Cartridges and non-burning flavor inhalers

Abstract

Provided are a cartridge for use in a non-burning flavor inhaler having a flavor source, and a non-burning flavor inhaler detachably provided with the cartridge. [Solution] The cartridge includes a flavor source container that contains a flavor source, and a mesh body disposed on at least one end of the flavor source container. The mesh body has a plurality of apertures. Each of the plurality of apertures has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of apertures has a minimum width that is the smallest width and a maximum width that is the largest width, as measured through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of apertures. The minimum width is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the plurality of ingredient pieces, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge for use in a non-combustion type flavor inhaler having a flavor source, and to a non-combustion type flavor inhaler having a detachable cartridge. [Background technology]

[0002] A non-combustion type flavor inhaler that atomizes an aerosol source using power supplied from a battery is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] For example, a non-combustion flavor inhaler includes an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source and a cartridge having a flavor source, for example, the cartridge is replaceable and connected to the atomization unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] WO2013 / 116558 publication Summary of the Invention

[0005] The first feature is that the cartridge comprises a flavor source composed of a plurality of raw material pieces that impart flavor to the aerosol generated by a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, a flavor source container that contains the flavor source, and a mesh body that is arranged at at least one end of the flavor source container, wherein the mesh body has a plurality of openings, each of which has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less, and each of the plurality of openings has a minimum width that is the smallest width and a maximum width that is the largest width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings, wherein the minimum width is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the plurality of raw material pieces, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width.

[0006] A second feature of the present invention is summarized as follows: in the first feature, the flavor source container and the mesh body are formed by integral molding.

[0007] A third feature is summarized as the first or second feature, wherein a lower limit of the size of the plurality of raw material pieces is 0.2 mm.

[0008] The fourth feature is that, in any of the first to third features, the flavor source container forms an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction, and in the predetermined direction, the maximum size of the flavor source container is 40 mm or less, and in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction, the maximum size of the flavor source container is 20 mm or less.

[0009] The fifth feature is that, in any of the first to fourth features, the maximum size of the flavor source container in the specified direction is 25 mm or less, and the maximum size of the flavor source container in a direction perpendicular to the specified direction is 10 mm or less.

[0010] A sixth feature is summarized as any one of the first to fifth features, in that each of the plurality of openings has a quadrangular shape.

[0011] A seventh feature is summarized as any one of the first to sixth features, wherein the plurality of apertures are arranged such that sides of adjacent apertures are parallel to each other. do.

[0012] An eighth feature is summarized as the seventh feature, wherein the interval between adjacent apertures is 0.15 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less.

[0013] A ninth feature is summarized as any one of the first to eighth features, wherein the maximum width is greater than a lower limit of the size of the plurality of raw material pieces.

[0014] A tenth feature is summarized as any one of the first to ninth features, wherein the maximum width is between √2 and 6 times the minimum width.

[0015] An eleventh feature is summarized as follows: in any of the first to tenth features, the flavor source container forms an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction, the mesh body is arranged at the upstream end of the aerosol flow path within the flavor source container, and the flavor source container has a protrusion that protrudes upstream from the outer edge of the mesh body in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path.

[0016] A twelfth feature is that, in any of the first to eleventh features, the flavor source container forms an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction, and a rib extending from upstream to downstream along the predetermined direction is provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container.

[0017] A thirteenth feature is that, in any of the first to twelfth features, the flavor source container forms an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction, and the outer wall surface of the flavor source container includes a tapered shape that widens from upstream to downstream.

[0018] A fourteenth feature is that, in any of the first to thirteenth features, the flavor source container forms an aerosol flow path extending along a predetermined direction and includes a filter arranged downstream of the flavor source.

[0019] The fifteenth feature is the fourteenth feature, wherein a rib extending from upstream to downstream along the predetermined direction is provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container, and the downstream end of the rib contacts the upstream end of the filter without reaching the downstream end of the flavor source container.

[0020] The sixteenth feature is a non-combustion flavor inhaler that includes an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion, and that is detachably equipped with a cartridge described in any of the first to fifteenth features.

