Heating unit for flavor aspirator, and flavor aspirator

Abstract

To provide an integrated heating unit for a flavor aspirator, which enables high-temperature heating and which atomizes a smoking allowing material by heating the solid smoking allowing material having the smoking allowing material.SOLUTION: A heating unit 40 for a flavor aspirator comprises: a partition part 50 which has an opening 51 and a side surface 52 surrounding the opening, and which partitions a housing part 53 for accepting a smoking allowing material 30; a heating part 60 for heating the partition part; a fixing part 80 for fixing the heating part to the partition part; and a first heat insulation part 70 that is arranged between the heating part and the fixing part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heating unit for a flavor inhaler and a flavor inhaler. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a flavor inhaler for inhaling flavors and the like without burning a material. The flavor inhaler has, for example, a chamber for accommodating a flavor-generating article and a heater for heating the flavor-generating article accommodated in the chamber (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2001-521123 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5963375 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2016 / 207407 Brochure Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect, there is provided a heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable substance to atomize the smokable substance. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler has an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, and has a partition section that partitions a storage section that receives the smokable substance, a heating section that heats the partition section, a fixing section that fixes the heating section to the partition section, and a first insulating section disposed between the heating section and the fixing section. The smokable substance may be a solid smokable substance.

[0005] According to the first aspect, since the heating part is fixed to the partition part by the fixing part, the partition part and the heating part can be substantially integrated. At this time, since the first heat insulating part can reduce the influence of heat from the heating part to the fixing part, the fixing part can withstand use even under high temperature heating. Therefore, according to the first aspect, an integrated heating unit for a flavor inhaler capable of high temperature heating is provided. Such an integrated unit has high stability against impact and vibration, and may be advantageous for mass production of the unit itself and mass production of a flavor inhaler incorporating the unit.

[0006] The heating section may be disposed on the outer surface (opposite to the storage section) of the partition section. The heating section may be, for example, a resistive heating section, and may heat the partition section by thermal conduction. The resistive heating section may have, for example, a heating element, which may be a heating track. The heating section may be a film heater. The film heater may have, for example, a structure in which a layer made of an electrical insulating material and a layer made of a heating track are stacked. Also, for example, the heating section may have a structure in which a layer made of a heating track is disposed between two layers made of an electrical insulating material. The electrical insulating material may be, for example, polyimide, PEEK (polyether ether ketone), or Teflon (registered trademark)-based fluororesin. Also, the heating track may be, for example, a metal such as stainless steel or copper. By using these materials for the electrical insulating material and the heating track, a flexible heating structure that is easy to manufacture and highly reliable can be obtained.

[0007] The heating section may have a first section located on the opposite side to the opening, and a second section located on the opening side. The heater power density of the second section is preferably higher than the heater power density of the first section, or the heating rate of the second section is preferably higher than the heating rate of the first section, or the heating temperature of the second section is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the first section at any given time. The second section preferably covers an outer surface of the partition corresponding to at least half of the smokable material in the longitudinal direction of the smokable material when the smokable material is positioned at a desired position within the partition. This makes it possible to start up the heating section while suppressing energy consumption. This can shorten the time between when the device is activated and when the first puff can be performed.

[0008] The maximum temperature of the temperature profile when the heating unit heats the smokable material is preferably selected from 250° C. to 310° C., 250° C. to 300° C., or 250° C. to 290° C. Here, the temperature of the heating unit refers to the temperature of the location that generates heat to heat the smokable material, such as the temperature of the resistance heating unit or the temperature of the susceptor. By setting the maximum temperature of the temperature profile when the heating unit heats the smokable material to one of these temperature ranges, it is possible to quickly raise the temperature of the smokable material without damaging the device.

[0009] The first heat insulating part is preferably in contact with the heating part and the fixing part, which allows the heating unit for the flavor inhaler to have a simpler and more stable structure than when the first heat insulating part is not in contact with either the heating part or the fixing part.

[0010] It is preferable that the heating section has a main surface parallel to the side surface of the partition section, and the first heat insulating section is arranged so as to extend along the main surface of the heating section. This allows the first heat insulating section to effectively insulate the heating section. Here, "parallel to the side surface of the partition section" includes being substantially parallel to the side surface of the partition section. It is also preferable that the first heat insulating section is arranged so as to cover the entire main surface of the heating section.

[0011] The wall thickness of the partition is preferably substantially uniform. This allows the entire partition to be heated more uniformly. This simplifies the structure of the partition and facilitates high-precision manufacturing. The uniform thickness here includes a substantially uniform thickness. The thickness of the partition is, for example, 0.04 mm or more and 1.00 mm or less, preferably 0.04 mm or more and 0.50 mm or less, and more preferably 0.05 mm or more and 0.10 mm or less.

[0012] The partition may have a cylindrical member with or without a bottom. The partition may have a bottom. Alternatively, the heating unit for a flavor inhaler may have an abutment inside or outside the partition against which a consumable having a smokable substance (hereinafter simply referred to as a consumable) inserted into the storage part of the partition abuts. The bottom or abutment preferably supports a part of the consumable so that at least a part of the end face of the consumable is exposed. The bottom or abutment of the partition may have a convex part or a groove part. The bottom or abutment of the partition may have a hole for taking air into the partition. The partition may be made of, for example, a metal with high thermal conductivity such as stainless steel, a heat-resistant resin, or paper. The partition may be, for example, a cylindrical container with a bottom or a cylindrical body without a bottom, and may be cylindrical or rectangular.

[0013] The compartment may include a susceptor. In this case, the heating section includes a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surface of the compartment, and the first heat insulating section is preferably magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). Here, "non-conductive" includes substantially non-conductive. This provides an IH (induction heating) assembly with an integrated and stable structure.

[0014] The side surface of the partition may include a susceptor. This allows the partition to receive energy from the induction coil (magnetic lines of force generated around the induction coil) more efficiently than when only the bottom of the partition includes a susceptor. More specifically, the side surface of the partition may include a tubular susceptor surrounding the accommodation section and have a current path surrounding the accommodation section. This allows an annular current path to be formed, so that eddy currents can be generated efficiently. Also, the side surface of the partition may be made of a susceptor and have a current path surrounding the accommodation section. In this case, since the side surface of the partition itself is made of a susceptor, the partition can have a simple and inexpensive configuration.

[0015] As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to a material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat, and is intended to heat a "smokable material." The susceptor is positioned such that it can transfer heat to the "smokable material." When the susceptor is placed within a varying electromagnetic field, eddy currents induced within the susceptor and magnetic hysteresis losses within the susceptor cause the susceptor to heat.

[0016] The susceptor is made of aluminum, iron, nickel, and their alloys (e.g., nichrome and sintered steel). It is preferable that the material includes at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel. The shape of the susceptor is arbitrary, and may be, for example, granular, rod-like, strip-like, tubular, or cylindrical. If the shape of the susceptor is tubular having a ring-shaped electrical flow path, eddy currents can be generated efficiently. A plurality of susceptors of the same shape may be arranged in the partition, or susceptors of different shapes may be arranged.

