Smoking system

Abstract

To provide a smoking system that can inhibit a flavor generation material from falling from a flavor sucker unexpectedly when heating the flavor generation material by a microwave in the flavor sucker.SOLUTION: A flavor sucker 100 includes a first electrode 81 electrically grounded, a second electrode 122 arranged facing the first electrode 81, and an oscillation part 104 connected electrically to the second electrode 122 and capable of oscillating a microwave. A flavor generation material 20 includes a first flavor source 50a located between the first electrode 81 and the second electrode 122 in smoking. The flavor sucker 100 includes a storage part for storing the flavor generation material 20 and a holding part 85 that comes in contact with the flavor generation material 20 stored in the storage part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors and the like without burning a material have been known. Such flavor inhalers contain a flavor-generating article having a flavor source. The flavor inhaler and the flavor-generating article constitute a smoking system. In particular, a flavor inhaler that heats a material by microwaves is known (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2021 / 090022 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a flavor-generating article is heated by microwaves in a flavor inhaler, it is necessary to prevent the flavor-generating article from accidentally falling off the flavor inhaler.

[0005] One of the objects of the present invention is to prevent the flavor-generating article from accidentally falling off from the flavor inhaler when the flavor-generating article is heated by microwaves. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a smoking system including a flavor inhaler and a flavor-generating article. The flavor inhaler includes an electrically grounded first electrode, a second electrode disposed opposite the first electrode, and an oscillator electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of emitting microwaves. The flavor-generating article includes a first flavor source positioned between the first and second electrodes during smoking. The flavor inhaler includes a housing for housing the flavor-generating article and a holder for contacting the flavor-generating article housed in the housing.

[0007] According to the first aspect, when the flavor generating article is accommodated in the accommodation part, i.e., when the flavor generating article is positioned at a desired position in the flavor inhaler to heat it, the holding part comes into direct contact with the flavor generating article, thereby making it difficult for the flavor generating article to fall out of the flavor inhaler. In other words, in this case, the holding force of the flavor generating article in the flavor inhaler can be improved, and the flavor generating article can be prevented from unexpectedly falling out of the flavor inhaler.

[0008] The holding portion may be formed on the first electrode.

[0009] In this case, the flavor-generating article can be held by the holding portion of the first electrode without providing a separate member as the holding portion.

[0010] The holding portion may include at least one protrusion formed on a surface of the first electrode that faces the second electrode.

[0011] In this case, the protrusions on the first electrode come into contact with the flavor-generating article to hold the flavor-generating article, thereby reducing the contact area between the first electrode and the flavor-generating article, thereby preventing heat from being transferred from the heated flavor-generating article to the first electrode via the holding portion, thereby allowing the flavor-generating article to be heated efficiently.

[0012] The protrusion may be arranged so as not to overlap a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0013] The first flavor source in the above region is easily heated by microwaves from the second electrode, and when components contained in the first flavor source evaporate due to heating, the first flavor source tends to shrink. Therefore, if the protrusion of the holding part is positioned so as to overlap the first flavor source in the region, that is, if the protrusion is positioned so as to allow the first flavor source to shrink, the shrinkage of the first flavor source may cause the protrusion and the flavor-generating article to separate, and the flavor-generating article may no longer be held by the holding part. Therefore, by positioning the protrusion so as not to overlap the above region, it is possible to prevent the protrusion from separating from the flavor-generating article due to shrinkage of the first flavor source, and the flavor-generating article can be stably held by the holding part.

[0014] The protrusion may be disposed upstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0015] The first flavor source in the above-mentioned region is easily heated by microwaves from the second electrode, and when components contained in the first flavor source evaporate due to heating, the first flavor source tends to shrink. Therefore, if the protrusion of the holding part is positioned so as to overlap the first flavor source in the above-mentioned region, i.e., if the protrusion is positioned at a position where the first flavor source can shrink, the shrinkage of the first flavor source may cause the protrusion and the flavor-generating article to separate, and the flavor-generating article may no longer be held by the holding part. Therefore, by positioning the protrusion upstream of the above-mentioned region, it is possible to prevent the protrusion from separating from the flavor-generating article due to the shrinkage of the first flavor source, and the flavor-generating article can be stably held by the holding part. Specifically, for example, if the flavor-generating article includes a tip filter upstream of the first flavor source, the protrusion can hold the tip filter, and the flavor-generating article can be stably held by the holding part.

[0016] The protrusion may be disposed downstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0017] The first flavor source in the above-mentioned region is easily heated by microwaves from the second electrode, and when components contained in the first flavor source evaporate due to heating, the first flavor source tends to shrink. Therefore, if the protrusion of the holding part is positioned so as to overlap the first flavor source in the above-mentioned region, i.e., if the protrusion is positioned at a position where the first flavor source can shrink, the shrinkage of the first flavor source may cause the protrusion and the flavor-generating article to separate, and the flavor-generating article may no longer be held by the holding part. Therefore, by positioning the protrusion downstream of the above-mentioned region, it is possible to prevent the protrusion from separating from the flavor-generating article due to the shrinkage of the first flavor source, and the flavor-generating article can be stably held by the holding part. Specifically, for example, if the flavor-generating article includes a hollow filter downstream of the first flavor source, the protrusion can hold the hollow filter, thereby stably holding the flavor-generating article in the holding part.

[0018] The first electrode may be configured to surround the periphery of the second electrode.

[0019] In this case, the microwaves radiated from the second electrode can be reflected or absorbed in the circumferential direction by the first electrode, which further prevents the microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler.

[0020] The flavor inhaler may have a third electrode that is electrically grounded, and the second electrode may be disposed between the first electrode and the third electrode.

