Flavour inhaler and flavour generating system

Abstract

The flavor inhaler includes a housing and a lid assembly movable in a first direction, wherein: the lid assembly includes a push member and a movable member movable relative to the lid assembly; the push member and the movable member are configured to move integrally with the lid assembly; and the push member is configured to push the movable member in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a flavor inhaler and a flavor generation system. Background Technology

[0002] Heated-non-burning flavor inhalers are conventionally known, which heat a material containing a flavor source to produce an aerosol or the like without burning the material. Such flavor inhalers may have a removable cap (see PTL 1 to 4).

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] PTL 1: CN 211268652 U

[0006] PTL 2: CN 216165172 U

[0007] PTL 3: CN 218245680 U

[0008] PTL 4: CN 219020198 U Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] In the PTL 1 electronic heated inhaler, the slider of the sliding cover assembly has a protrusion that fits into a recess. In the PTL 2 smoking kit, the protrusion on the sliding support is configured to engage with a notch to restrict the movement of the support. In the PTL 3 heated non-burning smoking product, the slider on the protective sliding cover has a protrusion that fits into a recess. In the PTL 4 aerosol generating device, in the sliding cover assembly, the sliding support has elastic arms on which positioning blocks are formed, and the positioning blocks are configured to enter and exit the recess. However, the sliders of PTL 1 to 4 have structural constraints, such as the need for the components in contact with the guide to be elastic.

[0011] In view of the above, one object of the present invention is to provide a flavor inhaler and flavor generation system with a removable cap that allows for a more flexible configuration.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] According to a first aspect, a flavor inhaler is provided. The flavor inhaler includes a housing and a cap assembly movable along a first direction, wherein: the cap assembly includes a pushing member and a movable member movable relative to the cap assembly; the pushing member and the movable member are configured to move integrally with the cap assembly; and the pushing member is configured to push the movable member in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0014] According to the first aspect, a flavor inhaler can be provided having a removable cap that allows for a more flexible configuration.

[0015] The key point of the second aspect lies in the first aspect, where the second direction is basically perpendicular to the first direction.

[0016] According to the second aspect, pushing the movable member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the capping assembly allows for more stable adjustment of the movement of the capping assembly by using the movable member.

[0017] The key point of the third aspect lies in the first or second aspect, wherein the housing is provided with a guide portion, and the movable member is configured to move along the guide portion.

[0018] According to the third aspect, the movement of the cap assembly can be adjusted by utilizing the contact between the guide portion and the movable component.

[0019] The key point of the fourth aspect lies in the third aspect, in which the guide portion is a groove formed in the outer surface of the housing.

[0020] According to the fourth aspect, the guide portion can guide the cap assembly by utilizing the shape of the groove and using a simple configuration.

[0021] The fifth aspect is based on the third or fourth aspect, wherein the capping assembly further includes a contact portion configured to move along the guide portion, and at least one of the contact portion and the movable member is configured to contact the guide portion.

[0022] According to the fifth aspect, more flexible designs are possible, and the need for precise molding of contact parts and movable components can be reduced, thereby allowing for the efficient manufacture of capping assemblies, etc.

[0023] The sixth aspect is based on any one of the third to fifth aspects, wherein the capping assembly is provided with a pair of movable members, and the pair of movable members are respectively arranged on both sides of the capping assembly along the second direction.

[0024] According to the sixth aspect, the cap assembly can be configured to receive resistance from both sides of the cap assembly via movable members, thereby allowing the cap assembly to move more stably.

[0025] The key point of the seventh aspect lies in any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the actuating component includes a leaf spring.

[0026] According to the seventh aspect, the capping assembly can be configured compactly, and the pushing member can push the movable member more stably.

[0027] The key point of the eighth aspect lies in any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the capping assembly further includes a magnet, and the flavor inhaler further includes a magnetic sensor for detecting the magnetic field of the magnet.

[0028] According to the eighth aspect, in the flavor inhaler, the position of the capping assembly can be detected, and information related to the position of the capping assembly can be used to perform control.

[0029] The key point of the ninth aspect is the same as that of the eighth aspect, wherein: the cover assembly further includes a support portion supporting the magnet and a cover covering the magnet; and the support portion and the cover are fastened together by means of a fastening member.

[0030] According to the ninth aspect, the capping assembly can securely support the magnet so that the magnet does not fall out of the capping assembly.

[0031] The tenth aspect is based on any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein: the housing has an opening through which a flavor-generating article can be inserted; and the capping assembly is configured to move between a closed position covering at least a portion of the opening and an open position in which the flavor-generating article can be inserted into the opening.

[0032] According to the tenth aspect, contamination caused by foreign objects passing through the opening into which the flavor-generating article can be inserted can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the capping assembly includes a movable member and a pushing member, the opening can be opened and closed more stably while making the flavor inhaler more compact.

[0033] The eleventh aspect is in any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the movable member is configured to be located in a recess formed in the outer surface of the housing when in at least one of the open and closed positions.

[0034] According to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to prevent the capping assembly from shifting from the open or closed position due to accidental contact or impact by the user.

[0035] According to a twelfth aspect, a flavor generating system is provided. The flavor generating system includes a flavor inhaler and a flavor generating article as described in any one of the first to eleventh aspects.

[0036] According to the twelfth aspect, a flavor inhaler and flavor generation system with a removable cap that allows for a more flexible configuration can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a flavor generation system according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2This is a perspective view showing a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler when viewed in the direction of arrow 3-3.

[0040] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the flavor inhaler.

[0041] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the chamber.

[0042] Figure 6 It shows along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 6-6.

[0043] Figure 7A It shows along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 7A-7A.

[0044] Figure 7B It shows along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 7B-7B.

[0045] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of the chamber that contains the flavor-producing product.

[0046] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the flavor-generating product according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a flavor-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of a flavor-producing article according to another embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler, showing the insertion guide member.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional side view showing the insertion guide member.

[0051] Figure 14 This is a bottom view showing the insertion guide component.

[0052] Figure 15 It is a schematic cross-sectional side view including the heating section and the chamber.

[0053] Figure 16 It shows along Figure 15 The cross-sectional view of the chamber, etc., when viewed in the direction of arrow 16-16.

[0054] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the flavor-generating components.

[0055] Figure 18 It is a perspective view of the intermediate body, including the flavor-generating components and the shell portion.

[0056] Figure 19 This is a front view showing the casing.

[0057] Figure 20 This is a side view showing the casing.

[0058] Figure 21 This is a plan view showing the outer casing.

[0059] Figure 22 It is an exploded perspective view showing the upper component and the cover assembly.

[0060] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing the cap assembly.

[0061] Figure 24 This is a plan view showing the upper base portion, on which the cover assembly is disposed.

[0062] Figure 25 This is a plan view of the cap assembly without the cover.

[0063] Figure 26A This is a cross-sectional view showing the first guide section.

[0064] Figure 26B This is a cross-sectional view showing the second guide section.

[0065] Figure 27A It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the movable component in the closed position.

[0066] Figure 27B It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the movable component in the open position.

[0067] Figure 28 This is a plan view showing the pushing component.

[0068] Figure 29 This is an exploded perspective view of the capping component.

[0069] Figure 30 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the position detection of the cap assembly.

[0070] Figure 31 It is a conceptual view showing how the flavor-generating components are housed within the shell. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding parts are assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will not be given. For ease of understanding, the dimensions of parts in the following drawings have been appropriately altered.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a flavor generation system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a flavor inhaler 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flavor generating system 1000 is constructed by applying a flavor generating article 100 to the flavor inhaler 200, which includes a heating portion 40 discussed below. The flavor generating article 100 is at least partially housed in the flavor inhaler 200 via an insertion opening 210.

[0073] For ease of description, an orthogonal XYZ coordinate system can be applied to the accompanying drawings described in this specification. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis is vertically upward, the XY plane is arranged to traverse the flavor inhaler 200 horizontally, and the Y-axis is arranged to extend from the side to the rear of the flavor inhaler 200. The Z-axis direction can also refer to the insertion direction of the flavor generating article 100, which is housed in the chamber 50 described later. Furthermore, the X-axis direction can also refer to the longitudinal direction of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the flavor generating article 100. The Y-axis direction can also refer to the direction of the shorter side of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the flavor generating article 100.

[0074] The flavor inhaler 200 is configured to generate a flavor-containing aerosol by, for example, heating a rod-type flavor-generating article 100, which includes a flavor source containing an aerosol source. As an example, the flavor-generating article 100 includes a puffable material on its end side along the negative Z-axis, the puffable material containing a flavor source (e.g., tobacco) and an aerosol source, and also includes a filter in another portion. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. The flavor-generating article 100 is configured to be heated by means of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler 200 to generate flavor. The flavor inhaler 200 is preferably a heated, non-burning tobacco type.

[0075] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the flavor-generating article 100 is described as a rod shape, but the flavor-generating article used in the flavor inhaler 200 is not limited to this shape. For example, the flavor-generating article may also be configured to contain a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol source. Furthermore, the cartridge may include a heater.

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the flavor inhaler 200 includes an upper member 204, a housing 410, an outer panel 520, and a cap 208. A movable cap 208 is disposed in the upper member 204. The cap 208 is preferably a sliding cap. The housing 410 defines a portion of the outer surface of the flavor inhaler 200, and the size of the housing is determined to fit the user's hand. When using the flavor inhaler 200, the user can inhale the aerosol while holding the flavor inhaler 200 in their hand.

[0077] From the perspective of efficiently dissipating heat from the heating part 40 to the outside, the outer casing 410 is preferably formed of metals such as aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or alloys containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium. However, the outer casing 410 is not limited to the above materials and can also be made of resin, for example, and any suitable material can be selected, such as, in particular, polycarbonate (PC), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin, PEEK (polyether ether ketone), or polymer alloys containing multiple types of polymers.

[0078] The upper member 204 includes an insertion opening 210 for receiving the flavor-generating article 100, and a cap 208 is slidably attached to the upper member 204 to close the insertion opening 210. Specifically, the cap 208 is configured to be slidable along the outer surface of the upper member 204 in a closed position for closing the insertion opening 210 of the upper member 204 and an open position for opening the insertion opening 210. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cap 208 can be moved between the positions shown. For example, a user can manually operate the cap 208 to move it between a closed position and an open position. In this way, the cap 208 can allow or restrict the flavor-generating article 100 from entering the interior of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0079] The upper component 204 preferably comprises at least one of a metal and a resin (such as PC). The metal contained in the upper component 204 may be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or an alloy (containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium), etc. However, the upper component 204 is not limited to the above materials and may be made of any suitable material, such as ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers. From the perspective of achieving a uniform aesthetic appearance, it is preferred that the material of the upper component 204 is the same as the material of the housing 410. Conversely, from the perspective of making the insertion opening 210 prominent, it is preferred that the material of the upper component 204 is different from the material of the housing 410.

[0080] In the flavor generation system 1000, air inhaled by the user is introduced into the flavor inhaler 200 through the insertion opening 210, flows through the chamber 50 in the negative Z-axis direction, and is supplied to the upstream end face of the flavor generating article 100. That is, Figure 1The flavor generation system 1000 shown has a so-called counter-current airflow path. It should be noted that the airflow path is not limited to counter-current type, and can also be a so-called bottom flow type airflow path, in which air is supplied into the chamber 50 from an exhaust port formed in the bottom portion of the chamber 50, and is supplied to the upstream end face of the flavor generation article 100.

[0081] The internal structure of the flavor inhaler 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler 200 when viewed in the direction of arrow 3-3. (See arrow 3-3 for reference.) Figure 3 As shown, the power supply unit 20, the atomizing unit 30, and the control unit 80 are disposed within the internal space of the flavor inhaler 200. The inner shell 420 and the inner panel 510 will be described later.

[0082] The control unit 80 includes a board 81. The board 81 may include, for example, a microprocessor, and can control the power supply from the power supply unit 20 to the atomizing unit 30. This enables the control unit 80 to control the heating of the flavor-generating article 100 by the atomizing unit 30. Additionally, the control unit 80 includes a communication element 82, such as a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface. The control unit 80 can communicate with external devices via the communication element 82.

