules can be used as a raw material constituting the flavor source. Furthermore, the flavor source can be formed from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbal medicine, or other medicinal herbs). Additionally, flavoring agents such as menthol can be added to the flavor source. Alternatively, the flavor source can be a material in which the flavoring agent is loaded onto a plant-derived carrier (cellulose, etc.) or other carriers (including inorganic carriers).

[0088] The flavor source container 4 includes a flavor source containing compartment for containing a flavor source, and one or more filters or pores that allow aerosols to pass through the flavor source containing compartment. The flavor source container 4 is fitted to a nozzle portion 11a disposed on a heating module 11 of the main body unit 2. The upper portion of the flavor source container 4 protrudes from the heating module 11, and the nozzle 5 is attached to its protruding portion.

[0089] <Suction nozzle>

[0090] The mouthpiece 5 is a cylindrical component that is placed in the user's mouth. The portion of the mouthpiece 5 that is placed in the user's mouth is a soft resin molded product made of resin material (such as silicone resin), while the portion attached to the upper part of the flavor source container 4 is a hard resin molded product made of resin material (such as polypropylene resin). It should be noted that attaching the mouthpiece 5 to the flavor source container 4 is optional, and it is also possible for the user to place the upper part of the flavor source container 4 directly in their mouth.

[0091] <Main Unit>

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, the main unit 2 includes: a heating module 11, an input device 15, a charging terminal 21, a power supply unit 22, a main board 23, a display device 24, a light source 25, a sensor 26, and a cartridge receiving cover 50.

[0093] The shell portion 12 of the main body unit 2 is a rigid resin molded article formed of resin material (such as polycarbonate resin or ABS resin). A cartridge receiving portion 10 for accommodating the cartridge 3 is disposed inside the shell portion 12. The cartridge receiving portion 10 forms a cylindrical space extending along the Z-axis direction.

[0094] The cartridge abutment portion 27 is disposed in an opening on the axially upper side (+Z side) of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The cartridge abutment portion 27 is an elastic body formed of a resin material (e.g., silicone resin). A connecting hole 27a is formed in the cartridge abutment portion 27, which allows communication between the upper portion of the cartridge 3 and the bottom portion of the flavor source container 4.

[0095] The heating module 11 includes a heater unit 11b for heating the flavor source container 4. The heater unit 11b includes a pipe component into which the flavor source container 4 is inserted, and a membrane heater wound in a cylindrical shape around the outer circumference of the pipe component. The heater unit 11b is electrically connected to the main board 23.

[0096] For example, input device 15 is a button. Input device 15 is electrically connected to motherboard 23. Note that the input device can also be a touch panel. That is, input device 15 should be a touch sensing unit.

[0097] The power supply unit 22 is located on the +Y side of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The power supply unit 22 is electrically connected to the motherboard 23. The power supply unit 22 is, for example, a rechargeable battery (secondary battery) and can be charged via a charging terminal 21 provided in the motherboard 23. Note that the power supply unit 22 is not limited to a rechargeable secondary battery, but can also be a supercapacitor, etc. Furthermore, the power supply unit 22 can also be a primary battery. Note that when the power supply unit 22 is a primary battery, the charging terminal 21 is not required.

[0098] The motherboard 23 is located on the +Y side of the power supply unit 22. The motherboard 23 has a plate shape extending along the XZ plane. The charging terminal 21 is mounted at the lower end of the motherboard 23. The motherboard 23 is directly connected to various electronic components, or indirectly connected to these electronic components via wiring or a flexible printed circuit board (not shown).

[0099] The term "motherboard" as used herein refers to the largest board among the boards housed within the housing portion 12. The motherboard 23 is larger than the switch board of the input device 15 and the display board of the display device 24, etc. Note that when only one board is housed within the housing portion 12, that board is the "motherboard." Furthermore, when two boards of the same size are housed within the housing portion 12, the board housing the computing unit for electronic control (such as a CPU or microcomputer) is used as the "motherboard."

[0100] The display device 24 is located on the underside (-Z side) of the display cover 14. The display cover 14 is light-transmitting, allowing inspection of the display surface of the display device 24. The display device 24 is, for example, an organic EL display or a liquid crystal display. The display device 24 is electrically connected to the motherboard 23.

[0101] A light source 25 is arranged facing the cover member 17 in the Y-axis direction, with the cartridge receiving portion 10 located between them. For example, the light source 25 is an LED light, etc. The cover member 17 is light-transmitting, allowing the liquid level of the aerosol source inside the cartridge 3, which has been illuminated by the light source 25, to be checked. The light source 25 is electrically connected to the mainboard 23.

[0102] Sensor 26 is disposed on the +Y side of the cartridge receiving portion 10. Sensor 26 is a so-called inhalation sensor for sensing the user's inhalation. Examples of sensors 26 that can be given include pressure sensors for detecting pressure, airflow sensors for sensing airflow, and temperature sensors for detecting temperature. In this embodiment, a detection unit is formed on the side of sensor 26 facing the cartridge receiving portion 10. The detection unit detects the behavior of the diaphragm deforming in response to pressure fluctuations as, for example, a change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0103] The cartridge receiving cover 50 opens / closes the cartridge receiving portion 10 located on the bottom portion of the housing portion 12. The cartridge receiving cover 50 is pivotally (hinged) attached to the housing portion 12. A plurality of protruding electrodes 51 are provided on the cartridge receiving cover 50. Once the cartridge receiving cover 50 is closed, the protruding electrodes 51 are inserted into the interior of the cartridge receiving portion 10. The plurality of protruding electrodes 51 are electrically connected to the main board 23.

[0104] The tip of the protruding electrode 51 is biased to the +Z side by means of a spring member housed inside the protruding electrode 51, and is displaceable in the Z-axis direction. That is, when the cartridge 3 has been inserted, the tip of the protruding electrode 51 extends toward the cartridge 3 and is displaced toward the -Z side. Also in this state, the tip of the protruding electrode 51 is biased to the +Z side and can therefore make firm contact with the cartridge 3.

[0105] Three protruding electrodes 51 are provided so that they do not need to be aligned with the two electrode portions 6A, 6B of the cartridge 3 (one of the protruding electrodes located at the rear is not depicted). Figure 2 As shown, the two electrode portions 6A and 6B of the cartridge 3 are each formed in a semi-circular region created by dividing the bottom surface of the cartridge 3 in half. Protruding electrodes 51 are arranged at 120° intervals at positions corresponding to the three vertices of an equilateral triangle. As a result, at least two of the three protruding electrodes 51 contact the two electrode portions 6A and 6B. Therefore, the cartridge 3 can be reliably energized.

[0106] <Smoke cartridge>

[0107] The cartridge 3 stores and atomizes the liquid aerosol source. The cartridge 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is housed inside the housing portion 12 from the cartridge receiving portion 10 provided in the bottom portion of the housing portion 12.

[0108] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the smoke cartridge 3 from the bottom side according to the embodiment. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the smoke cartridge 3 from the top side according to the embodiment. Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the smoke cartridge 3 from the bottom side according to the embodiment. Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The view of section VII-VII shown. Figure 8 It is along Figure 4 The view of section VIII-VIII shown.