[0021] In this case, the first electrode and the third electrode are arranged on both sides of the second electrode, and the microwaves emitted from the second electrode can be reflected or absorbed by the first electrode and the third electrode, thereby further preventing the microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler.

[0022] The flavor generating article may have a second flavor source positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode when smoked.

[0023] In this case, the second flavor source absorbs and heats the microwaves radiated from the second electrode toward the third electrode, allowing for efficient use of the microwaves radiated from the second electrode. As a result, vapor or aerosol can be generated in the second flavor source, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol generated and delivered to the user.

[0024] The first electrode may form at least a part of the housing portion.

[0025] In this case, the flavor-generating article can be housed by the first electrode.

[0026] The holding portion may be formed on a holding member separate from the first electrode.

[0027] In this case, since the holding portion is provided on a holding member separate from the first electrode, the shape of the holding portion can be freely selected. Specifically, for example, the holding portion and holding member can be made of a material different from the first electrode, such as a material made of an appropriate material such as resin. Furthermore, since the holding member separate from the first electrode contacts the flavor-generating article, the first electrode can be prevented from contacting the flavor-generating article. This can prevent contamination of the first electrode caused by the first flavor source of the flavor-generating article.

[0028] The holding portion formed on the holding member may be disposed so as to overlap the first electrode when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0029] In this case, the retaining portion is disposed between the flavor-generating article and the first electrode, preventing the first electrode from coming into contact with the flavor-generating article, thereby preventing contamination of the first electrode caused by the first flavor source of the flavor-generating article.

[0030] At least one of the first electrode and the third electrode may be configured to be movable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

[0031] In this case, by separating at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode from the other before the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the accommodation unit, the flavor-generating article can be easily accommodated in the accommodation unit. Similarly, by bringing at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode closer to the other after the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the accommodation unit, the distance between the second electrode and at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode can be made appropriate. Furthermore, if a holding portion is formed on at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode, by bringing at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode closer to the other after the flavor-generating article is accommodated in the accommodation unit, the holding portion can be brought into contact with the flavor-generating article, thereby appropriately holding the flavor-generating article.

[0032] At least one of the first electrode and the third electrode may be configured to be movable in parallel to move toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

[0033] In this case, at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode moves in its entirety in parallel with respect to the other, so that the space between the first electrode and the third electrode can be appropriately adjusted.

[0034] At least one of the first electrode and the third electrode may be configured to be pivotable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

[0035] In this case, the hinge mechanism allows at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode to move closer to or further away from the other, so the flavor inhaler can be made more compact than when the flavor inhaler has a parallel movement mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a smoking system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the smoking system as seen from arrow 2-2 shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3]3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the smoking system as seen from the arrow 3-3 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. [Figure 5A] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the arrows 3-3 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 5B] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the arrows 3-3 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. [Figure 7A] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. [Figure 7B] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. [Figure 8A] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. [Figure 8B] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. In this specification, the "longitudinal direction" refers to the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article, in other words, the direction in which the flavor-generating article is inserted into the flavor inhaler. In addition, in this specification, the "transverse direction" or "radial direction" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a smoking system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the smoking system as viewed from an arrow 2-2 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the smoking system as viewed from an arrow 3-3 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a smoking system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a flavor-generating article 20 and a flavor inhaler 100. The flavor inhaler 100 is preferably a portable or handheld device. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flavor inhaler 100 includes a battery 102, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 103, a microwave oscillator 104 (corresponding to an example of an oscillator), a waveguide 105, a housing 110, and a heating unit 120. The flavor-generating article 20 includes a flavor source 50 that is heated by the flavor inhaler 100. The detailed configuration of the flavor-generating article 20 will be described later.

[0039] The flavor inhaler 100 is configured to atomize a flavor or an aerosol source contained in a flavor source 50 of the flavor-generating article 20. The flavor source 50 constitutes a part of the flavor-generating article 20, which has, for example, a columnar shape extending along the longitudinal direction. The flavor-generating article 20 may be, for example, a tobacco stick in which the flavor source 50 contains tobacco. The battery 102 stores power used by the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the battery 102 is a lithium-ion battery. The battery 102 may be rechargeable by an external power source.

[0040] The PCB 103 is configured with a CPU, memory, etc., and controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100, specifically the operation of the microwave oscillator 104. For example, the PCB 103 controls the microwave oscillator 104 to start heating the flavor source 50 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 flavor source 50 after a certain time has elapsed. If the number of puffing actions by the user exceeds a certain value, the PCB 103 may stop heating the flavor source 50 even before the certain time has elapsed since heating of the flavor source 50 began. For example, the puffing action is detected by a sensor (not shown).

[0041] Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the microwave oscillator 104 to start heating the flavor source 50 in response to the start of a puffing action, and may stop heating the flavor source 50 in response to the end of the puffing action. The PCB 103 may stop heating the flavor source 50 when a certain time has elapsed since the start of the puffing action, even before the end of the puffing action. In this embodiment, the PCB 103 is disposed between the battery 102 and the heating unit 120.

[0042] In the illustrated example, the flavor inhaler 100 is configured to receive a stick-shaped flavor-generating article 20. As illustrated, the battery 102, PCB 103, microwave oscillator 104, and heating unit 120 can be arranged in a direction in which the flavor-generating article 20 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 100. The housing 110 is a housing that houses the battery 102, PCB 103, and heating unit 120.

[0043] The heating unit 120 has a microwave generating electrode 122 (corresponding to an example of a second electrode), an electrode mount 124, and a chamber 126 (corresponding to an example of a storage section). The microwave generating electrode 122 has a shape that can be inserted into the flavor source 50, and is configured so that microwaves are radiated from the inside of the flavor-generating article 20 to the flavor source 50 by the microwave oscillator 104. That is, the microwave oscillator 104 is electrically connected to the microwave generating electrode 122 and is configured so as to be able to oscillate microwaves. Specifically, the microwave generating electrode 122 extends in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and may have a flat shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 3.

