Flavour inhalation system

Abstract

A flavor inhalation system is provided, comprising: a flavor inhaler including a heating unit; and a consumable material having a first flavor source, a second flavor source, and an airtight member that at least partially separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source, wherein, when the consumable material is heated by the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, the first flavor source of the consumable material is positioned closer to the heating unit than the second flavor source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a flavor inhalation system. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, a flavor inhalation system has been used, comprising a flavor inhaler with consumable material and a heating unit for heating the consumable material. For example, PTL 1 discloses a flavor inhaler having a chamber containing consumable material comprising a flavor-generating article and a heating unit for heating the consumable material contained in the chamber. In flavor inhalation systems, it is desirable to improve the delivery of flavor or aerosol during initial heating. Citation List

[0003] Patent documents

[0004] PTL 1: WO 2020 / 084775 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a flavor inhalation system in which sufficient aerosol delivery can be achieved during initial heating. Solution to the problem

[0007] A first aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system comprising: a flavor inhaler including a heating unit; and a consumable material having a first flavor source, a second flavor source, and an airtight member that at least partially separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source, wherein, when the consumable material is heated by the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, the first flavor source of the consumable material is positioned closer to the heating unit than the second flavor source.

[0008] In a first aspect, the first flavor source is disposed within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, and separated from the second flavor source by an airtight member. When the heating unit of the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, the first flavor source generates heat initially; however, as water vapor generated by the heating of the first flavor source moves to the second flavor source, heat is dissipated from the first flavor source, thereby preventing rapid heating of the first flavor source. In the first aspect, the airtight member prevents water vapor from moving from the first flavor source to the second flavor source, and the first flavor source is preferentially heated. Accordingly, according to the first aspect, when the heating unit of the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, the first flavor source is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery volume during initial heating and obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0009] The second aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first aspect, wherein the first flavor source has a hollow portion therein, and the second flavor source is disposed in the hollow portion of the first flavor source.

[0010] In a second aspect, the first flavor source is disposed within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, and has a hollow portion. The second flavor source is disposed within this hollow portion, with an airtight member positioned between the first and second flavor sources. When the heating unit of the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, the first flavor source is heated from the outside. The movement of water vapor generated by the heating of the first flavor source towards the hollow portion is prevented by the airtight member, thus preferentially heating the first flavor source without heat loss to the second flavor source. Accordingly, according to the second aspect, the first flavor source is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery rate during initial heating and achieving sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0011] The third aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first and second aspects, wherein the first flavor source comprises at least one sheet.

[0012] In a third aspect, the first flavor source is disposed within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, and configured to include a sheet. The first flavor source surrounds the sheet, thereby preventing the movement of water vapor within the first flavor source. Accordingly, according to the third aspect, the first flavor source is heated more rapidly, thereby obtaining sufficient flavor upon initial heating.

[0013] The fourth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third aspect, wherein the sheet of the first flavor source has undergone at least one of the following processing: curling, slitting, and embossing.

[0014] In the fourth aspect, the sheet contained in the first flavor source, located closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, has undergone at least one of the following processing methods: curling, slitting, and embossing. Generally, curled, slitted, or embossed sheets have a lower shrinkage rate upon heating compared to unprocessed sheets. Therefore, according to the fourth aspect, shrinkage of the rapidly heated first flavor source is prevented. Furthermore, by subjecting the sheet to this type of processing, the surface area can be increased compared to unprocessed sheets, thus increasing the flavor or aerosol produced by the flavor source.

[0015] The fifth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third and fourth aspects, wherein the sheet of the first flavor source is formed into a tubular shape, and the two opposite ends of the first flavor source formed into the tubular shape are overlapped or spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0016] In a fifth aspect, the sheet contained in the first flavor source, located closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, is wrapped to form a tubular shape. The first flavor source surrounds the tubular sheet, thereby preventing the movement of water vapor within the first flavor source. Accordingly, according to the fifth aspect, the first flavor source is heated more rapidly, thus obtaining sufficient flavor upon initial heating.

[0017] The sixth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third to fifth aspects, wherein the consumable material has a wrapping material surrounding the first flavor source, the second flavor source and the airtight member, the sheet of the first flavor source being fixed to the wrapping material at the outermost layer and the sheet of the first flavor source being fixed to the airtight member at the innermost layer.

[0018] In a sixth aspect, the consumable material has a wrapping around each component, and the sheet contained in the first flavor source, located closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, is secured to the wrapping at its outermost layer and to the airtight member at its innermost layer. Therefore, according to the sixth aspect, the consumable material is formed such that the wrapping, the sheet of the first flavor source, the airtight member, and the second flavor source are arranged from the outside to the inside, thereby providing a stable configuration and preventing heat-related shrinkage of the consumable material. It should be noted that the outermost and innermost layers of the sheet can be defined regardless of whether the sheet is single or multiple. Specifically, if the sheet is single, the outer surface and inner surface of the sheet are the outermost and innermost layers, respectively. Furthermore, when multiple sheets are stacked, the outer surface of the outermost sheet and the inner surface of the innermost sheet are the outermost and innermost layers, respectively. Additionally, displacement of the sheet of the first flavor source can be prevented.

[0019] The seventh aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixth aspect, wherein the distance between the package and the airtight member is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0020] In the seventh aspect, the distance between the wrapper and the airtight component in the consumable material is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. Here, the area between the wrapper and the airtight component is such that the sheet of the first flavor source is positioned closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler. Therefore, according to the seventh aspect, by setting the distance between the wrapper and the airtight component to a suitable value, a balance can be achieved between rapid heating of the first flavor source and sufficient heat conduction to the second flavor source, resulting in a suitable flavor throughout the heating period.

[0021] The eighth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixth and seventh aspects, wherein the first flavor source has a filling rate of between 20% and 75% in the space between the package and the airtight member.

[0022] In the eighth aspect, the filling rate of the first flavor source in the space between the packaging and the airtight component in the consumable material is between 20% and 75%. Therefore, according to the eighth aspect, by setting the filling rate of the first flavor source between the packaging and the airtight component to an appropriate value, a balance can be achieved between rapid heating of the first flavor source and sufficient heat conduction to the second flavor source, and a suitable flavor can be obtained throughout the heating period.

[0023] The ninth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to eighth aspects, wherein the second flavor source comprises any one of the following: lower middle tobacco, sheet, sheet subjected to at least one of curling and agglomeration, and a plurality of substantially parallel tows.

[0024] In the ninth aspect, in the consumable material, the second flavor source is arranged separately from the heating unit of the flavor inhaler compared to the first flavor source, and includes: lower middle tobacco, sheet material, rolled and / or aggregated sheet material, or multiple substantially parallel strands. Therefore, according to the ninth aspect, arranging the second flavor source in a predetermined form facilitates airflow toward the second flavor source and facilitates the delivery of the flavor or aerosol generated by the second flavor source.

[0025] The tenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to ninth aspects, wherein the glycerol content of the second flavor source is substantially the same as or greater than the glycerol content of the first flavor source.

[0026] In a tenth aspect, in the consumable material, the second flavor source is positioned separately from the heating unit of the flavor inhaler compared to the first flavor source, and contains substantially the same amount or a greater amount of glycerol as the first flavor source. Given that the first flavor source is preferentially heated in the early stages of the heating period, and subsequently the second flavor source, having already received heat conduction from the first flavor source, is heated, it is preferable that the second flavor source can provide sufficient aerosol in the middle and subsequent stages of the heating period. Therefore, according to the tenth aspect, the second flavor source has a sufficient glycerol content, which ensures adequate flavor delivery throughout the heating period.

[0027] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to tenth aspects, wherein, in the consumable material, the filling weight of the second flavor source is greater than the filling weight of the first flavor source.

[0028] In the eleventh aspect, in the consumable material, the second flavor source is positioned separately from the heating unit of the flavor inhaler compared to the first flavor source, and contains a greater filling weight than the first flavor source. Given that the first flavor source is preferentially heated in the early stages of the heating period, and subsequently the second flavor source, having already received heat conduction from the first flavor source, is heated, it is preferable that the second flavor source can provide sufficient flavor in the middle and later stages of the heating period. Therefore, according to the eleventh aspect, the interior of the consumable material can be adequately filled with the second flavor source, thereby ensuring sufficient flavor throughout the heating period.

[0029] The twelfth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the air permeability of the airtight component is 0 to 40 CORESTA units.

[0030] In the twelfth aspect, the airtight member has a permeability of 0 to 40 CORESTA units. This airtight member separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source, which is located within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler. Therefore, according to the twelfth aspect, the airtight member can sufficiently prevent water vapor from moving from the first flavor source to the second flavor source, thus allowing preferential heating of the first flavor source in the early stages of the heating process.

[0031] The thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first through twelfth aspects, wherein the airtight component is paper or cellophane.

[0032] In the thirteenth aspect, the airtight member is paper or cellophane, which separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source, the first flavor source being disposed within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler. Therefore, according to the thirteenth aspect, a simple configuration can provide an airtight member that sufficiently prevents water vapor from moving from the first flavor source to the second flavor source.

[0033] The fourteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the airtight member is sheet-like and formed into a tubular shape, and the two opposite ends of the airtight member formed into the tubular shape overlap or are spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0034] In the fourteenth aspect, the airtight member is sheet-like and wrapped to form a tubular shape, separating a first flavor source from a second flavor source disposed within the consumable material, closer to the heating unit of the flavor inhaler. By separating the first and second flavor sources using the airtight member as a tubular wrapped sheet, water vapor is effectively prevented from moving from the first flavor source to the second flavor source. Therefore, according to the fourteenth aspect, the first flavor source is heated more rapidly in the early stages of the heating period, thereby obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0035] The fifteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to fourteenth aspects, wherein the heating unit of the flavor inhaler is a circumferential heating unit that heats the consumable material from the circumference.

[0036] In the fifteenth aspect, the heating unit of the flavor inhaler is a circumferential heating type, which heats the consumable material from the circumference. That is, in the flavor inhalation system, the heating unit, the first flavor source, the airtight member, and the second flavor source are arranged in this order from the outside to the inside. Therefore, according to the fifteenth aspect, in a flavor inhalation system having a circumferential heating type flavor inhaler, when the heating unit of the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, the first flavor source is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery rate during initial heating and obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0037] The sixteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system comprising: a consumable material; and a flavor inhaler including a heating unit for heating the consumable material, wherein an aerosol delivery profile having at least two maximum values ​​is provided, and in the aerosol delivery profile, the delivery amount at a first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the delivery amounts at other peaks.

[0038] In the sixteenth aspect, the delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system has at least two maximum values, and the delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the delivery amounts at the other peaks. Here, the first peak is the initial maximum value during an inhalation process from the start to the end of the user's inhalation, and is the largest maximum value existing before 30% of the inhalation process has been completed. Therefore, according to the sixteenth aspect, when the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, sufficient aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0039] The seventeenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein the delivery amount in the aerosol delivery profile includes a glycerol delivery amount.

[0040] In the seventeenth aspect, the glycerol delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system has at least two maximum values, and the amount of glycerol delivered at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the amount of glycerol delivered at the other peaks. Therefore, according to the seventeenth aspect, when the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, sufficient glycerol is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0041] The eighteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixteenth and seventeenth aspects, wherein the delivery amount in the aerosol delivery profile includes the nicotine delivery amount.

[0042] In the eighteenth aspect, the nicotine delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system has at least two maximum values, and the nicotine delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the nicotine delivery amount at the other peaks. Therefore, according to the eighteenth aspect, when the flavor inhaler begins to heat the consumable material, sufficient nicotine is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0043] The nineteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to aspects sixteen through eighteen, wherein the flavor inhaler includes a control unit that controls the heating unit to provide the aerosol delivery profile.