[0083] The power supply section 20 includes a battery 21 electrically connected to a board 81 of the control section 80. For example, the power supply 21 is a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery) or a non-rechargeable battery. The battery 21 is electrically connected to the atomizing section 30 via the board 81. This allows the battery 21 to supply power to the atomizing section 30 to properly heat the flavor-generating article 100.

[0084] The atomizing portion 30 includes: a chamber 50 extending along the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 100; a heating portion 40 surrounding a portion of the chamber 50; a heat-insulating portion 32; and a generally cylindrical insertion guide member 34. The chamber 50 has a tubular shape for receiving the flavor-generating article 100. It should be noted that the chamber 50 may also have a so-called elliptical shape, the major and minor diameters of which lie in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200. The chamber 50 is preferably formed of a heat-resistant material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and may be formed, for example, of metal (such as stainless steel), resin (such as PEEK), glass, or ceramic.

[0085] The heating element 40 is configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 50 to heat the flavor-generating article 100 housed in the chamber 50. The heating element 40 can be a heating element that generates heat (i.e., its temperature rises) by means of electricity from the power supply 20. The heating element 40 can be a sheet heater, such as a membrane heater. The heating element 40 can be positioned to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 50, or it can be positioned on the inner surface of the chamber 50. Here, the length of the heating element 40 in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 10 mm. The heater constituting the heating element 40 can include a heating wire. The heater is located outside the chamber 50, which serves as a housing for the flavor-generating article 100, and is configured to heat the flavor-generating article 100 from the outside of the chamber 50. Therefore, the flavor inhaler 200 is preferably an externally heated flavor inhaler. It should be noted that the heating element 40 is an induction coil disposed in the flavor inhaler 200 and can be configured to inductively heat the receptor disposed in the flavor-generating article 100. Alternatively, the heating element 40 may be a microwave radiation source disposed in the flavor inhaler 200, and may be configured to heat the microwave absorbent (such as water or glycerin) contained in the flavor generating article 100 by means of microwave heating. Moreover, the flavor inhaler 200 may be an internally heated type, in which case the heating element 40 may be a needle-type or blade-type heater.

[0086] The heat insulation portion 32 is configured to surround the chamber 50 and the heating portion 40 and to suppress heat dissipation to the outside of the chamber 50. For example, the heat insulation portion 32 may be an aerogel. A heat diffusion member (such as a graphite sheet) may be disposed between the heat insulation portion 32 and the chamber 50. The heat diffusion member may be disposed between the heat insulation portion 32 and the heating portion 40 (such as a membrane heater), or between the heating portion 40 (such as a membrane heater) and the chamber 50. The insertion guide member 34 is formed, for example, of a resin material (such as PEEK, PC, or ABS) and is disposed between the cap 208 (in the closed position) and the chamber 50. When the cap 208 is in the open position, the insertion guide member 34 communicates with the outside of the flavor inhaler 200, thereby guiding the flavor generating article 100 into the chamber 50 when it is inserted into the insertion guide member 34.

[0087] The flavor inhaler 200 may further include a terminal 90. The terminal 90 may be, for example, an interface for connecting the flavor inhaler 200 to an external power source. If the battery 21 is a rechargeable battery, connecting the external power source to the terminal 90 allows current to flow from the external power source to the battery 21, thereby charging the battery 21. Furthermore, data related to the operation of the flavor inhaler 200 can also be transmitted to an external device by connecting a data transmission cable to the terminal 90.

[0088] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a flavor inhaler 200. The flavor inhaler 200 has a flavor generating assembly 300, a shell portion 400, and a panel portion 500. The shell portion 400 includes an outer shell 410 and an inner shell 420. The panel portion 500 includes an inner panel 510 and an outer panel 520. It should be noted that the inner shell 420 can be configured as part of the flavor generating assembly 300. In the example shown, the shell portion 400 includes two shells, namely the outer shell 410 and the inner shell 420, but the number of shells in the shell portion 400 is not particularly limited and can be one, three, or more. Similarly, in the example shown, the panel portion 500 includes two panels, but the number of panels in the panel portion 500 is not particularly limited and can be one, three, or more.

[0089] Flavor generating component 300 includes heating section 40 ( Figure 3 The flavor generating assembly 300 includes a chamber 50 or a power supply section 20. The flavor generating assembly 300 has a base frame 310. In the flavor generating assembly 300, the power supply section 20, the atomizing section 30, the plate 81, and the flexible printed circuit board (FPC) are also included. Figure 17 The components, such as the flavor generating assembly 300, are arranged on a base frame 310, which serves as a support or base. The flavor generating assembly 300 is configured such that each component is stably supported while ensuring electrical connection between the components. The flavor generating assembly 300 is preferably rod-shaped to facilitate its insertion into the housing portion 400.

[0090] The outer casing 410 extends along its longitudinal direction and has a first end 414, a second end 416 on the side opposite to the first end 414 along the longitudinal direction, and a side surface 415 extending from the first end 414 side to the second end 416 side. A first opening 411 is formed in the end face at the first end 414, and a second opening 412 is formed in the side surface 415. The first opening 411 and the second opening 412 are connected to form an opening. The outer casing 410 houses the inner casing 420 and the flavor generating assembly 300.

[0091] The inner shell 420 is a shell disposed inside the outer shell 410 and houses the flavor generating assembly 300. The inner shell 420 is arranged to facilitate insertion of the flavor generating assembly 300 and to provide more stable support for the flavor generating assembly 300. Figure 4As shown, the inner shell 420 has a bottom member 421. The bottom member 421 has a top surface 422 that supports the flavor generating assembly 300 and is configured such that the terminal 90 passes through it. The top surface 422 preferably extends substantially horizontally. From an aesthetic or ease-of-holding perspective, the second end 416 of the outer shell 410 is curved, but the presence of the bottom member 421 allows the flavor generating assembly 300 to be supported more stably.

[0092] The material of the inner shell 420 is not particularly limited and may include, for example, resin materials (such as PC, PEEK, or ABS) or metal. The metal contained in the inner shell 420 may be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or an alloy containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, etc. It should be noted that the flavor inhaler 200 does not need to include the inner shell 420, and the outer shell 410 may be a single shell housing the flavor generating component 300.

[0093] The flavor generating component 300 is housed in the housing portion 400 such that a plate 81 is disposed on the side of the second opening portion 412. The plate 81 preferably defines a portion of the surface of the flavor generating component 300 on the side of the second opening portion 412. This prevents the plate 81 or nearby components from contacting and damaging the housing portion 400 when the flavor generating component 300 is inserted into the housing portion 400. Furthermore, even the communication element 82 ( Figure 3 By positioning it close to the plate 81, the flavor inhaler 200 can also be made compact, as communication is less likely to be obstructed by the housing portion 400, etc. Furthermore, the plate 81 can be accessed after the flavor generating assembly 300 has been inserted into the housing portion 400. For example, the plate 81 can be attached to or detached from the flavor generating assembly 300 housed in the housing portion 400, and components can be added to or removed from the plate 81 by welding or the like.

[0094] In the flavor generating assembly 300, the atomizing portion 30, including the heating portion 40, is preferably disposed on the side of the plate 81 opposite to the side of the second opening portion 412. The heating portion 40 is preferably positioned relative to the central axis A x 2 ( Figure 17 The outer shell 410 is located on the side opposite to the second opening 412, and its central axis extends along the longitudinal direction of the flavor generating assembly 300. This allows for efficient heat dissipation from the heating section 40 via the shell portion 400. More preferably, the outer shell 410 and / or the inner shell 420 contain metals such as aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or alloys containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, as this promotes heat dissipation.

[0095] The upper member 204 is disposed on the side of the first opening portion 411 of the flavor generating assembly 300. Preferably, the cap 208 disposed in the upper member 204 is movable in a coordinate system on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, between a position corresponding to the insertion opening 210 through which the flavor generating article 100 is inserted and a position corresponding to the plate 81. If a magnet that moves integrally with the cap 208 is disposed on the cap 208, the mechanism for detecting the position of the cap 208 can be made compact by providing a magnetic sensor on the plate 81.

[0096] The panel portion 500 is configured to cover the second opening portion 412. The inner panel 510 is a panel corresponding to the shape of the second opening portion 412 and extending along the longitudinal direction of the housing 410 to cover the second opening portion 412. The inner panel 510 is disposed inside the outer panel 520. The outer panel 520 is configured to cover at least a portion of the inner panel 510. The outer panel 520 is preferably removably attached to the inner panel 510, etc. In the example shown, the outer panel 520 is attracted to the inner panel 510 by means of magnetic force, as discussed below. Additionally, the outer panel 520 has a protrusion 524, which is inserted into a recess (not shown) in the upper member 204 to more stably hold the outer panel 520 and facilitate attachment of the outer panel 520.

[0097] For example, the inner panel 510 and the outer panel 520 can be formed of resin or metal. Each of the inner panel 510 and the outer panel 520 can be partially formed of resin and partially formed of metal. The resin contained in the inner panel 510 or the outer panel 520 is, for example, PC, ABS resin, PEEK, or a polymer alloy. For example, the metal contained in the inner panel 510 or the outer panel 520 can be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, an alloy containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or stainless steel.

[0098] The upper member 204 has a first connecting portion 91 for connecting to at least one panel of the outer shell 410, inner shell 420, flavor generating assembly 300, or panel portion 500. The first connecting portion 91 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a screw hole) for fastening with other members, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protrusion or recess) for mating with other members, or may have a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other members. Alternatively, the first connecting portion 91 may have a magnetic member or magnet and may be attracted to another member by means of magnetic force. Figure 4 In this configuration, the first connecting portion 91 is a gripper portion and is configured to engage with the outer shell 410 or the inner shell 420. The first connecting portion 91 enables more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0099] At least one panel included in panel portion 500 may have second connecting portions 514, 526. Inner panel 510 has a second connecting portion 514 for connection to upper member 204, outer shell 410, inner shell 420, flavor generating assembly 300, or outer panel 520 (another panel among the at least one panel). The second connecting portion 514 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a hole through which a screw will pass) for fastening with other members, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protruding or recessed portion) for mating with other members, or may have a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other members. Alternatively, the second connecting portion 514 may have a magnetic member or magnet and may be attracted to another member by means of magnetic force. Figure 4 In this configuration, the second connecting portion 514A is a hole through which a screw will pass, and the inner panel 510 is configured to be fastened to the flavor generating assembly 300 using the screw. Furthermore, the second connecting portion 514B consists of magnetic components configured to be attracted to the second connecting portion 526, which is a magnet on the outer panel 520. The second connecting portions 514B enable more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0100] The outer panel 520 includes a second connecting portion 526 for removably connecting to the upper member 204, the outer shell 410, the inner shell 420, the flavor generating assembly 300, or the inner panel 510 (which is another panel of the at least one panel). The second connecting portion 526 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a hole through which a screw will pass) connecting with other members by fastening, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protruding or recessed portion) connecting with other members by mating, or may have a surface for applying adhesive and connecting with other members by adhesion. Alternatively, the second connecting portion 526 may have a magnetic member or magnet and may be attracted to another member by means of magnetic force. Figure 4 In this configuration, the second connecting portion 526 is a magnet and is configured to be attracted to the magnetic component 514B of the inner panel 510. Figure 4 In the diagram, the second connecting portion 526, located on the surface of the outer panel 520 opposite to the inner panel 510, is schematically shown by dashed lines. The magnet may be disposed on the inner panel 510, but is preferably disposed on the outer panel 520 to reduce the risk of adversely affecting components near the plate 81. The second connecting portion 526 allows for more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0101] The outer casing 410 has a third connecting portion 417 for connecting to at least one panel of the upper member 204, the inner casing 420, the flavor generating assembly 300, or the panel portion 500. The third connecting portion 417 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a hole through which a screw will pass) for fastening with other members, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protruding or recessed portion) for mating with other members, or may have a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other members. Alternatively, the third connecting portion 417 may have a magnetic member or magnet and may be attracted to another member by means of magnetic force. Figure 4 In this configuration, the third connecting portion 417 is a recessed portion and is configured to connect to the protruding portion of the inner shell 420 by means of a mating. The third connecting portion 417 enables more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0102] The inner shell 420 has a fourth connecting portion 423 for connecting to at least one panel of the upper member 204, the outer shell 410, the flavor generating assembly 300, or the panel portion 500. The fourth connecting portion 423 may have an engaging portion (e.g., a claw portion) for engaging with other members, may have a fastening portion (e.g., a hole through which a screw will pass) for fastening with other members, may have a mating portion (e.g., a protruding or recessed portion) for mating with other members, or may have a surface for applying adhesive for bonding with other members. Alternatively, the fourth connecting portion 423 may have a magnetic member or magnet and may be attracted to another member by means of magnetic force. Figure 4 In this configuration, the fourth connecting portion 423 is a protruding portion and is configured to connect to the recessed portion of the housing 410 by means of a mating. The fourth connecting portion 423 enables more reliable and easier assembly of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0103] As discussed above, the flavor inhaler 200 may include at least one panel of the panel portion 500 disposed on the side of the second opening portion 412 of the flavor inhaler 200, and / or an upper member 204 located on the side of the first end 414 and wherein a movable cap 208 is disposed. Therefore, the first opening portion 411 or the second opening portion 412 can be covered, and the portion of the flavor generating component 300 exposed in the first opening portion 411 or the second opening portion 412 can be protected.