[0044] The chamber 126 is configured to accommodate the flavor-generating article 20. Specifically, the chamber 126 is configured to accommodate at least the flavor source 50 of the flavor-generating article 20. The microwave-generating electrode 122 is arranged to overlap the flavor source 50 in the longitudinal direction when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 126. The microwave-generating electrode 122 is electrically connected to the battery 102 so that power is supplied from the battery 102. The electrode mount 124 is a member for attaching the microwave-generating electrode 122 to the housing 110. The electrode mount 124 can be formed of a material that has a dielectric constant of 10 or less and does not substantially absorb microwaves, for example.

[0045] The flavor inhaler 100 may include a thermocouple or radiation thermometer configured to detect the temperature of a desired location in the flavor inhaler 100, such as the chamber 126, in order to control the microwave power. The PCB 103 may control the microwave oscillator 104 based on data detected by the thermocouple or radiation thermometer. Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 by detecting a change in the dielectric constant or impedance of a desired component of the flavor inhaler 100, such as the chamber 126, due to heating. Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 based on a reflected wave that changes in response to the change in impedance. In this case, the flavor inhaler 100 may further include, for example, an antenna that receives microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122, and the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 based on a signal acquired via the antenna.

[0046] The microwave oscillator 104 is, for example, a semiconductor (solid state) oscillator, and generates a high-frequency electromagnetic field of a predetermined frequency. Examples of semiconductor oscillators include an LDMOS transistor, a GaAs FET, a SiC MESFET, and a GaN HFET. In this specification, a "high-frequency electromagnetic field" refers to a high-frequency electromagnetic field between 3 Hz and 3 THz. Furthermore, a "microwave" refers to a high-frequency electromagnetic field between 300 MHz and 300 GHz. The microwave oscillator 104 can generate microwaves with a frequency of 2.40 to 2.50 GHz, although this is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the microwave oscillator 104 generates microwaves with a frequency of 2.45 GHz.

[0047] The microwave oscillator 104 may include an amplifier for amplifying the high-frequency electromagnetic field. The microwave oscillator 104 itself may have the amplifier function, or an amplifier may be provided using an electronic component separate from the microwave oscillator 104.

[0048] Although a magnetron oscillator is also used as a device for generating a high-frequency electromagnetic field, when a semiconductor oscillator is used as the microwave oscillator 104, it is possible to make the main body smaller than when a magnetron oscillator is used. Furthermore, a semiconductor oscillator can operate at a lower operating voltage than a magnetron oscillator, and has high frequency stability and output stability. However, the microwave oscillator 104 of this embodiment may be a magnetron oscillator as long as it can generate a high-frequency electromagnetic field of a predetermined frequency.

[0049] The microwaves generated by the microwave oscillator 104 propagate through the waveguide 105 and are guided to the microwave generating electrode 122. A coaxial cable may be used instead of the waveguide 105. When the microwave oscillator 104 and the microwave generating electrode 122 are directly connected, the waveguide 105 or the coaxial cable may be omitted.

[0050] Waveguide 105 connects microwave oscillator 104 and microwave generating electrode 122 and is a tube that guides microwaves generated by microwave oscillator 104 to microwave generating electrode 122. Waveguide 105 may be provided with an isolator that protects microwave oscillator 104 by absorbing reflected waves that are not absorbed by flavor-generating article 20 and return toward microwave oscillator 104. Waveguide 105 may also be provided with a power monitor that detects the power of the incident wave from microwave oscillator 104 and the power of the reflected wave from flavor-generating article 20, or an impedance matching unit that matches the impedance on the microwave oscillator 104 side with the impedance on the flavor-generating article 20 side to reduce the power of the reflected wave.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the flavor inhaler 100 of this embodiment has an electrically grounded first ground electrode 81 (corresponding to an example of a first electrode). The first ground electrode 81 may be, for example, a flat-plate electrode as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Preferably, the flavor inhaler 100 further has an electrically grounded second ground electrode 82 (corresponding to an example of a third electrode). The second ground electrode 82 may be, for example, a flat-plate electrode as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. When the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 are both flat-plate electrodes, they may be arranged to face each other substantially parallel to each other as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the microwave generating electrode 122 may be arranged to face at least the first ground electrode 81. This allows the microwaves generated by the microwave generating electrode 122 to be shielded by the first ground electrode 81. Preferably, the microwave generating electrode 122 is arranged between the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this case, the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 are arranged on both sides of the microwave generating electrode 122, and the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be reflected or absorbed by the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82, thereby further preventing microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 3, the first ground electrode 81 may be configured to surround the flavor-generating article 20 together with the chamber 126. That is, the first ground electrode 81 may constitute at least a part of a storage unit that accommodates the flavor-generating article 20. Specifically, in this case, the flavor-generating article 20 can be accommodated by the first ground electrode 81. Similarly, in the example shown in Fig. 3, the second ground electrode 82 also surrounds the flavor-generating article 20 together with the chamber 126 and constitutes at least a part of a storage unit that accommodates the flavor-generating article 20.

[0053] 1 and 2, the flavor-generating article 20 of this embodiment preferably has a mouth end 20a, a distal end 20b opposite to the mouth end 20a, and a tip filter 60 (corresponding to an example of an upstream portion) arranged closer to the distal end 20b than the flavor source 50. In this case, the end of the flavor source 50 is covered by the tip filter 60, so that the flavor source 50 can be prevented from falling out of the flavor-generating article 20.