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, the cartridge 3 includes: electrode parts 6A and 6B; a canister 100; a gasket 200; a heating unit 300; and a holder 400.

[0110] Can 100 stores an aerosol source. Can 100 is a rigid resin molded article formed from a resin material (e.g., polycarbonate resin). Can 100 is translucent, thus allowing inspection of the remaining amount of liquid aerosol source. Here, in the context of the characteristics of materials through which light penetrates, "translucent" includes: "transparent," where the light transmittance is extremely high and the other side can be seen through the material; and characteristics similar to "transparent," but different from "transparent" in that the transmitted light is diffuse or has low transmittance, thus the shape of the other side cannot be clearly identified through the material, etc. That is, even frosted glass or milky white plastic is translucent. It should be noted that gasket 200, heating unit 300, and holder 400 are not translucent, but some or all of them may also be translucent. Furthermore, can 100 does not need to be translucent when it is not necessary to inspect the remaining amount of liquid aerosol source.

[0111] The tank 100 is formed into a sealed cylindrical shape. For example... Figure 7As shown, the tank 100 includes a circumferential wall portion 110, a top wall portion 120, a flow path tube portion 130, and a rib 140. The circumferential wall portion 110 is formed into a cylindrical shape centered on the main axis O. The upper end of the circumferential wall portion 110 is connected to the circumferential edge portion of the top wall portion 120. It should be noted that the circumferential wall portion 110, the top wall portion 120, the flow path tube portion 130, and the rib 140 are formed as a single component by means of integral molding, but some or all of them can also be separate components. For example, the flow path tube portion 130 is integrally molded with the tank 100, but it can also be a component separate from the tank 100. Furthermore, the flow path tube portion 130 can also be integrally formed with the gasket 200 or the retainer 400.

[0112] The top wall portion 120 is formed in the shape of a disk centered on the main axis O, and closes the upper end of the circumferential wall portion 110. A first opening portion 131 of the flow path pipe portion 130 is formed at the center of the top wall portion 120. Furthermore, a plurality of sealed cylindrical cavities 121 are formed around the first opening portion 131 on the upper surface of the top wall portion 120, such as... Figure 5 As shown. Cavity 121 is the portion corresponding to the resin injection hole when the can 100 is injection molded.

[0113] like Figure 7 As shown, the flow path tube portion 130 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the main axis O, and extends downward from below the top wall portion 120 toward the lower side (-Z side). As described above, a first opening portion 131 is formed at the upper end portion of the flow path tube portion 130. Furthermore, a second opening portion 132 is formed at the lower end portion of the flow path tube portion 130. The second opening portion 132 is disposed directly above the heating unit 300 and opens toward the heating unit 300.

[0114] The flow path tube section 130 guides the aerosol generated by the heating unit 300 to the outside. The aerosol generated by the heating unit 300 is introduced into the flow path tube section 130 from the second opening section 132, passes through the flow path tube section 130, and is guided to the outside of the cartridge 3 from the first opening section 131. It should be noted that the aerosol leaving the first opening section 131 passes through… Figure 3 The aerosol is carried to the user's mouth from the flavor source container 4 through the connecting hole 27a in the cartridge contact portion 27 shown. That is, the "outside" of the cartridge 3 as mentioned herein means the outside of the outlet side of the aerosol flow when the user has inhaled (inhaled), not the outside of the inlet side from which external air (air) is drawn.

[0115] Rib 140 extends radially from flow path tube portion 130 in the radial direction and connects the circumferential outer surface of flow path tube portion 130 to the circumferential inner surface of circumferential wall portion 110. Furthermore, the upper end of rib 140 connects to the lower surface of top wall portion 120. That is, rib 140 connects to three surfaces: the circumferential outer surface of flow path tube portion 130, the circumferential inner surface of circumferential wall portion 110, and the lower surface of top wall portion 120. In this embodiment, three ribs 140 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction around flow path tube portion 130. The lower end 142 of rib 140 abuts against the top surface 211 of washer 200, such as... Figure 7 As shown. In this way, the gasket 200 is positioned relative to the can 100 in the Z-axis direction.

[0116] like Figure 7 As shown, the circumferential wall portion 110 of the tank 100 extends further downward (to the -Z side) than the lower end of the flow path pipe portion 130. Two engagement holes 111 are formed near the lower end of the circumferential wall portion 110. These two engagement holes 111 are used to secure the retainer 400 to the tank 100. The two engagement holes 111 are arranged facing each other on both sides of the circumferential wall portion 110, with the main axis O between them.

[0117] Gasket 200 is a cylindrical member that covers the bottom side of the annular space (liquid containment compartment 101) formed between the circumferential wall portion 110 and the flow path pipe portion 130 of tank 100. Gasket 200 is an elastic member formed of a resin material (e.g., silicone resin). Liquid containment compartment 101 is formed inside tank 100 by fitting gasket 200 into the interior of tank 100. A liquid aerosol source is stored in liquid containment compartment 101.

[0118] An insertion hole 201 is formed in the gasket 200, axially penetrating the center of the top surface 211, through which the flow path tube portion 130 is inserted. Multiple annular protrusions 202 are formed on the circumferential inner surface of the insertion hole 201 to seal the gap between the flow path tube portion 130 and the insertion hole 201. A heating chamber 200A, communicating with the lower end of the insertion hole 201, is formed inside the lower portion of the gasket 200. Since the flow path tube portion 130 is inserted into the insertion hole 201, the flow path tube portion 130 and the heating chamber 200A can communicate. It should be noted that the lower end (second opening portion 132) of the flow path tube portion 130 protrudes below the insertion hole 201 (towards the interior of the heating chamber 200A), but does not necessarily protrude below the insertion hole.

[0119] Washer 200 includes a first cylindrical portion 210, a second cylindrical portion 220, and a third cylindrical portion 230. The first cylindrical portion 210, the second cylindrical portion 220, and the third cylindrical portion 230 are connected in this order from top to bottom. The first cylindrical portion 210 forms the top surface 211 of washer 200. The portion of the first cylindrical portion 210 that abuts against the lower end 142 of the ribs 140 has an outer diameter capable of abutting the lower end 142 in a radial direction. The second cylindrical portion 220 is connected to the lower end of the first cylindrical portion 210. The second cylindrical portion 220 has a substantially truncated conical circumferential surface with a downwardly increasing outer diameter.

[0120] The third column portion 230 is connected to the lower end of the second column portion 220. The third column portion 230 has a circumferential surface, the outer diameter of which is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can. A sealing column portion 231 is formed at the lower end of the third column portion 230. A plurality of radially outwardly projecting annular sealing protrusions 232 are formed on the circumferential outer surface of the sealing column portion 231. These sealing protrusions 232 abut against the circumferential inner surface of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can and seal the gap between the can 100 and the gasket 200.

[0121] Multiple planar portions are formed on the gasket 200, so that air will not be trapped in the narrow gap inside the liquid-containing compartment 101, thereby ensuring that the air will not obstruct the aerosol source supply to the heating unit 300 (wicking element 310). Specifically, as Figure 8 As shown, a first planar portion 203, a second planar portion 204, and a third planar portion 205 are formed on the circumferential outer side of the washer 200. The first planar portion 203 is a planar surface parallel to the XZ plane, extending from the upper end of the first cylindrical portion 210 to near the lower end of the second cylindrical portion 220.