[0104] like Figure 4As shown, the flavor inhaler 200 may include a tactile switch 380 and a display section 390. The tactile switch 380 has an on state when pressed and an off state when not pressed, and is configured to generate different electrical signals in the circuitry on board 81 in the on and off states. For example, the tactile switch 380 is configured to energize the circuit in the on state and not energize the circuit in the off state. The tactile switch 380 serves as an input section for receiving input from a user.

[0105] The display portion 390 has at least one of a light source (such as a light-emitting diode) and a screen composed of a plurality of pixels. In the example shown, the inner panel 510 has a through-hole 512 extending along the thickness direction, and the outer panel 520 has a window portion 522 at a position facing the through-hole 512 along the thickness direction. The display portion 390 is configured such that the translucent display window portion forming the light path is inserted into the through-hole 512, and is configured to emit light to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200 through the translucent window portion 522 of the outer panel 520.

[0106] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least the portion of the inner panel 510 near the through hole 512 and at least the portion of the outer panel 520 near the window portion 522 are configured to be elastically deformable under pressure from a user. Additionally, the haptic switch 380 is positioned facing the display portion 390 in the thickness direction of the inner panel 510 and is configured such that the haptic switch 380 switches between an on and off state under pressure from a user.

[0107] It should be noted that, instead of or in addition to the tactile switch 380, the flavor inhaler 200 may include any interface that accepts input from the user, such as a button or touch panel. Furthermore, the form of the display portion 390 and the optical path is not specifically limited to the examples above, as long as the user can obtain information via the display portion 390.

[0108] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of chamber 50. Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 when viewed in the direction of arrow 6-6. Figure 7A It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 when viewed in the direction of arrows 7A-7A. Figure 7B It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 when viewed in the direction of arrow 7B-7B. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the flavor-producing article 100 being positioned at the desired location within the chamber 50 when viewed along the direction of arrows 7B-7B.

[0109] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the chamber 50 may be a tubular member, which includes a chamber opening 52 and a tubular sidewall portion 60, into which the flavor-generating article 100 is inserted, and the tubular sidewall portion accommodates the flavor-generating article 100.

[0110] like Figure 6 As shown in Figure 7, the sidewall portion 60 includes a contact portion 62 and a spacer portion 66. When the flavor-generating article 100 is positioned at a desired location within the chamber 50, the contact portion 62 contacts or presses a portion of the flavor-generating article 100, and the spacer portion 66 is spaced apart from the flavor-generating article 100. It should be noted that, in this disclosure, "desired location within the chamber 50" refers to the location where the flavor-generating article 100 is properly heated, or the location where the flavor-generating article 100 is when the user inhales the flavor. Each contact portion 62 has an inner surface 62a and an outer surface 62b. Each spacer portion 66 has an inner surface 66a and an outer surface 66b. A heating portion 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62. The heating portion 40 is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without gaps. It should be noted that the heating portion 40 may include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating portion 40 including the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without gaps.

[0111] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 is planar. Because the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 is planar, if the strip electrodes connected to the heating portion 40 are disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62, the deflection of these electrodes can be suppressed. Figure 6 and Figure 7B As shown, the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62 is planar. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 and Figure 7B As shown, the contact portion 62 has a uniform thickness.

[0112] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a cylindrical non-fixed portion 54 between the chamber opening 52 and the sidewall portion 60. When the flavor-generating article 100 is positioned in the desired location within the chamber 50, a gap can be formed between the non-fixed portion 54 and the flavor-generating article 100. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a chamber guide portion 58, which has a tapered surface 58a connecting the inner surface of the non-fixed portion 54 and the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62.

[0113] like Figure 5 , Figure 6and Figure 7B As shown, the chamber 50 has two contact portions 62 in the circumferential direction, and these two contact portions 62 face each other and are substantially parallel to each other. The distance between the inner surfaces 62a of the two contact portions 62 is at least partially preferably less than the width of the portion of the flavor-generating article 100 disposed between the contact portions 62 when inserted into the chamber 50.

[0114] like Figure 7B As shown, the inner surface 66a of the partition portion 66 can have an overall arcuate cross-section in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the chamber 50. Furthermore, the partition portion 66 is arranged adjacent to the contact portion 62 in the circumferential direction.

[0115] like Figure 6 and Figure 7A As shown, a step 560 is formed in the bottom portion 56 of the chamber 50. The step 560 is configured to expose at least a portion of the end face of the flavor-generating article 100. Furthermore, the bottom portion 56 can support a portion of the flavor-generating article 100 such that the exposed end face of the flavor-generating article 100 is within the gap 67 discussed below (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 8 (Connection.) Step 560 is not limited to the shape shown, as long as it allows air to be introduced into the flavor-producing product 100.

[0116] Figure 8 In the state where the flavor-producing article 100 is placed at the desired position within the chamber 50, it is in contact with... Figure 7B A cross-sectional view at the same location in the middle. For example... Figure 8 As shown, when the flavor-generating article 100 is positioned at a desired location within the chamber 50, the flavor-generating article 100 can contact and be pressed by the contact portion 62 of the chamber 50. Simultaneously, a gap 67 is formed between the flavor-generating article 100 and the spacer portion 66. The gap 67 provides communication between the chamber opening 52 and the end face of the flavor-generating article 100 positioned within the chamber 50. This allows air that has flowed in from the chamber opening 52 to pass through the gap 67 and flow into the interior of the flavor-generating article 100. In other words, an airflow path (gap 67) is formed between the flavor-generating article 100 and the spacer portion 66.

[0117] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the flavor-producing product 100. Furthermore, Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the flavor-producing article 100. (Example) Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the flavor-generating article 100 includes: a flavor source 221 for generating flavor; and an end filter rod 112 disposed upstream of the flavor source 221. More specifically, in the example shown, the flavor-generating article 100 includes, in sequence from the end side (i.e., the side opposite to the mouthpiece): the end filter rod 112; the flavor-generating portion 220; the hollow tube portion 132; the hollow filter 240; and the filter rod 250. These five components are connected by using an outer filter rod forming paper 280, an outer filter rod forming paper 260, and a tipping paper 270.

[0118] The flavor generating section 220 is disposed adjacent to the downstream end of the end filter rod 112. The flavor generating section 220 includes a flavor source 221 and a wrapping paper 222 wrapped around the flavor source 221. There are no particular limitations on the form of the flavor generating section 220, as long as it has a known form, and it is generally in the form of the flavor source 221 being wrapped by the wrapping paper 222. The flavor generating section 220 is formed by wrapping the flavor source 221 with the wrapping paper 222 so that the flavor source 221 is located inside.

[0119] Flavor source 221 may include at least one of flavoring agents (such as menthol) and natural materials (such as tobacco). Flavor source 221 may include tobacco filler. There are no particular limitations on tobacco filler, and it may include at least one of tobacco scraps and tobacco sheets obtained by processing tobacco scraps into sheets. Flavor generating portion 220 may include an aerosol source. There are no particular limitations on the type of aerosol source, and extracts from various types of natural products and / or their components may be selected depending on the intended use.

[0120] There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the wrapping paper 222 used in the flavor-producing article 100, and it can take a general form. Specifically, the wrapping paper may, for example, include pulp as its main component. Pulps that can be used include wood pulp, such as softwood pulp and hardwood pulp, flax pulp, hemp pulp, sisal pulp, and needlegrass fiber, etc., and pulps commonly used in wrapping paper for tobacco products can be used, and the wrapping paper can be obtained by employing one or more of these pulps through papermaking processes. These pulps can be used alone, or several types of pulp can be used in combination in any proportion. Forms of pulp that can be used include chemical pulp, milled pulp, chemi-milled pulp, and thermomechanical pulp, etc., obtained through kraft paper digestion, acid / neutral / alkaline sulfite digestion, and soda digestion, etc.

[0121] like Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the end filter rod 112 is located at the end of the flavor generating article 100 and is configured to cover the end portion of the flavor source 221. This prevents the flavor source 221 from falling off the flavor generating article 100. Specifically, the end filter rod 112 includes a first filler material 211 and a first inner filter rod forming paper 212 wrapped around the first filler material 211. The end filter rod 112 may further include an aerosol source carried by the first filler material 211.

[0122] There are no particular limitations on the material of the first inner filter rod forming paper 212, and known materials can be used. The first inner filter rod forming paper 212 may contain fillers, such as calcium carbonate. There are no particular limitations on the thickness of the first inner filter rod forming paper 212, and it is typically 20 µm to 140 µm, preferably 30 µm to 130 µm, and more preferably 30 µm to 120 µm. There are no particular limitations on the basis weight of the first inner filter rod forming paper 212, but it is typically 20 gsm to 100 gsm, preferably 22 gsm to 95 gsm, and more preferably 23 gsm to 90 gsm. Furthermore, the first inner filter rod forming paper 212 may be coated or uncoated, but from the perspective of allowing the imparting of functions other than strength and structural stiffness, it is preferably coated with the desired material.

[0123] like Figure 9 As shown, the flavor-generating article 100 preferably has a downstream portion 130 disposed downstream of the flavor source 221. In this case, the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 221 can be cooled and filtered in the downstream portion 130. Specifically, the downstream portion 130 preferably includes a filter rod 250. This allows the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 221 to be cooled and filtered in the filter rod 250.

[0124] The filter rod 250 is positioned in the end portion of the flavor-generating article 100 on the mouthpiece side. The filter rod 250 includes a second filling material 251 and a second inner filter rod forming paper 252 wrapped around the second filling material 251. There are no particular limitations on the filter material used in the second filling material 251, as long as the filter material has the general functions of a filter. Examples of general functions of a filter that can be cited include adjusting the amount of air mixed when inhaling aerosols, reducing flavor, and reducing nicotine and tar, etc., but the filter material used in the second filling material 251 does not need to have all of these functions. Furthermore, in electrically heated tobacco products (which produce fewer components and tend to have a lower tobacco filler filling rate compared to cigarette products), an important function of the filter is to prevent the tobacco filler from falling off while controlling the filtration function.

[0125] Materials produced using methods such as those described below can be used as filter materials for the second filling material 251 constituting the filter rod 250, and commercially available products can also be used. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the form of the filter rod 250, and it can be formed into a conventional filter including a single filter segment, or a multi-stage filter including multiple filter segments, such as a dual filter or a triple filter.

[0126] There are no particular limitations on the form of the second filling material 251 constituting the filter rod 250, and known forms can be used. For example, a component obtained by processing cellulose acetate tow into a cylindrical shape can be used as the second filling material 251. When the filter is filled with cellulose acetate tow, an amount of 5 wt% to 10 wt% of glycerol triacetate can be added relative to the weight of the cellulose acetate tow to improve filter stiffness. Furthermore, a paper filter filled with sheet pulp can be used instead of an acetate filter.