[0044] In a nineteenth aspect, the flavor inhaler of the flavor inhalation system has a control unit, and the control unit controls the heating unit to heat the consumable material, thereby achieving a predetermined aerosol delivery profile. Therefore, according to the nineteenth aspect, by appropriately controlling the control unit, a preferred aerosol delivery profile can be achieved, and the aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth at a preferred time point.

[0045] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the nineteenth aspect, wherein the control unit is configured to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a first target temperature during a first time period, to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature during a second time period after the first time period, and to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a third target temperature higher than the second target temperature and lower than the first target temperature during a third time period after the second time period.

[0046] In a twentieth aspect, the control unit of the flavor inhaler controls the temperature of the heating unit toward a first target temperature during a first time period, moves the temperature of the heating unit toward a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature during a second time period after the first time period, and moves the temperature of the heating unit toward a third target temperature higher than the second target temperature but lower than the first target temperature during a third time period after the second time period. Typically, the aerosol delivery curve (and the temperature curve within the consumable material) of the flavor inhalation system follows the heating curve (and the temperature curve of the heating unit) controlled by the control unit. Therefore, according to the twentieth aspect, by controlling the temperature of the heating unit based on a predetermined heating curve by the control unit, a preferred aerosol delivery curve can be achieved, and the aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth at a preferred time point.

[0047] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the nineteenth and twentieth aspects, wherein the control unit is configured to control the heating unit according to a plurality of heating modes, including a first heating mode and a second heating mode.

[0048] In the twenty-first aspect, the heating unit can be controlled according to multiple heating modes, including a first heating mode and a second heating mode. Therefore, according to the twenty-first aspect, these multiple heating modes can be combined to allow selection of a preferred aerosol delivery profile. For example, by improving the aerosol delivery amount, a richer flavor can be provided, or by balancing the aerosol delivery amount in each inhalation cycle, the duration of an inhalation cycle can be increased.

[0049] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the twentieth aspect, wherein, in the second heating mode, the first target temperature is set to be higher or lower than the first heating mode.

[0050] In a twenty-second aspect, in this second heating mode, the first target temperature is set to be higher or lower than the first heating mode. Therefore, according to the twenty-second aspect, a higher first target temperature in the second heating mode can improve the aerosol delivery rate during the initial stage of the adsorption process. A lower first target temperature in the second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during the initial stage of the adsorption process and balance the aerosol delivery rate in each adsorption process.

[0051] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the twentieth and ...

[0052] In the twenty-third aspect, in this second heating mode, the second target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that of the first heating mode. Therefore, according to the twenty-third aspect, a higher second target temperature in this second heating mode can improve the aerosol delivery rate during the intermediate phase of the adsorption process. A lower second target temperature in this second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during the intermediate phase of the adsorption process and balance the aerosol delivery rate for each adsorption cycle.

[0053] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to aspects twenty-one to twenty-three, wherein, in the second heating mode, the third target temperature is set to be higher or lower than the first heating mode.

[0054] In the twenty-fourth aspect, in this second heating mode, the third target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that of the first heating mode. Therefore, according to the twenty-fourth aspect, a higher third target temperature in the second heating mode can improve the aerosol delivery rate in the later stages of the adsorption process. A lower third target temperature in the second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during the later stages of the adsorption process and balance the aerosol delivery rate in each adsorption process. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional diagram of a flavor inhaler that contains consumable materials.

[0057] Figure 3 It is a flavor inhaler along Figure 1 The arrow 'aa' in the figure represents the cross-sectional view.

[0058] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional view of the chamber and heating unit.

[0059] Figure 5A It is a three-dimensional view of a single chamber.

[0060] Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 5B-5B.

[0061] Figure 6A It is along Figure 5B The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 6A-6A.

[0062] Figure 6B It is along Figure 5B The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 6B-6B.

[0063] Figure 7 This refers to the state in which consumable materials are placed in the desired location within the chamber. Figure 6B The cross-sectional view shown.

[0064] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the consumable material.

[0065] Figure 9A It is along Figure 8 The direction of the arrow bb shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor profile of the subject when observed.

[0066] Figure 9B Is with Figure 9A A schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor-generating body without cellophane and the first flavor source.

[0067] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the first flavor source.

[0068] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9A A cross-sectional view of an example of a specific configuration of the second flavor source shown.

[0069] Figure 12 This is a view showing an example of the heating curve of the heating unit.

[0070] Figure 13 This is a view showing the glycerol delivery curve according to this embodiment.

[0071] Figure 14 This is a view showing the nicotine delivery curve according to this embodiment.

[0072] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the consumable material based on a variant example.

[0073] Figure 16 It is along Figure 15Plan view of the middle arrow cc.

[0074] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional view of an example of an end filter rod.

[0075] Figure 18 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of an end filter rod.

[0076] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aspect of the consumable material, based on a variant example.

[0077] Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 Plan view of the middle arrow dd. Detailed Implementation

[0078] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below 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.

[0079] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the flavor inhaler 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a flavor inhaler 100 that houses consumable material 200 inserted through opening 110. For ease of description, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system can be applied to the figures described in this specification. In this coordinate system, the Z-axis is oriented vertically upward, the XY plane is arranged to transversely to the flavor inhaler 100 in the horizontal direction, and the Y-axis is arranged to extend from the front surface to the rear surface of the flavor inhaler 100. The Z-axis may also refer to the insertion direction of the consumable material 200, which is housed in the chamber 50 described below. Furthermore, the X-axis direction may also refer to the longitudinal direction of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the consumable material 200. The Y-axis direction may also refer to the direction of the shorter side of the device in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction of the consumable material 200.

[0080] The flavor inhaler 100 is configured to generate a flavor-containing aerosol by, for example, heating a stick-shaped consumable material 200 having a flavor source containing an aerosol source. As an example, the consumable material 200 includes a puffable substance containing a flavor source (e.g., tobacco) and an aerosol source at its end in the negative Z-axis direction, and a filter at another portion. Examples of aerosol sources that can be listed include glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the consumable material 200 is described as stick-shaped, but the consumable material used in the flavor inhaler 100 is not limited to this shape. For example, the consumable material may also be configured to include a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol source. Furthermore, this cartridge may include a heating unit.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the flavor inhaler 100 includes: a housing 102 formed by an upper housing 104 and a lower housing 106; and a sliding cover 108.

[0082] The housing 102 forms the outermost shell of the flavor inhaler 100 and is sized to fit the user's hand. When the user uses the flavor inhaler 100, the user can inhale the aerosol while holding the flavor inhaler 100 in their hand. It should be noted that, in this case, regarding the housing 102, the upper housing 104 is formed of resin (e.g., polycarbonate), and the lower housing 106 is formed of metal (e.g., aluminum). However, the housing 102 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 (polyetheretherketone), or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers.

[0083] The upper housing 104 includes an opening 110 for receiving consumable material 200, and a sliding cover 108 is slidably attached to the upper housing 104 to close this opening 110. Specifically, the sliding cover 108 is configured to be slidable along the outer surface of the upper housing 104 in a closed position for closing the opening 110 of the upper housing 104 and an open position for opening the opening. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sliding cover 108 can be moved between the positions shown. For example, a user can manually operate the sliding cover 108 to move it between a closed position and an open position. Thus, the sliding cover 108 can allow or restrict the consumable material 200 from entering the interior of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0084] Here, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The housing 102 of the flavor inhaler 100 is shown, wherein the mating surfaces of the upper housing 104 and the lower housing 106 intersect the XY plane at an angle, but the housing 102 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the housing 102 may also be formed of three or more components.

[0085] The flavor inhaler 100 may further include terminals (not shown). The terminals may be, for example, interfaces for connecting the flavor inhaler 100 to an external power source. If the power source for the flavor inhaler 100 is a rechargeable battery, the battery can be charged by connecting the external power source to the terminals, allowing current to flow from the external power source to the battery. Furthermore, data related to the operation of the flavor inhaler 100 can be transmitted to an external device by connecting a data transmission cable to the terminals.

[0086] Next, the internal structure of the flavor inhaler 100 will be described. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler 100 when viewed in the direction of the arrow aa shown.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, a power supply unit 20, an atomizing unit 30, and a control unit 80 are disposed in the internal space of the housing 102 of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0088] The control unit 80 includes a board 82. The board 82 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 consumable material 200 by the atomizing unit 30. Furthermore, the control unit 80 includes a Bluetooth (registered trademark) interface 28. The control unit 80 can communicate with external devices via the Bluetooth interface 28.

[0089] The power supply unit 20 includes a power source 21, which is electrically connected to the board 82 of the control unit 80. The power source 21 may be, for example, a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. The power source 21 is electrically connected to the atomizing unit 30 via the board 82. This allows the power source 21 to supply power to the atomizing unit 30 to properly heat the consumable material 200.

[0090] The atomizing unit 30 includes: a chamber 50 extending in the longitudinal direction of the consumable material 200; and a heating unit 40. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image), the heating unit surrounds a portion of the chamber 50; a heat insulation portion 32; and a substantially cylindrical insertion guide member 34. The chamber 50 is configured to contain consumable material 200. The heating unit 40 is configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the chamber 50 to heat the consumable material 200 contained in the chamber 50. For example, a sensor may also be disposed inside or near the consumable material 200, and the heating unit 40 may be configured to include an induction coil for inductively heating the sensor.

[0091] The heat insulation portion 32 is arranged to cover the chamber 50 and the heating unit 40. For example, the heat insulation portion 32 may be aerogel. The insertion guide member 34 is formed of, for example, a resin material (such as PEEK, PC, or ABS) and is disposed between the sliding cover 108 in the closed position and the chamber 50. When the sliding cover 108 is in the open position, the insertion guide member 34 communicates with the outside of the flavor inhaler 100 and guides the consumable material 200 into the chamber 50 when it is inserted into the insertion guide member 34.

[0092] Furthermore, the atomizing unit 30 and the control unit 80 are covered by a heat diffusion sleeve 70 and arranged within the interior space of the housing 102. The heat diffusion sleeve 70 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity (such as metal) and diffuses the heat generated by the atomizing unit 30 within the housing 102. The heat diffusion sleeve 70 can be configured to be placed only inside the upper housing 104 without interfering with the lower housing 106. Additionally, the heat diffusion sleeve 70 may have open areas to avoid interfering with communication between the control unit 80 and external devices via the Bluetooth interface 28. Although metal components typically interfere with electromagnetic waves, the control unit 80 can communicate with external devices via the Bluetooth interface 28, at least through the open areas of the heat diffusion sleeve 70.

[0093] (Details of the atomizing unit's configuration)

[0094] The details of the configuration of the atomizing unit 30 in this embodiment will be described below. Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of chamber 50 and heating unit 40. Figure 5A It is a three-dimensional view of the individual chamber 50. Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 when viewed in the direction of arrow 5B-5B. Figure 6A It is along Figure 5B The cross-sectional view of the chamber when viewed in the direction of arrow 6A-6A. Figure 6B It is along Figure 5B The cross-sectional view of chamber 50 when viewed in the direction of arrow 6B-6B. Figure 7 Consumable material 200 is placed in the desired position within chamber 50. Figure 6B The cross-sectional view shown.

[0095] As described above, the atomizing unit 30 includes a heating unit 40, a chamber 50, and an insertion guide member 34. Figure 4 As shown, the strip electrode 48 is disposed between the heating unit 40 and the chamber 50. Note that, for ease of explanation, in Figure 4 The illustration of the heat insulation part 32 is omitted.

[0096] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, chamber 50 can be a cylindrical component, which includes, for example, an opening 52 into which the rod-shaped consumable material 200 is inserted; and a cylindrical sidewall portion 60 for receiving the rod-shaped consumable material 200. Chamber 50 is preferably formed of a heat-resistant material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and can be formed, for example, of a metal (such as stainless steel), a resin (such as PEEK), glass, or ceramic. This allows for efficient heating of the consumable material 200 from chamber 50.