[0122] The second planar portion 204 connects to the lower end of the first planar portion 203. The second planar portion 204 is a planar surface inclined relative to the XZ plane and is formed near the lower end of the second cylindrical portion 220. It should be noted that the lower end of the second planar portion 204 is inclined further from the principal axis O than its upper end. The third planar portion 205 connects to the lower end of the second planar portion 204. The third planar portion 205 is a planar surface parallel to the XZ plane, extending from near the lower end of the second cylindrical portion 220 to the third cylindrical portion 230.

[0123] A through hole extending through the third cylindrical portion 230 in the Y-axis direction is formed in the lower side of the third planar portion 205. This through hole forms a space for inserting the heating unit 300 into the heating chamber 200A on the inner side of the washer 200. It should be noted that the first planar portion 203, the second planar portion 204, the third planar portion 205, and the through hole are formed in pairs and symmetrically in the Y-axis direction on the washer 200.

[0124] like Figure 6 As shown, the heating unit 300 includes a wicking element 310 and a heating wire 320. The wicking element 310 is a porous, liquid-absorbent, substantially cylindrical component. The wicking element 310 includes bundled fibers (such as cotton fibers or glass fibers) and has, for example, a capillary structure. Furthermore, the wicking element 310 can also be an elastic sponge element, a woven fiber web or belt, or a porous sintered block, etc., as long as it has a capillary structure.

[0125] like Figure 8 As shown, the wicking member 310 extends in the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the main axis O. One end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 of the wicking member 310 in the Y-axis direction are inserted into the liquid-containing compartment 101 through corresponding through holes in the gasket 200. In this way, an aerosol source inside the liquid-containing compartment 101 is drawn into the wicking member 310 from the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312. It should be noted that the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 of the wicking member 310 include a Y-axis direction end face and a circumferential outer surface surrounding these end faces.

[0126] Furthermore, the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 of the wick 310 are thicker and have a larger surface area than the other portions because the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 are not narrowed by the heating wire 320 or the first fixing portion 501 and the second fixing portion 502, which will be described later. That is, the wick 310 is elastically compressed by the heating wire 320, as well as the first fixing portion 501 and the second fixing portion 502, and the uncompressed portions deform to recover.

[0127] Heating wire 320 heats the aerosol source drawn into the wicking member 310, generating an aerosol. Heating wire 320 is, for example, a nichrome wire, and has a heating portion 321 wound in a spiral shape around the wicking member 310. Figure 7 As shown, leads 322A and 322B at one end and the other end of the heating wire 320 extend axially from both ends of the heating part 321 toward the holder 400.

[0128] The leads 322A and 322B of the heating wire 320 are electrically connected to two electrode portions 6A and 6B that are fitted into the holder 400. When the heating wire 320 is energized through the two electrode portions 6A and 6B, the wicking member 310 is heated. When the wicking member 310 is heated, the aerosol source absorbed by the wicking member 310 is atomized.

[0129] The holder 400 is formed into a cylindrical shape with a sealed bottom. The holder 400 is a rigid resin molded article formed from a resin material (e.g., polycarbonate resin). The holder 400 includes: a base portion 410 forming the bottom portion of the cartridge 3; and an outer cylindrical portion 420 and an inner cylindrical portion 430 erected on the base portion 410. The base portion 410 is formed into a disc shape centered on the main axis O. The outer cylindrical portion 420 and the inner cylindrical portion 430 are formed into cylindrical shapes centered on the main axis O.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a bottom view of the holder 400 according to an embodiment. Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the heating unit 300 and the holder 400 according to the embodiment. Figure 11 This is a plan view of the holder 400 according to an embodiment.

[0131] like Figure 9 As shown, two annular groove portions 470 are formed in the lower part 410a of the base portion 410, in which two electrode portions 6A and 6B engage. Each of the two electrode portions 6A and 6B has a shape as seen from the bottom surface, which includes two straight lines extending parallel to the Y-axis direction and two arcs connecting the two ends of these two straight lines.

[0132] like Figure 9 As shown, two electrode portions 6A and 6B are arranged in pairs in the X-axis direction, with the main axis O between them. Furthermore, a pair of cavities 412 are formed in the lower surface 410a of the base portion 410 in the Y-axis direction, with the main axis O between them. The cavities 412 correspond to the resin injection holes during injection molding of the retainer 400. Along the circumferential outer edge of the base portion 410, three engagement recesses 413 are further formed in the lower surface 410a of the base portion 410. These three engagement recesses 413 are arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction (intervals of 120° in the circumferential direction).

[0133] The engagement recess 413 extends to two surfaces, namely the lower surface 410a of the base portion 410 and the circumferential outer surface 410b. The engagement recess 413 is formed in a tapered shape such that the circumferential width of the engagement recess 413 gradually increases toward the lower surface 410a of the base portion 410. For example, the vertical direct engagement protrusion of the aerosol generating device disclosed in JP 2020-65538 A is inserted into the three engagement recesses 413 formed in this manner. That is, the cartridge 3 of this embodiment is interchangeable with cartridges of other aerosol generating devices.

[0134] A vertical groove 415 extending along the Z-axis is formed in one of the three mating recesses 413. The vertical groove 415 extends to the lower surface 410a of the base portion 410 and is formed deeper radially inward than the mating recess 413. The upper end of the vertical groove 415 communicates with the bottom surface of a transverse groove 414 extending radially inward from the circumferential outer surface 410b of the base portion 410. Figure 7 As shown, the transverse grooves 414 are formed as a pair in the X-axis direction so as to communicate with the lower sides at both ends of the air passage 416 that penetrates the base portion 410 in the X-axis direction.

[0135] like Figure 7 As shown, the outer cylindrical portion 420, the inner cylindrical portion 430, and the base portion 410 are inserted into the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100 on one side above the transverse groove 414. Two engaging tabs 401 are provided that protrude radially outward from the base portion 410 and engage in two engaging holes 111 in the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100.

[0136] The sealing post portion 231 of the gasket 200 is assembled around the outer post portion 420. The outer post portion 420 supports the radially inner side of the sealing post portion 231 and inhibits the movement of the sealing ridge 232 of the sealing post portion 231 away from the circumferential wall portion 110 of the tank 100. That is, the outer post portion 420 enhances the adhesion of the sealing ridge 232 to the circumferential wall portion 110 of the tank 100.

[0137] Furthermore, a positioning recess 112 for the circumferential positioning holder 400 is formed at the lower end of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100, such as... Figure 6 As shown. These positioning recesses 112 are cutouts recessed towards the +Z side and are arranged facing each other, with the main axis O between them. Then, positioning protrusions 402 are formed in the retainer 400, which are inserted into the positioning recesses 112 in the axial direction. The shape, size, number, and arrangement of the positioning protrusions 402 correspond to the shape, size, number, and arrangement of the positioning recesses 112.