[0127] From the perspective of improving strength and structural rigidity, the filter rod 250 may include a second inner filter rod forming paper 252 (wrapping paper) wrapped around the second filling material 251, as discussed below. There are no particular limitations on the form of the second inner filter rod forming paper 252, and it may include seams comprising one or more adhesive lines. There are no particular limitations on the adhesive, but it may include vinyl acetate-based adhesives or hot-melt adhesives, and the hot-melt adhesive may include polyvinyl alcohol. Furthermore, if the filter segment comprises two or more segments, the second inner filter rod forming paper 252 preferably wraps around all two or more segments.

[0128] There are no particular limitations on the material of the second inner filter rod forming paper 252, and known materials can be used. It may also include fillers such as calcium carbonate. There are no particular limitations on the thickness of the second inner filter rod forming paper 252, and it is typically 20 µm to 140 µm, preferably 30 µm to 130 µm, and more preferably 30 µm to 120 µm. There are no particular limitations on the basis weight of the second inner filter rod forming paper 252, and it is typically 20 gsm to 100 gsm, preferably 22 gsm to 95 gsm, and more preferably 23 gsm to 90 gsm. Furthermore, the second inner filter rod forming paper 252 may be coated or uncoated, but from the perspective of allowing for functions other than strength and structural stiffness, it is preferably coated with a desired material.

[0129] like Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the hollow filter 240 and the filter rod 250 can be connected, for example, by an outer filter rod forming paper 260 (outer wrapping paper). The outer filter rod forming paper 260 can be, for example, cylindrical paper.

[0130] The downstream portion 130 may further include a hollow tube portion 132 and a hollow filter 240. The hollow filter 240 is disposed adjacent to the downstream of the hollow tube portion 132. The hollow filter 240 may include: a filter material 241 having one or more hollow portions; and a third inner filter rod forming paper 242 wrapped around the filter material 241. There are no particular limitations on the third inner filter rod forming paper 242, and the same filter rod forming paper used in cigarettes may be used, for example. The third inner filter rod forming paper 242 may be omitted. Furthermore, the hollow filter 240 may be omitted.

[0131] The hollow tube portion 132 is a rod-shaped member inserted adjacent to the flavor generating portion 220 and the hollow filter 240 or filter rod 250 (when the hollow filter 240 is not present). It typically has a cylindrical or similar cavity whose circumferential cross-section forms a hollow (closed space). The length of the hollow tube portion 132 along its long axis can vary appropriately depending on the product size, but is typically 15 mm or greater, preferably 20 mm or greater, and typically 40 mm or less, preferably 35 mm or less, more preferably 30 mm or less. By setting the length of the hollow tube portion 132 along its long axis to at or above the aforementioned lower limit, sufficient cooling effect and a pleasant flavor can be ensured. Furthermore, by setting the length to at or below the aforementioned upper limit, losses caused by the adhesion of generated vapors and aerosols to the inner wall of the hollow tube portion 132 can be suppressed.

[0132] like Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the hollow tube portion 132 may be provided with concentric airflow holes vf (also referred to in this art as "ventilation filters") in the circumferential direction. The presence of the airflow holes vf allows air to flow into the hollow tube portion 132 from the outside during use, and makes it possible to reduce the temperature of the air and components flowing in from the flavor generating portion 220. The airflow holes vf may be provided in a region at least 4 mm away from the boundary between the hollow tube portion 132 and the hollow filter 240 or filter rod 250 (when there is no hollow filter 240) in the direction along the side of the hollow tube portion 132. In this case, the airflow holes vf can not only enhance the cooling capacity of the hollow tube portion 132, but also suppress the stagnation of components caused by heating inside the hollow tube portion 132, and increase the delivery of these components. It should be noted that when an aerosol source is used in the flavor-generating section 220, the vapor containing the aerosol source and tobacco flavor components generated by heating the flavor-generating article 100 is liquefied by the temperature drop caused by contact with the outside air, which can promote aerosol generation.

[0133] There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the outer filter rod forming paper 280, and it can take a general form. Specifically, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 may, for example, include pulp as its main component. Pulps that can be used include wood pulp, such as softwood pulp and hardwood pulp, flax pulp, hemp pulp, sisal pulp, and needlegrass fiber, etc., and pulps commonly used in wrapping paper for tobacco products can be used. The outer filter rod forming paper 280 can be obtained by employing one or more of these pulps through papermaking processes. These pulps can be used alone, or several types of pulp can be used in combination in any proportion. Forms of pulp that can be used include chemical pulp, milled pulp, chemi-milled pulp, and thermomechanical pulp, etc., obtained through kraft paper digestion, acid / neutral / alkaline sulfite digestion, and soda digestion, etc. It should be noted that commercially available articles can be used in the outer filter rod forming paper 280. There are no particular restrictions on the shape of the outer filter rod forming paper 280, and it can have, for example, a square or rectangular shape. The outer filter rod forming paper 280 may include at least one of fillers, additives, and coating agents.

[0134] There are no particular restrictions on the configuration of the tipping paper 270, and it can take a general form. Specifically, the tipping paper 270 may, for example, include pulp as its main component. Pulps that can be used include wood pulp, such as softwood pulp and hardwood pulp, flax pulp, hemp pulp, sisal pulp, and needlegrass fiber, etc., and pulps commonly used in wrapping paper for tobacco products can be used. The tipping paper 270 can be obtained by employing one or more of these pulps through papermaking processes. These pulps can be used alone, or several types of pulps can be used in any proportion. Forms of pulp that can be used include chemical pulp, milled pulp, chemo-milled pulp, and thermomechanical pulp, etc., obtained through kraft paper digestion, acid / neutral / alkaline sulfite digestion, and soda digestion, etc. It should be noted that commercially available products can be used in the tipping paper 270. There are no particular restrictions on the shape of the tipping paper 270, and it can have, for example, a square or rectangular shape. Furthermore, the flavor-generating article 100 may include a tipping paper 270, but it may also include multiple tipping papers 270. The tipping paper 270 may include at least one of fillers, additives, coating agents, and lip-release materials that facilitate easy separation of the lips and tipping paper 270 with minimal adhesion when the user places the mouthpiece of the flavor-generating article 100 into their mouth.

[0135] The connection pattern of the components constituting the flavor-generating article 100 will be described next. Figure 9 In this design, gaps are provided between components to make it easier to see how they are connected; however, the actual flavor-producing components of article 100 are adjacent without gaps, as shown in the image. Figure 10 As shown. In Figure 9 In the flavor-generating product 100 shown, these five components are connected using an outer filter rod forming paper 280, an outer filter rod forming paper 260, and a tipping paper 270. Specifically, as... Figure 9 As shown, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 connects the end filter rod 112, the flavor generating portion 220, and the hollow tube portion 132. Here, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 is wound to cover the entire end filter rod 112 and the flavor generating portion 220, as well as a portion of the hollow tube portion 132. This connected body will be referred to as the first connecting body 285. Furthermore, the outer filter rod forming paper 260 is wound to connect the hollow filter 240 and the filter rod 250, while also covering them entirely. This connected body will be referred to as the second connecting body 265. The tipping paper 270 further connects the first connecting body 285 and the second connecting body 265. Here, the tipping paper 270 covers the entire second connecting body 265 and a portion of the first connecting body 285, while exposing the first connecting body at its upstream end. It should be noted that... Figure 9In the example shown, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 exposes the hollow tube portion 132 at its downstream end, without covering the hollow tube portion 132 as far downstream as possible, although the hollow tube portion 132 can also be covered as far downstream as possible. In this case, it is preferable to have perforations in the outer filter rod forming paper 280 and the tipping paper 270, located directly above the airflow hole vf provided in the hollow tube portion 132. Therefore, the airflow hole vf is preferably configured to penetrate the tipping paper 270, the outer filter rod forming paper 280, and the hollow tube portion 132.

[0136] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of a flavor-generating article 100 according to another embodiment. Figure 11 The flavor-producing product 100 shown is... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The only difference between the flavor-generating product 100 shown is its connection mode. Figure 11 In the flavor-generating product 100 shown, these five components are connected using an outer filter rod forming paper 280, an outer filter rod forming paper 260, and a tipping paper 270. Specifically, as... Figure 11 As shown, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 is wound to connect the end filter rod 112 and the flavor generating portion 220, while covering them entirely. This connected body will be referred to as the first connected body 285. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the example shown, the outer filter rod forming paper 260 is wound to connect the hollow filter 240 and the filter rod 250, while also covering them entirely. This connected body will be referred to as the second connecting body 265. The splice paper 270 further connects the first connecting body 285, the hollow tube portion 132, and the second connecting body 265. Here, the splice paper 270 covers the entire hollow tube portion 132 and the second connecting body 265, as well as a portion of the first connecting body 285, while exposing the first connecting body at its upstream end. These five components can be arranged as follows... Figure 11 The connections are made in the form shown. It should be noted that... Figure 11 In this process, the outer filter rod forming paper 280 covers the flavor generating portion 220 as far downstream as its end, but the outer filter rod forming paper 280 can also expose the flavor generating portion at the downstream end of the flavor generating portion 220 without covering the flavor generating portion 220 as far downstream as its end.

[0137] It should be noted that the form of the flavor generating article 100 is not specifically limited to the examples discussed above, as long as the heating part 40 can heat the flavor generating article 100 inserted into the flavor inhaler 200 to generate flavor. For example, the flavor generating article 100 does not need to include the end filter rod 112.

[0138] like Figure 1 As shown, when the flavor-generating article 100 has been properly inserted into the chamber 50 of the flavor inhaler 200, a portion of the flavor-generating article 100 may be exposed to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200. Specifically, in Figure 1 In the state shown, Figure 9 or Figure 11 Part or all of the second connecting body 265 shown may be exposed to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In the state shown, Figure 9 or Figure 11 A portion of the hollow tube portion 132 shown may be exposed to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200. In this case, the airflow hole vf formed in the hollow tube portion 132 may be exposed to the outside of the flavor inhaler 200, or it may be located inside the flavor inhaler 200 (upstream of the insertion opening 210 for inserting the flavor generating article 100). The airflow hole vf formed in the hollow tube portion 132 is preferably located inside the flavor inhaler 200 so that the airflow hole vf is not easily blocked by the user.

[0139] Figure 12 This is a view showing a lateral cross-section of the chamber 50 and the insertion guide member 34 parallel to the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100. The tubular insertion guide member 34 is located on the insertion opening 210 side of the chamber 50, and the interior of the insertion guide member 34 communicates with the interior of the chamber 50. The flavor inhaler 200 may have a tubular gasket 36, which is disposed radially outward of the end portion of the chamber 50 on the side of the chamber opening 52 relative to the central axis A x 1 of the chamber 50. The gasket 36 has ribs 37 on its circumferential inner surface on the side of the chamber 50, and is configured such that a protrusion 53 of the chamber 50, which protrudes radially outward from the end end of the chamber 50 on the side of the chamber opening 52, is supported by the ribs 37. The protrusion 53 is further pressed in the insertion direction by the end face of the insertion guide member 34 from the side opposite to the ribs 37.

[0140] The flavor inhaler 200 may have a sealing member 38 located between the gasket 36 and the insertion guide member 34. This allows undesirable components (such as sideflow smoke) generated by heating performed by the heating section 40 to adversely affect the internal components of the flavor inhaler 200. The sealing member 38 is preferably configured to contact the circumferential inner surface of the gasket 36 and the circumferential outer surface of the insertion guide member 34. From the perspective of having low permeability, the sealing member 38 preferably contains fluororubber, and more preferably includes an O-ring containing fluororubber.