[0054] More specifically, the flavor-generating article 20 may include a mouth filter 30, a hollow filter 40, a flavor source 50, and a tip filter 60. In the flavor-generating article 20, the tip filter 60, the flavor source 50, the hollow filter 40, and the mouth filter 30 are arranged adjacently in this order from the tip side in the insertion direction into the chamber 126 of the smoking system 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . The flavor-generating article 20 generates flavor by being heated by microwaves. Therefore, it is preferable that microwaves are not absorbed in parts of the flavor-generating article 20 other than the flavor source 50. For this reason, in the flavor-generating article 20 of this embodiment, it is preferable that one or more filters selected from the group consisting of the mouth filter 30, the hollow filter 40, and the tip filter 60 have a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less. This prevents microwaves from being absorbed by the filters from the microwave-generating electrode 122, allowing the flavor source 50 to be heated efficiently. It should be noted that the flavor-generating article 20 only needs to have at least the flavor source 50, and other components may be omitted as appropriate.

[0055] The mouth filter 30 may be, for example, a paper filter or an acetate filter. The mouth filter 30 preferably does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin readily absorbs microwaves, not including it in the mouth filter 30 can suppress absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. The mouth filter 30 may have a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This suppresses absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 by the mouth filter 30, allowing efficient heating of the flavor source 50. The mouth filter 30 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This suppresses leakage of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. Specifically, the metal mesh or metal ring reflects microwaves, while the charcoal absorbs microwaves.

[0056] The hollow filter 40 is located closer to the mouth end 20a (downstream) than the flavor source 50. The hollow filter 40 has, for example, one or more hollow channels 40a and a packed layer 40b that defines the hollow channels 40a. Because the packed layer 40b has a high fiber packing density, during inhalation, air, flavor, or aerosol flows mostly through the hollow channels 40a and very little through the packed layer 40b. The flavor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 is cooled by passing through the hollow channels 40a and reaches the user's mouth. When it is desired to reduce the loss of aerosol components due to filtration by the mouth filter 30 in the flavor-generating article 20, shortening the length of the mouth filter 30 and replacing it with the hollow filter 40 is effective in increasing the amount of flavor or aerosol delivered.

[0057] The hollow filter 40 may be formed of, for example, paper or acetate. Preferably, the hollow filter 40 does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin easily absorbs microwaves, the hollow filter 40 does not contain triacetin, thereby suppressing absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. The relative dielectric constant of the hollow filter 40 may be, for example, 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This suppresses absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 by the hollow filter 40, allowing efficient heating of the flavor source 50. The hollow filter 40 may contain at least one material selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This suppresses leakage of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0058] The tip filter 60 is disposed upstream of the flavor source 50 and prevents the flavor source 50 from falling off the flavor-generating article 20. The tip filter 60 is disposed upstream of the flavor source 50 and adjacent to the flavor source 50. The tip filter 60 may be, for example, a paper filter, a molded filter, or an acetate filter. The relative dielectric constant of the tip filter 60 may be, for example, 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This prevents microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 from being absorbed by the tip filter 60, allowing the flavor source 50 to be heated efficiently. The tip filter 60 preferably does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin easily absorbs microwaves, not including it in the tip filter 60 can prevent absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. The tip filter 60 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This prevents microwaves from leaking from the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0059] The tip filter 60 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is solid. This allows the components of the heated flavor source 50 adhering to the surface of the microwave generating electrode 122 to be wiped off by the tip filter 60 when the microwave generating electrode 122 is pulled out from the flavor-generating article 20. In this case, the tip filter 60 is perforated when the microwave generating electrode 122 is inserted into the flavor-generating article 20. However, the tip filter 60 may be hollow. In other words, the tip filter 60 may have a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction through which the microwave generating electrode 122 can be inserted. In this case, the insertion resistance of the tip filter 60 to the microwave generating electrode 122 is reduced, allowing the microwave generating electrode 122 to be smoothly inserted into the flavor source 50.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the flavor-generating article 20 preferably further includes a sheet member 70 surrounding the filter and the flavor source 50. This allows the flavor source 50 to be integrally joined to filters, such as the mouthpiece filter 30, the hollow filter 40, and the tip filter 60. The sheet member 70 may be made of a non-tobacco material. Specifically, the sheet member 70 may be made of a material that does not substantially absorb microwaves, such as paper or resin, with a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less. The sheet member 70 may also contain a microwave-absorbing substance, such as charcoal. The sheet member 70 may also be made of a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, or a metal-laminated paper, such as aluminum-laminated paper. In this case, microwaves can be reflected toward the flavor source 50 by metals such as aluminum, allowing the microwaves to be efficiently applied to the flavor source 50. In addition to aluminum, the sheet member 70 may be made of silver, copper, iron, permalloy, nickel, stainless steel, or an alloy containing two or more of these metals.

[0061] The sheet member 70 preferably has one or more holes penetrating between its inner surface and its outer surface, which allows outside air to pass through the holes in the sheet member 70 and flow into the flavor-generating article 20, thereby enabling the flavor generated in the flavor source 50 to be delivered to the user more efficiently.

[0062] The flavor source 50 may come into contact with the sheet member 70. The flavor source 50 is preferably adhered to the sheet member 70. Specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the flavor source 50 and the inner peripheral surface of the sheet member 70 are preferably adhered to each other with an adhesive or the like. This prevents the flavor source 50 from moving relative to the sheet member 70. In this case, a cast sheet may be created on the sheet member 70 by thinly casting the raw materials including tobacco leaves and a binder that constitute the flavor source 50 onto the sheet member 70 and then drying the tobacco leaves. Alternatively, a rolled sheet may be created on the sheet member 70 by applying pressure to thinly spread the raw materials including tobacco leaves and a binder that constitute the flavor source 50 and then drying the tobacco leaves.