[0017] In this specification, "having magnetic permeability" refers to a relative magnetic permeability greater than 1 and less than 1.000001. Examples of materials that are magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating) include glass, plants, wood, paper, resins such as PEEK, and the like.

[0018] The bottom of the compartment is preferably made of a material that is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). If the bottom of the compartment has a susceptor, the tip of the smokable material may be locally overheated. Therefore, by making the bottom of the compartment out of the above material, induction heating does not occur at the bottom of the compartment, and the smokable material can be heated more uniformly from the side than when the bottom includes a susceptor.

[0019] In addition, the heating unit for the flavor inhaler preferably has a second insulating part between the partition part and the induction coil. In this case, the second insulating part may have magnetic permeability and non-conductivity (electrical insulation). Here, "having non-conductivity" includes having substantially non-conductivity. This provides an IH (induction heating) assembly with an integrated and stable structure. In addition, at least one of the following effects is achieved. The second insulating part reduces the transfer of heat from the susceptor to the sheath of the Litz wire that may constitute the induction coil. Since the second insulating part suppresses the transfer of heat from the susceptor to the induction coil, it is possible to make it difficult for heat to move from the accommodation part to the outside. It is possible to reduce overheating of the housing due to the heat of the susceptor. In addition, since the second insulating part has magnetic permeability and non-conductivity (electrical insulation), heat is unlikely to be generated in the second insulating part, and it is possible to efficiently heat the susceptor arranged inside the second insulating part by the magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil.

[0020] The first and second heat insulating sections have the same configuration. This allows the heating unit for the flavor inhaler to be simpler and less expensive than when the first and second heat insulating sections have different configurations. At least one of the first and second heat insulating sections may have a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil. That is, the first heat insulating section may have a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil, and the second heat insulating section may have a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil. This allows the position of the induction coil in the longitudinal direction to be fixed, enabling stable induction heating. Both the first and second heat insulating sections may have a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil. This allows the position of the induction coil in the longitudinal direction to be further fixed, enabling more stable induction heating.

[0021] The first and second insulating parts may be integrated into an insulating part. This allows the insulating structure of the flavor inhaler heating unit to be simplified. The induction coil is embedded in the integrated insulating part, or at least the inner and outer sides of the induction coil are Both sides may be partially covered with an integral heat insulating part. This allows the induction coil to be firmly fixed in position. The second heat insulating part may be in contact with both the partition part and the induction coil. This allows the heating unit for the flavor inhaler to have a more stable structure than when the second heat insulating part is not in contact with either the partition part or the induction coil.

[0022] At least one of the first and second insulating sections has air and a support section that maintains a predetermined distance between the heating section and the partition section when the heating section is fixed to the partition section, or limits the movement of the air contained in the first and second insulating sections, and has air between the support sections. That is, the first insulating section may have the above-mentioned support section and air provided between the support sections, the second insulating section may have the above-mentioned support section and air provided between the support sections, or the first and second insulating sections may have the above-mentioned support section and air provided between the support sections. This makes it possible to more effectively insulate the heat emitted from the resistance heating section, the susceptor, etc., for heating the smokable material. The thickness of at least one of the first and second insulating sections may be, for example, 0.10 mm or more and 3.00 mm or less, 0.30 mm or more and 1.50 mm or less, or 0.50 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. That is, the thickness of the first heat insulating part may be 0.10 mm to 3.00 mm, 0.30 mm to 1.50 mm, or 0.50 mm to 1.0 mm, the thickness of the second heat insulating part may be 0.10 mm to 3.00 mm, 0.30 mm to 1.50 mm, or 0.50 mm to 1.0 mm, and the thickness of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part may be 0.10 mm to 3.00 mm, 0.30 mm to 1.50 mm, or 0.50 mm to 1.0 mm. This makes it possible to reduce the space required for arranging the first heat insulating part or the second heat insulating part while maintaining the desired heat insulating performance. The thermal conductivity of at least one of the support parts of the first heat insulating part or the second heat insulating part is preferably 0.300 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.100 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less.That is, it can be said that the thermal conductivity of the support part of the first heat insulating part is preferably 0.300 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.100 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, the thermal conductivity of the support part of the second heat insulating part is preferably 0.300 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.100 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, and the thermal conductivity of the support parts of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is preferably 0.300 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.100 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less. This can reduce the thermal conductivity of the first heat insulating part or the second heat insulating part.

[0023] The thermal conductivity of at least one of the first and second insulating parts is preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.026 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W / m / K or less. In other words, it can be said that the thermal conductivity of the first insulating part is preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.026 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W / m / K or less, and that the thermal conductivity of the second insulating part is preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.026 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W / m / K or less, and that the thermal conductivity of the first insulating part and the second insulating part is preferably 0.050 W / m / K or less, more preferably 0.026 W / m / K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W / m / K or less. This makes it possible to more effectively insulate the heat for heating the smokable material emitted from the resistance heating section, susceptor, etc. The thermal conductivity of at least one of the first insulating section or the second insulating section can vary depending on, for example, the thickness of the first insulating section or the second insulating section, the thermal conductivity of the supporting section, the shape or volume of the supporting section, the volume of air provided between the supporting sections, etc.

[0024] At least one of the support parts of the first insulation part or the second insulation part may be, for example, a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc. That is, the support part of the first insulation part may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc., the support part of the second insulation part may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc., and the support parts of the first insulation part and the second insulation part may be a fiber. The support may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven fabric, a porous body, or the like. At least one of the support parts of the first insulation part or the second insulation part may be made of any material that can exhibit the desired insulation performance, and may be made of, for example, ceramic, glass, aerogel, a plant, wood, paper, or the like. That is, the support part of the first insulation part may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, a plant, wood, paper, or the like, the support part of the second insulation part may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, a plant, wood, paper, or the like, the support part of the first insulation part and the second insulation part may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, a plant, wood, paper, or the like. At least one of the support parts of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is preferably flexible. That is, it can be said that the support part of the first insulation part is preferably flexible, it can be said that the support part of the second insulation part is preferably flexible, and it can be said that the support parts of the first insulation part and the second insulation part are preferably flexible. This makes it easy to assemble the first insulation section or the second insulation section, and allows it to be assembled into compartments of various shapes. At least one of the support sections of the first insulation section or the second insulation section can be made of any material that can exhibit the desired insulation performance, and can be made of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-shaped ceramic fibers such as sheet-shaped glass fibers, glass wool, Super Wool (registered trademark), rock wool, mineral wool, or the like. In other words, the support part of the first insulation part may be composed of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-shaped ceramic fibers such as sheet-shaped glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, mineral wool, etc.; the support part of the second insulation part may be composed of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-shaped ceramic fibers such as sheet-shaped glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, mineral wool, etc.; and the support parts of the first insulation part and the second insulation part may be composed of, for example, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-shaped ceramic fibers such as sheet-shaped glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, mineral wool, etc.Other examples of ceramic fibers include carbon fibers, alumina fibers, silicon carbide fibers, etc. Examples of materials that make up the fibers of metal fibers include metals, alloys, metals or alloys coated with organic compound resins such as plastics, and non-metallic cores completely covered with metals or alloys. Examples of metals that make up metals or alloys include aluminum, stainless steel, and iron. Examples of organic compound fibers include. Examples of the material include a fiber made of a highly heat-resistant material such as PEEK. When at least the support part is made of ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, it is expected to have the effect of reducing radiant heat transfer from the area that becomes hot due to the heat generated by the resistance heating part, the susceptor, etc. for heating the smokable material.