[0141] Figure 13 and Figure 14This is a side section and bottom view showing an example of an insertion guide member 34. The insertion guide member 34 has a pair of first protrusions 334A and a pair of second protrusions 334B. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the insertion guide member 34 cut along the central axis A x 1, showing the arrangement of the first protrusion 334A and the second protrusion 334B in the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100. Figure 14 This is a bottom view of the insertion guide member 34, showing the arrangement of the first protrusion 334A and the second protrusion 334B in the circumferential direction of the flavor generating article 100. As in the example shown, the chamber 50 and the insertion guide member 34 are preferably arranged coaxially. By arranging the first protrusion 334A and the second protrusion 334B spaced apart from each other, the contact area between the flavor generating article 100 and the insertion guide member 34 is reduced. Therefore, when the flavor generating article 100 is pulled out after flavor inhalation, breakage or bending of the flavor generating article 100 can be suppressed.

[0142] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the shape of the first protrusion 334A is different from the shape of the second protrusion 334B. Figure 13 As shown, the pair of first protrusions 334A extend along the central axis A x 1, and in a cross-section of the insertion guide member 34 passing through the central axis A x 1, each of the first protrusions 334A has an inclined portion 336 that approaches the central axis A x 1 as the distance toward the chamber 50 in the insertion direction increases. The inclined portion 336 may be substantially linear or may be arcuate. Preferably, the inclined portion 336 has a convex shape facing radially inward. The first protrusions 334A press and clamp the inserted flavor-producing article 100 from both sides.

[0143] like Figure 14 As shown, the second protrusions 334B have a circumferential inner surface that curves along an imaginary circle 326 centered on the central axis A x 1. The second protrusions 334B preferably have a concave shape facing radially inward in this manner. When the flavor-generating article 100 is pulled out after flavor inhalation, the second protrusions 334B can restrict the angle of the flavor-generating article 100, thereby inhibiting breakage or bending of the flavor-generating article 100. From the perspective of preventing the angle of the flavor-generating article 100 from being excessively restricted and thus making it difficult to pull out the flavor-generating article 100, the radius of the imaginary circle 326 is preferably larger than the radius of the flavor-generating article 100. It should be noted that the form of the insertion guide member 34 is not particularly limited, as long as the flavor-generating article 100 can be inserted into the chamber 50 and flavor inhalation can be performed.

[0144] Figure 15 It is an enlarged cross-sectional view including the heating section 40 and the chamber 50. Figure 15 A cross section parallel to the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100 is shown. Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 The direction of arrow 16-16 shown is perpendicular to the insertion direction in the cross-sectional view. For example... Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the atomizing part 30 includes a first heat insulation part 361, a sealing part 362, a fixing part 363, and a sensor 391 that constitute the heat insulation part 32.

[0145] The first heat insulation portion 361 is configured to cover at least a portion of the chamber 50 and suppress heat dissipation to the outside of the chamber 50. The first heat insulation portion 361 has a multi-layer structure in which heat-resistant sheet-like heat insulation members 364 are wound multiple times around the tubular portion of the chamber 50. Here, the sheet-like heat insulation member 364 is a glass fiber sheet including aerogel particles (e.g., a member obtained by coating a glass fiber sheet with aerogel ink and drying the aerogel ink), and has a heat resistance temperature of about 350°C and a thermal conductivity of about 25 mW / mK.

[0146] Because the internal pores are divided into spaces smaller than the average free path of air (approximately 70 nm), the aerogel inhibits heat conduction, thus preventing air convection. It should be noted that the average pore size is preferably about 50 nm or smaller. Furthermore, the aerogel has a low density, which also inhibits heat conduction. In other words, with the above structure, the aerogel provides high thermal insulation. It should be noted that the aerogel can include, for example, silica aerogel, carbon aerogel, or porous structures containing fumed silica.

[0147] Here, the innermost surface of the first heat insulation portion 361 contacts the chamber 50 and / or the heating portion 40, and the outermost surface of the first heat insulation portion 361 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the shell portion 400. Furthermore, the first heat insulation portion 361 has a multilayer structure, wherein a single sheet-like heat insulation member 364 with a thickness of less than 1 mm (e.g., 0.5 mm) is continuously wound in six layers around the tubular portion of the chamber 50.

[0148] In other words, the first heat insulation portion 361 is configured such that: firstly, one end of the sheet-like heat insulation member 364 is brought into contact with the circumferential outer surface of the prepared chamber 50 and / or heating portion 40; then, the sheet-like heat insulation member 364 is continuously wound around the tubular portion of the chamber 50 in six layers. Here, the first heat insulation portion 361 may have a multi-layer structure, in which the sheet-like heat insulation member 364 is wound in, for example, 3 to 7 layers.

[0149] The sealing portion 362 is configured to cover both ends of the first heat insulation portion 361 in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 200. The sealing portion 362 reduces the intrusion of air into the first heat insulation portion 361. The sealing portion 362 can be, for example, a sponge gasket formed of foam having a closed-cell structure that prevents air from passing through. Since the sponge gasket formed of foam with a closed-cell structure has a certain degree of softness, it can improve the fit compared to the use of silicone rings or the like as the sealing portion 362. Furthermore, using a sponge gasket formed of foam with a closed-cell structure as the sealing portion 362, compared to foam with an open-cell structure, makes it possible to suppress powder from falling off the first heat insulation portion 361. There are no particular limitations on the material of the sponge gasket constituting the sealing portion 362, and it can, for example, contain resin, such as silicone resin. The sponge gasket constituting the sealing portion 362 can be formed with slits to facilitate adhesion.

[0150] The fixing portion 363 is configured to cover and fix the first heat-insulating portion 361 and the sealing portion 362. The fixing portion 363 can be a resin film, such as a heat-shrinkable tube or a polyimide (PI) film. The fixing portion 363 presses the first heat-insulating portion 361 and the sealing portion 362 against and fixes them against the chamber 50. Figure 15 In the diagram, the fixed part 363 is omitted.

[0151] Sensor 391 is disposed between the layers of the first heat insulation portion 361 and measures the temperature of the chamber 50. Sensor 391 can be a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor or thermocouple. The temperature of the chamber 50 measured by sensor 391 is output to the control portion 80 to control the heating of the flavor-generating article 100 by the atomizing portion 30. Figure 15 As shown, sensor 391 has a lead 392 electrically connected to control section 80. The lead 392, extending from between the layers of the first heat insulation section 361, can be pressed against the chamber 50 by the sealing section 362. Pressing the lead 392 against the chamber 50 by the sealing section 362 suppresses movement of the lead 392 and deformation of the first heat insulation section 361, even when force is applied to the lead 392, because the sealing section 362 holds the lead 392 in place.

[0152] It should be noted that the form of the first heat-insulating part 361 and the sealing part 362 is not specifically limited to the examples discussed above, as long as the flavor-generating article 100 inserted into the flavor inhaler 200 can be heated by the heating part 40 and the flavor can be inhaled by the user.

[0153] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the flavor-generating component 300. Figure 18This is a perspective view showing an intermediate body 700, which includes a flavor-generating component 300 and a shell portion 400 housing the flavor-generating component 300. Figure 17 As shown, the flavor generating assembly 300 includes a power supply section 20, an atomizing section 30, a control section 80, terminals 90, a base frame 310, a support frame 320, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 330. The flavor generating assembly 300 compactly integrates multiple parts of the flavor inhaler 200, enabling a compact flavor inhaler 200 and facilitating its assembly. While there are no particular limitations on the parts included in the flavor generating assembly 300, the flavor generating assembly 300 preferably includes a heating section 40 and a control section 80, and more preferably includes at least one of the power supply section 20 and the chamber 50. Since the power supply section 20 and the chamber 50 are relatively large components of the flavor inhaler 200, integrating these components into the flavor generating assembly 300 allows the flavor inhaler 200 to become more compact.

[0154] like Figure 18 As shown, in the flavor inhaler 200, the flavor generating assembly 300 is positioned facing the first opening portion 411 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 410 and facing the second opening portion 412 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 410. This allows the flavor generating assembly 300 to be easily inserted into the housing portion 400 with a simple configuration, while preventing the adverse effects of contact between the component arranged on the second opening portion 412 side of the flavor generating assembly 300 and the housing portion 400.

[0155] like Figure 17 As shown, the flavor generating component 300 has a central axis A x 2 extending in the longitudinal direction. (As shown from...) Figure 3 and Figure 17 As can be seen, the communication element 82 is located on the side of the second opening portion 412 along the central axis A x 2. This allows electromagnetic waves from the communication element 82 to pass more easily through the second opening portion 412, thereby further reducing the risk of communication being obstructed by the housing portion 400, etc.

[0156] like Figure 18 As shown, plate 81 is preferably disposed on the side of the second opening portion 412 of the flavor generating assembly 300. Plate 81 is preferably located in the flavor generating assembly 300, on the side of the second opening portion 412 along the central axis A x 2. This prevents adverse effects, such as damage to the components of the control portion 80 due to contact with the housing portion 400 when the flavor generating assembly 300 is inserted into the housing portion 400, and also prevents damage to the components of the control portion 80 even when the communication element 82 ( Figure 3 The placement of the inhaler near plate 81 also reduces the risk of obstruction from the communication housing 400, thus allowing the flavor inhaler 200 to become more compact.

[0157] The base frame 310 serves as a support for each component of the flavor generating assembly 300. There are no particular limitations on the materials constituting the base frame 310, but the base frame 310 may include resin (such as PC) or metal, etc.

[0158] The bracket 320 is configured to hold components such as plate 81 and prevent them from detaching. In the example shown, the bracket 320 is attached to the base frame 310. There are no particular limitations on the materials constituting the bracket 320, but the bracket 320 may include, for example, metal, such as stainless steel. The bracket 320 may be configured as part of the cover plate 81.

[0159] In the example shown, leads from heating element 40, battery 21, plate 81, and terminal 90 are electrically connected via FPC 330. The use of FPC 330 allows the flavor generating assembly 300 to be made lightweight and compact. FPC 330 can be electrically connected to any electrical or electronic component of the flavor generating assembly 300.

[0160] Figure 19 This is a front view of the casing 410. Figure 20 This is a side view of the housing 410, and Figure 21 This is a plan view of the housing 410. The housing 410 has an opening 413, which is obtained by connecting a first opening portion 411 formed at a first end 414 of the housing 410 with a second opening portion 412 formed in a side surface 415. The side surface 415 is formed to be about a central axis A x 3 extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing 410 and defines the circumferential outer surface of the housing 410.

[0161] A first opening 411 is formed at the first end 414, such that the central axis A x 3 passes through the first opening 411. In other words, the first opening 411 is open longitudinally toward the upper member 204. The first opening 411 is located in the end face of the first end 414, and this end face is formed to intersect the central axis A x 3, as shown below. Figure 20 As shown.

[0162] The first opening 411 has dimensions that allow the flavor generating component 300 to be inserted into the housing 410 through the first opening 411. The maximum width of the first opening 411 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is preferably greater than the maximum width of the flavor generating component 300 in the same direction. The first opening 411 is preferably configured such that the flavor generating component 300 can be inserted in the longitudinal direction.

[0163] The second opening 412 is sized to prevent the flavor generating component 300, which has been inserted into the housing 410, from falling out through the second opening 412. This ensures that the flavor generating component 300, which has been inserted into the housing 410 through the first opening 411, is stably held within the housing portion 400 and facilitates subsequent assembly work.

[0164] like Figure 19 As shown, the width of the second opening 412 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer casing 410 is the first width W1. The direction in which this first width W1 is measured is defined as the width direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 17 As shown, the width of the flavor generating component 300 in this width direction is the second width W2. At a certain location in the longitudinal direction of the housing 410, the first width W1 is preferably smaller than the second width W2. This makes it more reliable to prevent the flavor generating component 300, which has been inserted into the housing 410, from falling out through the second opening 412. For example, at the location of the longitudinally positioned presence chamber 50, presence plate 81, presence base 310, or presence power supply section 20, the first width W1 may be smaller than the second width W2. It should be noted that the housing 410 may have at least one protrusion that protrudes from the side wall 415 along the second opening 412 in the width direction. For example, the protrusion may be configured to protrude from the opening edge portion of the side wall 415 that intersects with the second opening 412 in the width direction. The position and shape of the protrusion are not particularly limited, but they are preferably provided on both sides of the second opening 412 in the width direction, and such a pair of protrusions may be provided at one or more locations in the insertion direction. This configuration allows for further suppression of the flavor-generating component 300 from falling off the shell portion 400 and prevents the inner panel 510 from entering the interior of the outer shell 410 due to impacts or the like.