[0021] A seventeenth feature is summarized as the sixteenth feature, wherein the non-combustion type flavor inhaler includes, as the aerosol flow path, a first flow path arranged downstream of the atomization unit, and the cartridge includes, as the aerosol flow path, a second flow path arranged downstream of the first flow path, and an aerosol flow adjusting chamber is provided between the first flow path and the second flow path to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path so as to suppress bias in the flow of the aerosol in the second flow path. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 5) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 7) showing the flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a view showing the CC cross section shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of duty ratio control according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of duty ratio control according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing a control method according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the first modification. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the second modification. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the third modified example. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the amount of aerosol according to the fourth modification. [Figure 26]FIG. 26 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the fifth modified example. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the sixth modification. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the seventh modification. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to the eighth modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and the dimensional ratios may differ from those of the actual parts.

[0024] Therefore, specific dimensions should be determined with reference to the following explanation. Of course, the dimensional relationships and ratios may differ between the drawings.

[0025] [Disclosure Summary] The cartridge mentioned in the background art must be breathable so that the user can inhale the aerosol. For example, a mesh body having a plurality of openings is disposed at at least one end of the cartridge.

[0026] However, each of the plurality of openings in the mesh body must be small enough to prevent the falling-out of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source. Furthermore, in order to improve the extraction efficiency of the flavor components, it is preferable that the particle size of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source is small. On the other hand, it is preferable that each of the plurality of openings in the mesh body has a large area to ensure a sufficient opening rate for the entire mesh body.

[0027] As a result of intensive research, the inventors have found that, because the cartridge for a non-combustion flavor inhaler is very small, sufficient ingenuity is required in the shape of the multiple openings in order to simultaneously prevent the cartridge from falling off and ensure opening efficiency. Based on this new finding, the inventors have found that the following features are effective.

[0028] The cartridge according to the outline of the disclosure includes a flavor source composed of a plurality of ingredient pieces that impart flavor to an aerosol generated by a non-combustion flavor inhaler, a flavor source container that contains the flavor source, and a mesh body disposed at at least one end of the flavor source container. The mesh body has a plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of openings has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of openings has a minimum width that is the smallest width and a maximum width that is the largest width, as measured through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings. The minimum width is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the plurality of ingredient pieces, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width.

[0029] In the summary of the disclosure, each of the plurality of openings provided in the mesh body has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less, and has a minimum width that is the smallest width and a maximum width that is the largest width as a width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings. Here, the minimum width is smaller than the size of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source, so that the falling out of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source can be suppressed, and the maximum width is larger than the minimum width, so that the open area ratio of the mesh body as a whole can be increased.

[0030] In this way, in a cartridge for a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, it is possible to ensure an opening rate for the entire mesh body while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source.

[0031] [Embodiment] (Non-burning flavor inhaler) The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a view showing the internal structure of the first cartridge 20 according to the embodiment. It should be noted that a reservoir 21, which will be described later, is omitted from FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a side view of a second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view AA shown in FIG. 5) of a flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view BB shown in FIG. 7) of a flavor source container 31 according to the embodiment. It should be noted that a flavor source 31A, which will be described later, is omitted from FIG. 6.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A, which is the direction from the non-mouth end to the mouth end. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 is a device for inhaling flavors without combustion. It is an instrument for suctioning.

[0033] Specifically, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 has a power supply unit 10, a first cartridge 20, and a second cartridge 30. The first cartridge 20 is detachable from the power supply unit 10, and the second cartridge 30 is detachable from the first cartridge 20. In other words, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, power supply unit 10 has a shape that extends along a predetermined direction A and includes at least battery 11. Battery 11 may be a disposable battery or a rechargeable battery. The initial output voltage of battery 11 is preferably in the range of 1.2 V to 4.2 V. The battery capacity of battery 11 is preferably in the range of 100 mAh to 1000 mAh.