[0025] The air volume ratio of at least one of the first insulation section or the second insulation section is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% ​​or more, and most preferably 80% or more. It is also preferably 95% or less. In other words, it can be said that the air volume ratio of the first insulation section is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% ​​or more, most preferably 80% or more, and preferably 95% or less, and that the air volume ratio of the second insulation section is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% ​​or more, most preferably 80% or more, and preferably 95% or less, and that the air volume ratio of the first insulation section and the second insulation section is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% ​​or more, most preferably 80% or more, and preferably 95% or less. The "air volume ratio" refers to the ratio of the volume of air to the volume of the support section and air. By setting the air volume ratio within these value ranges, it becomes easier to obtain an appropriate compressive stress of the insulation section while maintaining higher insulation performance.

[0026] The compressive stress of at least one of the support parts of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable.2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following is most preferred: The compressive stress of the support part of the insulation part is 0.1N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the most preferable value is 0.1N / mm. 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is most preferable, and the compressive stress of the first insulation part and the second insulation part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following can be said to be the most preferable. This can suppress changes in the shape of the first insulating section or the second insulating section even when the first insulating section or the second insulating section is fixed, for example, by pressure applied by the fixing section, and can reduce a decrease in the insulating function caused by a decrease in the volume of air contained in the insulating section. In addition, the first insulating section or the second insulating section can maintain an appropriate flexibility, improving the ease of arrangement of the first insulating section or the second insulating section.

[0027] In addition, when at least one of the first and second insulating parts is a sheet, the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the insulating sheet is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2The most preferable value is 0.1 N / mm. In other words, the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm. 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is the most preferable, and the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the second heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is the most preferable, and the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is more preferable. 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following can be said to be the most preferable. This can suppress changes in the shape of the first insulating section or the second insulating section even when the first insulating section or the second insulating section is fixed, for example, by the fixing section under pressure in the thickness direction of the insulating sheet, and can suppress a decrease in the insulating function caused by a decrease in the volume of air contained in the insulating section. In addition, the first insulating section or the second insulating section can maintain an appropriate flexibility, improving the ease of arrangement of the first insulating section or the second insulating section.

[0028] The density of the air provided between the support parts of at least one of the first and second insulating parts is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first and second insulating parts. In other words, it can be said that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the first insulating part is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first insulating part, that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the second insulating part is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the second insulating part, and that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the first and second insulating parts is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first and second insulating parts. This allows the first and second insulating parts to have more uniform insulation performance. Here, uniform includes being substantially uniform. The thickness direction of the first and second insulating parts can be said to be a direction perpendicular to the side of the partition part, a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the partition part, or a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the smokable material into the partition part.

[0029] It is preferable that the density of the air provided between the support parts of at least one of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is uniform in the width direction of the first insulation part or the second insulation part. In other words, it can be said that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the first insulation part is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first insulation part, it can be said that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the second insulation part is preferably uniform in the width direction of the second insulation part, and it can be said that the density of the air provided between the support parts of the first insulation part and the second insulation part is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first insulation part or the second insulation part. This makes it possible for the first insulation part or the second insulation part to be more It can have uniform heat insulating performance. Here, uniform includes substantially uniform. The width direction of the first heat insulating section or the second heat insulating section can be referred to as the direction parallel to the side surface of the partition, or the longitudinal direction of the partition, or the direction in which the smokable material is inserted into the partition.

[0030] The fixing portion may be a biasing portion that biases the heating portion toward the partition portion. The biasing portion may be, for example, a ring or sheet that shrinks when heated, or an elastic ring or elastic sheet made of rubber or the like. The biasing portion is preferably configured to be heat-shrinkable. This allows the biasing portion to fix the heating portion more reliably, and also simplifies assembly, since the fixing portion in an unshrinked state can be placed in a predetermined position and then the fixing portion can be contracted to fix the heating portion. The biasing portion is configured to be biased in the longitudinal direction of the partition portion (toward the partition portion) while covering the partition portion and the heating portion. It is preferable that the contraction rate is higher in the circumferential direction of the partition (which may be referred to as the circumferential direction about the longitudinal direction of the partition) than in the insertion direction of the smokable material. It is more preferable that the urging portion is heat-shrunk only in the longitudinal direction of the partition portion. Since the urging portion does not heat-shrunk in the longitudinal direction of the partition portion, the range in the longitudinal direction of the partition portion where the fixing portion can be fixed is not reduced, so that the heating portion can be fixed more reliably. The heat-resistant temperature of the urging portion is determined by taking into consideration the flexibility of the urging portion (the heat-resistant temperature). Materials with too high a heat temperature may become ceramics, etc., which may cause problems in terms of flexibility. For example, 150°C to 300°C, 150°C to 270°C, or 150°C to 270°C. The temperature may be selected from those having a temperature of 30°C or less.

[0031] The biasing portion may be a sheet member or a string member (which may be wound into a ring shape). The biasing portion may be made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyurethane, nylon, polyvinyl formal, polyvinyl butyral, polyimide (PI), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), gelatin, and polysaccharides. The biasing portion is preferably made of polyimide.

[0032] The flavor inhaler heating unit may further include an electromagnetic shield between the fixed part and the induction coil. The electromagnetic shield may include, for example, Ni-Zi ferrite.

[0033] The induction coil may be composed of a single wire, but from the viewpoint of effective heat generation, it may be a helical Litz wire. The Litz wire has a core made of metal and a sheath portion made of an electrical insulator that covers the core. The single wire or the core of the Litz wire preferably contains at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, and alloys thereof such as stainless steel. The sheath portion of the Litz wire may be, for example, polyimide or polyester. The heat resistance temperature of the sheath portion is determined taking into consideration the flexibility of the sheath portion (a member with a heat resistance temperature that is too high will be made of ceramics or the like, which is flexible). Problems may arise from the viewpoint of temperature. For example, 150°C to 300°C, 150°C to 2 The temperature may be selected from 70°C or lower, or from 150°C to 230°C.