[0138] like Figure 10As shown, a positioning protrusion 402 is formed on a stepped portion 410c, which is radially recessed inward from the circumferential outer surface 410b of the base portion 410. The lower end of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100 abuts against the stepped portion 410c in the axial direction. With the lower end of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100 abutting against the stepped portion 410c, the positioning protrusion 402 is inserted into the positioning recess 112, and the engaging tab 401 engages in the engaging hole 111, thereby assembling the retainer 400 with the can 100 in a position that is positioned in the axial, radial, and circumferential directions. A gasket 200 and a heating unit 300 are incorporated between the can 100 and the retainer 400.

[0139] like Figure 7 As shown, the inner cylindrical portion 430 is fitted inside the heating chamber 200A of the gasket 200. This allows communication between the space on the inner side of the inner cylindrical portion 430 and the heating chamber 200A. Furthermore, an aerosol source holding portion 440, which will be described later, is formed between the inner cylindrical portion 430 and the outer cylindrical portion 420. As seen in the plan view, the aerosol source holding portion 440 is an annular space surrounding the heating chamber 200A, and the upper portion of the aerosol source holding portion is closed by the gasket 200. Additionally, the aerosol source holding portion 440 is partially connected to the heating chamber 200A via an air venting groove 431. The air venting groove 431 extends from the upper end face of the inner cylindrical portion 430 to the middle portion in the height direction on the circumferential outer surface of the inner cylindrical portion 430.

[0140] The lower side of the retainer 400 is exposed from the can 100. The lower side of the retainer 400 has an outer diameter that is almost the same as that of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100. In addition, two radially inwardly recessed transverse grooves 414 are formed on the lower side of the retainer 400. The two transverse grooves 414 are arranged facing each other with the main axis O between them. The two transverse grooves 414 communicate with the bottom surface of the two end portions of the air passage 416 arranged on the radially inner side of the circumferential wall portion 110 of the can 100. In the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction), a plurality of communication holes 417 communicating with the interior (heating chamber 200A) of the inner column portion 430 are formed in the Z-axis direction in the top surface of the middle portion of the air passage 416.

[0141] In other words, when the user inhales, a negative pressure is generated in the heating chamber 200A via the flow path tube portion 130, and external air is introduced into the air passage 416 from the vertical groove 415 and the horizontal groove 414, and / or from the horizontal groove 414. The air introduced into the air passage 416 is introduced into the heating chamber 200A through the connecting hole 417 in the middle of the passage, carrying with it the aerosol generated in the heating chamber 200A, and passing through... Figure 3The flow path tube portion 130 and the connecting hole 27a in the cartridge contact portion 27 shown further pass through the flavor source container 4 and are carried into the user's mouth. If at least the lateral groove 414 is present, inhalation is possible, and the vertical groove 415 is formed to allow the sensor 26 to sense the inhalation.

[0142] like Figure 10 As shown, the holder 400 includes an inner cylindrical portion 430 supporting the heating unit 300, and an outer cylindrical portion 420 supporting the heating unit 300 outside the inner cylindrical portion 430. Figure 11 As shown, the inner column portion 430 is formed into a rectangular column shape as seen in the plan view. The outer column portion 420 is formed into a circular column shape as seen in the plan view.

[0143] Figure 7 The plurality of connecting holes 417 communicating with the air passage 416, and a pair of through holes 418 for guiding the leads 322A, 322B of the heating wire 320 to the electrode portions 6A, 6B are formed on the inner side of the inner cylindrical portion 430. The connecting holes 417 are formed in two rows along the X-axis direction extending from the air passage 416. The through holes 418 are formed in a pair on the inner side of two diagonally positioned corner portions among the four corner portions on the inner side of the inner cylindrical portion 430.

[0144] Support surfaces 432 supporting the heating unit 300 are formed in a pair along the Y-axis on the upper portion of the inner cylindrical portion 430, with the main axis O between them. When viewed from the side, the support surfaces 432 are formed as downwardly protruding portions in a semi-circular arc shape. The upper portion of the inner cylindrical portion 430 protrudes upward on both sides of the support surfaces 432 relative to the lowest point of the support surfaces 432. A groove 433 extending linearly in the Y-axis direction is formed at the lowest point of the support surfaces 432. A portion of the wicking member 310 enters the groove 433, which restricts the displacement of the heating unit 300 around the Y-axis. Furthermore, the groove 433 serves as a gas / liquid exchange groove through which air enters the tank 100 when an aerosol source is supplied from the tank 100 to the wicking member 310. It should be noted that the aforementioned air venting grooves 431 are formed as a pair, and are positioned in a point-symmetrical relationship about the main axis O on the upper end surface of the opposing wall portion of the inner column portion 430 and its circumferential outer surface in the X-axis direction.

[0145] Furthermore, a pair of support surfaces 421 supporting the heating unit 300 are formed on the upper portion of the outer cylindrical portion 420 in the Y-axis direction, with the main axis O between them. When viewed from the side, the support surfaces 421 are formed as downwardly protruding portions in a semi-circular arc shape. The upper portion of the outer cylindrical portion 420 protrudes upward relative to the support surfaces 421 on both sides. Figure 11As shown, the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 has a larger width in the X-axis direction than the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430. That is, the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 has a larger radius of curvature (smaller curvature) than the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430. Furthermore, the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 has a larger support area than the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430. In other words, the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 supports the heating unit 300 (wicking member 310) more loosely than the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430.

[0146] An aerosol source holding portion 440 (sub-storage tank) is formed between the inner cylindrical portion 430 and the outer cylindrical portion 420 to receive an aerosol source. The aerosol source holding portion 440 forms an annular space, as shown in... Figure 11 As seen in the plan view shown, and including a connecting portion 441 (opening portion) on the upper side (see... Figure 8 A first bottom surface 442, a second bottom surface 443 that is deeper than the first bottom surface 442, and a third bottom surface 444 that is shallower than the first bottom surface 442 are formed in the bottom portion of the aerosol source holding portion 440.

[0147] The first bottom surface 442 serves as a reference surface for the bottom surface of the aerosol source holding portion 440. On the bottom portion of the aerosol source holding portion 440, a pair of second bottom surfaces 443 are arranged in the Y-axis direction, with the principal axis O between them. The second bottom surfaces 443 are arranged between the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 and the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430, as seen in the plan view. The second bottom surface 443 is a bottom surface in the form of an inverted truncated cone cavity, having an inner diameter that gradually decreases downward from the first bottom surface 442. As seen in the plan view, the center of the second bottom surface 443 is positioned further towards the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420 than the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430, and the second bottom surface 443 extends far to the lower end of the aerosol source guiding portion 450.

[0148] On the bottom portion of the aerosol source holding portion 440, a pair of third bottom surfaces 444 are arranged in the X-axis direction, with the main axis O between them. The third bottom surfaces 444 are arranged along the X-axis direction extending from the air passage 416. That is, the third bottom surfaces 444 are formed on the portion that protrudes upward relative to the first bottom surface 442 in order to maintain the volume of the air passage 416 and maintain the thickness of the top plate of the air passage 416. Note that the air venting groove 431 is formed above the third bottom surfaces 444.