[0035] 3 and 4, the first cartridge 20 has a shape that extends along a predetermined direction A. The first cartridge 20 has a reservoir 21, an atomization unit 22, a flow path forming body 23, an outer frame body 24, and an end cap 25. The first cartridge 20 has a first flow path 20X that is located downstream of the atomization unit 22 as an aerosol flow path that extends along the predetermined direction A. It should be noted that in the aerosol flow path, the side closer to the atomization unit 22 is referred to as the upstream side, and the side away from the atomization unit 22 is referred to as the downstream side.

[0036] The reservoir 21 stores the aerosol source 21A. The reservoir 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow path 20X (predetermined direction A). In the embodiment, the reservoir 21 is located in the space between the flow path forming body 23 and the outer frame body 24. The reservoir 21 is made of a porous material such as a resin web or cotton. However, the reservoir 21 may also be made of a tank that stores the liquid aerosol source 21A. The aerosol source 21A contains a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0037] The atomization unit 22 atomizes the aerosol source 21A using power supplied from the battery 11 without combustion. In this embodiment, the atomization unit 22 is configured with a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch, and the atomization unit 22 is preferably configured with a heating wire having a resistance value in the range of 1.0 Ω to 3.0 Ω. The predetermined pitch is preferably a small value that is equal to or greater than a value at which the heating wires do not come into contact with each other. The predetermined pitch is preferably 0.40 mm or less, for example. The predetermined pitch is preferably constant to stabilize the atomization of the aerosol source 21A. The predetermined pitch is the distance between the centers of adjacent heating wires.

[0038] The flow path forming body 23 has a shape that extends along the predetermined direction A. The flow path forming body 23 has a cylindrical shape that forms the first flow path 20X that extends along the predetermined direction A.

[0039] The outer frame body 24 has a shape that extends along the predetermined direction A. The outer frame body 24 has a cylindrical shape that houses the flow path forming body 23. In the embodiment, the outer frame body 24 extends downstream of the end cap 25 and houses a part of the second cartridge 30.

[0040] End cap 25 is a cap that closes, from the downstream side, the gap between flow path forming body 23 and outer frame body 24. End cap 25 prevents aerosol source 21A stored in reservoir 21 from leaking to the second cartridge 30 side.

[0041] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the second cartridge 30 has at least a flavor source 31A. The second cartridge 30 is attached to the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1. In this embodiment, The cartridge 30 is connected to the first cartridge 20. In particular, a portion of the second cartridge 30 is housed in the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20, as described above.

[0042] The second cartridge 30 has a shape that extends along a predetermined direction A. The second cartridge 30 has a flavor source container 31, a mesh body 32, a filter 33, and a cap 34. The second cartridge 30 has, as an aerosol flow path, a second flow path 30X that is arranged downstream of the first flow path 20X.

[0043] The second cartridge 30 imparts a flavor to the aerosol by passing the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22. It should be noted that in the embodiment, the flavor can be imparted to the aerosol without heating the flavor source 31A. It should also be noted that substantially no aerosol is generated from the flavor source 31A.

[0044] In the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 40 mm or less. Furthermore, in the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 25 mm or less. On the other hand, in the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 5 mm or more. Furthermore, in the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 1 mm or more. In the direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 20 mm or less. Furthermore, in the direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, the maximum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 10 mm or less. On the other hand, in the direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 3 mm or more. Furthermore, in the direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, the minimum size of the second cartridge 30 is preferably 1 mm or more.

[0045] The flavor source container 31 has a cylindrical shape and forms a second flow path 30X extending along the predetermined direction A. The flavor source container 31 contains a flavor source 31A. The flavor source 31A, which imparts a flavor to the aerosol, is contained within the second flow path 30X. Here, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), it is preferable that the size of the first flow path 20X is small to ensure the volume of the reservoir 21 that stores the aerosol source 21A. Therefore, in a case where the second cartridge 30 is contained in an outer frame 24 having a constant cross-sectional area across the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the size of the second flow path 30X tends to be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X described above.