[0097] like Figure 5B and Figure 6B As shown, the sidewall portion 60 includes a contact portion 62 and a spacer portion 66. When the consumable material 200 is placed in a desired position within the chamber 50, the contact portion 62 contacts or presses a portion of the consumable material 200, and the spacer portion 66 is spaced apart from the consumable material 200. It should be noted that, in this disclosure, "desired position within the chamber 50" refers to the position where the consumable material 200 is properly heated, or the position where the consumable material 200 is located when the user smokes. 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. Figure 4 As shown, the heating unit 40 is disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62. The heating unit 40 is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without gaps. It should be noted that the heating unit 40 may include an adhesive layer. In this case, the heating unit 40 containing the adhesive layer is preferably disposed on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62 without gaps.

[0098] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B 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, it prevents the strip electrode 48 from bending. This preventant strip electrode is connected to the heating unit 40 arranged on the outer surface 62b of the contact portion 62, as shown... Figure 4 As shown. Figure 5B As shown, the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62 is planar. Furthermore, as... Figure 5B and Figure 6B As shown, the contact portion 62 has a uniform thickness.

[0099] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a cylindrical non-fixed portion 54 between the opening 52 and the sidewall portion 60. A gap can be formed between the non-fixed portion 54 and the consumable material 200 when the consumable material 200 is positioned in the desired location within the chamber 50. Furthermore, as... Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the chamber 50 preferably has a first guide portion 58, which has a tapered surface 58a that connects the inner surface of the non-fixed portion 54 and the inner surface 62a of the contact portion 62.

[0100] like Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 6BAs shown, the chamber 50 has two contact portions 62 in the circumferential direction, and the 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 consumable material 200 disposed between the contact portions 62 when inserted into the chamber 50.

[0101] like Figure 6B As shown, the inner surface 66a of the spacer portion 66 can have a generally arcuate cross section in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the chamber 50. Furthermore, the spacer portion 66 is arranged adjacent to the contact portion 62 in the circumferential direction.

[0102] like Figure 6B As shown, the chamber 50 may have a hole 56a in its bottom portion 56, through which a bottom member (not shown) passes for placement inside the chamber 50. The bottom member in the bottom portion 56 supports a portion of the consumable material 200 inserted into the chamber 50, thereby exposing at least a portion of the end surface of the consumable material 200. Furthermore, the bottom portion 56 may support a portion of the consumable material 200 such that the exposed end surface of the consumable material 200 is in contact with a gap 67 discussed below (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 Connect.

[0103] like Figure 4 As shown, the heating unit 40 includes a heating element 42. The heating element 42 can be, for example, a heating track. The heating element 42 is preferably configured to heat the contact portion 62 without contacting the spacer portion 66 of the chamber 50. In other words, the heating element 42 is preferably arranged only on the outer surface of the contact portion 62. The heating element 42 can have a difference in heating capacity between the portions of the chamber 50 that heat the spacer portion 66 and the portions that heat the contact portion 62. Specifically, the heating element 42 can be configured to heat the contact portion 62 to a higher temperature than the spacer portion 66. For example, the arrangement density of the heating tracks of the heating element 42 on the contact portion 62 and the spacer portion 66 can be adjusted. Furthermore, the heating element 42 can also be wound around the outer circumference of the chamber 50, where the entire circumference of the chamber 50 has substantially the same heating capacity. Figure 4 As shown, in addition to the heating element 42, the heating unit 40 preferably also includes an electrically insulating member 44 that covers at least one surface of the heating element 42. In the atomizing unit 30 of this embodiment, the electrically insulating member 44 is arranged to cover two surfaces of the heating element 42.

[0104] Figure 7 Consumable material 200 is placed in the desired position within chamber 50. Figure 6B The cross-sectional view shown. (e.g.) Figure 7 As shown, when the consumable material 200 is positioned at a desired location within the chamber 50, the consumable material 200 can contact and be pressed by the contact portions 62 of the chamber 50. Simultaneously, a gap 67 is formed between the consumable material 200 and the spacer portion 66. The gap 67 can communicate with the opening 52 of the chamber 50 and the end face of the consumable material 200 positioned within the chamber 50. This allows air that has flowed in from the opening 52 of the chamber 50 to pass through the gap 67 and flow into the interior of the consumable material 200. In other words, an airflow path (gap 67) is formed between the consumable material 200 and the spacer portion 66.

[0105] (Details of consumable materials)

[0106] The following section describes the details of the consumable materials. Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of consumable material 200.

[0107] like Figure 8 As shown, consumable material 200 has a flavor generating body 280, which includes a flavor source. The flavor generating body 280 may include a second flavor source 240, cellophane 230 separating the second flavor source 240 from a first flavor source 220, the first flavor source 220 disposed on the outer surface of the cellophane 230, and a covering sheet 210 covering the outer surface of the first flavor source 220. In other words, the flavor generating body 280 of consumable material 200 has cellophane 230 located between the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240. Cellophane 230 is an example of an airtight component of this disclosure, and the covering sheet 210 is an example of a wrapping material of this disclosure.

[0108] like Figure 8 As shown, the consumable material 200 preferably includes a cooling section 212 downstream of the flavor generating body 280 and a filter 214 downstream of the cooling section 212. The cooling section 212 is configured such that vapors or aerosols generated by the flavor generating body 280 pass through it. Therefore, the vapors or aerosols generated by the flavor generating body 280 can be cooled by the cooling section 212. The cooling section 212 may be a hollow component. The cooling section 212 may also have an opening to draw in air from the outside. When the consumable material 200 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 100, a portion of the cooling section 212 may be exposed from the flavor inhaler 100. If the cooling section 212 has an opening to draw in air from the outside, as described above, this opening may be provided in the portion exposed from the flavor inhaler 100. A cooling-promoting filler (such as polylactic acid sheets filled in aggregate form) may be provided in the cooling section 212. In this case, the cooling section 212 does not need to have an opening to draw in outside air.

[0109] Moreover, such as Figure 8 As shown, the consumable material 200 preferably has an end filter 216 located upstream of the flavor generating body 280. In this case, the end portion of the flavor generating body 280, including the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240, is covered by the end filter 216, which thus prevents the flavor sources from falling off the consumable material 200. The length of the end filter 216 in the longitudinal direction is preferably 1 mm or more. The end filter 216 can be manufactured to a predetermined length and can then be produced by cutting it to any length. If the end filter 216 has a length of less than 1 mm, there is a risk of deformation (e.g., crushing) because the shape cannot be maintained during cutting. When the length of the end filter 216 in the longitudinal direction is 1 mm or more, the end filter 216 can be manufactured relatively easily. It should be noted that, from a manufacturability point of view, the length of the end filter 216 is more preferably 3 mm or more. The end filter 216 may contain an aerosol source. Furthermore, the end filter 216 does not need to contain tobacco.

[0110] like Figure 8 As shown, the wrapper 218 is wrapped around the end filter rod 216. In the example shown, the wrapper 218 is wrapped around the flavor generating body 280, the cooling section 212, the filter 214, and the end filter rod 216. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the end filter rod 216, the flavor generating body 280, the cooling section 212, and the filter 214 can be wrapped with other wrapping sheets and integrally wrapped with tipping paper.

[0111] (Details of the flavor-producing entity)

[0112] The details of each component of the flavor-generating body 280 contained in the consumable material 200 are described below. Figure 9A It is along Figure 8 The direction of the arrow bb shown indicates a schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor produced by the body 280 when viewed. Figure 9B Is with Figure 9A A schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor-generating body 180 without cellophane and the first flavor source 220. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the first flavor source 220. Figure 11 It shows Figure 9A A cross-sectional view of an example of a specific configuration of the second flavor source 240 shown.

[0113] like Figure 9AAs shown, the flavor generating body 280 includes a first flavor source 220 for generating flavor, a second flavor source 240 disposed parallel to the first flavor source 220 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and cellophane 230 defining the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240. Figure 9A As shown, both the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240 are tubular, and the second flavor source 240 is preferably located inside the first flavor source 220. In this case, since the first flavor source 220 is located on the outside of the consumable material 200 and the second flavor source 240 is located on the inside of the first flavor source 220, the first flavor source 220 can be preferentially heated when the consumable material 200 is heated from the outside in the flavor inhaler 100.

[0114] on the other hand, Figure 9B A flavor generating body 180 without cellophane 230 is shown. The flavor generating body 180 is configured to have a covering sheet 210 covering the outer circumference of the second flavor source 240.

[0115] Table 1 below shows Figure 9A The flavor produced by the product 280 is shown. Figure 9B The example shown illustrates the details of the flavor profile that produces the body 180.

[0116] [Table 1]

[0117]

[0118] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9A In the example shown, the first flavor source sheet 220 and the second flavor source sheet 240 are cylindrical. In this case, cellophane 230 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical first flavor source 220 and the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical second flavor source 240, defining the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240. However, the cellophane 230 is not limited to a configuration that completely separates the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240, as long as the two flavor sources are at least partially separated from each other. Furthermore, for example, the tubular first flavor source 221 and the second flavor source 240 can be formed into a tubular shape by rolling the sheet flavor sources into a round shape.

[0119] As an example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first flavor source 220 can be configured as a double-layered cylinder by winding two flavor source sheets 220A and 220B. Flavor source sheet 220A is the inner first layer and has an internal void portion containing cellophane 230 and the second flavor source 240. Flavor source sheet 220B is the second layer disposed on the outer surface of flavor source sheet 220A. Although in Figure 10The flavor source sheets 220A and 220B are shown as spaced apart, but the two opposite ends of each can be arranged to overlap each other. When the two ends of the flavor source sheets 220A (220B) are separated from each other, a slit is formed in the longitudinal direction in a portion of the substantially tubular first flavor source 220.

[0120] Flavor sheets 220A and 220B can be, for example, sheets containing tobacco. In this case, flavor components contained in the tobacco can be provided to the user. Specific examples of tobacco that can be contained in flavor sheets 220A and 220B include chopped dried tobacco leaves, ground tobacco leaves, or tobacco extracts (extracts obtained with water, organic solvents, or mixtures thereof). Ground tobacco leaves constitute particles obtained by grinding tobacco leaves. For example, the average particle size of ground tobacco leaves can be from 30 µm to 120 µm. Grinding can be performed using well-known grinders and can be dry grinding or wet grinding. Therefore, ground tobacco leaves are also referred to as tobacco particles. In this embodiment, the average particle size is determined by means of laser diffraction / scattering, and the average particle size is specifically measured using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measuring device (e.g., the LA-950 available from HORIBA Ltd.). Furthermore, the type of tobacco is not limited to this, and examples that can be listed include flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, or local tobacco, as well as other safflower and yellow-flowered tobacco varieties. There is no particular limitation on the amount (dry weight) of tobacco contained in flavor sheets 220A and 220B, but the amount is at least 1 wt%, preferably at least 10%, and at most 90 wt%, more preferably at most 80 wt%. Flavor sheets 220A and 220B can also be formed using extracts derived from tobacco powder, etc.

[0121] When flavor sheets 220A and 220B contain tobacco, the tobacco can be supported on a non-tobacco sheet formed of, for example, non-tobacco fibers (such as pulp fibers or nonwoven fabrics). Alternatively, flavor sheets 220A and 220B can be formed from tobacco sheets. Flavor sheets 220A and 220B can be tobacco paper sheets, cast sheets, or laminated sheets (wound sheets), etc. In this case, the designer can choose the type of sheet according to the intended purpose. Flavor sheets 220A and 220B can further contain an aerosol source. In this case, the amount of aerosol delivered to the user can be increased. There are no particular limitations on the type of aerosol source, and extracts from various types of natural products and / or their components can be selected according to the intended use. The aerosol source is preferably a polyol, and can be, for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. The amount of this aerosol source added relative to the dry weight of the tobacco sheet is preferably 5 wt% to 50 wt%, more preferably 15 wt% to 25 wt%.