[0034] The induction coil may be wound in a helical (three-dimensional spiral) or spiral (two-dimensional vortex) shape. The shape of the induction coil may be cylindrical (helical coil or The induction coil may be a bent spiral coil, or it may be flat. The induction coil may be adjacent to the partition, may surround the partition, or may protrude into the partition, but by being arranged to surround the partition, energy can be efficiently supplied to the heat generating portion of the partition. There may be one or more induction coils. As an example of a configuration surrounding the partition, the induction coil may be configured in a helical shape to surround the partition, may be configured by curving a spiral coil to surround the partition, or may have multiple planar coils surrounding the partition, but by configuring it in a helical shape to surround the partition, a simple configuration can be achieved and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0035] The frequency applied to the induction coil is preferably between about 80 kHz and 500 kHz. Preferably, the frequency is about 150 kHz or more and 250 kHz or less, more preferably 190 kHz or more and 210 kHz or less. Alternatively, the frequency applied to the induction coil can be 1 MHz or more and 30 MHz or less, preferably 2 MHz or more and 10 MHz or less, and more preferably 5 MHz or more and 7 MHz or less. These frequencies may be determined in consideration of the properties such as the material and shape of the susceptor.

[0036] The flavor inhaler heating unit may be arranged to operate in a varying electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of up to about 0.5 Tesla (T) or more and up to 2.0 Tesla (T).

[0037] The solid smokable material may be wrapped in a breathable first wrapping paper. The first wrapping paper may be provided with a breathable lid that prevents the smokable material from falling out. The lid may be attached to the first wrapping paper with glue or may be fixed to the first wrapping paper by friction. The lid may be, for example, a paper filter or an acetate filter. The consumable may include a tubular member. The tubular member may be a paper tube or a hollow filter.

[0038] The hollow filter may be composed of a packed bed having one or more hollow channels and a plug wrapper covering the packed bed. The packed bed has a high fiber packing density, so that air or aerosol flows only through the hollow channels during inhalation, and hardly flows through the packed bed. The hollow filter may have a mouthpiece composed of adjacent filter parts, etc.

[0039] The longitudinal length of the solid smokable material is preferably 40 mm to 90 mm, more preferably 50 mm to 75 mm, and even more preferably 50 mm to 60 mm. The circumference of the solid smokable material is preferably 15 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 17 mm to 24 mm, and even more preferably 20 mm to 23 mm. The length of the solid smokable material may be 12 mm to 22 mm, the length of the first cigarette paper 12 mm to 22 mm, the length of the hollow filter portion 7 mm to 26 mm, and the length of the filter portion 6 mm to 20 mm.

[0040] The smokable material contained in the consumable may contain an aerosol source that generates an aerosol when heated at a predetermined temperature. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and various extracts from natural products and / or their constituents may be selected depending on the application. Examples of the aerosol source include glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. The content of the aerosol source in the solid smokable material (% by weight relative to the total weight of the smokable material) is not particularly limited, but is usually 5% by weight or more, preferably 10% by weight or more, and usually 50% by weight or less, preferably 20% by weight or less, from the viewpoint of generating a sufficient aerosol and imparting a good smoking flavor.

[0041] As the solid smokable substance, tobacco such as lamina or backbone, or other known plants may be used as a flavor source. The shape of the flavor source such as tobacco may be shredded, sheet-like, string-like, powdery, granular, pellet-like, slurry-like, or porous. The content range of the smokable substance such as tobacco in the consumable product is, for example, 200 mg to 400 mg, and preferably 250 mg to 320 mg, when the size of the smokable substance is 20 mm to 23 mm in circumference and 18 mm to 22 mm in length. The moisture content (weight % relative to the weight of the entire smokable substance) of the smokable substance containing tobacco as a flavor source is, for example, 8 wt % to 18 wt %, and preferably 10 wt % to 16 wt %. Such a moisture content suppresses the occurrence of rolling stains and improves the suitability for rolling during production. There are no particular limitations on the size of the tobacco shreds used as an example of the smokable substance and the preparation method thereof. For example, dried tobacco leaves shredded to a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm may be used. In addition, dried tobacco leaves are crushed to an average particle size of about 20 μm to 200 μm and homogenized, and then sheet-formed. The smokable substance may be made by processing the smokable substance into a sheet, which is then cut into pieces having a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. The smokable substance may be made by gathering the sheet without cutting it into pieces. The smokable substance may be in a liquid state, and the liquid may have viscosity. In this case, the smokable substance may be mostly made up of the aerosol source. The content of the aerosol source in the liquid smokable substance (weight % relative to the weight of the entire smokable substance) may be 80% by weight or more, 90% by weight or more, or 95% by weight or more. The smokable substance may contain one or more flavorings. The type of flavoring is not particularly limited, but menthol is preferred from the viewpoint of imparting a good smoking taste.

[0042] The consumable product may have a second cigarette paper different from the first cigarette paper, which wraps at least one of the tubular member, the hollow filter portion, and the filter portion. The second cigarette paper may wrap a part of the first cigarette paper which wraps the smokable material. The first cigarette paper and the second cigarette paper of the consumable product may be made from base paper having a basis weight of, for example, 20 gsm to 65 gsm. The thickness of the first cigarette paper and the second cigarette paper is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 μm to 100 μm from the viewpoints of rigidity, breathability, and ease of adjustment during papermaking.

[0043] The first and second cigarette papers for consumables may contain a filler. The content of the filler may be 10% by weight to 60% by weight, preferably 15% by weight to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the first and second cigarette papers. For the preferred basis weight range (25 gsm to 45 gsm), the filler is preferably 15% by weight to 45% by weight. Examples of the filler that can be used include calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, and kaolin. Paper containing such a filler exhibits a bright white color that is preferable from the viewpoint of appearance when used as cigarette papers for consumables, and can permanently maintain its whiteness. By containing a large amount of such a filler, for example, the ISO whiteness of the cigarette paper can be 83% or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of practical use as cigarette papers for consumables, the first and second cigarette papers preferably have a tensile strength of 8N / 15mm or more. This tensile strength can be increased by reducing the content of the filler. Specifically, the tensile strength can be increased by reducing the filler content below the upper limit of the filler content shown in each of the basis weight ranges exemplified above.

[0044] In addition, in the first embodiment, features of other embodiments can be combined or applied as long as the functions and effects of the first embodiment are not impaired.

[0045] According to a second aspect, a flavor inhaler is provided. The flavor inhaler has the flavor inhaler heating unit described above and an external insulation part. The external insulation part is disposed between the fixed part and the housing. As a result, the flavor inhaler has the first insulation part of the flavor inhaler heating unit and the external insulation part, and therefore it is possible to improve the heating efficiency of the smokable substance and suppress the temperature rise of the housing. In other words, the first insulation part keeps the partition warm in a position where the space is relatively small and close to the heating part, and the external insulation part reduces overheating of the outer surface of the housing in a position where the space is relatively large and far from the heating part.

[0046] The flavor inhaler is preferably a portable device or a handheld device. The outer insulation part is preferably thicker than the first insulation part. This can improve the insulation effect. The thickness here refers to the thickness in a direction perpendicular to the side surface of the partition part. The outer insulation part is disposed so as to cover at least the entire main surface of the first insulation part. This can improve the insulation effect.