[0046] The flavor source 31A is composed of raw material pieces that impart flavor to the aerosol generated by the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. The lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less. Furthermore, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. The smaller the size of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A, the greater the specific surface area, and therefore the easier it is for flavor components to be released from the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A. As the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A, cut tobacco or a molded product obtained by molding tobacco raw material into granules can be used. The flavor source 31A may be composed of plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.). The flavor source 31A may be imparted with a flavoring such as menthol.

[0047] Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are obtained by, for example, sieving in accordance with JIS Z 8815 using a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801. For example, the raw material pieces are sieved for 20 minutes using a stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings by dry mechanical shaking to obtain raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings. Subsequently, the raw material pieces are sieved for 20 minutes using a stainless steel sieve with 0.212 mm openings by dry mechanical shaking to obtain raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings. The raw material pieces that pass through a stainless steel sieve with a mesh size of 0.212 mm are removed. That is, the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A are those that pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh size = 0.71 mm) that defines the upper limit, but do not pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh size = 0.212 mm) that defines the lower limit. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve that defines the lower limit. Note that the upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve that defines the upper limit.

[0048] In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the flavor source container 31 preferably has a protrusion 31E that protrudes upstream (toward the flow path forming body 23 or the end cap 25 in an embodiment) from the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). The protrusion 31E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31, or may be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the flavor source container 31. Note that, when a gap exists between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, the protrusion 31E is preferably provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31. This makes it possible to prevent aerosol from accumulating in a space formed upstream of the tapered portion 31T.

[0049] In an embodiment, the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 preferably includes a tapered portion 31T that widens from upstream to downstream as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The tapered portion 31T may be included in a part of the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31. The taper angle α of the tapered portion 31T is, for example, about 5 degrees.

[0050] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31 is preferably provided with ribs 31R extending from upstream to downstream along the predetermined direction A. Although not particularly limited, the number of ribs 31R is preferably two or more. The downstream end of the rib 31R preferably does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. For example, in the predetermined direction A, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, when the filter 33 is inserted into the flavor source container 31, the downstream end of the rib 31R preferably contacts the filter 33 without reaching the downstream end of the flavor source container 31.

[0051] The mesh body 32 is disposed upstream (non-suction side) of the flavor source 31A. In this embodiment, the mesh body 32 is disposed at the upstream end of the flavor source container 31. When a very small flavor source container 31 is provided with the mesh body 32, it is preferable that the flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are integrally molded in order to ensure the strength of the mesh body 32. That is, in this embodiment, the mesh body 32 is a part of the flavor source container 31. In such a case, it is preferable that the flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are made of a resin. For example, one or more resins selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene resin, and ABS resin can be used as the resin. In terms of moldability and texture, it is preferable that the resin is polypropylene. The flavor source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are formed by mold forming or injection molding.

[0052] In this embodiment, the mesh body 32 has a plurality of openings 32A, as shown in FIG. 8. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin, which is the smallest width, and a maximum width Wmax, which is the largest width, as the width passing through the center of gravity of each of the plurality of openings 32A. The minimum width Wmin is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source 31A. In particular, since the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source 31A are actually non-spherical, the falling out of the ingredient pieces is suppressed. From this viewpoint, the minimum width Wmin is preferably smaller than half the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A. The maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin. For example, the maximum width Wmax is preferably larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces. Alternatively, the maximum width Wmax is preferably between √2 and 6 times the minimum width Wmin. That is, each of the multiple openings 32A has a shape other than a circle. Furthermore, each of the multiple openings 32A is preferably rectangular in shape, since it is difficult for the raw material pieces to fit into the openings 32A. Note that each side of the rectangular shape of the openings 32A may include a nonlinear portion resulting from the manufacturing of the openings 32A. Furthermore, each vertex of the rectangular shape of the openings 32A may include a curved portion resulting from the manufacturing of the openings 32A.