[0063] The flavor source 50 does not have to be adhered to the sheet member 70. Also, the flavor source 50 does not have to be in contact with the sheet member 70. In these cases, for example, the flavor source 50 can be sandwiched between the hollow filter 40 and the tip filter 60 to fix its position.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the flavor source 50 of this embodiment includes a first flavor source 50a positioned between the first ground electrode 81 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within the chamber 126). Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the flavor source 50 preferably further includes a second flavor source 50b positioned between the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within the chamber 126). In this case, the second flavor source 50b absorbs and is heated by microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 toward the second ground electrode 82, thereby enabling efficient use of the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122. As a result, vapor or aerosol can be generated in the second flavor source 50b, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol generated and supplied to the user. 2 and 3, a gap S1 is formed between the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b, and the microwave generating electrode 122 can be inserted into this gap S1. The flavor source 50 of this embodiment has the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b facing each other, but is not limited thereto, and may have, for example, a cylindrical flavor source 50 (which substantially includes the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b).

[0065] 2 and 3, it is preferable that the microwave generating electrode 122 does not come into direct contact with the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b during smoking. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains or the like caused by the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b of the flavor generating article 20 from adhering to the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0066] 1 to 3, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a flat shape. Specifically, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a flat cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In this case, the microwave generating electrode 122 has a flat surface (main surface 122a), and the electromagnetic field intensity of the microwaves at the main surface 122a can be improved compared to when the microwave generating electrode 122 has a cylindrical or columnar shape. Therefore, by arranging the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b so that it faces the main surface 122a of the microwave generating electrode 122, the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be efficiently heated by microwaves.

[0067] In particular, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably does not have any corners in the cross section shown in FIG. 3 . That is, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably does not have any corners on the circumferential surface (side surface) centered on the longitudinal axis. When the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other parts. Furthermore, when the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b located near the corners. Therefore, by not having corners in the microwave generating electrode 122, overheating of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no corners are formed on the side surface of the microwave generating electrode 122, damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122 can be suppressed.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 has a flat shape with a solid cross section. However, for example, the microwave generating electrode 122 may have a hollow structure. Specifically, in the cross section shown in FIG. 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 may have a hollow cross section. The microwave generating electrode 122 having the cross section shown in FIG. 3 can be manufactured, for example, by a manufacturing method including a step of forming a cylindrical electrode into a flat shape. Specifically, the flat microwave generating electrode 122 can be easily formed by, for example, compressing this cylindrical member. The flat microwave generating electrode 122 formed in this manner does not have corners (edges) on its side surface. If the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other parts. Furthermore, if the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of a flavor source located near the corners. Therefore, since the microwave generating electrode 122 does not have any corners, overheating of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no corners are formed on the side surface of the microwave generating electrode 122, damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122 can be suppressed. Note that the term "cylinder" as used herein can include a solid cylinder and a hollow cylinder (cylinder).

[0069] Furthermore, the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ) may be chamfered. As described above, when the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other portions. Furthermore, when the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b located near the corners. Therefore, by chamfering the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122, overheating of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be suppressed. Furthermore, by chamfering the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122, damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122 can be suppressed. Here, the term "chamfering" includes c-chamfering and r-chamfering. The r-chamfering also includes processing to make the downstream end 122b (tip) of the microwave generating electrode 122 spherical.

[0070] The microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a coating layer on its outer surface. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains, such as those caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor generating article 20, from adhering to the microwave generating electrode 122. The coating layer may be made of a material that has a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less and does not substantially absorb microwaves, such as paper, glass, or ceramic. The coating layer is preferably gas impermeable.

[0071] The first ground electrode 81 preferably has a coating layer on the surface facing the microwave generating electrode 122. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains, etc., caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor generating article 20 from adhering to the first ground electrode 81. The coating layer may be formed of, for example, paper, glass, ceramic, etc. The coating layer is preferably gas-impermeable. Similarly, the second ground electrode 82 preferably has a coating layer on the surface facing the microwave generating electrode 122. The coating layer formed on at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 may be formed of a material with a relatively high dielectric constant. In this case, the coating layer may generate heat and heat the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b. Such a coating layer is preferably formed of ceramic, such as alumina or zirconia.

[0072] The flavor source 50 may be, for example, a non-tobacco sheet such as a nonwoven fabric, a tobacco sheet, or a tobacco molded product. When the flavor source 50 is a tobacco sheet, specific examples include a tobacco leaf sheet, a tobacco leaf cast sheet, and a rolled tobacco leaf sheet. The flavor source 50 may further include an aerosol source. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and extracts from various natural products and / or their constituent components can be selected depending on the application. The aerosol source is preferably a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, or a mixture thereof. The tobacco flavor or aerosol source contained in the flavor source 50 contains moisture and can be heated by microwaves irradiated from the microwave generating electrode 122. Because glycerin has a high dielectric constant and is efficiently heated by microwaves, glycerin is more preferred as the aerosol source. The loading of the flavor source 50 may be, for example, from 100 mg to 350 mg, preferably from 120 mg to 250 mg.

[0073] The surface area of the flavor source 50 (the surface area of the flavor source 50 that contributes to aerosol generation) is 150 mm 2 Over 4000mm 2The flavor source 50 may be made of tobacco leaves in the form of strands. In this case, the width of the tobacco leaves in the form of strands is preferably 1 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less.