[0165] like Figure 19 As shown, the second opening 412 extends from the first end 414 side toward the second end 416 side. The second opening 412 preferably extends in the longitudinal direction of the housing 410. The length of the housing 410 in the longitudinal direction is defined as a first length L1, and the length of the second opening 412 in the longitudinal direction is defined as a second length L2. The position of the upper end of the second opening 412 can be set, for example, as an upper limit height, which can be set such that the flavor generating component 300 does not pass through the second opening 412 during insertion.

[0166] The second length L2 is preferably greater than 50% of the first length L1, more preferably greater than 60% of the first length, even more preferably greater than 70% of the first length, and even more preferably greater than 80% of the first length. The larger the second length L2, the more reliably adverse effects, such as damage caused by contact between the component disposed on the second opening portion 412 side of the flavor generating component 300 and the shell portion 400, can be suppressed when the flavor generating component 300 is inserted into the shell portion 400. From the perspective of the protective plate 81 and surrounding elements, the second opening portion 412 may extend toward the second end 416 side beyond the distal end of the plate 81 on the second end 416 side. From a similar perspective, the second length L2 may be set based on the position of the plate 81.

[0167] like Figure 19 As shown, the housing 410 may have a third connecting portion 417. In the example shown, the third connecting portion 417 is a recessed portion formed in the circumferential inner surface of the housing 410 and is configured to mate with a protrusion (not shown) formed in the circumferential outer surface of the inner housing 420. As discussed above, the form of the third connecting portion 417 is not particularly limited, and the third connecting portion may be connected to another component, for example, by engagement or fastening.

[0168] like Figure 21 As shown, the housing 410 may have a terminal insertion opening 419 through which an external terminal to be connected to the terminal 90 is inserted. The terminal insertion opening 419 is formed in the second end 416. The position and size of the terminal insertion opening 419 are not particularly limited. For example, the terminal insertion opening 419 may also be formed in the side 415.

[0169] Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view including the upper component 204 and the cap 208. The cap 208 is configured to move in a direction intersecting the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100. Figure 22As shown, the upper member 204 may include a cap portion 207 and an upper base portion 209. The upper member 204 constitutes at least a portion of the housing of the flavor inhaler 200. The upper member 204 may also be referred to as a first end-side member disposed on the side of the first end 414 of the housing 410. Hereinafter, in the insertion direction of the flavor generating article 100, the side on which the insertion opening 210 is disposed (positive Z-axis side) is referred to as the upper side, and the side on which the second end 416 of the housing 410 is disposed (negative Z-axis side) is referred to as the lower side. In the example shown, the protrusion 814 of the cap 208, discussed below, is located between the cap portion 207 and the upper base portion 209 to limit the movement of the cap 208 in the insertion direction. Compared to the case where a slider is provided in the upper base portion to movably support the cap, this allows the upper base portion 209 to have a simpler configuration and allows the flavor inhaler 200 to be more compact.

[0170] The material of the cap portion 207 is not particularly limited and may contain at least one of a metal and a resin. The metal contained in the cap portion 207 may be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or an alloy containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, etc. The cap portion 207 may, for example, include anodized aluminum. The cap portion 207 and the upper base portion 209 may define a recessed portion in which at least a portion of the cap 208 is received (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).like Figure 22 As shown, the cap portion 207 may have a cap opening 206, and the cap opening 206 may be an opening of the recessed portion.

[0171] The material of the upper base portion 209 is not particularly limited and may include at least one of resin and metal. If the cap 208 includes a magnet 850, as discussed below, it is preferred that the upper base portion 209 does not contain a material that shields magnetism. The upper base portion 209 may, for example, include PC. The upper base portion 209 preferably defines an insertion opening 210 for the flavor-generating article 100, such as... Figure 22 As shown. Furthermore, the upper base portion 209 may have a support surface 290 supporting the cap 208, and the support surface 290 may include the bottom surface of the recessed portion of the upper member 204. The support surface 290 may restrict the movement of the cap 208 in the insertion direction during its movement.

[0172] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the cover 208 according to this embodiment. Figure 24 This is a plan view of the upper base portion 209, wherein the cover 208 is disposed on the support surface 290. (See image) Figure 23 As shown, the cap 208 can be formed as a cap assembly 800 including multiple components, and this will be described below. Figure 23As shown, the capping assembly 800 may include a cap 810, a movable member 820, and a contact portion 830. The movable member 820 may include a first movable member 821 and a second movable member 822.

[0173] exist Figure 22 and Figure 24 In the example shown, the capping assembly 800 is configured to move at a slight downward tilt, generally in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the device. Figure 24 In the diagram, the direction of movement of the capping assembly 800 is schematically indicated by arrow Ar1. Figure 24 In the example, the capping assembly 800 is positioned in the closed position, and when moved to the positive side in the X-axis direction, the capping assembly moves to the open position, in which the insertion opening 210 is exposed to allow the insertion of the flavor-generating article 100. In the following text, "direction of movement" simply refers to the direction of movement of the capping assembly 800, and the direction perpendicular to both the direction of movement and the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100 is referred to as the lateral direction. The direction of movement of the capping assembly 800 is not specifically limited to the example shown. For clarity, the direction discussed below... Figure 23 and Figure 25 In the example, the coordinate axes are set for the case where the movement direction is the X-axis and the horizontal direction is the Y-axis.

[0174] The flavor inhaler 200 according to this embodiment can be configured such that the upper member 204 (a housing) includes an insertion opening 210 through which the flavor generating article 100 can be inserted, and the cap assembly 800 is movable between a closed position covering at least a portion of the insertion opening 210 and an open position in which the flavor generating article 100 can be inserted into the insertion opening 210. This allows for the suppression of foreign matter intrusion from the insertion opening 210. Furthermore, since the cap assembly 800 includes the movable member 820 and the pushing member 860 discussed below, the insertion opening 210 for the flavor generating article 100 can be opened and closed more stably, while reducing the size of the flavor inhaler 200.

[0175] The cover 810 protects the components included in the cover assembly 800. The material of the cover 810 is not particularly limited and may contain at least one of a metal and a resin. The metal contained in the cover 810 may be aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, or an alloy containing aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, etc. The cover 810 may, for example, comprise anodized aluminum. Figure 23 As shown, the cover 810 may include a cover body 811 and a protruding portion 814.

[0176] like Figure 23As shown, the cover body 811 may include an upper plate 812 and cover sidewalls 813. The upper plate 812 is preferably configured such that a user can move the cover assembly 800 while touching the upper plate 812 with their fingers. The cover sidewalls 813 are preferably configured to surround each component inside the cover assembly 800. The shape of the cover body 811 is not particularly limited, and the entire cover body 811 may be formed, for example, by a curved surface.

[0177] From the perspective of aesthetics or protection of the contact portion 830, the protruding portion 814 is configured to cover a portion of the contact portion 830. For example... Figure 23 As shown, the protruding portion 814 may include protruding portions 814A, 814B, 814C, and 814D. As... Figure 24 As shown, protrusions 814A and 814B can protrude from the cover sidewall 813 in the lateral direction and are located on both sides of the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. Protrusions 814C and 814D can protrude from the cover sidewall 813 in the lateral direction and are located on both sides of the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement.

[0178] Protrusion 814A is located both above contact portion 830A (discussed below) and on the side of contact portion 830A opposite to the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. Protrusion 814B is located both above contact portion 830B (discussed below) and on the side of contact portion 830B opposite to the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. Protrusion 814C is located both above contact portion 830C (discussed below) and on the side of contact portion 830C opposite to the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement. Protrusion 814D is located both above contact portion 830D (discussed below) and on the side of contact portion 830D opposite to the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement. It should be noted that although four protrusions 814 are illustrated in the example shown, the number of protrusions 814 is not particularly limited and can be one to three, or five or more.

[0179] The side wall of the protruding portion 814A on the side opposite to the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement can abut against the open position stop 715 when in the open position. Figure 24The sidewall of the protruding portion 814C, on the side opposite to the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement, can abut against the opening position stop 725 when in the open position. At least one of the opening position stops 715 and 725 can be the inner wall of the upper base portion 209. Therefore, a configuration can be adopted in which the movement of the cover assembly 800 in the direction of movement in the open position is limited by the contact between the sidewall of the protruding portion 814 furthest from the open position side and the opening position stops 715 and 725. This allows for more reliable limitation of the movement of the cover assembly 800 in the open position, and, for example, allows for more stable detection of the magnet 850 in the open position.

[0180] The sidewall of the protruding portion 814B, on the side opposite to the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement, can abut against the closing position stop 716 in the closed position. The sidewall of the protruding portion 814D, on the side opposite to the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement, can abut against the closing position stop 726 in the closed position. At least one of the closing position stops 716 and 726 can be the inner wall of the upper base portion 209. Therefore, a configuration can be adopted in which the movement of the cap assembly 800 in the direction of movement in the closed position is limited by the contact between the sidewall of the protruding portion 814 furthest from the closed position side and the closing position stops 716 and 726. This allows for more reliable restriction of the movement of the cap assembly 800 in the closed position and, for example, suppresses adverse effects such as insufficient coverage of the insertion opening 210. It should be noted that the insertion opening 210 is preferably completely covered in the closed position. This allows for mitigation of unnatural impressions or loss of aesthetic appearance.

[0181] It should be noted that the cover body 811 can also be configured to abut against a stop in either the open or closed position to restrict movement of the cover assembly 800. However, by employing a configuration where the protrusion 814 abuts against the open position stop 715, 725 or the closed position stop 716, 726 in at least one of the open and closed positions, while the cover body 811 does not abut against a stop, wear on the surface of the cover body 811 (resulting in a loss of aesthetic appearance) can be suppressed. Here, it is considered that the wear on the surface of the protrusion 814 is less noticeable than the wear on the surface of the cover body 811.

[0182] like Figure 24 As shown, the upper base portion 209 may have guide portions 7. The guide portions 7 may include a first guide portion 710 and a second guide portion 720, which are a pair of guide portions 7 located on either side of the cap assembly 800 in the lateral direction. Figure 24As shown, the first guide portion 710 and the second guide portion 720 can be formed to extend in the direction of movement and face each other in the lateral direction. Each guide portion 7 is preferably a groove formed in the outer surface of the upper base portion 209 (for the housing). This allows the cap assembly 800 to be guided using a simple configuration by utilizing the shape of the groove.

[0183] Contact part 830 ( Figure 23 The sealing assembly 800 is configured to move along the guide portion 7. The contact portion 830 can be configured to contact the guide portion 7 to restrict movement of the sealing assembly 800 in the lateral direction. The contact portion 830 preferably makes slidable contact with the guide portion 7. Figure 24 As shown, the contact portion 830 can be formed to protrude from the cover sidewall 813 in the lateral direction. The contact portion 830 can be configured such that the contact portion does not always need to be in contact with the guide portion 7. The contact portion 830 and / or the movable member 820 can be configured to contact the guide portion 7. This allows for more flexible design and also reduces the need for precise molding of the contact portion 830 and the movable member 820, thereby enabling efficient manufacturing of the cover assembly 800 and the upper member 204.

[0184] like Figure 23 As shown, the contact portion 830 may include contact portion 830A, contact portion 830B, contact portion 830C, and contact portion 830D. For example... Figure 23 As shown, contact portions 830A and 830B can be located on both sides of the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. Contact portions 830C and 830D can be located on both sides of the second movable member 822 in the direction of movement. Contact portion 830 extends from the cap base portion 840 discussed below. Figure 25 The contact portions 830 are extended, but there is no particular limitation on their form, and they can be formed on the cover 810. It should be noted that although four contact portions 830 are shown in the example shown, there is no particular limitation on the number of contact portions 830, and they can be one to three, or five or more.