[0149] The aerosol source guiding portion 450 is formed on the inner wall surface of the outer column portion 420. For example... Figure 8As shown, the aerosol source guiding portion 450 in this embodiment is a recessed portion for guiding the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 300 to the aerosol source holding portion 440. Furthermore, the aerosol source guiding portion 450 does not need to be a recessed portion, as long as it can guide the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 300 to the aerosol source holding portion 440.

[0150] For example, the aerosol source guiding portion 450 may have a capillary structure similar to the wicking member 310 at a position corresponding to the groove portion, may be surface-treated to have low hydrophobicity (high liquid affinity) relative to the aerosol source, or may have a composite structure combining some or all of the groove portion, capillary structure, and surface treatment. Furthermore, "guiding" means that the aerosol source is drawn into the aerosol source holding portion 440 at least in a state where the aerosol source will not spontaneously drip from the heating unit 300 (wicking member 310).

[0151] like Figure 8 As shown, the heating unit 300 is fixed by means of a first fixing portion 501 and a second fixing portion 502. The first fixing portion 501 fixes the core suction member 310 on both sides of the heating part 321 of the heating unit 300. The second fixing portion 502 fixes the core suction member 310 at a position further away from the heating part 321 of the heating unit 300 than the first fixing portion 501. The first fixing portion 501 includes the inner cylindrical portion 430 of the retainer 400 and the lower portion 206 of the washer 200. In addition, the second fixing portion 502 includes a pair of gripping protrusions of the washer 200.

[0152] The space S communicating with the liquid-containing compartment 101 is formed directly above the support surface 421 of the outer cylindrical portion 420, since the lower portion 206 of the gasket 200 is not present therein. The lower portion 206 of the gasket 200 is arranged in the Z-axis direction at a position corresponding at least to the support surface 432 of the inner cylindrical portion 430. The wicking member 310 is compressed to a greater extent by the first fixing portion 501 than by the second fixing portion 502. That is, the first fixing portion 501 has a higher compression ratio for the wicking member 310 than the second fixing portion 502. It should be noted, for example, that the "compression ratio" mentioned herein can be defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the wicking member 310 after compression to the cross-sectional area of ​​its external shape in its normal state.

[0153] The electrode portions 6A and 6B and the surrounding structure will be described next.

[0154] Figure 12 This is a bottom view of the retainer 400 according to the embodiment after the electrode portions 6A and 6B have been removed. Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of the retainer 400 according to the embodiment after the electrode portion 6B has been removed. Figure 14 This is a perspective view of electrode portion 6B according to an embodiment. Figure 15 It is along Figure 9 The view of section XV-XV shown.

[0155] like Figure 15 As shown, a space portion 7 capable of receiving an aerosol source is provided in electrode portion 6B. It should be noted that electrode portion 6A also has a space portion 7 similar to that in electrode portion 6B, but to avoid repetition, its description will be omitted.

[0156] The electrode portion 6B has a shape that opens toward the heating unit 300. Specifically, the electrode portion 6B is positioned below the heating unit 300 in the Z-axis direction or the direction of gravity, and has a shape that opens in the direction opposite to the direction of gravity. Therefore, the electrode portion 6B has a shape for receiving an aerosol source dripping under gravity. Figure 14 As shown, the electrode portion 6B is formed into a sealed cylindrical shape and includes a bottom wall portion 601 and an outer wall portion 602. For example, such an electrode portion 6B can be formed by pressing. Alternatively, the electrode portion 6B can be formed by machining a metal material. That is, depending on the processing method, the bottom wall portion 601 and the outer wall portion 602 may not have a constant thickness. Furthermore, depending on the processing method, the bottom wall portion 601 and the outer wall portion 602 can be formed as a smooth continuation with curved surfaces on the inner side of the electrode portion 6B.

[0157] The bottom wall portion 601 extends in a plate shape along the XY plane. The bottom wall portion 601 has a peripheral edge shape as seen from the bottom surface, which includes two straight lines extending parallel to the Y-axis and two arcs connecting the ends of these two lines. The peripheral wall portion 602 extends from the outer peripheral edge of the bottom wall portion 601 toward the +Z side to a constant height. A flange portion 603, bent outward toward the electrode portion 6B, is formed at the upper end portion of the peripheral wall portion 602. This flange portion 603 facilitates easier insertion of the protrusion 460 (described later) into the electrode portion 6B without the protrusion 460 becoming stuck during insertion. Furthermore, the flange portion 603 is formed along the entire periphery of the upper end portion of the peripheral wall portion 602, thus making the peripheral wall portion 602 less likely to deform and contributing to a uniform pushing pressure on the protrusion 460.

[0158] like Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, a protrusion 460 is formed on the retainer 400, inside the annular groove portion 470, into which the electrode portion 6B is inserted. The protrusion 460 fits inside the electrode portion 6B. The protrusion 460 includes an opposing surface 461 facing the bottom wall portion 601, spaced apart from the bottom wall portion, and a peripheral surface 462 that mates with the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion 602. Figure 12 In the bottom view shown, the facing surfaces 461 have the same shape as the bottom wall portion 601 described above. It should be noted that the outer surface 462 of the protrusion 460 also refers to the inner wall portion 471 of the annular groove portion 470 (see...). Figure 15 ).

[0159] like Figure 12 As shown, a through hole 418 is formed in the facing surface 461, through which the lead wire 322B of the heating unit 300 passes. The through hole 418 is formed on one side (the -Y side in the case of the electrode portion 6B) in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the facing surface 461. A guide groove 418a for guiding the lead wire 322B is formed on the circumferential inner surface of the through hole 418. The guide groove 418a has an inclination for guiding the lead wire 322B toward the longitudinal center of the facing surface 461.

[0160] Ribs 463 are formed at the longitudinal center of the facing surface 461. These ribs 463 stand upright from the facing surface 461 toward the bottom wall portion 601 towards the -Z side. The ribs 463 extend along the shorter side of the facing surface 461. In this embodiment, a plurality of ribs 463 (two in this embodiment) are formed at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the facing surface 461. Figure 15 As shown, lead wire 322B is inserted between bottom wall portion 601 and rib 463.

[0161] like Figure 12 As shown, a pair of abutting portions 464 are provided on the two longitudinal sides of the facing surface 461. Each of the abutting portions 464 is formed in a semi-circular arc shape along the outer periphery of the facing surface 461. The pair of abutting portions 464 protrude further from the facing surface 461 towards the -Z side than each rib 463. The pair of abutting portions 464 abut against the bottom wall portion 601, thereby ensuring that the rib 463 does not excessively press against the lead wire 322B.

[0162] like Figure 15As shown, the protrusion 460 includes a first mating portion 700, which mates with the outer peripheral inner surface of the outer wall portion 602 and holds the electrode portion 6B. The first mating portion 700 is formed on the outer peripheral surface 462 of the protrusion 460. The first mating portion 700 forms an annular sealing portion, which mates with the outer peripheral inner surface of the outer wall portion 602 of the electrode portion 6B and is positioned along the outer peripheral inner surface of the outer wall portion 602. That is, the portion enclosed by the bottom wall portion 601 of the electrode portion 6B, the facing surface 461 of the protrusion 460, and the outer peripheral wall portion 602 of the electrode portion 6B sealed by the first mating portion 700 constitutes a space portion 7 capable of receiving an aerosol source.