[0122] Flavor sheets 220A and 220B can be non-tobacco sheets containing an aerosol source. That is, flavor sheets 220A and 220B can be non-tobacco sheets containing an aerosol source, for example, formed from non-tobacco fibers (such as pulp fibers or nonwoven fabrics). In this case, the flavor contained in the aerosol source can be provided by flavor sheets 220A and 220B. This allows for free flavor design independent of tobacco flavor.

[0123] Furthermore, flavored sheets 220A and 220B may include a binder, and examples of such binders include guar gum, xanthan gum, CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose), and CMC-Na (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose). The amount of binder relative to the total weight of the tobacco sheet is preferably 1 wt% to 10 wt%.

[0124] There is no limitation on the thickness of each flavor sheet 220A, 220B, and from the perspective of balancing heat transfer and strength, the thickness is preferably 150 µm to 1000 µm, more preferably 200 µm to 600 µm. These tobacco sheets may have the same thickness or different thicknesses.

[0125] exist Figure 10 In the example of the first flavor source 220 shown, the outer peripheral surface of the outer flavor source sheet 220B can be fixed to the cover sheet 210, and the inner peripheral surface of the inner flavor source sheet 220A can be fixed to the cellophane 230.

[0126] Although its illustration is omitted, flavor source sheet 220A (220B) can be rolled. Flavor source sheet 220A (220B) can also be embossed. Flavor sheet 220A (220B) can be slit after rolling. Flavor sheet 220A can also be rolled, embossed, or slit, while flavor sheet 220B does not need to be rolled, embossed, or slit. Flavor sheet 220B can also be rolled, embossed, or slit, while flavor sheet 220A does not need to be rolled, embossed, or slit.

[0127] It should be noted that the configuration of the cylindrical first flavor source 220 is not limited to a two-layer structure, but can be configured to include one or more layers.

[0128] Furthermore, in the flavor-generating body 280 of the consumable material 200, the distance between the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 (i.e., the space in which the first flavor source 220 is arranged) can be configured between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. The distance between the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 is determined by... Figure 9A The cross-section shown is obtained by calculating the difference between the two radii from the circumferences of the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230.

[0129] Moreover, in Figure 9A In the cross-section shown, the fill rate of the first flavor source 220 in the space between the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 can be configured to be between 20% and 75%. Here, fill rate refers to the proportion of a predetermined space occupied by an object in a given cross-section.

[0130] Furthermore, in the flavor-generating body 280 of the consumable material 200, the permeability of the cellophane 230 can be configured to be 0 to 40 CORESTA units.

[0131] Although its illustration is omitted, cellophane 230 can be rolled up to form a shape similar to... Figure 10 The first flavor source 220 shown has a cylindrical shape similar to the flavor source sheet 220A (220B). In this case, as described for the first flavor source 220, the two opposite ends of the cellophane sheet can be configured to be spaced apart from each other or can be configured to overlap each other.

[0132] Alternatively, a paper with lower permeability can be used instead of cellophane 230 to separate the first flavor source 220 from the second flavor source 240 at the flavor generating body 280 of the consumable material 200. As an example, the permeability of the paper can be configured to be between 0 and 40 CORESTA units.

[0133] Although its illustration is omitted, the second flavor source 240 can be configured in various ways. For example, as described with respect to the first flavor source 220, the sheet-like flavor source can be rolled up to form a cylindrical shape with multiple layers. In this case, the flavor sheet of the second flavor source 240 can be similar to the flavor sheets 220A and 220B of the first flavor source 220. Moreover, the flavor source sheet can undergo at least one of curling and agglomeration. The second flavor source 240 may also contain lower tobacco shreds and can be formed to include multiple bundles of shreds extending substantially parallel to each other. Here, the lower tobacco shreds are sculpted into a decorative shape and are randomly arranged in the second flavor source 240. Meanwhile, the shreds have a rectangular shape and can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the second flavor source 240 or can be randomly arranged. When the lower tobacco shreds are used in the second flavor source 240, it is preferable that the width of the lower tobacco shreds is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. Furthermore, when the filaments are used for the second flavor source 240, it is preferable that the width of the filaments is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0134] Furthermore, the flavor generating body 280 (including the consumable material 200 containing the flavor generating body) can be configured such that the glycerol content of the second flavor source 240 is substantially the same as or greater than the glycerol content of the first flavor source 220. The glycerol content of the first flavor source 220 can be between 5 wt% and 30 wt%, preferably between 10 wt% and 30 wt%, relative to the first flavor source 220. The glycerol content of the second flavor source 240 can be between 10 wt% and 40 wt%, preferably between 10 wt% and 35 wt%, relative to the second flavor source 240. Moreover, the ratio of the glycerol content of the first flavor source 220 to the glycerol content of the second flavor source 240 can be greater than 1:1 and less than 1:3.

[0135] Furthermore, the flavor generating body 280 (including the consumable material 200 containing the flavor generating body) can be configured such that the filling weight of the second flavor source 240 is greater than the filling weight of the first flavor source 220. Preferably, the filling amount of the first flavor source 220 is between 50 mg and 300 mg, more preferably between 80 mg and 250 mg. Preferably, the filling amount of the second flavor source 240 is between 50 mg and 300 mg, more preferably between 100 mg and 300 mg. Furthermore, preferably, the ratio between the filling amount of the first flavor source 220 and the filling amount of the second flavor source 240 is greater than 1:1 and less than 1:2.

[0136] Furthermore, the thermal conductivity of the first flavor source 220 can be configured to be higher than that of the second flavor source 220. In this case, the first flavor source 220 may, for example, contain a thermally conductive material, such as calcium carbonate.

[0137] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the second flavor source 240 may comprise one or more folded or bent sheets, and may be configured such that additional sheets are stacked on top of each other, the additional sheets being less prone to shrinkage due to heat than one of the sheets. As an example, the second flavor source 240 includes multiple layers comprising flavor-generating layers 242 and 244 and stop sheets 246A and 246B. In this case, the second flavor source 240 has at least one of a folded structure formed by folding the multiple layers and a bent structure formed by bending the multiple layers. Figure 11 In the example shown, at the second flavor source 240, flavor generating layers 242 and 244, as well as preventing sheets 246A and 246B, extend in the longitudinal direction of the consumable material 200, and their cross-section is S-shaped. However, the cross-section of the second flavor source 240 is not limited to an S-shape and can be a U-shape, a Z-shape, or a shape containing three or more zigzags or curves. This arrangement makes it easier for the flavor generating body 280 and the consumable material 200 containing the flavor generating body to maintain their original shape during heating.

[0138] Furthermore, in the flavor-generating body 280 of the consumable material 200, the volume ratio of the arrangement area of ​​the first flavor source 220 to the arrangement area of ​​the second flavor source 240 (i.e., the volume ratio between the outer and inner areas separated by the cellophane 230) can be appropriately defined. As an example, in Figure 9A In the cross-section shown, the ratio between the distance from the outer circumference of the consumable material 200 to the cellophane 230 and the inner diameter of the cellophane 230 (from the center of the consumable material 200 to the outer circumference) can be configured to be between 0.07 and 0.5.

[0139] Furthermore, the thermal conductivity of the cellophane 230 can be configured to be higher than that of the second flavor source 220. In this case, the cellophane 230 may, for example, contain a thermally conductive material, such as calcium carbonate.

[0140] (Heating curve and aerosol delivery curve)

[0141] The following describes the heating curve when the control unit 80 heats the heating unit 40, and the aerosol delivery curve obtained by the heating unit 40 heating the consumable material 200 in the flavor inhaler 100 containing the consumable material 200. In this embodiment, the heating curve is a graph showing the change of the target temperature over time caused by the control of the heating unit 40. Furthermore, the delivery curve is a graph showing the change of the amount of the main aerosol component over time during each inhalation action, which is delivered to the user's mouth when the user inhales the consumable material 200.

[0142] Here, "major aerosol component" refers to the visible aerosol components generated when various aerosol sources contained in the consumable material 200 are heated to a predetermined temperature or above. Typical aerosol sources contained in the consumable material 200 are propylene glycol and glycerin. Additionally, if the consumable material 200 contains a flavor source (such as tobacco), the aerosol components derived from this flavor source are also included in the major aerosol components. On the other hand, in this specification, aerosol components derived from moisture contained in the consumable material 200 are not considered major aerosol components.

[0143] Figure 12 This is a view showing an example of the heating curve of the heating unit 40. Figure 12 The vertical axis indicates the temperature of the heater. Figure 12 The horizontal axis indicates time. It should be noted that... Figure 12 The heating curves shown are examples suitable for achieving the desired delivery curves of the main aerosol components, and heating curves are not necessarily limited to these.

[0144] As described above, the heating curve is a graph showing the change of the target temperature over time caused by the control of the heating unit 40. For example, the temperature control of the heating unit 40 can be achieved using known feedback control. Specifically, the control unit 80 of the flavor inhaler 100 can supply power from the power source 21 to the heating unit 40 in the form of pulses provided by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 80 of the flavor inhaler 100 can perform temperature control of the heating unit 40 by adjusting the duty cycle of the power pulses.

[0145] In feedback control, the control unit 80 can measure or estimate the temperature of the heating unit 40 and control the power supplied to the heating unit 40 (e.g., duty cycle) based on the difference between the measured or estimated temperature of the heating unit 40 and the target temperature. For example, the feedback control can be PID control. For instance, the temperature of the heating unit 40 can be quantified by measuring or estimating the resistance of the heating resistor element constituting the heating unit 40. This is because the resistance of the heating resistor element changes with temperature. For example, the resistance of the heating resistor element can be estimated by measuring the amount of voltage drop at the heating resistor element. The amount of voltage drop at the heating resistor element can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor element. In another example, the temperature of the heating unit 40 can be measured by a temperature sensor installed near the heating unit 40.

[0146] As described above, in this embodiment, the power supplied to the heating unit 40 is controlled so that the actual temperature of the heating unit 40 is close to the target temperature of the heating curve. However, the heating curve may include locations where the target temperature changes rapidly, and at such locations, the deviation between the actual temperature of the heating unit 40 and the target temperature may be temporarily large.

[0147] exist Figure 12 In the heating curve shown, when a start request is received from the user and power supply from power source 21 to heating unit 40 begins, control unit 80 first controls the temperature of heating unit 40 towards the first target temperature TA1. That is, control unit 80 causes heating unit 40 to heat from its initial temperature towards the first target temperature TA1. When heating unit 40 reaches the first target temperature TA1, control unit 80 executes control to maintain the temperature of heating unit 40 at the first target temperature TA1. Figure 13 The time period shown between 0 seconds and 30 seconds is an example of the first time period of this disclosure.

[0148] By setting the first target temperature TA1 to a relatively high level at the start of heating, the rate of temperature rise of the heating unit 40 can be increased. By increasing the rate of temperature rise of the heating unit 40, the time from the start of power supply to the heating unit 40 until aerosol inhalation becomes possible can be shortened.

[0149] The control unit 80 can be configured to notify the user that an inhalable period has begun during the time period in which the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at a first target temperature TA1. The notification of the start of the inhalable period can be executed by the control unit 80 controlling the notification unit (not shown), and can be executed by, for example, changing the light emission color of the light-emitting element (such as an LED), changing the light emission pattern, controlling the driving of the vibration element, or a combination of these methods.