[0185] Figure 25 This is a plan view of the cap assembly 800, omitting the cap 810. The cap assembly 800 has a pusher member 860 that pushes a movable member 820. The movable member 820 and the pusher member 860 are attached to the cap assembly 800 so as to move integrally with the cap assembly 800. Here, "moving integrally" means that the movement of the member is together with the movement of the cap assembly 800, and the member does not contact or be supported by any part of the flavor inhaler 200 other than the cap assembly 800. Figure 24 and Figure 25It can be seen that the movable member 820 can be configured to move relative to the cap assembly 800 in a direction intersecting the direction of movement, while moving integrally with the cap assembly 800 in the direction of movement. Here, being able to move "relative to the cap assembly 800" means being able to move relative to a portion of the cap assembly 800 that excludes the movable member 820, or relative to a central axis extending perpendicular to the direction of movement and laterally of the cap assembly 800. The movable member 820 may be able to move relative to the pushing member 860 or the cap base portion 840.

[0186] like Figure 25 As shown, the cap assembly 800 may include a cap base portion 840 that supports a movable member 820 and a pushing member 860. The cap base portion 840 may support at least one of a first movable member 821, a second movable member 822, and a pushing member 860. The cap base portion 840 may be configured to support the movable member 820 and the pushing member 860 on its upper surface, wherein the lower surface of the cap base portion 840 contacts the support surface 290 of the upper base portion 209.

[0187] like Figure 25 As shown, the pushing member 860 is configured to push the movable member 820 in a pushing direction (corresponding to an example of a second direction) that intersects the moving direction of the capping assembly 800 (corresponding to an example of a first direction). Figure 24 As shown, the movable member 820 can limit the movement of the cap assembly 800 by being pushed into contact with the guide portion 7. The movable member 820 is preferably configured to move along the guide portion 7. This allows the movement of the cap assembly 800 to be adjusted by utilizing the contact between the guide portion 7 and the movable member 820, for example, by utilizing the fact that the cap assembly 800 moves when the pushed movable member 820 contacts the wall surface of the guide portion 7, making the cap assembly 800 less prone to displacement from a desired position (e.g., an open or closed position). Figure 25 As shown, the pushing direction of the pushing member 860 is preferably substantially perpendicular to the moving direction of the capping assembly 800, more preferably substantially perpendicular to the moving direction and the insertion direction of the flavor-generating article 100, and even more preferably lateral. This allows for more stable adjustment of the movement of the capping assembly 800.

[0188] In this embodiment, the actuating member 860 pushes the movable member 820 in a pushing direction intersecting the direction of movement, thereby allowing for a more flexible configuration, for example, compared to a configuration where the actuating member directly contacts the guide portion 7. For example, since the actuating member 860 does not need to contact the guide portion 7, a material and shape more suitable for actuation can be selected. Moreover, since the movable member 820 does not necessarily need to be elastic, a material and shape suitable for allowing movement relative to the guide portion 7, particularly sliding contact, can be selected. In this embodiment, the flavor inhaler 200 can be made compact because the mechanisms for sliding (such as the actuating member 860 and the movable member 820) are located outside the housing formed by the upper member 204, and particularly inside the cap assembly 800.

[0189] like Figure 25 As shown, the cap assembly 800 may include a first movable member 821 and a second movable member 822, as a pair of movable members 820. The first movable member 821 and the second movable member 822 may be arranged on both sides of the cap assembly 800 along the pushing direction. This allows the cap assembly 800 to be configured to receive resistance from both sides of the cap assembly 800 via the movable members 820, thereby allowing the cap assembly 800 to move more stably. Figure 25 As shown, in the pushing direction, gaps C2 and C1 may exist between the first movable member 821 and the second movable member 822 and the cap base portion 840, respectively. Each of the first movable member 821 and the second movable member 822 may be configured to be able to move the width of gap C1 and the width of gap C2 in the pushing direction.

[0190] like Figure 25 As shown, the movable members 820 can each be in the shape of a plate extending in both the moving direction and the lateral direction. The shape of the movable members 820 is not particularly limited, as long as they can move integrally with the cap assembly 800 and are movable relative to the cap assembly 800 in the pushing direction. The material of the movable members 820 is not particularly limited and can include at least one of resin and metal, preferably at least one of polyoxymethylene (POM) and PC. From the perspective of being less prone to wear and tear and generating less noise when the cap assembly 800 moves, POM is more preferred for the movable members 820.

[0191] like Figure 24As shown, the first guide portion 710 may have a middle portion 711, a closed position recess 712, and an open position recess 713. The second guide portion 720 may have a middle portion 721, a closed position recess 722, and an open position recess 723. The middle portion 711, the closed position recess 712, and the open position recess 713 may be positioned so that they face the middle portion 721, the closed position recess 722, and the open position recess 723 respectively in the lateral direction.

[0192] Figure 26A and Figure 26B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the upper base portion 209, at the location of the guide portion 7 in the Z-axis direction, parallel to the XY plane. Figure 26A In the example, the closed position recess 712 is a recess in the sidewall constituting the first guide portion 710, and the first movable member 821 contacts this recess when the cap assembly 800 is in the closed position. The open position recess 713 is a recess in the sidewall constituting the first guide portion 710, and the first movable member 821 contacts this recess when the cap assembly 800 is in the open position. In the direction of movement, the intermediate portion 711 is located between the closed position recess 712 and the open position recess 713, and the sidewall constituting the intermediate portion 711 is offset from at least one of the closed position recess 712 and the open position recess 713 toward the cap assembly 800. Preferably, the first movable member 821 is located in the closed position recess 712 in the closed position and in the open position recess 713 in the open position. This makes it possible to suppress the cap assembly 800 from shifting from the open or closed position due to unintentional contact or impact by the user.

[0193] exist Figure 26B In the example, the closed position recess 722 is a recess in the sidewall constituting the second guide portion 720, which the second movable member 822 contacts when the cap assembly 800 is in the closed position. The open position recess 723 is a recess in the sidewall constituting the second guide portion 720, which the second movable member 822 contacts when the cap assembly 800 is in the open position. In the direction of movement, the intermediate portion 721 is located between the closed position recess 722 and the open position recess 723, and the sidewall constituting the intermediate portion 721 is offset from at least one of the closed position recess 722 and the open position recess 723 toward the cap assembly 800. Preferably, the second movable member 822 is located in the closed position recess 722 in the closed position and in the open position recess 723 in the open position.

[0194] like Figure 26AAs shown, the first guide portion 710 may have an inclined surface 714A between the intermediate portion 711 and the closed position recess 712 in the direction of movement. The inclined surface 714A may be inclined relative to the direction of movement and the lateral direction, thereby facing the closed position. The inclined surface 714A can guide the pushed first movable member 821 in contact with the inclined surface 714A toward the closed position. Therefore, if the cap assembly 800 is displaced from the closed position due to accidental contact or impact by the user, a force is applied to return it to the closed position, thereby further inhibiting the cap assembly 800 from displaced from the closed position. From a similar point of view, as Figure 26B As shown, the second guide portion 720 may have an inclined surface 724A between the intermediate portion 721 and the closed position recess 722 in the direction of movement. The inclined surface 724A may be inclined relative to the direction of movement and the lateral direction, so as to face the closed position. The inclined surface 724A may guide the pushed second movable member 822, which is in contact with the inclined surface 724A, toward the closed position.

[0195] like Figure 26A As shown, the first guide portion 710 may have an inclined surface 714B between the intermediate portion 711 and the open position recess 713 in the direction of movement. The inclined surface 714B may be inclined relative to the direction of movement and the lateral direction, thus facing the open position. The inclined surface 714B guides the pushed first movable member 821, which is in contact with the inclined surface 714B, toward the open position. Therefore, if the cap assembly 800 is displaced from the open position due to accidental contact or impact by the user, a force is applied to return it to the open position, thereby further inhibiting the cap assembly 800 from displaced from the open position. From a similar point of view, as Figure 26B As shown, the second guide portion 720 may have an inclined surface 724B between the intermediate portion 721 and the open position recess 723 in the direction of movement. The inclined surface 724B may be inclined relative to the direction of movement and the lateral direction, so as to face the open position. The inclined surface 724B guides the pushed second movable member 822, which is in contact with the inclined surface 724B, toward the open position. It should be noted that by adjusting the inclination of the inclined surface 714A, etc., a clicking mechanism that produces a clicking sound can also be obtained.

[0196] As discussed above, the movable member 820 according to this embodiment can be configured to reside in recesses R (closed position recesses 721, 722 or open position recesses 713, 723) formed in the guide portions 7, which are the outer surfaces of the housing, in at least one of the open and closed positions. It should be noted that the position, shape, and number of recesses R formed in the guide portions 7 are not particularly limited. For example, the recesses R in the guide portions 7 can also be configured such that the cap assembly 800 is not easily displaced from a desired position other than the open and closed positions. Furthermore, either the first guide portion 710 or the second guide portion 720 may not have a recess R or may be inclined. In this case, only one movable member 820 may be present. Furthermore, the number of movable members 820 is not particularly limited and may be three or more, for example, multiple movable members 820 may be arranged on at least one side of the cap assembly 800.

[0197] Figure 27A This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the first movable member 821 in the closed position. (See attached image.) Figure 27A As shown, the first movable member 821 may have a contact edge 823 that contacts the recess R in both the open and closed positions. The contact edge 823 preferably extends in the direction of movement. The first movable member 821 may have an inclined edge 824A that contacts the inclined surface 714A in the closed position. The inclined edge 824A is formed to be inclined relative to the direction of movement. The inclined edge 824A is preferably located on the open position side of the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. The inclined edge 824A may have a shape corresponding to the inclined surface 714A of the first guide member 710. More specifically, preferably, the inclined edge 824A and the inclined surface 714A are substantially parallel to each other in a plane including both the direction of movement and the lateral direction. For example, the angle between the inclined edge 824A and the inclined surface 714A in the plane including both the direction of movement and the lateral direction can be set to no more than 5 degrees. This allows the cap assembly 800 to be held more stably in the closed position.

[0198] like Figure 27AAs shown, the protruding portion 814B abuts against the closed position stop 716 in the closed position, thereby restricting the movement of the cap assembly 800 in the direction of movement. Here, when the protruding portion 814B abuts against the closed position stop 716, preferably, the contact edge 823 contacts the closed position recess 712, and the inclined edge 824A contacts or faces the inclined surface 714A across a small gap. In this way, the protruding portion 814B and the first movable member 821 have shapes corresponding to the closed position stop 716, the closed position recess 712, and the inclined surface 714A, thereby holding the cap assembly 800 in a more precise position in the closed position. From a similar viewpoint, it is preferable that, in the closed position, the protruding portion 814B (… Figure 24 The second movable member 822 has a closed position stop 726 and a closed position recess 722. Figure 26B The shape corresponding to the inclined surface 724A.

[0199] Figure 27B This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the first movable member 821 in the open position. (See attached image.) Figure 27B As shown, the first movable member 821 may have an inclined edge 824B that contacts the inclined surface 714B in the open position. The inclined edge 824B is formed to be inclined relative to the direction of movement. The inclined edge 824B is preferably located on the closed position side of the first movable member 821 in the direction of movement. The inclined edge 824B may have a shape corresponding to the inclined surface 714B of the first guide member 710. More specifically, preferably, the inclined edge 824B and the inclined surface 714B are substantially parallel to each other in a plane including the direction of movement and the lateral direction. For example, the angle between the inclined edge 824B and the inclined surface 714B in the plane including the direction of movement and the lateral direction can be set to no more than 5 degrees. This allows the cap assembly 800 to be held more stably in the open position.