[0053] Here, it is preferable that each of the plurality of apertures 32A has a shape selected from square, rectangular, rhombic, hexagonal, and octagonal, as shown in Figures 9 to 12. The shape of each of the plurality of apertures 32A may be one type, as shown in Figures 9 to 11, or two types, as shown in Figure 12. The shape of each of the plurality of apertures 32A may be three or more types. From the viewpoints of arrangement efficiency of the plurality of apertures 32A and ease of manufacture, it is preferable that each of the plurality of apertures 32A has a quadrangle shape.

[0054] 9 to 12, the multiple openings 32A are preferably arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel to each other. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is preferably 0.15 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less. In such a case, the thickness of the mesh body 32 is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0055] The filter 33 is made of a predetermined fiber and has a roughness that prevents the passage of raw material pieces. The filter 33 is disposed downstream of the flavor source 31A. The filter 33 is, for example, an acetate filter. The cap 34 is disposed downstream of the filter 33 (on the mouthpiece side).

[0056] It is preferable that the flavor source container 31 (here, including the mesh body 32), the filter 33 and the cap 34 are adhered or welded to one another.

[0057] In the embodiment, it is preferable that all of the openings in the mesh body 32 are the above-described openings 32A, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The openings in the mesh body 32 may include openings other than the above-described openings 32A.

[0058] (Connection status) The connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment will be described below. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a cross section taken along CC shown in Fig. 13. However, it should be noted that the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted from Fig. 13.

[0059] 13, an aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X so as to suppress bias in the aerosol flow in the second flow path 30X. In this embodiment, the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source container 31. In detail, the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is formed between the end cap 25 and the mesh body 32.

[0060] Here, the filling rate of the flavor source 31A contained in the flavor source container 31 is The capacity does not have to be 100%. That is, it is conceivable that voids will occur within the flavor source container 31. However, it goes without saying that the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is different from voids that occur when the filling rate of the flavor source 31A is not 100%.

[0061] In an embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, when the shift distance is defined as the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X toward the outside of the first flow path 20X, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G in the predetermined direction A may be determined taking into consideration the largest shift distance among the shift distances. That is, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G may be determined according to the largest shift distance. From the viewpoint of suppressing bias in the aerosol flow flowing within the flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is longer as the largest shift distance is longer. It is preferable that the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is 1 / 10 or more of the largest shift distance.

[0062] For example, as shown in Figure 14, when the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X are coaxial circles in a cross section perpendicular to the specified direction A, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G in the specified direction A is determined according to the difference (i.e., the shift distance) between the radius R1 of the first flow path 20X and the radius R2 of the second flow path 30X.

[0063] In the embodiment, as described above, the flavor source container 31 has a protrusion 31E that protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A) toward the upstream side (in the embodiment, toward the flow path forming body 23 or end cap 25). That is, the flavor source container 31 has the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer that forms the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G.

[0064] In this embodiment, the entire downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) is preferably exposed to the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G. The entire upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow path 30X) is preferably exposed to the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G. This allows the aerosol flow guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X to be efficiently adjusted by the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G.

[0065] It is preferable that the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G does not include a portion that protrudes upstream beyond the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X).It is preferable that the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G does not include a portion that protrudes downstream beyond the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow path 30X).This makes it possible to prevent the aerosol from remaining in unnecessary space.

[0066] It is preferable that the inner wall surface constituting the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is continuous without any steps from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) to the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow path 30X).

[0067] 13 and 14 , in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), outer edge 25out of end cap 25 is in contact with inner wall surface 24in of outer frame 24, and inner edge 25in of end cap 25 is preferably located between outer edge 25out of flow path forming body 23 and inner edge 25in of flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove end cap 25 from the downstream side. Furthermore, when end cap 25 is placed inside outer frame 24, end cap 25 is unlikely to interfere with flow path forming body 23.

[0068] (Control circuit) The following mainly describes the control circuit according to the embodiment. 1 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to the embodiment.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 15, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 includes a notification unit 40 and a control circuit 50.