[0150] like Figure 12 As shown, when the time from the start of heating is 30 seconds, the control unit 80 controls the temperature of the heating unit 40 towards a second target temperature TA2, which is lower than the first target temperature TA1. That is, the control unit 80 controls the heating unit 40 to reduce its temperature from the first target temperature TA1 and reach the second target temperature TA2. Figure 13 The time period shown, between 30 and 45 seconds, is an example of the second time period in this disclosure.

[0151] The control unit 80 may have an OFF period during which power supply to the heating unit 40 is stopped for a period of 30 to 45 seconds. By providing the OFF period, a temperature reduction from the first target temperature TA1 to the second target temperature TA2 can be achieved in the shortest possible time. The control unit 80 may also continue to measure the temperature of the heating unit 40 during the OFF period. In this case, the control unit 80 may be configured to restore power supply to the heating unit 40 when the temperature of the heating unit 40 has dropped to approximately the second target temperature TA2.

[0152] The OFF period is preferably a time interval during which a typical user will not perform two or more inhalation actions. If the user were to perform two or more inhalation actions during the OFF period, the temperature of the heating unit 40 might drop sharply and fall far below the second target temperature TA2. This would risk reducing the amount of aerosol generated from the consumable material 200. The first target temperature TA1 and the second target temperature TA2 can be set such that the temperature drop from the first target temperature TA1 to the second target temperature TA2 provided by natural cooling during the OFF period occurs within the aforementioned time range. Alternatively, the control unit 80 can also be configured to measure the elapsed time of the OFF period and force the restoration of power supply to the heating unit 40 once the OFF period has reached a predetermined upper limit.

[0153] When 45 seconds have elapsed, the control unit 80 controls the temperature of the heating unit 40 towards a third target temperature TA3, which is lower than the first target temperature TA1 and higher than the second target temperature TA2. In other words, the control unit 80 controls the heating unit 40 to raise its temperature from the second target temperature TA2 and maintain it at the third target temperature TA3. Figure 12 The time period shown between 45 seconds and 210 seconds is an example of the third time period in this disclosure.

[0154] Specifically, such as Figure 12 As shown, the control unit 80 controls the heating unit 40 to reach the third target temperature TA3 at 210 seconds.

[0155] When the heating unit 40 reaches the third target temperature TA3 at 210 seconds, the control unit 80 performs control to maintain the temperature of the heating unit 40 at the third target temperature TA3. Specifically, the control unit 80 controls the heating unit 40 to maintain the third target temperature TA3 between 210 seconds and 280 seconds.

[0156] When 280 seconds have elapsed, the control unit 80 stops supplying power to the heating unit 40. Then, at 290 seconds, the control unit 80 notifies the user of the end of the inhalable period. In other words, the user is prompted to perform aerosol inhalation, and even after the power supply to the heating unit 40 has stopped, the user continues to experience aerosol due to the residual heat of the heating unit 40 and the consumable material 200 until the predetermined period (10 seconds) has elapsed. Note that the notification of the end of the inhalable period can be executed by controlling a notification unit (not shown), and can be executed by, for example, changing the light emission color of a light-emitting element (such as an LED), changing the light emission pattern, controlling the driving of a vibrating element, or a combination of these methods.

[0157] At 280 seconds, the heat from the heating unit 40 is fully transferred to the interior of the consumable material 200. Thus, during the 10-second period starting from 280 seconds, a certain amount of aerosol can be generated solely from the residual heat of the heating unit 40 and the consumable material 200. However, similar to the first and second OFF periods, aerosol generation is often unstable during these 10 seconds; therefore, these 10 seconds are preferably a time interval during which the user will not perform two or more inhalation actions.

[0158] The control unit 80 can also notify the user that the inhalable period is about to end at a predetermined time point before the 280-second mark (when a notification of the end of the inhalable period is given). For example, such a notification can be made 20 to 40 seconds before the end of the inhalable period. Note that this type of notification can be executed by controlling a notification unit (not shown), and can be executed by, for example, changing the light emission color of a light-emitting element (such as an LED), changing the light emission pattern, controlling the driving of a vibrating element, or a combination of these methods.

[0159] In the above-mentioned aspects, the control unit 80 stops supplying power to the heating unit 40 at 280 seconds. Additionally, if the user's inhalation actions exceed a predetermined number, the control unit 80 may also stop supplying power to the heating unit 40. The user's inhalation actions can be detected, for example, by the aforementioned temperature sensor.

[0160] Figure 13 This is a view showing the glycerol delivery curve according to this embodiment. Figure 14This is a view showing the nicotine delivery curve according to this embodiment.

[0161] Figure 13 The white dots are when using the included... Figure 9A The glycerol delivery curve shown is for the consumable material 200 of flavor-producing body 280 (Example 1). Meanwhile, Figure 13 The black dot in the text is when using a function containing... Figure 9B The glycerol delivery curves for the consumable material of flavor generating body 180 (without cellophane 230 and first flavor source 220) are shown (Comparative Example 1). Note that the following conditions were applied: preheating time was 20 seconds for Example 1 and 25 seconds for Comparative Example 1, and the inhalation was defined as an inhalation of 55 ml / 2 s every 20 seconds. Table 1 above shows details of the configurations of flavor generating body 280 according to Example 1 and flavor generating body 180 according to Comparative Example 1.

[0162] like Figure 13 As shown, in Example 1, the amount of glycerol delivered at initial heating is increased compared to Comparative Example 1. In other words, the increase in the amount of glycerol delivered at initial heating is improved. This can be attributed to the fact that heat is prevented from escaping from the first flavor source 220, and the first flavor source is preferentially and rapidly heated because the cellophane 230 prevents the vapor generated in the initially heated first flavor source 220 after heating begins from moving to the second flavor source 240.

[0163] Moreover, such as Figure 13 As shown, in Example 1, the glycerol delivery volume is the maximum value at the second aspiration (user inhalation), the fifth aspiration, and the seventh aspiration. In other words, in Example 1, the glycerol delivery volume has three maximum values. The delivery volume at the second aspiration (the first maximum value) is greater than both the delivery volume at the fifth aspiration (the second maximum value) and the delivery volume at the seventh aspiration (the third maximum value). Note that the maximum values ​​referred to in this disclosure are obtained by applying predetermined statistical methods to discrete data (e.g., Figure 13 The curve obtained by curve fitting (shown as discrete data) is the point where the slope of the graph changes from positive to negative. For example, as a statistical method, the least squares method can be used.

[0164] Figure 14 The white dots are when using the included... Figure 9A The nicotine delivery curve shown is for the consumable material 200 of flavor-producing body 280 (Example 2). Meanwhile, Figure 14 The black dot in the text is when using a function containing... Figure 9B The nicotine delivery curve shown is for consumable materials containing flavor-generating body 180 (without cellophane 230 and the first flavor source 220) (Comparative Example 2). Similar to... Figure 13The following conditions were applied: Preheating time was 20 seconds for Example 2 and 25 seconds for Comparative Example 2, and the inhalation was defined as an inhalation of 55 ml / 2 s every 20 seconds. Table 1 above shows details of the configurations of the body 280 produced according to the flavor of Example 2 and the body 180 produced according to the flavor of Comparative Example 2.

[0165] like Figure 14 As shown, in Example 2, the nicotine delivery at initial heating is increased compared to Comparative Example 2. In other words, the increase in nicotine delivery at initial heating is improved. This can be attributed to the fact that heat is prevented from escaping from the first flavor source 220, and the first flavor source is preferentially and rapidly heated because the cellophane 230 prevents vapors generated in the initially heated first flavor source 220 after heating begins from moving to the second flavor source 240.

[0166] Moreover, such as Figure 14 As shown, in Example 2, the nicotine delivery is the maximum value at the second, fifth, and seventh puffs. In other words, in Example 2, the nicotine delivery has three maximum values. The delivery amount at the second puff (the first maximum value) is greater than the delivery amount at the fifth puff (the second maximum value) and substantially the same as the delivery amount at the seventh puff (the third maximum value). Strictly speaking, the delivery amount at the seventh puff (the third maximum value) is greater than the delivery amount at the second puff (the first maximum value). The term "substantially the same" in this disclosure means that, starting from the second puff, the maximum delivery amount per single puff is 0.85 to 1.15 times the first maximum value.

[0167] In the flavor inhaler 100, the delivery profile of the main aerosol component depends primarily on... Figure 12 The heating curve of the heating unit 40 is shown. Specifically, the delivery curve of the main aerosol component can essentially be a curve corresponding to the temperature curve inside the consumable material 200. Since the temperature curve inside the consumable material 200 follows the heating curve of the heating unit 40, the temperature curve may typically have a shape that is time-delayed relative to the heating curve.

[0168] Therefore, by setting the first target temperature TA1 as the highest temperature in the entire heating curve, it is easy to form a steep upward curve in the delivery curve of the main aerosol component during the heating start period.

[0169] As described above, the delivery profile of the main aerosol component depends primarily on the heating profile of the heating unit 40. However, the delivery profile of the main aerosol component can vary depending on factors such as: the shape of the heating unit 40, the shape of the heat insulation portion 32, the size of the consumable material 200, the degree of contact between the heating unit 40 and the consumable material 200, and the position of the heating unit 40 relative to the consumable material 200. In particular, in this embodiment, the delivery profile of the main aerosol component depends on the internal structure of the flavor-generating body of the consumable material 200 (see...). Figure 9A Therefore, the heating curve of the heating unit 40 and these elements can be appropriately combined to achieve the desired delivery curve of the main aerosol components.

[0170] For example, when the heating unit has a tubular shape surrounding the outer circumference of the consumable material 200, as in the heating unit 40 of this embodiment, the heat transferred to the consumable material 200 is less likely to dissipate to the outside, and therefore the delivery curve of the main aerosol component is more likely to follow the heating curve of the heating unit 40. Similarly, when the tubular heat insulation portion 32 is arranged radially outside the heating unit 40, the heat transferred to the consumable material 200 is less likely to dissipate to the outside, and therefore the delivery curve of the main aerosol component is more likely to follow the heating curve of the heating unit 40. In this case, the rate of increase of the delivery curve during initial heating becomes relatively high, so the overall upward curve of the delivery curve during initial heating can be steeper. At the same time, the rate of decrease of the delivery curve during final heating becomes relatively low, so the overall downward curve of the delivery curve during final heating can be gentler.

[0171] Furthermore, the smaller the size of the consumable material 200, more specifically, the smaller the diameter of the consumable material 200, the more likely heat from the outside of the consumable material 200 is to be transferred to the interior of the consumable material 200. Therefore, the smaller the diameter of the consumable material 200, the easier it is for the delivery curve of the main aerosol component to follow the heating curve of the heating unit 40.

[0172] Furthermore, during use, the greater the contact between the heating unit 40 and the consumable material 200, the more likely heat from the heating unit 40 is to be transferred to the consumable material 200. In other words, when the consumable material 200 is inserted into the opening 110, the smaller the gap between the consumable material 200 and the chamber 50, the easier it is for the delivery curve of the main aerosol component to follow the heating curve of the heating unit 40.

[0173] Furthermore, the delivery profile of the primary aerosol component can also be attributed to the composition of the consumable material 200. More specifically, the amount of moisture contained in the consumable material 200 may affect the rate of increase of the delivery profile of the primary aerosol component during initial heating. For example, if the consumable material 200 contains a relatively large amount of moisture, the heat from the heating unit 40 is used to vaporize the moisture rather than to heat the first flavor source 220; therefore, this could be a factor that reduces the rate of increase of the delivery profile of the primary aerosol component. This can result in a generally flatter delivery profile during initial heating. As mentioned above, aerosols derived from moisture in the consumable material 200 are typically not included in the primary aerosol component.

[0174] By appropriately setting the heating curve of the heating unit 40, and taking into account the factors that affect the delivery curve (such as those mentioned above), the desired delivery curve of the main aerosol component can be achieved.