[0047] The external insulation may include, for example, a case that defines an interior space. The case may be constructed, for example, of a metal, such as stainless steel, or a synthetic resin, such as plastic. The interior space may be, for example, evacuated or filled with an insulating material, such as aerogel. In particular, when aerogel insulation is combined with a first insulation, such as a ceramic fiber, such as fiberglass, the first insulation may act as a heat source. Since the radiant heat from the first insulating part can be reduced before it reaches the aerogel insulating material, which is the external insulating part, even an aerogel insulating material with low insulating performance against radiant heat can effectively contribute to insulation. In this case, the emissivity of the first insulating part is preferably 0.7 or more, and more preferably 0.9 or more. By selecting the emissivity from the above range, the transmittance is reduced, so that the radiant heat transfer from the part where the heat for heating the smokable substance with the highest temperature in the flavor inhaler is generated can be effectively suppressed. In other words, by combining the external insulating part made of an insulating material such as an aerogel insulating material with low insulating performance against radiant heat with the first insulating part with an emissivity of preferably 0.7 or more, more preferably 0.9 or more, a synergistic insulating effect that complements each other can be expected.

[0048] In addition, in the second embodiment, the features of the other embodiments can be combined or applied as long as the functions and effects of the second embodiment are not impaired.

[0049] According to a third aspect, there is provided a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable substance to atomize the smokable substance. The flavor inhaler has a partition having an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, a heating section that heats the partition, a housing that accommodates the partition and the heating section, an insulating section disposed between the side surface of the partition and the housing, and an external insulating section disposed between the insulating section and the housing. The smokable substance may be a solid smokable substance. As a result, since the flavor inhaler has the insulating section and the external insulating section, it is possible to improve the heating efficiency of the smokable substance and suppress the temperature rise of the housing. In other words, the insulating section keeps the partition warm at a position where the space is relatively small and close to the heating section, and the external insulating section reduces overheating of the outer surface of the housing at a position where the space is relatively large and far from the heating section.

[0050] When the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition and the inner surface of the housing is A, it is preferable that the heat insulating section is disposed within a range of A / 5, preferably A / 10, and more preferably A / 20 from the outer surface of the partition, so that the partition can be efficiently kept warm.

[0051] If the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition and the inner surface of the housing is taken as A, the external insulation is preferably disposed at a distance of 5A / 6 or more, preferably 4A / 6 or more, more preferably 3A / 6 or more from the outer surface of the partition, thereby making it possible to more efficiently prevent overheating of the outer surface of the housing.

[0052] In addition, in the third aspect, the features of the other aspects can be combined or applied as long as the action and effect of the third aspect is not impaired.

[0053] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable substance to atomize the smokable substance. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler has an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, a partition section that partitions a storage section that receives the smokable substance, a heating section that heats the partition section, and a second insulating section disposed between the partition section and the heating section. The partition section includes a susceptor. The heating section is a cylindrical induction coil that surrounds the side surface of the partition section. The second insulating section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The smokable substance may be a solid smokable substance. Here, "non-conductive" includes substantially non-conductive.

[0054] According to the fourth aspect, an IH (induction heating) assembly having an integrated and stable structure is provided. Also, the second insulating section reduces the transfer of heat from the susceptor to the sheath of the Litz wire that may form the induction coil. Furthermore, since the second insulating section suppresses the transfer of heat from the susceptor to the induction coil, the heat from the susceptor is reduced from being absorbed by the induction coil, and as a result, it is possible to make it difficult for heat to move from the accommodation section to the outside. Similarly, it is possible to reduce overheating of the housing due to the heat from the susceptor. Since the second insulating section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating), the second insulating section is highly heat-resistant and highly heat-resistant. Heat generation is unlikely to occur in the heat insulating section, and the susceptor disposed inside the second heat insulating section can be efficiently heated by the magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil.

[0055] In addition, in the fourth aspect, the features of the other aspects can be combined or applied as long as the action and effect of the fourth aspect is not impaired.

[0056] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable substance to atomize the smokable substance. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler has an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, and includes a partition section that partitions a storage section that receives the smokable substance, a heating section that heats the partition section, and a second insulating section disposed between the partition section and the heating section. The second insulating section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The partition section includes a susceptor. The heating section is a cylindrical induction coil that surrounds the side surface of the partition section. The second insulating section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). Here, "non-conductive" includes being substantially non-conductive. The smokable substance may be a solid smokable substance.

[0057] According to the fifth aspect, the partition is induction-heated by the heating unit, but the second insulating unit can reduce the transfer of heat from the partition to the heating unit. In addition, in the fifth aspect, the heating unit for the flavor inhaler may have an external insulating unit as necessary. This can reduce the temperature rise of the housing. In addition, in the fifth aspect, the heating unit for the flavor inhaler may have an electromagnetic shield as necessary.

[0058] In addition, in the fifth aspect, the features of the other aspects can be combined or applied as long as the action and effect of the fifth aspect is not impaired.

[0059] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable substance to atomize the smokable substance. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler has an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, and includes a partition section that partitions a storage section that receives the smokable substance, a heating section that heats a susceptor disposed in the storage section, and a fixing section that fixes the heating section to the partition section. The partition section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The heating section is a cylindrical induction coil that surrounds the side surface of the partition section. The smokable substance may be a solid smokable substance. The partition section may be made of a resin material such as PEEK.

[0060] According to the sixth aspect, an IH (induction heating) assembly having an integrated and stable structure is provided. In addition, since the heating part is configured to heat the susceptor disposed in the housing part, heat from the susceptor can be reduced from being released from the housing part.

[0061] In addition, in the sixth aspect, the features of the other aspects can be combined or applied as long as the action and effect of the sixth aspect is not impaired. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0062] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a flavor inhaler according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first heat insulating part. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the external insulation part. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the heating unit for a flavor inhaler in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a flavor inhaler according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a first heat insulating section and a second heat insulating section. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of the flavor inhaler according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing yet another example of the flavor inhaler according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a flavor inhaler according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0063] First Embodiment Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a flavor inhaler 100 according to a first embodiment. The flavor inhaler 100 is preferably a portable device or a handheld device. As shown in FIG. 1, the flavor inhaler 100 has a battery 10, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 20, a flavor inhaler heating unit 40, and a housing 102.

[0064] The flavor inhaler heating unit 40 is configured to heat a solid smokable material 30 to atomize the smokable material. The smokable material 30 constitutes a part of a consumable product 31 having a columnar shape extending along a longitudinal direction, for example. The consumable product 31 may be, for example, a tobacco stick in which the smokable material includes tobacco. The battery 10 stores power used by the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the battery 10 is a lithium ion battery. The battery 10 may be rechargeable by an external power source.