[0070] The notification unit 40 notifies various types of information. The notification unit 40 may be configured with a light-emitting element, a vibration element, or a sound output element. The notification unit 40 may be a combination of two or more elements selected from the light-emitting element, the vibration element, and the sound output element. The notification unit 40 is preferably provided in the power supply unit 10, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The notification unit 40 may be provided in the first cartridge 20 or the second cartridge 30.

[0071] The control circuit 50 includes a detection unit 51 , a notification control unit 52 , and a power control unit 53 .

[0072] Detection unit 51 detects a puffing action. In such a case, detection unit 51 is connected to a suction sensor and detects a puffing action based on the output result of the suction sensor. Detection unit 51 also detects the supply of power from battery 11 to atomization unit 22. In such a case, detection unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on the power line connecting battery 11 and atomization unit 22 and detects the supply of power based on the output result of the voltage sensor.

[0073] The notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify various types of information. For example, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 in response to detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. As described above, the notification unit 40 may notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 by emitting light from a light-emitting element, by vibrating a vibration element, or by outputting sound from a sound output element.

[0074] Here, notification control unit 52 detects the timing to replace second cartridge 30 based on the number of puffing operations or the time that electricity is supplied to atomizing unit 22. The number of puffing operations can be determined by the puffing operations detected by detection unit 51 described above. Similarly, the time that electricity is supplied to atomizing unit 22 can be determined by the power supply detected by detection unit 51 described above.

[0075] Specifically, the notification control unit 52 has a counter 52X that counts the number of puffing operations or the duration of power supply to the atomization unit 22. When the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of the counter 52X. It is preferable that the notification control unit 52 resets the count value of the counter 52X after the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Alternatively, when the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 notifies the user of the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of the counter 52X in response to a predetermined operation by the user. If the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 is provided with a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for turning on or off the power of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 or a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for controlling the power supply to the atomization unit 22, the predetermined operation by the user may be an operation of the hardware interface. Alternatively, the predetermined user operation may be an operation of blowing air into the mouthpiece of the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1, as long as the detection unit 51 can detect a puffing operation. Alternatively, the predetermined user operation may be an inhalation operation (for example, two inhalations in a short period of time), as long as the detection unit 51 can detect a puffing operation and the operation can be distinguished from a general puffing operation. The counter 52X may be a count-up type counter or a count-down type counter.

[0076] In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 preferably controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 in response to detection of the timing to replace the first cartridge 20. In such a case, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 based on the number of times the second cartridge 30 has been replaced. In detail, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 when the number of times the second cartridge 30 has been replaced reaches a predetermined number.

[0077] In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 preferably controls the notification unit 40 to notify the timing to replace or charge the battery 11 in response to detection of the timing to replace or charge the battery 11. In such a case, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the timing to replace or charge the battery 11 based on the output voltage of the battery 11. In particular, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the timing to replace or charge the battery 11 when the output voltage of the battery 11 falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0078] However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace or charge battery 11 based on the number of puffing operations or the duration of power supply to atomization unit 22. In particular, notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace or charge battery 11 when the number of puffing operations or the duration of power supply to atomization unit 22 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0079] In addition, the notification unit 40 notifies the user of the timing to replace the first cartridge 20, the timing to replace the battery 11, or the timing to charge the battery 11 by emitting light from the light-emitting element, vibrating the vibration element, or outputting sound from the sound output element, just as it does when it is time to replace the second cartridge 30.

[0080] The power control unit 53 outputs a predetermined instruction to the battery 11 to instruct the battery 11 to keep the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 within a desired range. The predetermined instruction may be output once for each puffing operation. It should be noted that the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during a puffing period when a puffing operation is being performed, but does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during a non-puffing period when a puffing operation is not being performed. The puffing period and non-puffing period can be identified by the puffing operation detected by the detection unit 51 described above.

[0081] Here, the power control unit 53 controls the predetermined instruction so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range. For example, the power control unit 53 changes the predetermined instruction in accordance with a decrease in the amount of power stored in the battery 11. Furthermore, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. In other words, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when the puffing period exceeds the predetermined period, even if the user is actually performing a puffing action during that period.