[0175] Furthermore, the control unit 80 of the flavor inhaler 100 can also be used in addition to... Figure 12 The heating unit 40 can be controlled in a single heating mode, or in multiple heating modes (e.g., two heating modes) consisting of a first heating mode and a second heating mode. For each suction process, the user can select the appropriate mode from the two heating modes and control the heating unit 40 according to the selected mode.

[0176] In the second heating mode, the first target temperature TB1 can be set to be higher or lower than the first target temperature TA1 of the first heating mode.

[0177] Furthermore, in the second heating mode, the second target temperature TB2 can be set to be higher or lower than the second target temperature TA2 of the first heating mode.

[0178] Furthermore, in the second heating mode, the third target temperature TB3 can be set to be higher or lower than the third target temperature TA3 in the first heating mode.

[0179] The flavor inhaler 100 described above is configured to generate a flavored aerosol by externally contact heating a chamber 50 containing a rod-shaped consumable material 200 via a heating unit 40. However, the heating method of the consumable material in the flavor inhaler according to this disclosure is not limited to external contact heating. For example, the flavored aerosol can also be generated by inductively heating the chamber 50 by means of an induction coil wound around the chamber 50 containing the consumable material 200, wherein the chamber 50 serves as a receptor. In this case, the material and shape of the chamber 50 can be appropriately modified. A needle-shaped heating unit protruding from the bottom portion of the chamber 50 can also be provided to generate a flavored aerosol by resistance heating or induction heating of the needle-shaped heating unit placed inside the consumable material 200. Furthermore, the shape of the consumable material is not limited to a rod shape, and the receptor can be placed on a non-rod-shaped consumable material contained in the chamber, and the flavored aerosol can be generated by inductively heating this receptor.

[0180] When using an internally heated heating unit, for Figure 8 and Figure 9A The first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240 shown are positioned near the heating unit. Therefore, in a flavor inhalation system including a heating unit with internal heating, the second flavor source 240 is an example of the first flavor source of this disclosure, and the first flavor source 220 is an example of the second flavor source of this disclosure.

[0181] (Example of a variant)

[0182] The following text is for reference only. Figures 15 to 20 The following describes variant examples of the above embodiments. Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of consumable material 300 based on a variant example. Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 Plan view of the middle arrow cc. Figure 17 This is a perspective view of an example of the end filter rod 316. Figure 18 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of the end filter rod 316. Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aspect of consumable material 300, based on a variant example. Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 Plan view of the arrow dd. Note that parts that are the same as or correspond to those in the above embodiments are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0183] Figure 15 The consumable material 300 shown is... Figure 8The consumable material 200 shown differs only in that it includes a blocking portion 342. The blocking portion 342 is located upstream of the flavor generating body 280, which includes a first flavor source 220 and a second flavor source 240, and is configured to prevent air from flowing into the second flavor source 240 while allowing air to be introduced from the end of the consumable material 300 into the first flavor source 220. Relative to the flavor generating body 280, which is partially positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the blocking portion 342 allows preferential introduction of air from the end of the consumable material 300 into the first flavor source 220 while preventing air from flowing into the second flavor source 240. This allows for the efficient delivery of vapors or aerosols containing the flavor generated by the first flavor source 220 to the user.

[0184] Moreover, such as Figure 15 As shown, when viewed longitudinally from the consumable material 300, the blocking portion 342 preferably overlaps with at least a portion of the second flavor source 240. In this case, air can be prevented from flowing directly into the second flavor source 240 from the end of the consumable material 300. More preferably, when viewed longitudinally from the consumable material 300, the blocking portion 342 overlaps with the entire second flavor source 240. Figure 15 In the example shown, when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the consumable material 300, the prevented portion 342 overlaps with the second flavor source 240 so that they substantially coincide.

[0185] like Figure 16 As shown, if the size of the gap between the blocking portion 342 and the outer circumference of the consumable material 300 is defined as R when viewed from the longitudinal direction of the consumable material 300, then relative to... Figure 15 The radial thickness T of the first flavor source 220 shown can satisfy the relationship R > T. In this case, since the amount of air flowing in from the end of the consumable material 300 can be increased, more aerosol generated from the first flavor source 220 can be supplied.

[0186] Furthermore, the area of ​​the blocking portion 342 is preferably larger than the area of ​​the second flavor source 240 when viewed from the longitudinal direction. In this case, the area of ​​the blocking portion 342 is larger than the area of ​​the second flavor source 240 in the direction of airflow. Therefore, by ensuring that the blocking portion 342 fully overlaps with the second flavor source 240 when viewed from the longitudinal direction, air that has already flowed in from the end of the consumable material 300 can be suppressed (prevented) from flowing into the second flavor source 240. It should be noted that the area of ​​the blocking portion 342 or the second flavor source 240 mentioned herein refers to the area of ​​the largest cross-section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0187] like Figure 15As shown, the blocking portion 342 is preferably provided with an end filter rod 316 located upstream of the flavor generating body 280.

[0188] like Figure 15 As shown, the end filter rod 316 may have a recessed portion 303. In this case, the blocking portion 342 preferably fills the recessed portion 303. Therefore, since the blocking portion 342 is prevented from protruding from the end filter rod 316, the blocking portion 342 can be configured to have no substantial difference in appearance from conventional consumable materials. It should be noted that even when the recessed portion 303 is filled with the blocking portion 342, the blocking portion 342 can also be configured to protrude (or protrude) from the recessed portion 303. Figure 15 In the example shown, the blocking portion 342 fills the recessed portion 303 so as to substantially overlap with the recessed portion 303. Alternatively, the blocking portion 342 may be disposed on the surface of the end filter rod 316.

[0189] Preferably, the material constituting the blocking portion 342 disposed on the end filter rod 316 is a flame-retardant material. Specifically, for example, the blocking portion 342 is preferably formed by at least one of the following: carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer resin, and modified starch. In this case, especially when a flammable material (such as a paper filter) is used in the end filter rod 316, combustion of the consumable material 300 can be prevented even if the user uses it in an unintended manner. Note that this configuration is not limited to this, and if the blocking portion 342 is disposed in the end filter rod 316, the blocking portion can be formed, for example, by a material with a lower permeability than the end filter rod 316.

[0190] at the same time, Figure 15 The end filter rod 316 shown may be provided with a high-density portion 342a and a low-density portion 304. In this case, the high-density portion 342a may constitute a blocking portion 342. Therefore, since air flow from the low-density portion 304 into the high-density portion 342a is suppressed, the blocking portion 342 can be configured using only the end filter rod 316 without attaching another component to the end filter rod 316.

[0191] The use of production will now be described. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The method for producing consumable material 300 shown is as follows: First, a flavor generating body 280 comprising a first flavor source 220, cellophane 230, and a second flavor source 240 is prepared. Next, a blocking portion 342 is formed on the end filter rod 316 of the consumable material 300.

[0192] Moreover, such as Figure 17 and Figure 18As shown, the end filter rod 316 of the consumable material 300 may be provided with a filter 350, which has a plurality of grooves extending along the longitudinal direction of the consumable material 300.

[0193] like Figure 17 As shown, a filter 350 extending longitudinally and slotted on its outer circumference can be disposed inside the end filter rod 316. A filter wrap 354 is wrapped around the filter 350 to cover it. The filter wrap 354 can be configured as part of a wrap 218 covering the entire consumable material 300, or it can be configured as an inner wrap separated from the wrap 218. A gap portion 352 is formed between the outer circumference of the filter 350 and the filter wrap 354.

[0194] The interior of the filter 350 may be constructed, for example, from cellulose acetate fiber bundles. The airflow resistance inside the filter 350 is preferably from 1 mmH2O to 100 mmH2O, more preferably from 5 mmH2O to 50 mmH2O, and even more preferably from 10 mmH2O to 30 mmH2O. It should be noted that the airflow resistance inside the filter 350 can be measured by covering the grooved portion of the outer circumference with a rubber-based sealing material after the filter wrapping 354 has been removed, so that fluid flows only inside the filter 350.

[0195] The periphery of the filter 350 is slotted. Specifically, the outer circumference of the filter 350 can be configured with a grooved strip of sufficient width to wrap around the interior. This grooved and wavy strip wraps around the interior to form a circular rod, and when the filter wrap 354 covers the periphery of the strip, a longitudinally communicating gap 352 is formed between the grooved portion of the strip and the filter wrap 354 (see...). Figure 18 (Cross-sectional view). From a flavor perspective, the grooved strip can be formed from a sheet obtained by molding cellulose acetate fibers.

[0196] The gap portion 352 formed between the grooved strip on the outer circumference of the filter 350 and the filter wrapping 354 surrounding the strip preferably occupies 15% to 40% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the end filter rod 316, and preferably has an airflow resistance of 0 mmH2O to 30 mmH2O. The gap portion 352 is configured to overlap with the first flavor source 220 of the flavor generating body 280 located downstream of the consumable material 300 in the longitudinal direction. At the same time, the interior of the filter 350 is configured to overlap with the second flavor source 240 of the flavor generating body 280 located downstream of the consumable material 300 in the longitudinal direction.

[0197] At the end filter rod 316, a void portion 352 with low airflow resistance communicates with the first flavor source 220 of the flavor generating body 280, while a filter 350 with higher airflow resistance communicates with the second flavor source 240. This allows air that has flowed in from the end of the consumable material 300 to preferentially flow to the first flavor source 220 as it passes through the end filter rod 316. This allows for the efficient delivery of vapors or aerosols containing the flavor generated by the first flavor source 220 to the user during initial heating.

[0198] Moreover, such as Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the end filter rod 316 of the consumable material 300 may be provided with a heat-deformable material 360, which deforms in response to heating and changes the airflow resistance.

[0199] In this case, the heat-deformable material 360 can change in response to heating at the end filter rod 316, and thus the deformation of the heat-deformable material 360 in response to heating of the consumable material 300 can change the airflow resistance of the end filter rod 316. Therefore, as the heating unit 40 heats the consumable material 300, the airflow resistance of the end filter rod 316 can be changed to a desired value.

[0200] Specifically, the thermodeformable material 360 is preferably configured to melt from a solid to a liquid upon heating. Therefore, as the heating unit 40 heats the consumable material 300, the airflow resistance of the end filter rod 316 can be changed to a desired level. Thus, the consumable material 300 has sufficiently high airflow resistance to reduce water vapor supplied to the user during the initial heating phase (e.g., during the first suction), while in the latter part of heating, this airflow resistance can be reduced to provide the user with comfortable suction resistance.

[0201] Specifically, the thermodeformable material 360 is configured to overlap with the second flavor source 240 of the flavor generating body 280 located downstream of the consumable material 300 in the longitudinal direction. With this configuration, during initial heating, air flowing in from the end of the consumable material 300 preferentially flows into the first flavor source 220 as it passes through the end filter rod 316. Simultaneously, during the intermediate and subsequent stages of heating, the thermodeformable material 360 melts and airflow resistance decreases, causing air to similarly flow into the second flavor source 240. Therefore, the first flavor source 220 can be preferentially and rapidly heated during initial heating, and the second flavor source 240 can be efficiently heated during the intermediate and subsequent stages of heating, thereby enabling the achievement of an optimal delivery profile for the main aerosol components.

[0202] The heat-deformable material 360 may include at least one selected from the group consisting of capsules, gel liquids, membranes, and threads. Thus, the heat-deformable material 360 can undergo a phase change from solid to liquid by heating, or it can deform with changes in liquid viscosity. The heat-deformable material 360 is preferably deformed by heating to 40°C to 180°C. In this case, heating the flavor-generating body 280, which includes the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240, can deform the heat-deformable material 360 contained in the end filter rod 316 located upstream of the consumable material 300. Moreover, in this case, if the end filter rod 316 is, for example, a cellulose acetate filter, a paper filter, a non-woven fabric filter, etc., the heat-deformable material 360 can deform, while the end filter rod 316 will not deform due to heat.