[0200] like Figure 27B As shown, the protruding portion 814A abuts against the open position stop 715 when in the open position, thereby restricting the movement of the cap assembly 800 in the direction of movement. Here, when the protruding portion 814A abuts against the open position stop 715, preferably, the contact edge 823 contacts the open position recess 713, and the inclined edge 824B contacts or faces the inclined surface 714B across a small gap. In this way, the protruding portion 814A and the first movable member 821 have shapes corresponding to the open position stop 715, the open position recess 713, and the inclined surface 714B, thereby holding the cap assembly 800 in a more precise position when in the open position. From a similar viewpoint, it is preferable that, when in the open position, the protruding portion 814A ( Figure 24 The second movable member 822 has an open position stop 725 and an open position recess 723. Figure 26B The shape corresponding to the inclined surface 724B.

[0201] Figure 28 This is a plan view of the pushing component 860. (Example) Figure 28 As shown, the pushing member 860 may have a first arm 861, a second arm 862, and an attachment portion 863. The first arm 861 and the second arm 862 may be flexible in the lateral direction and may have a shape obtained by folding a plate-like or rod-like metal member. The first arm 861 may have a first arm contact portion 8610 in the lateral direction on the side of the first movable member 821, and the first arm contact portion 8610 may be configured to contact the first movable member 821. The second arm 862 may have a second arm contact portion 8620 in the lateral direction on the side of the second movable member 822, and the second arm contact portion 8620 may be configured to contact the second movable member 822. Figure 25 and Figure 28 As shown, the attachment portion 863 may be a plate-like member extending along the direction of movement and the lateral direction, and may be configured such that its lower surface is supported by the capping base portion 840.

[0202] like Figure 28 As shown, the actuating member 860 is preferably a leaf spring. Including a leaf spring in the actuating member 860 allows the cap assembly 800 to be made compact and enables the movable member 820 to be actuated more stably. It should be noted that the shape of the actuating member 860 is not specifically limited to the example shown. Furthermore, the position and number of the actuating members 860 are not particularly limited, and the cap assembly 800 may have multiple actuating members 860 that actuate the first movable member 821 or the second movable member 822, respectively.

[0203] Figure 29 This is an exploded perspective view of the capping assembly 800. (See attached image.) Figure 25 and Figure 29 As shown, the capping assembly 800 may include a magnet 850. The magnet 850 is preferably configured to move integrally with the capping assembly 800.

[0204] Figure 30 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the position detection of the cap assembly 800. (Example) Figure 30As shown, the flavor inhaler 200 may have a magnetic sensor 83 for detecting the magnetic field of the magnet 850. This allows the control section 80 to detect the position of the cap assembly 800 and perform control using information related to the position of the cap assembly 800. For example, to prevent accidental heating by the user, the control section 80 may prevent the heating section 40 from heating when the cap assembly 800 is in the closed position. The magnetic sensor 83 may be disposed below the upper base portion 209 and, from the perspective of a compactly configured flavor inhaler 200, preferably disposed on the plate 81. The magnetic sensor 83 may be disposed at at least one position in the direction of movement of the cap assembly 800, as indicated by arrow Ar1.

[0205] like Figure 25 and Figure 29 As shown, the cap assembly 800 may have a fastening member 880 that secures the cap 810 and the cap base portion 840 together. For example, the fastening member 880 may include a screw. Figure 29 As shown, the cover 810 can be configured to cover the magnet 850. Furthermore, the base portion 840 of the cover can serve as a support portion for supporting the magnet 850. This configuration allows the magnet 850 to be securely supported, preventing it from falling out of the cover assembly 800. For example, if control is implemented such that heating is only possible when the cover assembly 800 is in the open position, if the magnet 850 falls out of the cover assembly 800, the open position may not be detected, and heating may fail. Therefore, it may be important to ensure that the magnet 850 does not fall out of the cover assembly 800, as this could affect the control of the control section 80. Figure 29 As shown, the cap base portion 840 may have a magnet receiving portion 843, which has sidewalls surrounding and accommodating the magnet 850. Furthermore, the cap base portion 840 may have a base portion through hole 844 through which the fastening member 880 passes.

[0206] like Figure 25 and Figure 29 As shown, the capping assembly 800 may have adhesive tape 870 for bonding the cap 810 and the push member 860. It should be noted that the capping assembly 800 may have a buffer pad (not shown) located between the magnet 850 and the cap 810. For example, this buffer pad penetrates the attachment portion 863 of the push member 860. Figure 28 It is configured to be compressed between the magnet 850 and the cover 810. This allows for suppression of positional displacement of the push member 860 in the X and Y directions and reduces the transmission of impacts on the cover 810 to components inside the sealing assembly 800 (such as the push member 860). In this case, the tape 870 can be located between the cushioning pad and the push member 860.

[0207] A method for manufacturing a flavor inhaler 200 will now be described. This manufacturing method includes at least the following first to fourth steps. These first to fourth steps are performed in numerical order. In the first step, a shell portion 400 comprising a housing 410 and a flavor generating component 300 are prepared.

[0208] In the second step, the inner shell 420 is inserted into the outer shell 410. Preferably, the inner shell 420 is inserted through the first opening 411 of the outer shell 410. The inner shell 420 can be secured to the interior of the outer shell 410 by engaging with a clamping member (not shown), by engaging with a mating part, or by bonding with an adhesive. It should be noted that if the flavor inhaler 200 does not include the inner shell 420, the second step can be omitted. Alternatively, the inner shell 420 can be inserted into the outer shell 410 as part of the flavor generating assembly 300 in a third step.

[0209] In the third step, the flavor generating component 300 is inserted into the housing portion 400. The flavor generating component 300 is inserted into the housing 410 through the first opening portion 411, and the flavor generating component 300 is installed inside the housing 410.

[0210] Figure 31 This is a schematic perspective view showing the third step. Figure 31 The illustration schematically shows the flavor generating assembly 300 moving toward the housing 410 in the insertion direction, with the inner housing 420 already disposed within the housing. The flavor generating assembly 300 can be inserted into the housing 410 from the end opposite to the insertion opening 210 for the flavor generating article 100 (the end with the terminal 90). In the example shown, the terminal 90 is inserted into a through-hole formed in the bottom member 421 of the inner housing 420, allowing the terminal 90 to connect to an external terminal (not shown) inserted from the terminal insertion opening 419 of the housing 410. When the flavor generating assembly 300 is inserted into the housing 410, an intermediate body 700 is obtained. Figure 18 ).

[0211] In the fourth step, other components included in the flavor inhaler 200 are attached to the intermediate body 700, which includes the flavor generating assembly 300 and the housing 410. For example, the upper component 204, the inner panel 510, and the outer panel 520 are attached to the intermediate body 700. It should be noted that removable components (such as the outer panel 520) may not be attached to the flavor inhaler 200 during the manufacturing stage and may be provided as accessories.

[0212] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to those embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical concepts disclosed in the claims, specification, and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or drawings also falls within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, provided that the function and effects of the present invention are demonstrated therefrom.

[0213] According to a first aspect of the invention, a flavor inhaler includes a housing and a cap assembly movable along a first direction, wherein: the cap assembly includes a push member and a movable member movable relative to the cap assembly; the push member and the movable member are configured to move integrally with the cap assembly; and the push member is configured to push the movable member in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0214] According to a second aspect of the invention, in the first aspect, the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0215] According to a third aspect of the invention, in the first or second aspect, the housing is provided with a guide portion, and the movable member is configured to move along the guide portion.

[0216] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, in the third aspect, the guide portion is a groove formed in the outer surface of the housing.

[0217] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in a third or fourth aspect, the capping assembly further includes a contact portion configured to move along the guide portion, and at least one of the contact portion and the movable member is configured to contact the guide portion.

[0218] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, in any one of the third to fifth aspects, the capping assembly is provided with a pair of movable members, and the pair of movable members are respectively arranged on both sides of the capping assembly along the second direction.

[0219] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the actuating member is a leaf spring.

[0220] According to an eighth aspect of the invention, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the capping assembly further includes a magnet, and the flavor inhaler further includes a magnetic sensor for detecting the magnetic field of the magnet.

[0221] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, in the eighth aspect: the cover assembly further includes a support portion supporting the magnet and a cover covering the magnet; and the support portion and the cover are fastened together by means of a fastening member.

[0222] According to a tenth aspect of the invention, in any one of the first to ninth aspects: the housing has an opening through which a flavor-generating article can be inserted; and the capping assembly is configured to be movable between a closed position covering at least a portion of the opening and an open position in which the flavor-generating article can be inserted into the opening.

[0223] According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the movable member is configured to be located in a recess formed in the outer surface of the housing when in at least one of the open position and the closed position.

[0224] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a flavor generating system includes a flavor inhaler and a flavor generating article as described in any one of the first to eleventh aspects.

[0225] List of reference numerals

[0226] 7: Guiding Section

[0227] 20: Power Supply Section

[0228] 30: Atomization section

[0229] 34: Insert guide component

[0230] 40: Heating section

[0231] 50: Chamber

[0232] 80: Control Section

[0233] 81: Board

[0234] 83: Magnetic sensor

[0235] 100: Flavor-producing products

[0236] 200: Flavor Inhaler

[0237] 204: Upper component

[0238] 208: Capping

[0239] 209: Upper base portion

[0240] 300: Flavor-generating components

[0241] 310: Base frame

[0242] 320: Gasket

[0243] 330: Flexible Printed Circuit Board

[0244] 400: Shell portion

[0245] 410: Outer shell

[0246] 411: First opening section

[0247] 412: Second opening section

[0248] 413: Opening

[0249] 414: The first end of the outer casing

[0250] 415: Side of the outer casing

[0251] 416: The second end of the outer casing

[0252] 420: Inner shell

[0253] 500: Panel section

[0254] 510: Inner panel

[0255] 520: Outer panel

[0256] 700: Intermediate

[0257] 710: First Guiding Section

[0258] 711, 721: Middle section

[0259] 712, 722: Closed position recess

[0260] 713, 723: Open the recessed area

[0261] 720: Second Guiding Section

[0262] 724A, 724B, 724C, 724D: Inclined surfaces

[0263] 800: Capping assembly

[0264] 810: Cover of the sealing assembly

[0265] 814, 814A, 814B, 814C, 814D: Prominent parts

[0266] 820: Movable component

[0267] 821: First movable component

[0268] 822: Second movable component

[0269] 830, 830A, 830B, 830C, 830D: Contact parts

[0270] 840: Cover the base portion

[0271] 850: Magnet

[0272] 860: Propeller component

[0273] 880: Fastening components

[0274] 1000: Flavor Generation System

[0275] A x 1: The central axis of the inserted guide component

[0276] A x 2: Central axis of the flavor-generating component

[0277] A x 3: Central axis of the outer shell

[0278] R: concave portion.

Claims

1. A flavor inhaler, the flavor inhaler comprising a housing and A capping assembly, movable along a first direction, wherein: The capping assembly includes a pushing member and a movable member capable of moving relative to the capping assembly; The pushing member and the movable member are configured to move integrally with the capping assembly; and The pushing member is configured to push the movable member in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

2. The flavor inhaler as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The housing is provided with a guide portion, and The movable component is configured to move along the guide portion.

4. The flavor inhaler as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The guide portion is a groove formed in the outer surface of the housing.

5. The flavor inhaler as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein, The capping assembly further includes a contact portion configured to move along the guide portion, and At least one of the contact portion and the movable member is configured to contact the guide portion.

6. The flavor inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The capping assembly is provided with a pair of movable members, and The pair of movable components are respectively arranged on both sides of the cap assembly along the second direction.

7. The flavor inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The actuating component includes a leaf spring.

8. The flavor inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The capping assembly further includes a magnet, and The flavor inhaler further includes a magnetic sensor that detects the magnetic field of the magnet.

9. The flavor inhaler of claim 8, wherein: The sealing assembly further includes a support portion that supports the magnet and a cover that covers the magnet; and The support and the cover are fastened together by means of fastening components.

10. The flavor inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The casing has an opening through which flavor-generating articles can be inserted; and The capping assembly is configured to move between a closed position covering at least a portion of the opening and an open position in which the flavor-producing article can be inserted into the opening.

11. The flavor inhaler as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The movable member is configured to be located in a recess formed in the outer surface of the housing when in at least one of the open and closed positions.

12. A flavor generation system, comprising a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and Flavor-producing products.

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