[0065] The PCB 20 is composed of a CPU, memory, etc., and controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the PCB 20 starts heating the smokable material 30 in response to a user's operation on an input device such as a push button or slide switch (not shown), and stops heating the smokable material 30 after a certain period of time has elapsed. If the number of puffing actions by the user exceeds a certain value, the PCB 20 may stop heating the smokable material 30 even before the certain period of time has elapsed since the start of heating the smokable material 30. For example, the puffing action is detected by a sensor (not shown).

[0066] Alternatively, the PCB 20 may start heating the smokable material 30 in response to the start of a puffing action, and end heating the smokable material 30 in response to the end of a puffing action. The PCB 20 may end heating the smokable material 30 even before the end of a puffing action, if a certain time has elapsed since the start of a puffing action. In this embodiment, the PCB 20 is disposed between the battery 10 and the flavor inhaler heating unit 40.

[0067] In the illustrated example, the flavor inhaler 100 is configured to receive a stick-shaped smokable material 30. Also, as illustrated, the battery 10, the PCB 20, and the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 may be arranged in a lateral direction, i.e., a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the smokable material 30 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 100. The housing 102 is a housing that houses the battery 10, the PCB 20, and the flavor inhaler heating unit 40.

[0068] The heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler has a partition section 50, a heating section 60, a first insulating section 70, and a fixing section 80. As shown in the figure, the heating section 60 is disposed on the outer surface of the partition section 50, and the first insulating section 70 is disposed between the heating section 60 and the fixing section 80. When assembling the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler, first, the heating section 60 is wrapped around the outer surface of the partition section 50, and the first insulating section 70 is then wrapped around the outside of the heating section 60. Next, the fixing section 80 is wrapped around the outer surface of the heating section 60.

[0069] The partition 50 has an opening 51 and a side surface 52 surrounding the opening 51, and defines a storage section 53 for receiving the smokable material 30. In the illustrated example, the partition 50 is a tubular member having a bottom 55. The bottom 55 preferably supports the smokable material 30 such that at least a portion of an end surface of the smokable material 30 is exposed. In the illustrated example, the bottom 55 is provided with a support 53 for allowing air to flow into the storage section 53. A hole 54 is provided for intake of smokable material 30, exposing a portion of the end face of smokable material 30. Hole 54 communicates with air flow passage 102a formed in housing 102, and air flow passage 102a communicates with the outside of housing 102. Compartment 50 of the first embodiment may be made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel.

[0070] The heating section 60 is configured to heat the partition section 50. The heating section 60 is, for example, a resistive heating section, and can heat the partition section 50 by thermal conduction. In the first embodiment, the heating section 60 is a film heater. Specifically, the heating section 60 may have a structure in which an insulating layer 61 made of an electrically insulating material and a heating layer 62 made of a heating track are stacked. The heating section 60 may be composed of only a heating track. The insulating layer 61 is arranged to cover at least one side of the heating section 60, and preferably to cover both sides of the heating section 60.

[0071] The first heat insulating section 70 is disposed so as to contact both the heating section 60 and the fixing section 80. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first heat insulating section 70. As shown in FIG. 2, the first heat insulating section 70 can have a support section 71 that maintains a predetermined distance between the heating section 60 and the partition section 50 when the heating section 60 is fixed to the partition section 50, and air 72 provided between the support section 71. That is, the first heat insulating section 70 can have a support section 71 having an air layer therein. In addition, it is preferable that the support section 71 of the first heat insulating section 70 has flexibility. Specifically, for example, the support section 71 of the first heat insulating section 70 can be made of glass fiber, and further can be a sheet-like glass fiber.

[0072] The density of the air 72 provided between the support parts 71 of the first insulation section 70 is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first insulation section 70. In addition, the density of the air 72 provided between the support parts 71 of the first insulation section 70 is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first insulation section 70.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 1, the heating section 60 has a main surface parallel to the side surface 52 of the partition section 50, and the first insulating section 70 is preferably arranged to extend along the main surface of the heating section 60. More preferably, the first insulating section 70 covers the entire heating section 60 in the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50 (the insertion direction of the smokable material 30). Moreover, the first insulating section 70 is preferably arranged to cover the entire main surface of the heating section 60 along the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50 in a direction perpendicular to the side surface 52 of the partition section 50. Moreover, the first insulating section 70 is preferably arranged to cover the main surface of the heating section 60 along the entire circumferential direction of the partition section 50. Therefore, it is most preferable that the first insulating section 70 is arranged to cover the entire main surface of the heating section 60.

[0074] The fixing part 80 is configured to fix the heating part 60 to the partition part 50. This allows the heating part 60 to be fixed in almost intimate contact with the outer surface of the partition part 50, further improving the heating efficiency and stabilizing the structure around the chamber 50. The fixing part 80 may be a biasing part 80 that biases the heating part 60 toward the partition part 50. The biasing part 80 may be, for example, a ring or sheet that shrinks due to heat, or an elastic ring or elastic sheet made of rubber or the like. The biasing part 80 is preferably configured to be thermally contractible. It is preferable that the biasing part 80 has a higher contraction rate in the circumferential direction of the partition part 50 than in the longitudinal direction when covering the partition part 50 and the heating part 60. It is more preferable that the biasing part 80 is thermally contractible only in the circumferential direction of the partition part 50.

[0075] In the first embodiment, the biasing portion 80 may be a sheet member. The biasing portion 80 is preferably made of polyimide.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the first heat insulating section 70 is provided between the fixing section 80 and the heating section 60, so that it is possible to suppress the transfer of heat from the heating section 60 to the fixing section 80. As a result, the temperature of the heating section 60 is made higher than in the past, and the smokable material 30 is heated to a higher temperature. This can contribute to an increase in the amount of aerosol produced and an improvement in flavor.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 1, the flavor inhaler 100 according to the first embodiment may further include an external insulation part 85. The external insulation part 85 is disposed between the fixed part 80 and the housing 102. Thus, the flavor inhaler 100 includes the first insulation part 70 of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 and the external insulation part 85. This improves the heating efficiency of the smokable substance 30 and suppresses the temperature rise of the housing 102. In other words, the first insulation part 70 keeps the partition part 50 warm at a position where the space is relatively small and close to the heating part 60, and the external insulation part 85 suppresses overheating of the outer surface of the housing 102, the PCB 20, and the battery 10 at a position where the space is relatively large and far from the heating part 60.

[0078] The external insulation section 85 is preferably thicker than the first insulation section 70. Moreover, the external insulation section 85 is preferably arranged so as to cover the entire main surface of the first insulation section 70 that is parallel to the side surface 52 of the partition section 50 in the direction perpendicular to the side surface 52 of the partition section 50, along the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50. Moreover, the external insulation section 85 is preferably arranged so as to cover the first insulation section 70 along the entire circumferential direction of the partition section 50.

[0079] Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the external insulation unit 85. As shown in Fig. 3, the external insulation unit 85 may include a case 86 that defines an interior space 87. The case 86 may be made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel, or a synthetic resin such as plastic. The interior space 87 may be, for example, evacuated or filled with an insulating material such as aerogel.