[0203] exist Figure 20 In the cross-section shown, the area occupied by the thermodeformable material 360 relative to the area of ​​the end filter rod 316 is preferably between 2% and 55%. If the area is less than 2%, it may be difficult to sufficiently increase the airflow resistance with the thermodeformable material 360. Furthermore, if the area exceeds 55%, there is a risk that the airflow resistance may be too high. Therefore, if the area is within the aforementioned value range, the thermodeformable material 360 can provide the desired airflow resistance for the end filter rod 316.

[0204] Moreover, in Figure 20 In the cross-section shown, the thermodeformable material 360 is preferably arranged substantially at the center of the end filter rod 316. In this case, compared to when the thermodeformable material 360 is unevenly arranged on the end filter rod 316, air can be uniformly supplied to the flavor generating body 280 containing the downstream first flavor source 220 and second flavor source 240, thus efficiently delivering the vapors or aerosols generated by the first flavor source 220 and second flavor source 240. Moreover, in Figure 20 In the cross-section shown, the heat-deformable material 360 is preferably arranged in the inner region concentric with the end filter rod 316.

[0205] The heat-deformable material 360 can be arranged inside the end filter rod 316, such as Figure 19 and Figure 20As shown, a portion of the heat-deformable material can be exposed from the end filter rod 316. For example, the heat-deformable material 360 can be exposed on either the upstream or downstream end face of the end filter rod 316. By adjusting the distance in the longitudinal direction between the heat-deformable material 360 and the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240, the timing of the heat deformation of the heat-deformable material 360 can be adjusted. This allows the heat-deformable material 360 to undergo heat deformation at any point in time when the heating unit 40 heats the consumable material 300, or in other words, the airflow resistance can be changed at any point in time when the heating unit 40 heats the consumable material 300.

[0206] (The role of the examples)

[0207] In this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is disposed inside the consumable material 200, closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, and separated from the second flavor source 240 by cellophane 230. When the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 generates heat first. However, when water vapor generated by the heating of the first flavor source 220 moves to the second flavor source 240, heat is dissipated from the first flavor source 220, thereby preventing the first flavor source 220 from heating up rapidly. In this embodiment, the cellophane 230 prevents water vapor from moving from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240, and the first flavor source 220 is preferentially heated. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, when the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery amount during initial heating and obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0208] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 is arranged closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 and has a hollow portion, and the second flavor source 240 is arranged in this hollow portion via cellophane 230. When the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 is heated from the outside, and the movement of water vapor generated by the heating of the first flavor source 220 towards the hollow portion is blocked by the cellophane 230. Therefore, the first flavor source 220 is preferentially heated, and heat is not lost from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is heated rapidly, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery amount during initial heating and obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0209] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is disposed inside the consumable material 200, closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, and configured to include flavor source sheets 220A and 220B. The first flavor source 220 surrounds the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B, thereby preventing the movement of water vapor within the first flavor source 220. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is heated more rapidly, thereby obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0210] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B contained in the first flavor source 220, located closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, are rolled, slit, and / or embossed. Generally, rolled, slit, or embossed sheets have a lower shrinkage rate when heated compared to unprocessed sheets. Therefore, according to this embodiment, shrinkage of the rapidly heated first flavor source 220 is prevented. Moreover, by subjecting the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B to this type of processing, the surface area can be increased compared to unprocessed sheets, thus increasing the flavor or aerosol produced by the first flavor source 220.

[0211] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B contained in the first flavor source 220, which is located closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, are wrapped to form a tubular shape. The first flavor source 220 surrounds the tubular flavor source sheets 220A and 220B, thereby preventing the movement of water vapor within the first flavor source 220. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is heated more rapidly, thereby obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0212] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flavor-generating body 280 of the consumable material 200 has a cover sheet 210 surrounding each component; and, relative to the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B included in the first flavor source 220 located closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, the outer flavor source sheet 220B is fixed to the cover sheet 210, and the inner flavor source sheet 220A is fixed to the cellophane 230. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the consumable material 200 (the flavor-generating body 280 of the consumable material) is formed such that the cover sheet 210, flavor source sheet 220B, flavor source sheet 220A, cellophane 230, and second flavor source 240 are arranged from the outside to the inside, thereby providing a stable configuration and preventing heating-related shrinkage of the consumable material 200. Furthermore, positional displacement of the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B can be prevented.

[0213] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the distance between the cover sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 in the consumable material 200 is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. Here, the area between the cover sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 is such that the flavor source sheets 220A and 220B of the first flavor source 220 are arranged closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100. Therefore, according to this embodiment, by setting the distance between the cover sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 to a suitable value, a balance can be achieved between rapid heating of the first flavor source 220 and sufficient heat conduction to the second flavor source 240, resulting in a suitable flavor throughout the heating period.

[0214] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the filling rate of the first flavor source 220 in the space between the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 in the consumable material 200 is between 20% and 75%. Therefore, according to this embodiment, by setting the filling rate of the first flavor source 220 between the covering sheet 210 and the cellophane 230 to a suitable value, a balance can be achieved between rapid heating of the first flavor source 220 and sufficient heat conduction to the second flavor source 240, and a more suitable flavor can be obtained throughout the heating period.

[0215] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the consumable material 200, the second flavor source 240 is arranged at a position separated from the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, compared to the first flavor source 220, and includes: lower middle tobacco, sheet, rolled and / or aggregated sheet, or multiple substantially parallel strands. Therefore, according to this embodiment, arranging the second flavor source 240 in a predetermined form facilitates airflow toward the second flavor source 240 and facilitates the delivery of flavor or aerosol generated by the second flavor source 240.

[0216] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the consumable material 200, the second flavor source 240 is arranged at a position separated from the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 compared to the first flavor source 220, and contains substantially the same amount or a greater amount of glycerol as the first flavor source 220. Given that the first flavor source 220 is preferentially heated in the early stages of the heating period, and subsequently the second flavor source 240, which has already received heat conduction from the first flavor source 220, is heated, it is preferable that the second flavor source 240 can provide sufficient flavor in the middle stages of the heating period and thereafter. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the second flavor source 240 has a sufficient glycerol content, which ensures the delivery of sufficient flavor throughout the heating period.

[0217] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the consumable material 200, the second flavor source 240 is arranged at a position separated from the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, compared to the first flavor source 220, and has a greater filling weight than the first flavor source 220. Given that the first flavor source 220 is preferentially heated in the early stages of the heating period, and subsequently the second flavor source 240, which has already received heat conduction from the first flavor source 220, is heated, it is preferable that the second flavor source 240 can provide sufficient flavor in the middle and later stages of the heating period. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the interior of the consumable material 200 can be sufficiently filled with the second flavor source 240, thereby ensuring sufficient flavor is provided throughout the heating period.

[0218] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cellophane 230 has a permeability of 0 to 40 CORESTA units. This cellophane separates the first flavor source 220 from the second flavor source 240, which is located inside the consumable material 200, closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the cellophane 230 can sufficiently prevent water vapor from moving from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240, thus allowing preferential heating of the first flavor source 220 in the early stages of the heating period.

[0219] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240 are separated by paper or cellophane. The first flavor source is disposed inside the consumable material 200, closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the simple configuration can provide an airtight component that can sufficiently prevent water vapor from moving from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240.

[0220] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cellophane 230 is sheet-like and wrapped to form a tube, separating the first flavor source 220 from the second flavor source 240. The first flavor source is disposed inside the consumable material 200, closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100. By separating the first flavor source 220 from the second flavor source 240 using the cellophane 230 as a tubular wrapping sheet, water vapor is effectively prevented from moving from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, the first flavor source 220 is rapidly heated in the early stages of the heating period, thereby obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0221] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 is a circumferential heating unit that heats the consumable material 200 from the circumference. That is, in the flavor inhalation system, the heating unit 40, the first flavor source 220, the cellophane 230, and the second flavor source 240 are arranged in this order from the outside to the inside. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, in the flavor inhalation system with the circumferential heating inhaler 100, when the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery amount during initial heating and obtaining sufficient flavor during initial heating.

[0222] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system, including the flavor inhaler 100 and consumable material 200, has at least two maximum values, and the delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the delivery amounts at the other peaks. Here, the first peak is the initial maximum value during an inhalation process from the start to the end of the user's inhalation, and is the largest maximum value existing before 30% of the inhalation process has been completed. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, sufficient aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0223] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system, including the flavor inhaler 100 and the consumable material 200, has at least two maximum values, and the glycerol delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the glycerol delivery amount at the other peaks. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, a sufficient amount of glycerol is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0224] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the nicotine delivery curve of the flavor inhalation system, including the flavor inhaler 100 and the consumable material 200, has at least two maximum values, and the nicotine delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the nicotine delivery amount at the other peaks. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, a sufficient amount of nicotine is delivered to the user's mouth during the initial heating.

[0225] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 has a control unit 80, which controls the heating unit 40 to heat the consumable material 200, thereby achieving a predetermined aerosol delivery profile. Therefore, according to this embodiment, by appropriately controlling the control unit 80, a preferred aerosol delivery profile can be achieved, and the aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth at a preferred time point.

[0226] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 80 of the flavor inhaler 100 is in the first time period ( Figure 12 During the period from 0 to 30 seconds, the temperature of the heating unit 40 is controlled to move towards the first target temperature TA1, and in the second period after the first time period ( Figure 12 During the period from 30 to 45 seconds, the temperature of the heating unit 40 is controlled to move towards a second target temperature TA2, which is lower than the first target temperature TA1, and during the third period after the second period ( Figure 12 During a period of 45 to 210 seconds, the temperature of the heating unit 40 is controlled towards a third target temperature TA3, which is higher than the second target temperature TA2 and lower than the first target temperature TA1. Typically, the aerosol delivery profile (and temperature profile within the consumable material) of this flavor inhalation system follows the heating profile (and temperature profile of the heating unit) of the heating unit 40 controlled by the control unit 80. Therefore, according to this embodiment, by means of the control unit 80 based on... Figure 12 The heating curve shown is used to control the temperature of the heating unit 40, which can achieve a preferred aerosol delivery curve and deliver the aerosol to the user's mouth at a preferred time point.

[0227] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heating unit 40 can be controlled by multiple heating modes, including a first heating mode and a second heating mode. Therefore, according to this embodiment, these multiple heating modes can be combined to allow selection of a preferred aerosol delivery profile. For example, by improving the aerosol delivery amount, a richer flavor can be provided, or by balancing the aerosol delivery amount in each inhalation cycle, the duration of an inhalation cycle can be increased.

[0228] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the second heating mode, the first target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that of the first heating mode. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the higher first target temperature TB1 in the second heating mode can be achieved within a first time period ( Figure 12 Improve aerosol delivery during the medium time period (0 to 30 seconds). The lower first target temperature TB1 in the second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during the first time period and balance the aerosol delivery during each inhalation process.

[0229] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the second heating mode, the second target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that in the first heating mode. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the higher second target temperature TB2 in the second heating mode can be achieved in the second time period ( Figure 12 The aerosol delivery rate is improved during the medium-duration period (30 to 45 seconds). The lower second target temperature TB2 in the second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during the second time period and balance the aerosol delivery rate for each inhalation process.

[0230] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the second heating mode, the third target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that in the first heating mode. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the higher third target temperature TB3 in the second heating mode can be achieved in the third time period ( Figure 12 The aerosol delivery rate is improved during and after the third time period (45 to 210 seconds). The lower third target temperature TB3 in the second heating mode can inhibit aerosol delivery during and after the third time period and balance the aerosol delivery rate for each inhalation process.