[0163] like Figure 15 As shown, the diameter of the outer wall portion 602 increases towards the end portion (the opening portion of the electrode portion 6B), which opens towards the heating unit 300 on the side opposite to the bottom wall portion 601. It should be noted that the diameter of the outer wall portion 602 initially increases towards the +Z side due to pressing, but further increases through deformation due to the fitting of the protrusion 460 therein. Furthermore, the term "increased diameter" as used herein means that the cross-section of the outer wall portion 602 gradually increases in a similar shape, but the shape need not be strictly similar.

[0164] The retainer 400 includes a second mating portion 710 that mates with the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion 602 and retains the electrode portion 6B. The second mating portion 710 is formed on the outer peripheral wall 472 of the annular groove portion 470, into which the peripheral wall portion 602 is inserted. Furthermore, the second mating portion 710 is formed on a flange portion 603 at the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 602; however, when there is no flange portion 603, the second mating portion 710 may be formed on the outer peripheral surface at the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 602, or on the outer peripheral surface opposite to the upper end.

[0165] The second mating portion 710 forms an annular sealing portion that mates with and is positioned along the outer periphery 472 of the annular groove portion 470. In other words, the gap between the electrode portion 6B and the holder 400 is double-sealed by the first sealing portion provided by the first mating portion 700 and the second sealing portion provided by the second mating portion 710. Furthermore, the electrode portion 6B is cup-shaped, so the outflow path of the aerosol source from the space portion 7 to the outside of the holder 400 constitutes a swirling path (a so-called labyrinthine path) extending back and forth along the Z-axis direction inside and outside the outer periphery wall portion 602.

[0166] <How to use an inhaler>

[0167] When using the inhaler 1 with the above configuration, first open the cartridge receiving cover 50 located in the bottom portion of the housing part 12 of the main body unit 2, as follows: Figure 2 As shown. Then, insert the tobacco cartridge 3 into the tobacco cartridge receiving portion 10. Once the tobacco cartridge 3 has been inserted into the tobacco cartridge receiving portion 10, close the tobacco cartridge receiving cover 50. In addition, attach the flavor source container 4 to the mouthpiece portion 11a of the heating module 11 of the main unit 2, and further attach the mouthpiece 5 to the flavor source container 4 protruding from the heating module 11.

[0168] When inhaling through inhaler 1, the user presses... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The input device 15 is shown. Here, the main unit 2 can be programmed to activate, for example, when the input device 15 is pressed multiple times. For example, when the main unit 2 is activated, the heating module 11 heats the flavor source container 4 to produce flavor.

[0169] Then, the user inhales while holding the mouthpiece 5 in their mouth. When this occurs, air inside the cartridge housing 10 is drawn into the cartridge 3, and... Figure 3 The sensor 26 shown detects a draw. When the sensor 26 detects a draw, the heating wire 320 in the cartridge 3 is energized, and the heating wire 320 generates heat. When the heating wire 320 generates heat, the liquid aerosol source impregnated with the wick 310 is heated and atomized.

[0170] Air (external air) flows into the cartridge receiving portion 10 through the connecting hole 17a formed in the cover member 17. The air that has already flowed into the cartridge receiving portion 10 is introduced into the air passage 416 from the vertical groove 415 and the horizontal groove 414 in the cartridge 3, and / or from the horizontal groove 414, as... Figure 7 As shown. Air introduced into air passage 416 is introduced into heating chamber 200A through connecting hole 417, carrying aerosol generated in heating chamber 200A, and passing through... Figure 3 The flow path tube portion 130 and the connecting hole 27a in the cartridge contact portion 27 shown further pass through the flavor source container 4 and the mouthpiece 5, and are carried into the user's mouth. The user can enjoy the flavor in this way.

[0171] It should be noted that the atomized aerosol can fill the heating chamber 200A and can partially condense inside the heating chamber 200A, thus returning to the aerosol source. Furthermore, as... Figure 8As shown, an aerosol source is supplied from the tank 100 to the heating unit 300. However, if the supplied aerosol source exceeds the amount that the wicking member 310 can hold, the aerosol source tends to drip from the heating element 321 into the inner cylindrical portion 430 (heating chamber 200A). However, in this embodiment, excess aerosol source supplied from the tank 100 to the heating unit 300 is guided by the aerosol source guiding portion 450 between the inner cylindrical portion 430 and the outer cylindrical portion 420 supporting the heating unit 300 to the aerosol source holding portion 440, thus preventing the aerosol source from dripping into the inner cylindrical portion 430.

[0172] Simultaneously, when the aerosol source drips into the inner column portion 430, the aerosol source passes through the through-hole 418 for the lead 322B and is thus received in the space portion 7 of the electrode portion 6B, for example... Figure 15 As shown. The electrode portion 6B has a shape that opens toward the heating unit 300 and easily receives aerosol sources dripping from the through hole 418. Furthermore, the electrode portion 6B is double-sealed by the first mating portion 700 and the second mating portion 710, thus preventing the aerosol source from overflowing from the space portion 7. Moreover, even with the space portion 7 provided, movement (lifting) of the lead wire 322B away from the bottom wall portion 601 can be prevented by providing ribs 463 on the opposing surface 461 of the protrusion 460. In other words, the electrical connection between the power supply unit 22 and the heating unit 300 can be reliably maintained.

[0173] It should be noted that the smoke cartridge 3 with the above configuration can also have Figures 16 to 19 The configuration shown.

[0174] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view showing a variant example of the retainer 400 according to an embodiment after the electrode portion 6B has been removed. Figure 17 This is a plan view showing a variant example of the retainer 400 according to an embodiment. Figure 18 This is a bottom view of a variant example of the retainer 400 according to the embodiment after the electrode portions 6A and 6B have been removed. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing a variant example of the retainer 400 according to an embodiment after the electrode portion 6B has been removed. Note that... Figure 19 Is along Figure 9 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the view of section XV-XV shown.

[0175] like Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the groove portion 466 is formed on the opposing surface 461, on the side of the rib 463 opposite to the through hole 418 in the Y-axis direction.

[0176] The groove portion 466 is a recessed portion that indents from the opposing surface 461 towards the +Z side. The groove portion 466 is formed between the rib 463 and the abutment portion 464, as in... Figure 16 As seen in the bottom view shown. Figure 19 As shown, in the recessed portion 466, the end portion of the lead 322B is inserted into the recessed portion 466. The end portion of the lead 322B forms a bend 323, which bends at approximately a right angle toward the +Z side. Therefore, the lead 322B is roughly shaped like the letter "J" and is held in the recessed portion 466, so that the lead 322B can be positioned relative to the rib 463 (protrusion 460) even in the absence of the electrode portion 6B. Furthermore, by forming the recessed portion 466, the volume of the space portion 7 is increased, thus allowing a larger amount of aerosol source to be stored in the space portion 7.