[0080] In FIG. 1, when the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition 50 and the inner surface of the housing 102 is A, the first insulating section 70 is located at a distance of A / 5, preferably A / 10, from the outer surface of the partition 50. More preferably, the partition is located within the range of A / 20. When the distance between the outer surface of the partition section 50 and the outer surface of the first insulation section 70 is L1, L1 is A / 5 or less, preferably A / 10 or less, and more preferably A / 20 or less. This allows the insulation of heat in the partition section 50 to be performed efficiently.

[0081] Moreover, it is preferable that the external insulation section 85 is disposed at a distance of 5A / 6 or more, preferably 4A / 6 or more, and more preferably 3A / 6 or more from the outer side surface of the partition section 50. In other words, when the distance between the outer side surface of the partition section 50 and the inner side surface of the external insulation section 85 is L2, L2 is 5A / 6 or more, preferably 4A / 6 or more, and more preferably 3A / 6 or more. This makes it possible to more efficiently prevent the outer surface of the housing 102 from being overheated.

[0082] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 in the first embodiment. In the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 shown in FIG. 1, the first heat insulating section 70 and the fixing section 80 are arranged only at positions corresponding to the main surface of the heating section 60. In contrast, in the example shown in FIG. 4, the first heat insulating section 70 also covers the end faces of the heating section 60. That is, in the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50, the first heat insulating section 70 is longer than the heating section 60 and covers both ends of the heating section 60. This makes it possible to more efficiently insulate the heat from the heating section 60. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the fixing section 80 may also cover the end faces of the first heat insulating section 70 and the heating section 60. That is, in the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50, the fixing section 80 is longer than the first heat insulating section 70 and the heating section 60 and covers both ends of the first heat insulating section 70 and the heating section 60. This enables the fixing portion 80 to fix the heating portion 60 to the partition portion 50 more reliably.

[0083] <Second embodiment> Next, a flavor inhaler 100 according to a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment. The flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler according to the first embodiment. The flavor inhaler heating unit 40 has a different configuration from the flavor inhaler 100 having the same configuration.

[0084] In the second embodiment, the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler has a partition section 50, a second insulating section 73, a heating section 60, a first insulating section 70, an electromagnetic shield 88, and a fixing section 80.

[0085] The heating section 60 of the second embodiment has a substantially cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surface 52 of the partition section 50. The partition section 50 may also include a susceptor. The susceptor may be disposed on the outer or inner surface of the partition section 50, or may be included in the side surface 52 constituting the partition section 50. In the illustrated example, the susceptor may be made of a metal such as stainless steel so that the side surface 52 of the partition section 50 is inductively heated by the heating section 60. This allows the partition section 50 to efficiently receive energy (magnetic field lines generated around the induction coil) from the heating section 60, compared to a case in which only the bottom portion 55 of the partition section 50 includes a susceptor. More specifically, the side surface 52 of the partition section 50 includes a tubular susceptor surrounding the storage section 53, and has a current path surrounding the storage section 53. This allows eddy currents to be efficiently generated since there is a ring-shaped current path.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bottom 55 of the partition 50 may be formed of a synthetic resin such as PEEK that is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). If the bottom 55 of the partition 50 has a susceptor, the tip of the smokable material 30 may be locally overheated. Therefore, since the bottom 55 of the partition 50 is formed of a material that is magnetically permeable and non-conductive, induction heating does not occur at the bottom 55 of the partition 50, and the smokable material 30 can be heated more uniformly from the side than when the bottom 55 includes a susceptor.

[0087] The first heat insulating section 70 is preferably magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The first heat insulating section 70 can protect the electromagnetic shield 88 and the fixed section 80 from the heat of the partition section 50. The second heat insulating section 73 can be magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). This provides an IH (induction heating) assembly having a stable configuration in which the components required for heating are arranged in layers around the partition section as an axis, and in which the components required for heating are integrated. Such a configuration may be advantageous for mass production of the IH assembly itself, as well as for mass production of a flavor inhaler incorporating the IH assembly. In addition, at least one of the following effects is achieved. The sheath of the Litz wire that can constitute the induction coil of the heating section 60 can be protected from the heat of the susceptor (side surface 52 of the partition section 50) by the second heat insulating section 73. The second heat insulating section 73 suppresses the transfer of heat from the susceptor (side surface 52 of the partition section 50) to the induction coil of the heating section 60, making it difficult for heat to move from the accommodation section 53 to the outside. It is possible to prevent the housing 102 from being overheated by the heat of the susceptor (side surface 52 of the partition section 50).

[0088] The first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73 have the same configuration. This allows the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler to be simpler and less expensive than when the first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73 have different configurations. FIG. 6 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73. As shown in FIG. 6, at least one of the first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73 may have a portion 70a, 73a located between adjacent wires of the induction coil of the heating section 60. This allows the position of the induction coil in the longitudinal direction to be fixed, and stable induction heating is possible. Both the first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73 may have a portion 70a, 73a located between adjacent wires of the induction coil. This allows the position of the induction coil in the longitudinal direction to be further fixed, and more stable induction heating is possible.

[0089] 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the first heat insulating section 70 and the second heat insulating section 73 form an integral heat insulating section 75. This can simplify the heat insulating structure of the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler. In this case, the induction coil of the heating part 60 may be embedded in the integral heat insulating part 75, or at least both the inside and outside of the induction coil may be partially covered with the integral heat insulating part 75. This can firmly fix the position of the induction coil.

[0090] In the second embodiment, the second heat insulating section 73 may be in contact with both the partition section 50 and the induction coil of the heating section 60. This allows the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler to have a more stable structure than when the second heat insulating section 73 is not in contact with either the partition section 50 or the induction coil.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, the second insulation section 73 may have a support section and air provided between the support sections, similar to the first insulation section 70. This allows for more effective insulation against heat from the susceptor (side surface 52 of partition section 50). In addition, it is preferable that the support section of the second insulation section 73 is flexible. This makes it easier to assemble the second insulation section 73, and allows it to be attached to partition sections 50 of various shapes. Specifically, for example, the support section of the second insulation section 73 may be made of glass fiber.

[0092] The density of the air provided between the support parts of the second insulation section 73 is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the second insulation section 73. In addition, the density of the air provided between the support parts of the second insulation section 73 is preferably uniform in the width direction of the second insulation section 73.

[0093] 5, the induction coil of the heating unit 60 may be disposed so as to surround the compartment 50. The induction coil of the heating unit 60 may be made of a single wire, but may also be a helical Litz wire from the viewpoint of effective heat generation.