[0231] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the heating unit is not limited, the consumable material 200 (which is heated by the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 to produce flavor) includes a first flavor source 220, a second flavor source 240, and cellophane 230, which at least partially separates the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240. When the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, one or both of the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240 generate heat. However, the movement of water vapor generated accompanying the heating of the first flavor source 220 and / or the second flavor source 240 causes heat to dissipate from the first flavor source 220 and / or the second flavor source 240, thereby preventing rapid heating of the first flavor source 220 and / or the second flavor source 240. In this embodiment, the cellophane 230 prevents the movement of water vapor between the first flavor source 220 and the second flavor source 240, and each flavor source is preferentially heated. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, when the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, one of the flavor sources is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery amount during initial heating and delivering sufficient aerosol to the user's mouth during initial heating.

[0232] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when an external heating unit is used, the first flavor source 220, located inside the consumable material 200 and closer to the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100, is separated from the second flavor source 240 by cellophane 230. When the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 generates heat first. However, when water vapor generated by the heating of the first flavor source 220 moves to the second flavor source 240, heat is dissipated from the first flavor source 220, thereby preventing the first flavor source 220 from heating up rapidly. In this embodiment, the cellophane 230 prevents water vapor from moving from the first flavor source 220 to the second flavor source 240, and the first flavor source 220 is preferentially heated. Accordingly, according to this embodiment, when the heating unit 40 of the flavor inhaler 100 begins to heat the consumable material 200, the first flavor source 220 is rapidly heated, thereby increasing the aerosol delivery amount during initial heating and delivering sufficient aerosol to the user's mouth during initial heating.

[0233] The embodiments and two variant examples of this disclosure have been described above. However, this disclosure is not limited to those embodiments and variant examples, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical concept disclosed in the claims, specification, and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly stated in the specification or drawings is also within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, provided that it embodies the function of this disclosure.

[0234] (Note 1)

[0235] A first aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system comprising: a flavor inhaler including a heating unit; and a consumable material having a first flavor source, a second flavor source, and an airtight member that at least partially separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source, wherein, when the consumable material is heated by the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, the first flavor source of the consumable material is positioned closer to the heating unit than the second flavor source.

[0236] (Note 2)

[0237] The second aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first aspect, wherein the first flavor source has a hollow portion therein, and the second flavor source is disposed in the hollow portion of the first flavor source.

[0238] (Note 3)

[0239] The third aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first and second aspects, wherein the first flavor source comprises at least one sheet.

[0240] (Note 4)

[0241] The fourth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third aspect, wherein the sheet of the first flavor source has undergone at least one of the following processing: curling, slitting, and embossing.

[0242] (Note 5)

[0243] The fifth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third and fourth aspects, wherein the sheet of the first flavor source is formed into a tubular shape, and the two opposite ends of the first flavor source formed into the tubular shape are overlapped or spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0244] (Note 6)

[0245] The sixth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the third to fifth aspects, wherein the consumable material has a wrapping material surrounding the first flavor source, the second flavor source and the airtight member, the sheet of the first flavor source being fixed to the wrapping material at the outermost layer and the sheet of the first flavor source being fixed to the airtight member at the innermost layer.

[0246] (Note 7)

[0247] The seventh aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixth aspect, wherein the distance between the package and the airtight member is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0248] (Note 8)

[0249] The eighth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixth and seventh aspects, wherein the first flavor source has a filling rate of between 20% and 75% in the space between the package and the airtight member.

[0250] (Note 9)

[0251] The ninth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to eighth aspects, wherein the second flavor source comprises any one of the following: lower middle tobacco, sheet, sheet subjected to at least one of curling and agglomeration, and a plurality of substantially parallel tows.

[0252] (Note 10)

[0253] The tenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to ninth aspects, wherein the glycerol content of the second flavor source is substantially the same as or greater than the glycerol content of the first flavor source.

[0254] (Note 11)

[0255] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to tenth aspects, wherein, in the consumable material, the filling weight of the second flavor source is greater than the filling weight of the first flavor source.

[0256] (Note 12)

[0257] The twelfth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the air permeability of the airtight component is 0 to 40 CORESTA units.

[0258] (Note 13)

[0259] The thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first through twelfth aspects, wherein the airtight component is paper or cellophane.

[0260] (Note 14)

[0261] The fourteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the airtight member is sheet-like and formed into a tubular shape, and the two opposite ends of the airtight member formed into the tubular shape overlap or are spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0262] (Note 15)

[0263] The fifteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the first to fourteenth aspects, wherein the heating unit of the flavor inhaler is a circumferential heating unit that heats the consumable material from the circumference.

[0264] (Note 16)

[0265] The sixteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system comprising: a consumable material; and a flavor inhaler including a heating unit for heating the consumable material, wherein an aerosol delivery profile having at least two maximum values ​​is provided, and in the aerosol delivery profile, the delivery amount at a first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the delivery amounts at other peaks.

[0266] (Note 17)

[0267] The seventeenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein the delivery amount in the aerosol delivery profile includes a glycerol delivery amount.

[0268] (Note 18)

[0269] The eighteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the sixteenth and seventeenth aspects, wherein the delivery amount in the aerosol delivery profile includes the nicotine delivery amount.

[0270] (Note 19)

[0271] The nineteenth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to aspects sixteen through eighteen, wherein the flavor inhaler includes a control unit that controls the heating unit to provide the aerosol delivery profile.

[0272] (Note 20)

[0273] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the eighteenth aspect, wherein the control unit is configured to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a first target temperature during a first time period, to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature during a second time period after the first time period, and to control the temperature of the heating unit toward a third target temperature higher than the second target temperature and lower than the first target temperature during a third time period after the second time period.

[0274] (Note 21)

[0275] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the nineteenth and twentieth aspects, wherein the control unit is configured to control the heating unit through multiple heating modes, including a first heating mode and a second heating mode.

[0276] (Note 22)

[0277] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the twentieth aspect, wherein, in the second heating mode, the first target temperature is set to be higher or lower than the first heating mode.

[0278] (Note 23)

[0279] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to the twentieth and ...

[0280] (Note 24)

[0281] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure is a flavor inhalation system according to aspects twenty-one to twenty-three, wherein, in the second heating mode, the third target temperature is set to be higher or lower than the first heating mode.

[0282] List of reference numerals

[0283] 20... Power Supply Unit

[0284] 21... Power Supply

[0285] 28... Bluetooth interface

[0286] 30... Atomizing Units

[0287] 32...Insulation section

[0288] 34...Insert guide component

[0289] 40... Heating Unit

[0290] 42... Heating element

[0291] 44... Electrical insulation components

[0292] 48...electrode

[0293] 50... chambers

[0294] 52...opening

[0295] 54...Non-fixed portion

[0296] 56... Bottom section

[0297] 56a...hole

[0298] 58...First Guiding Section

[0299] 60...side wall portion

[0300] 62...Contact Part

[0301] 62a...Inner surface

[0302] 62b...outer surface

[0303] 66...interval section

[0304] 66a...Inner surface

[0305] 66b...outer surface

[0306] 67...gap

[0307] 70...Heat diffusion sleeve

[0308] 80... control unit

[0309] 81...Flavor Source

[0310] 82...board

[0311] 100... Flavor Inhaler

[0312] 102...shell

[0313] 104... Upper shell

[0314] 106... Lower housing

[0315] 108... Sliding cover

[0316] 110...opening

[0317] 180...flavor-producing body

[0318] 200... Consumable Materials

[0319] 210... Covering sheet

[0320] 212...Cooling section

[0321] 214...Filter

[0322] 216...End filter rod

[0323] 218... Package

[0324] 220...First Flavor Source

[0325] 220A...Flavor Source Sheets

[0326] 220B...Flavor Source Sheets

[0327] 230...cellophane

[0328] 240...Second Flavor Source

[0329] 242...Flavor Generation Layer

[0330] 244... Flavor Generation Layer

[0331] 246A...stopping film

[0332] 246B...stopping film

[0333] 280...Flavor-generating entity

[0334] 300... Consumable Materials

[0335] 303...recessed portion

[0336] 304...low density portion

[0337] 316...End filter rod

[0338] 342...Blocking part

[0339] 342a...High-density portion

[0340] 350... filter

[0341] 352...gap portion

[0342] 354...Filter package

[0343] 360...heat deformable materials

[0344] T...thickness of the first flavor source in the radial direction

[0345] R... is the dimension of the gap between the blocking part and the outer circumference of the consumable material.

Claims

1. A flavor inhalation system, the flavor inhalation system comprising: A flavor inhaler, comprising a heating unit; and consumable materials, wherein... The consumable material has a first flavor source, a second flavor source, and an airtight component that at least partially separates the first flavor source from the second flavor source. When the consumable material is heated by the heating unit of the flavor inhaler, the first flavor source of the consumable material is positioned closer to the heating unit than the second flavor source.

2. The flavor inhalation system of claim 1, wherein, The first flavor source has a hollow portion therein, and The second flavor source is arranged in the hollow portion of the first flavor source.

3. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first flavor source includes at least one sheet.

4. The flavor inhalation system of claim 3, wherein, The sheet material of this first flavor source has undergone at least one of the following processing methods: curling, slitting, and embossing.

5. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The sheet of the first flavor source is formed into a tubular shape, and The two opposite ends of the first flavor source, which is formed into the tubular shape, overlap or are spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

6. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The consumable material has a wrapping material that surrounds the first flavor source, the second flavor source, and the airtight component. The sheet of the first flavor source is fixed to the package at the outermost layer, and The sheet of the first flavor source is fixed to the airtight component at the innermost layer.

7. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 6, wherein, The distance between the package and the airtight component is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm.

8. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The first flavor source fills the space between the package and the airtight component at a rate between 20% and 75%.

9. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The second flavor source includes any one of the following: Middle and lower tobacco shreds Sheet, Sheets subjected to at least one of curling and agglomeration, and Multiple bundles of filaments extending in essentially parallel directions.

10. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The glycerol content of the second flavor source is substantially the same as or greater than that of the first flavor source.

11. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, In this consumable material, the filling weight of the second flavor source is greater than the filling weight of the first flavor source.

12. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The air permeability of this impermeable component is 0 to 40 CORESTA units.

13. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The airtight component is made of paper or cellophane.

14. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The airtight component is sheet-like and formed into a tubular shape, and The two opposite ends of the airtight member, which is formed into the tubular shape, overlap or are spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

15. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The heating unit of this flavor inhaler is a circumferential heating unit, which heats the consumable material from the circumference.

16. A flavor inhalation system, the flavor inhalation system comprising: Consumable materials; as well as A flavor inhaler, comprising a heating unit for heating the consumable material. in, Provide aerosol delivery curves with at least two maximum values, and In this aerosol delivery curve, the delivery amount at the first peak is substantially the same as or greater than the delivery amount at other peaks.

17. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 16, wherein, The delivery amounts in this aerosol delivery curve include glycerol delivery amounts.

18. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The delivery amounts in this aerosol delivery curve include nicotine delivery.

19. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein, The flavor inhaler includes a control unit that controls the heating unit to provide the aerosol delivery profile.

20. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 19, wherein, The control unit is configured to: During the first time period, the temperature of the heating unit is controlled to move towards the first target temperature. During a second time period following the first time period, the temperature of the heating unit is controlled to move towards a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature, and During the third time period following the second time period, the temperature of the heating unit is controlled to move towards a third target temperature that is higher than the second target temperature and lower than the first target temperature.

21. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, The control unit is configured to control the heating unit according to multiple heating modes, including a first heating mode and a second heating mode.

22. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 21, wherein, In this second heating mode, the first target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that of the first heating mode.

23. The flavor inhalation system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein, In this second heating mode, the second target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that in the first heating mode.

24. The flavor inhalation system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein, In this second heating mode, the third target temperature is set to be higher or lower than that in the first heating mode.

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