[0177] In addition, such as Figure 17 As shown, the second through-hole 480 is formed in the retainer 400 at a different location than the through-hole 418. Specifically, the second through-hole 480 is formed as a pair on the inner side of the inner column portion 430, on the inner side of two corner portions located on a different diagonal line than the through-hole 418. The second through-hole 480 extends as far as the opposing surface 461, as... Figure 18 As shown. Note that the second through hole 480 is arranged within the recessed portion 466, but it can also be arranged outside the recessed portion 466. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the presence of the second through hole 480 means that when the aerosol source has flowed into the space portion 7 from the through hole 418, the air in the space portion 7 can be discharged to the outside from the second through hole 480, thus facilitating the flow of the aerosol source into the space portion 7.

[0178] In other words, this embodiment demonstrates the following functions and effects.

[0179] [Functions and Effects]

[0180] According to the above embodiment, the cartridge 3 includes: a canister 100 capable of containing an aerosol source; a heating unit 300 supplied with the aerosol source from the canister 100 and heating the aerosol source to generate an aerosol; and electrode portions 6A and 6B electrically connected to the heating unit 300, with a space portion 7 capable of receiving the aerosol source disposed in the electrode portions 6A and 6B.

[0181] With this configuration, aerosol sources that have dripped from the tank 100 or heating unit 300, or aerosol sources generated due to condensation and reversion to liquid, can be contained in the space portion 7 provided in the electrode portions 6A and 6B. Therefore, the outflow of aerosol sources can be suppressed.

[0182] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electrode portions 6A and 6B have a shape that opens toward the heating unit 300.

[0183] With this configuration, the aerosol source that has dripped from the tank 100 or the heating unit 300 can be easily received by the electrode sections 6A and 6B.

[0184] In an embodiment, electrode portions 6A and 6B include: a bottom wall portion 601 that forms the bottom surface of the space portion 7; and a peripheral wall portion 602 that stands upright from the bottom wall portion 601 and forms the side surface of the space portion 7.

[0185] With this configuration, the electrode portions 6A and 6B have a sealed cylindrical shape, thus ensuring a large volume of the space portion 7. Furthermore, solvent cracking of the retainer 400 can be suppressed. That is, conventionally, because the electrode portions are inserted into holes in the retainer, stress is applied from the inside out to the holes in the retainer, and cracks (solvent cracks) tend to form in the retainer. Conversely, in this embodiment, the protrusion 460 provided on the retainer 400 is inserted into the sealed cylindrical electrode portions 6A and 6B, so stress is applied from the outside in to the protrusion 460, making the retainer 400 less likely to crack.

[0186] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a first mating portion 700 is provided, which mates with the outer peripheral inner surface of the peripheral wall portion 602 and holds the electrode portions 6A and 6B.

[0187] With this configuration, the first mating portion 700 mates with the outer inner surface of the outer wall portion 602, thereby sealing the inner sides of the electrode portions 6A and 6B, thus suppressing the leakage of aerosol sources from the space portion 7.

[0188] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a first mating portion 700 is formed on a protrusion 460, the protrusion having an opposing surface 461 facing the bottom wall portion 601 and spaced apart from the bottom wall portion.

[0189] With this configuration, the aerosol source can be contained in the space portion 7 enclosed by the bottom wall portion 601 of the electrode portions 6A and 6B, the opposing surface 461 of the protrusion 460, and the outer wall portion 602 of the electrode portions 6A and 6B sealed by the first mating portion 700.

[0190] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a protrusion 460 is formed on a holder 400 for supporting a heating unit 300. The heating unit 300 has leads 322A and 322B that abut against electrode portions 6A and 6B, and a through hole 418 is formed in the facing surface 461 that penetrates the holder 400 and allows the leads 322A and 322B to pass through it.

[0191] With this configuration, the aerosol source that has flowed out through the through-hole 418 in the holder 400 can be received in the space portion 7, through which the leads 322A and 322B of the heating unit 300 pass.

[0192] Furthermore, in the embodiment, a rib 463 is formed on the facing surface 461, which is upright toward the bottom wall portion 601, and leads 322A and 322B are inserted between the bottom wall portion 601 and the rib 463.

[0193] With this configuration, the movement (lifting) of leads 322A and 322B away from the bottom wall portion 601 in the space portion 7 can be suppressed, thus stabilizing the power supply to leads 322A and 322B.

[0194] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a groove portion 466 is formed in the opposing surface 461, on the side of the rib 463 opposite to the through hole 418, and the end portions (bent portions 323) of the leads 322A and 322B are inserted into the groove portion 466.

[0195] With this configuration, leads 322A and 322B can be positioned relative to rib 463 before the electrode portions 6A and 6B mate with the protrusion 460. Furthermore, by forming the groove portion 466, the volume of the space portion 7 is increased, thus allowing a larger amount of aerosol source to be stored in the space portion 7.

[0196] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second through hole 480 is formed in the facing surface 461, penetrating the retainer 400 at a different location than the through hole 418.

[0197] With this configuration, when the aerosol source has flowed into the space portion 7 through the through hole 418 through which the leads 322A and 322B pass, the air in the space portion 7 can be discharged to the outside through the second through hole 480, thus facilitating the flow of the aerosol source into the space portion 7.

[0198] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the diameter of the outer wall portion 602 increases toward the end portion on the side opposite to the bottom wall portion 601.

[0199] With this configuration, the protrusion 460 can be easily inserted into the outer wall portion 602, and the electrode portions 6A and 6B can be easily assembled.

[0200] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second mating portion 710 is provided, which mates with the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion 602 and holds the electrode portions 6A and 6B.

[0201] With this configuration, the second mating portion 710 mates with the outer surface of the outer wall portion 602, thereby sealing the outer sides of the electrode portions 6A and 6B, thus suppressing the leakage of aerosol sources from the space portion 7.

[0202] Furthermore, in this embodiment, annular groove portions 470 are provided in which the outer wall portion 602 is inserted, and the outer wall 472 of these annular groove portions 470 forms a second mating portion 710.

[0203] With this configuration, the outflow path of the aerosol source from the space portion 7 to the outside is formed as a swirling path, and the outflow of the aerosol source through the electrode portions 6A and 6B can be suppressed.

[0204] An aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a cartridge 3 as described above; and a power supply unit 22 for supplying power to a heating unit 300 of the cartridge 3 to generate aerosol.

[0205] With this configuration, the aerosol generating device, including the aforementioned cartridge 3, can prevent the power supply unit 22 from being wetted by the aerosol source.

[0206] A non-combustion inhaler 1 according to an embodiment includes: an aerosol generating device as described above; and a flavor source container 4, which is attached to the mouthpiece portion 11a of the aerosol generating device.

[0207] This configuration allows for the addition of flavor to aerosols.

[0208] Therefore, this embodiment enables the suppression of aerosol source outflow.

[0209] <Other variations examples>

[0210] Preferred embodiments and variant examples of the present invention have been described above, but the invention is not limited to those embodiments and variant examples. Components may be added, omitted, or substituted, and other modifications are possible without departing from the essential points of the invention. The invention is not limited to the above description, but only to the scope of the appended claims.