[0074] The flavor source 50 may be loaded with a flavoring agent. The type of the fragrance is not particularly limited, and from the viewpoint of imparting a good fragrance sensation, examples thereof include acetanisole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, amyl alcohol, amyl butyrate, trans-anethole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resinoid, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, β-carotene, carrot juice, L-carvone, β-caryophyllene, cassia bark oil, cedarwood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronella oil, DL-citronellol, ... Lornelol, clary sage extract, cocoa, coffee, cognac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, davana oil, delta-decalactone, gamma-decalactone, decanoic acid, dill herb oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl levulinate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-Dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek absolute, gene absolute, gentian root infusion, geraniol, geranyl acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, gamma-heptalactone, gamma-hexalactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexyl alcohol, phenylhexyl acetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid, la Ingredients: methicone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(para-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, sodium 4-hydroxyundecanoate, immortelle absolute, beta-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyl acetate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute, cola nut tincture, labdanum oil, lemon terpeneless oil, licorice extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, robertia jasmine Orris root oil, maltol, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, L-menthyl acetate, para-methoxybenzaldehyde, methyl 2-pyrrolyl ketone, methyl anthranilate, methyl phenylacetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute, honey, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, gamma-nonalactone, nutmeg oil, delta-octalactone, octanal, octanoic acid, orange flower oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, omega-pentadecamethyl Calactone, peppermint oil, petitgrain Paraguay oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl phenylacetate, phenylacetic acid, piperonal, plum extract, propenylguaethol, propyl acetate, 3-propylidenephthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, alpha-terpineol, terpinyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-Tetramethyl-13-oxacyclo(8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tridecanone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexene-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecalactone, γ-valerolactone, vanilla extract, vanillin, veratrol At least one of aldehydes, violet leaf absolute, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carboxamide) acetate (WS-5), sugar (sucrose, fructose, etc.), cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, rosehip powder, chamomile flower powder, lemon verbena powder, peppermint powder, leaf powder, spearmint powder, black tea powder, natural plant flavors (e.g., jasmine oil, lemon oil, vetiver oil, lovage oil), and esters may be selected.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 1 , when the flavor source 50 is disposed between the first ground electrode 81 or the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122, there is a possibility that components of the heated flavor source 50 will adhere to the microwave generating electrode 122. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the flavor-generating article 20 has a protective sheet 52 positioned inside the flavor source 50. This allows the microwave generating electrode 122 to come into contact with the flavor source 50, making it difficult for components of the flavor source 50 to adhere to the microwave generating electrode 122. The protective sheet 52 can be disposed between the first ground electrode 81 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 126). The protective sheet 52 can also be disposed between the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 126). 3, the protective sheet 52 is tubular, and more specifically may be a paper tube, and may be placed around the microwave-generating electrode 122. The protective sheet 52 does not have to be tubular.

[0076] 3, flavor generating article 20 has a flat cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal direction when being smoked (when flavor generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within chamber 126). Flavor generating article 20 may be pre-formed into the flat cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 3, or flavor generating article 20 with a circular cross-section may be deformed into the flat cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 3 by being housed in chamber 126.

[0077] Due to the above-mentioned factors, when the flavor generating article 20 is heated by microwaves, it is preferable to prevent the flavor generating article 20 from accidentally falling off from the flavor inhaler 100. Therefore, the flavor inhaler 100 according to this embodiment has a holding part 85 that comes into contact with the flavor generating article 20 housed in the chamber 126, as shown in Fig. 2. This brings the holding part 85 into direct contact with the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 is housed in the chamber 126, i.e., when the flavor generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the flavor inhaler 100 to heat the flavor generating article 20, making it difficult for the flavor generating article 20 to fall off from the flavor inhaler 100. That is, in this case, the holding force of the flavor generating article 20 in the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved, and the flavor generating article 20 can be prevented from accidentally falling off from the flavor inhaler 100.

[0078] 2, the holding portion 85 may be formed on the first ground electrode 81. The flavor-generating article 20 can be held by the holding portion 85 of the first ground electrode 81 without providing a separate member as the holding portion 85. In the illustrated example, the holding portion 85 is also formed on the second ground electrode 82. In this case, the holding force of the flavor-generating article 20 in the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved, and the flavor-generating article 20 can be further prevented from accidentally falling off the flavor inhaler 100.

[0079] 2, the holding portion 85 preferably includes at least one protrusion 85a formed on the surface of the first ground electrode 81 facing the second ground electrode 82. In this case, the protrusion 85a provided on the first ground electrode 81 contacts the flavor-generating article 20 to hold the flavor-generating article 20, thereby reducing the contact area between the first ground electrode 81 and the flavor-generating article 20. This prevents heat from the heated flavor-generating article 20 from being transferred to the first ground electrode 81 via the holding portion 85, thereby enabling efficient heating of the flavor-generating article 20. Similarly, the holding portion 85 formed on the second ground electrode 82 preferably includes at least one protrusion 85a formed on the surface of the second ground electrode 82 facing the first ground electrode 81. However, the holding portion 85 formed on the first ground electrode 81 or the second ground electrode 82 may have any shape.

[0080] In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the protrusion 85 a of the holding portion 85 contacts the flavor generating article 20, thereby separating the first ground electrode 81 from the flavor generating article 20. In this case, heat from the flavor generating article 20 can be prevented from being conducted to the first ground electrode 81, allowing the flavor generating article 20 to be heated efficiently. Alternatively, as shown in the example shown in FIG. 3 , the protrusion 85 a of the holding portion 85 may contact the flavor generating article 20, or the first ground electrode 81 may at least partially contact the flavor generating article 20. In this case, when the flavor generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the flavor inhaler 100 to heat it, the first ground electrode 81 comes into direct contact with the flavor generating article 20, thereby making it difficult for the flavor generating article 20 to come out of the flavor inhaler 100. That is, in this case, the first ground electrode 81 can improve the holding force of the flavor generating article 20 in the flavor inhaler 100. Similarly, the second ground electrode 82 may be spaced apart from the flavor-generating article 20, as in the example shown in FIG. 2, or the second ground electrode 82 may be at least partially in contact with the flavor-generating article 20, as in the example shown in FIG. 3.