[0094] The induction coil of the heating unit 60 is helical (three-dimensional spiral) or spiral (two-dimensional spiral). The shape of the induction coil may be cylindrical (a helical coil or a bent spiral coil) or planar. The coil may be adjacent to the partition section 50, may surround the partition section 50, or may protrude into the partition section 50, but by arranging the coil so as to surround the partition section 50, energy can be efficiently supplied to the heat generating portion of the partition section 50. There may be one or more induction coils. As an example of a configuration surrounding the partition section 50, the induction coil may be configured in a helical shape so as to surround the partition section 50, or may be configured by curving a spiral coil so as to surround the partition section 50, or may have multiple planar coils surrounding the partition section 50, but by configuring the induction coil in a helical shape so as to surround the partition section 50, a simple configuration can be achieved and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0095] The electromagnetic shield 88 disposed between the fixed portion 80 and the induction coil of the heating portion 60 may include, for example, Ni-Zi based ferrite.

[0096] According to the flavor inhaler 100 of the second embodiment shown in Fig. 5 or 7 described above, the heating section 60 including an induction coil can heat the side surface 52 of the partitioning section 50 by electromagnetic induction. At this time, the first insulating section 70 and the second insulating section 73 can suppress the transfer of heat from the side surface 52 of the partitioning section 50 to the fixed section 80 or the electromagnetic shield 88. This makes it possible to raise the temperature of the partitioning section 50 higher than before and heat the smokable material 30 to a higher temperature, which can contribute to an increase in the amount of aerosol generated and an improvement in flavor, etc.

[0097] The partition section 50 of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment has a susceptor in a storage section 53. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown, a pin-, blade-, or plate-shaped susceptor 90 is disposed in the storage section 53 of the partition section 50. The susceptor 90 is disposed so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the partition section 50. When the smokable material 30 is inserted and disposed at a desired position in the storage section 53, the susceptor 90 is inserted and positioned inside the smokable material 30. In this state, the susceptor 90 is inductively heated by the heating section 60, whereby the smokable material 30 can be heated.

[0098] 8, the partition 50 may be made of a synthetic resin such as PEEK that is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). This allows the energy from the heating unit 60 (magnetic lines of force generated around the induction coil) to be efficiently transmitted to the susceptor 90 without being absorbed by the partition 50.

[0099] 8, the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler does not necessarily have to include the second insulating section 73. This is because when the smokable material 30 is heated, the smokable material 30 is present between the susceptor 90 and the heating section 60, and therefore the transfer of heat from the susceptor 90 to the heating section 60 can be reduced.

[0100] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing yet another example of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler does not have a susceptor, but instead a susceptor 92 is provided inside the smokable material 30. The shape of the susceptor 92 is arbitrary, and for example, a granular, rod-shaped, strip-shaped, tubular, or cylindrical susceptor 92 may be disposed inside the smokable material 30. In the example shown in Fig. 9, similar to the example in Fig. 8, the partition 50 may be formed of a synthetic resin such as PEEK that is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating).

[0101] When smokable material 30 is placed at a desired position within housing 53, susceptor 92 is located inside the induction coil of heating unit 60. In this state, susceptor 92 is inductively heated by heating unit 60, thereby heating smokable material 30.

[0102] 9, similar to the example shown in Fig. 8, the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler does not necessarily have to include the second insulating section 73. This is because when the smokable material 30 is heated, the smokable material 30 is present between the susceptor 92 and the heating section 60, and therefore the transfer of heat from the susceptor 92 to the heating section 60 can be reduced.

[0103] <Third embodiment> Next, a flavor inhaler 100 according to a third embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the third embodiment. The flavor inhaler 100 according to the third embodiment is different from the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment shown in Fig. 5 in the configuration of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40. Specifically, in the third embodiment, the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not have a first insulating part 70 and a fixing part 80.

[0104] In the third embodiment, the side surface 52 of the partition section 50 is induction-heated by the heating section 60, but the second insulating section 73 can suppress the transfer of heat from the partition section 50 to the heating section 60. In the third embodiment, the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler may have an external insulating section 85 as necessary. This can reduce the temperature rise of the housing 102. In the third embodiment, the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler may have an electromagnetic shield 88 as necessary.

[0105] In the third embodiment, the second heat insulating section 73 is biased and fixed to the partition section 50 by the induction coil of the heating section 60. Therefore, the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 is fixed. Even if the fixing portion 80 is not provided, the second insulating portion 73 can be fixed to the outer surface of the partition portion 50.

[0106] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical ideas described in the specification and drawings. Any shape or material not directly described in the specification and drawings is within the scope of the technical ideas of the present invention as long as it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention. In addition, the shape, degree, etc. expressed in the specification as at least "substantially" is not limited to only "strictly the shape, degree, etc." but is intended to include "at least the shape, degree, etc. within the range of achieving the intended effect." [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 30: Smokeable substances 40: Heating unit for flavor inhaler 50: Partition 51 :Aperture 52: Side 53: Storage unit 60: Heating part 70: First insulation section 71: Support part 72: Air 73: Second insulation section 75: Insulation section 80: Fixed part, biasing part 85: External insulation section 88: Electromagnetic shielding 90: Susceptor 92: Susceptor 100: Flavor aspirator 102: Housing

Claims

1. A heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable material to atomize the smokable material, a partition having an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, the partition defining a storage section for receiving the smokable material; A heating unit that heats the partition portion; A fixing portion that fixes the heating portion to the partition portion; A heating unit for a flavor inhaler, comprising: a first insulating part disposed between the heating part and the fixing part.

2. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to claim 1, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the heating section is disposed on an outer surface of a partition section.

3. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, The heating section has a main surface parallel to the side surface of the partition section, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the first insulation section is arranged so as to cover the entire main surface of the heating section in a direction perpendicular to the side surface of the partition section.

4. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the heating unit is a film heater.

5. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The compartment includes a susceptor, the heating section includes a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surface of the partition section, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the first insulating part is magnetically permeable and non-conductive.

6. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to claim 5, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the side surface of the partition portion is formed of the susceptor, and the heating unit has a current path surrounding the storage portion.

7. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to claim 5 or 6, a second heat insulating portion between the partition portion and the induction coil; The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the second insulating portion is magnetically permeable and non-conductive.

8. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The first insulation portion has a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil.

9. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The first insulation section has air and a support section that maintains a predetermined distance between the heating section and the partition section when the heating section is fixed to the partition section, and the heating unit for a flavor inhaler has the air between the support sections.

10. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the support portion of the first insulating portion is made of glass fiber.

11. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the thickness of the first insulating part is 0.10 mm or more and 3.00 mm or less.

12. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 5 to 11, A heating unit for a flavor inhaler, comprising an electromagnetic shield between the fixed part and the induction coil.

13. The heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The fixing portion is a biasing portion that biases the heating portion toward the partition portion.

14. A heating unit for a flavor inhaler that heats a smokable material to atomize the smokable material, a partition having an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, the partition defining a storage section for receiving the smokable material; A heating unit that heats the partition portion; A second insulation section is disposed between the partition section and the heating section, The second heat insulating portion is magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive, the compartment includes a susceptor; the heating portion is a cylindrical induction coil surrounding a side surface of the partition portion, The heating unit for a flavor inhaler, wherein the second insulating part is magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive.

15. A heating unit for a flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and an outer insulating part disposed between the fixing part and a housing.

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