[0211] For example, in the above embodiment, the inhaler 1 configured with a removable flavor source container 4 is described as an example of an aerosol generating device for generating aerosol without associated combustion, but is not limited to this configuration. Other examples of aerosol generating devices can be configured without the flavor source container 4, such as electronic cigarettes (e.g., a configuration where the mouthpiece is directly attached to the mouthpiece portion). In this case, a flavor-containing aerosol source can be housed inside the cartridge 3, and the flavor-containing aerosol can be generated by the aerosol generating device.

[0212] In other words, the aerosol generating device in the above embodiments may include the main body unit 2 and the cartridge 3, but without the flavor source container 4. Furthermore, a component that includes only the main body unit 2 and does not include the flavor source container 4 or the cartridge 3 can be used as the main body unit of the aerosol generating device.

[0213] Furthermore, the aerosol source is not limited to liquids, and can also include gels or solids in liquids, as long as the capillary effect can be utilized.

[0214] The above embodiments describe a configuration in which the cartridge 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape, but are not limited to this configuration. The cartridge 3 should be configured to accommodate an aerosol source. That is, the cartridge 3 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and can have a three-dimensional shape, such as a cube, triangular pyramid, square pyramid, prism, octahedron, cone, sphere, or toroidal body.

[0215] The above embodiments describe a configuration in which the main unit 2 is activated by pressing the input device 15, but the main unit 2 can also be activated simply by sensing suction through the sensor 26, without providing the input device 15.

[0216] Without departing from the essential points of the invention, the components in the above embodiments may be appropriately replaced by well-known components, and the variant examples described above may be appropriately combined.

[0217] Industrial applicability

[0218] This invention relates to a cigarette cartridge, an aerosol generating device, and a non-combustion inhaler, and is capable of suppressing the outflow of the aerosol source.

[0219] List of reference numerals

[0220] 1...Inhaler, 2...Main Unit, 3...Cartridge, 4...Flavor Source Container, 5...Mouthpiece, 6A...Electrode Section, 6B...Electrode Section, 7...Space Section, 10...Cartridge Receiving Section, 10A...Cartridge Receiving Space, 11...Heating Module, 11a...Mouthpiece Section, 11b...Heater Unit, 12...Shell Section, 12A...Main Surface Section, 12A1...First Main Surface Section, 12A2...Second Main Surface Section, 12B...Outer Wall Section, 12B1...First Outer Wall Section, 12B2...Second Outer Wall Section, 12C...Corner Section, 12C1...First Corner Section, 12C2 ...Second corner section, 12C3...Third corner section, 12C4...Fourth corner section, 13...Outer shell, 13a...Opening section, 13A...First shell, 13b...Exposed section, 13B...Second shell, 14...Display cover, 15...Input device, 16...Window section, 17...Cover member, 17a...Connecting hole, 18A...First air inlet, 18B...Second air inlet, 20...Inner shell, 21...Charging terminal, 22...Power supply unit, 23...Main board, 24...Display device, 25...Light source, 26...Sensor, 27...Cartridge contact section, 27a...Connecting hole, 5 0...Cartridge housing cover, 51...Protruding electrode, 70...First airflow path, 80...Second airflow path, 90...Protrusion, 100...Canister, 101...Liquid containing compartment, 110...Circumferential wall portion, 111...Matching hole, 112...Recess, 120...Top wall portion, 130...Flow path tube portion, 131...First opening portion, 132...Second opening portion, 140...Rib, 142...Lower end, 200...Washer, 200A...Heating chamber, 201...Insertion hole, 202...Annular ridge, 203...First flat portion, 204...Second flat portion, 205... . Third plane portion, 206... lower portion, 210... first column portion, 211... top surface, 220... second column portion, 230... third column portion, 231... sealing column portion, 232... sealing bulge, 300... heating unit, 310... wicking element, 311... one end portion, 312... the other end portion, 320... heating wire, 321... heating element, 322A... lead wire, 322B... lead wire, 323... bent portion, 400... retainer, 401... engaging tab, 402... protrusion, 410... base portion, 410a... lower portion, 410b...Circumferential outer surface, 410c...step portion, 413...jointing recess, 414...transverse groove, 415...vertical groove, 416...air passage, 417...connecting hole, 418...through hole, 418a...guide groove, 420...outer column portion, 421...support surface, 430...inner column portion, 431...groove, 432...support surface, 433...groove, 440...aerosol source holding portion, 441...connecting portion, 442...first bottom surface, 443...second bottom surface, 444...third bottom surface, 450. ...Aerosol source guiding section, 460...protrusion, 461...facing surface, 462...outer periphery, 463...rib, 464...abutting section, 466...groove section, 470...annular groove section, 471...inner wall section, 472...outer periphery wall, 480...second through hole, 501...first fixing section, 502...second fixing section, 601...bottom wall section, 602...outer periphery wall section, 603...flange section, 700...first mating section, 710...second mating section, O...main axis, S...space.

Claims

1. A smoke cartridge, comprising: A container capable of holding an aerosol source; A heating unit is supplied with an aerosol source from the tank and heats the aerosol source to generate an aerosol; as well as The electrode portion is electrically connected to the heating unit. The space that can accommodate the aerosol source is located in the electrode portion.

2. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 1, wherein, The electrode portion has a shape that opens toward the heating unit.

3. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electrode portion includes: The bottom wall portion forms the bottom surface of the space portion; and The outer wall portion stands upright from the bottom wall portion and forms the side of the space portion.

4. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 3, It includes a first mating portion that mates with the outer inner surface of the outer wall portion and holds the electrode portion in place.

5. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 4, wherein, The first mating portion is formed on the protrusion, which has a facing surface that is spaced apart from the bottom wall portion.

6. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 5, wherein, The protrusion is formed on the holder used to support the heating unit. The heating unit has leads that abut against the electrode portion, and A through-hole is formed in the facing surface, which penetrates the retainer and allows the lead wire to pass through it.

7. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 6, wherein, Ribs are formed in the facing surfaces, pointing vertically towards the bottom wall portion, and The lead wire is inserted between the bottom wall portion and the rib.

8. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 7, wherein, The groove portion is formed in the facing surface, on the side of the rib opposite to the through hole, and The end portion of the lead wire is inserted into the groove portion.

9. The tobacco cartridge according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, A second through hole is formed in the facing surface, and the second through hole penetrates the retainer at a different position than the aforementioned through hole.

10. The smoke cartridge according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein, The diameter of the outer wall portion increases toward the end portion on the side opposite to the bottom wall portion.

11. The smoke cartridge as described in any one of claims 3 to 10, It includes a second mating portion that mates with the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion and holds the electrode portion in place.

12. The smoke cartridge as described in claim 11, Includes an annular groove portion, into which the outer wall portion is inserted. in, The outer wall of the annular groove portion forms the second mating part.

13. An aerosol generating device, comprising: The smoke cartridge as described in any one of claims 1 to 12; as well as A power supply unit is used to supply power to the heating unit of the cartridge to generate the aerosol.

14. A non-combustion inhaler, comprising: The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 13; as well as A flavor source container is attached to the nozzle portion of the aerosol generating device.

Images