[0081] 2, the protrusion 85a is preferably arranged so as not to overlap the region where the first flavor source 50a and the microwave generating electrode 122 overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The first flavor source 50a in this region is easily heated by microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122, and when components contained in the first flavor source 50a evaporate due to heating, the first flavor source 50a tends to shrink. Therefore, if the protrusion 85a of the holding part 85 is arranged in a position where it overlaps with the first flavor source 50a in this region, that is, if the protrusion 85a is arranged in a position where the first flavor source 50a can shrink, the shrinkage of the first flavor source 50a may cause the protrusion 85a and the flavor-generating article 20 to separate, and the flavor-generating article 20 may no longer be held by the holding part 85. Therefore, by positioning the protrusion 85a so that it does not overlap with the above-mentioned area, the protrusion 85a is prevented from separating from the flavor-generating article 20 due to contraction of the first flavor source 50a, and the flavor-generating article can be stably held in the holding portion 85.

[0082] 2, the protrusion 85a may be arranged downstream of a region where the first flavor source 50a and the microwave generating electrode 122 overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. By arranging the protrusion 85a downstream of the region, it is possible to prevent the protrusion 85a from being separated from the flavor-generating article 20 due to contraction of the first flavor source 50a, and the flavor-generating article 20 can be stably held in the holding portion 85. Specifically, for example, if the flavor-generating article 20 includes a hollow filter 40 downstream of the first flavor source 50a, the protrusion 85a can hold the hollow filter 40, and therefore the flavor-generating article 20 can be stably held in the holding portion 85.

[0083] 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the smoking system 10 according to another embodiment, as viewed from the arrow 2-2 in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the protrusion 85a may be located upstream of a region where the first flavor source 50a and the microwave generating electrode 122 overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. By locating the protrusion 85a upstream of the region, the protrusion 85a is prevented from being separated from the flavor-generating article 20 due to contraction of the first flavor source 50a, and the flavor-generating article 20 can be stably held by the holding portion 85. Specifically, for example, if the flavor-generating article 20 includes a tip filter 60 upstream of the first flavor source 50a, the protrusion 85a can hold the tip filter 60, thereby stably holding the flavor-generating article 20 in the holding portion 85.

[0084] Next, other examples of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first ground electrode 81 will be described. FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic cross-sectional views of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the arrows 3-3 in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate only the microwave generating electrode 122, the first ground electrode 81, and the second ground electrode 82. In the example shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first ground electrode 81 is configured to surround the microwave generating electrode 122. In this case, microwaves emitted from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be reflected or absorbed by the first ground electrode 81 in the circumferential direction, thereby further suppressing microwave leakage from the flavor inhaler 100. In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the rectangular tubular first ground electrode 81 surrounds the microwave generating electrode 122 having a flat shape (flat rectangular cross section). In the example shown in FIG. 5B, the elliptical tubular first ground electrode 81 surrounds the microwave generating electrode 122 having a substantially circular cross section. The first ground electrode 81 may, for example, have a circular tubular cross section.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a smoking system 10 according to another embodiment, as viewed from the arrow 2-2 in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the holding portion 85 may be formed on a holding member 87 separate from the first ground electrode 81. In this case, the holding portion 85 is provided on a holding member 87 separate from the first ground electrode 81, allowing for flexibility in the shape of the holding portion 85. Specifically, for example, the holding portion 85 and the holding member 87 may be formed of a material different from the first ground electrode 81, such as a material made of an appropriate material such as resin. Furthermore, since the holding member 87 separate from the first ground electrode 81 contacts the flavor-generating article 20, the first ground electrode 81 can be prevented from contacting the flavor-generating article 20. This prevents contamination, such as that caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor-generating article 20, from adhering to the first ground electrode 81. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the holding portion 85 is also formed on the holding member 87 separate from the second ground electrode 82.

[0086] In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the holding member 87 is fixed to at least the housing 110 and extends into the chamber 126, and the holding portion 85 is located inside the chamber 126. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 , the holding portion 85 formed on the holding member 87 may be arranged to overlap the first ground electrode 81 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In this case, the holding portion 85 is arranged between the flavor-generating article 20 and the first ground electrode 81, so that the first ground electrode 81 does not come into contact with the flavor-generating article 20. This makes it possible to prevent contamination, etc., caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor-generating article 20 from adhering to the first ground electrode 81. More specifically, the holding member 87 extends to cover the housing 110, the chamber 126, and the downstream end of the first ground electrode 81, and a portion of the holding member 87 is located between the first ground electrode 81 and the flavor-generating article 20. The holding portion 85 is formed on a holding member 87 located between the first ground electrode 81 and the flavor-generating article 20. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the holding portion 85 has a protrusion 85a. However, the holding portion 85 may be located outside the chamber 126.

[0087] 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B are schematic cross-sectional side views of a smoking system 10 according to another embodiment, taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 1. Only the flavor-generating article 20, the chamber 126, the first ground electrode 81, and the second ground electrode 82 are shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B. As described below, at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 may be configured to be movable toward and away from the other of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82. In this case, by moving at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 away from the other before the flavor-generating article 20 is placed in the chamber 126, the flavor-generating article 20 can be more easily placed in the chamber 126. Similarly, after the flavor-generating article 20 is accommodated in the chamber 126, at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 can be brought closer to the other, thereby making it possible to appropriately adjust the distance between the microwave-generating electrode 122 and at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82. Furthermore, in the case where a holding portion 85 is formed on at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 as shown in the figure, after the flavor-generating article 20 is accommodated in the chamber 126, at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 can be brought closer to the other, thereby bringing the holding portion 85 into contact with the flavor-generating article 20 and appropriately holding the flavor-generating article 20.

[0088] Specifically, for example, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 may be configured to be movable in parallel so as to move closer to and away from the other of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82. In this case, the entirety of at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 moves in parallel with respect to the other, so that the space between the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 can be appropriately adjusted. Note that, when moving at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 in parallel as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the flavor inhaler 100 may have a known driving mechanism that moves at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82.

[0089] 8A and 8B, at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 may be configured to be pivotable so as to move closer to and away from the other of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82. In this case, a hinge mechanism allows at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 to move closer to and away from the other, thereby making it possible to configure the flavor inhaler 100 more compact than when the flavor inhaler 100 has a translation mechanism. In the illustrated example, hinges 88 are provided near the ends of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82, and the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 can pivot about the hinges 88.

[0090] In the illustrated example, before the flavor-generating article 20 is accommodated in the chamber 126, the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 are spaced apart from each other as shown in Fig. 7A or 8A, which makes it easier to accommodate the flavor-generating article 20 in the chamber 126. After the flavor-generating article 20 is accommodated in the chamber 126, the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 are brought closer to each other as shown in Fig. 7B or 8B, which makes it possible to appropriately set the distance between the microwave-generating electrode 122 and the first and second ground electrodes 81 and 82, and also to appropriately hold the flavor-generating article 20 by bringing the holding portion 85 into contact with the flavor-generating article 20.

[0091] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical idea described in the specification and drawings. Note that any shape or material not directly described in the specification or drawings is within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention as long as it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention.

[0092] Some aspects of the present disclosure are described below. (1) A smoking system having a flavor inhaler and a flavor-generating article, The flavor inhaler comprises: an electrically grounded first electrode; a second electrode disposed opposite the first electrode; an oscillation unit electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of oscillating microwaves, the flavor-generating article has a first flavor source positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking; The smoking system includes a flavor inhaler having a storage portion that stores the flavor-generating article and a holding portion that comes into contact with the flavor-generating article stored in the storage portion. (2) In the smoking system described in (1), A smoking system, wherein the holding portion is formed on the first electrode. (3) In the smoking system described in (2), A smoking system, wherein the holding portion includes at least one protrusion formed on a surface of the first electrode facing the second electrode. (4) In the smoking system described in (3), A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned so as not to overlap the area where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. (5) In the smoking system described in (4), A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned upstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. (6) In the smoking system described in (4), A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned downstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. (7) In the smoking system described in any one of (1) to (6), A smoking system, wherein the first electrode is configured to surround the second electrode. (8) In the smoking system described in any one of (1) to (6), the flavor inhaler has a third electrode electrically grounded; A smoking system, wherein the second electrode is disposed between the first electrode and the third electrode. (9) In the smoking system described in (8), The smoking system wherein the flavor generating article has a second flavor source positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode when smoked. (10) In the smoking system described in any one of (1) to (9), A smoking system, wherein the first electrode forms at least a part of the container. (11) In the smoking system described in (1), A smoking system, wherein the holding portion is formed in a holding member separate from the first electrode. (12) In the smoking system described in (11), A smoking system, wherein the holding portion formed on the holding member is positioned so as to overlap the first electrode when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. (13) In the smoking system described in (8) or (9), A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be movable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode. (14) In the smoking system described in (13), A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be movable in parallel to move closer to and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode. (15) In the smoking system described in (13), A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be pivotable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10: Smoking system 20: Flavor-generating products 50: Flavor source 50a: 1st flavor source 50b:Second flavor source 81: 1st ground electrode 82:Second ground electrode 85: Holding part 85a: protrusion 87: Retaining member 100: Flavor aspirator 122: Microwave generating electrode 126: Chamber

Claims

1. A smoking system having a flavor inhaler and a flavor-generating article, The flavor inhaler comprises: an electrically grounded first electrode; a second electrode disposed opposite the first electrode; an oscillator unit electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of oscillating microwaves, the flavor-generating article has a first flavor source positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking; The smoking system includes a flavor inhaler having a storage portion that stores the flavor-generating article and a holding portion that comes into contact with the flavor-generating article stored in the storage portion.

2. 2. The smoking system according to claim 1, A smoking system, wherein the holding portion is formed on the first electrode.

3. 3. The smoking system according to claim 2, A smoking system, wherein the holding portion includes at least one protrusion formed on a surface of the first electrode facing the second electrode.

4. 4. The smoking system according to claim 3, A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned so as not to overlap the area where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

5. 5. The smoking system according to claim 4, A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned upstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

6. 5. The smoking system according to claim 4, A smoking system, wherein the protrusion is positioned downstream of a region where the first flavor source and the second electrode overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

7. 7. A smoking system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, A smoking system, wherein the first electrode is configured to surround the second electrode.

8. 7. A smoking system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the flavor inhaler has a third electrode electrically grounded; A smoking system, wherein the second electrode is disposed between the first electrode and the third electrode.

9. 9. The smoking system according to claim 8, The flavor generating article has a second flavor source positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode when smoked.

10. 10. A smoking system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A smoking system, wherein the first electrode forms at least a part of the container.

11. 2. The smoking system according to claim 1, A smoking system, wherein the holding portion is formed in a holding member separate from the first electrode.

12. 12. The smoking system according to claim 11, A smoking system, wherein the holding portion formed on the holding member is positioned so as to overlap the first electrode when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

13. 10. The smoking system according to claim 8 or 9, A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be movable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

14. 14. The smoking system according to claim 13, A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be movable in translation so as to move closer to and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

15. 14. The smoking system according to claim 13, A smoking system, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the third electrode is configured to be pivotable toward and away from the other of the first electrode and the third electrode.

Images