[0082] Furthermore, when the puffing operation ends, even if a predetermined period of time has not elapsed since the start of the puffing operation, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. This prevents aerosol from being generated during periods when the puffing operation is not being performed (non-puffing periods), thereby preventing droplets from being generated due to aerosol stagnation and condensation in the aerosol flow path during the non-puffing periods, and preventing aerosol generated by a puffing operation following the non-puffing period from being trapped in the droplets. This can prevent the supply of a desired amount of aerosol from being hindered and can prevent deterioration of the smoking taste due to droplets.

[0083] Here, the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period. Furthermore, the predetermined period is preferably shorter than the average puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period. Of course, the average puff period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period.

[0084] The predetermined period is determined to reduce variations in puffing periods among users, so there must be a certain number of users whose puffing periods are longer than the predetermined period. From this perspective, it is preferable that the predetermined period be derived from statistics. Furthermore, by setting the predetermined period shorter than the average value of puffing periods derived from statistics, the duration of power supply to atomization unit 22 for the majority of puffing operations can be fixed to the predetermined period, thereby reducing variations in the amount of aerosol resulting from variations in puffing periods among users.

[0085] For example, the predetermined period is 1 second or more and 3 seconds or less. By making the predetermined period 1 second or more, the time during which power is supplied to atomization unit 22 is not too short compared to the puff period, reducing the discomfort felt by the user. On the other hand, by making the predetermined period 3 seconds or less, the number of puffing operations during which power is supplied to atomization unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period can be more than a certain number.

[0086] Furthermore, the predetermined period may be 1.5 seconds or more and 2.5 seconds or less, which further reduces the discomfort felt by the user and increases the number of puffing operations in which the power supply time to atomizing unit 22 is fixed at the predetermined period.

[0087] In an embodiment, the predetermined period is preferably determined in advance, and in such a case, the predetermined period is preferably determined according to a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users.

[0088] The standard puff period can be derived from statistics of users' puff periods and is the period between the lower limit value among the puff periods of multiple users and the upper limit value among the puff periods of multiple users. The lower limit value and the upper limit value may be derived based on the distribution of users' puff period data, for example, as the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the 95% confidence interval of the mean value, or may be derived as m±nσ (where m is the mean value, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number).

[0089] In the embodiment, it is preferable that power control unit 53 uses pulse control to control the amount of power supplied from battery 11 to atomization unit 22. In such a case, it is preferable that power control unit 53 outputs, as a change in the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the duty ratio of the output to battery 11 per puff operation as the amount of stored power in battery 11 decreases.

[0090] 16, the power control unit 53 controls the interval (pulse interval) of the ON time during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the duty ratio of the output to the battery 11 in one puffing operation by changing the pulse interval P1 to the pulse interval P2.

[0091] 17, the power control unit 53 controls the length of the ON time (pulse width) during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the duty ratio of the power output to the battery 11 in one puffing operation by changing the pulse width W1 to the pulse width W2.

[0092] As the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases, the power control unit 53 may change the predetermined instruction by increasing the duty ratio in a stepwise manner or by increasing the duty ratio continuously.

[0093] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the power based on the voltage value output from the battery 11. It is preferable to estimate the amount of electricity stored in battery 11. Alternatively, power control unit 53 may estimate the amount of electricity stored in battery 11 based on the number of puffing operations or the time duration for which electricity is supplied to atomization unit 22. The number of puffing operations can be determined from the puffing operations detected by detection unit 51 described above. Similarly, the time duration for which electricity is supplied to atomization unit 22 can be determined from the power supply detected by detection unit 51 described above.

[0094] In the embodiment, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 suspends the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 from the time the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. In other words, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 suspends the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 from the time the timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 is notified until the count value is reset. That is, the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 is suspended until the second cartridge 30 is replaced. This reduces the use of the second cartridge 30, which can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol.

[0095] (Control method) The control method according to the embodiment will be described below. Fig. 18 is a flow chart showing the control method according to the embodiment. Fig. 18 is a flow chart showing a method for controlling the amount of power supplied from battery 11 to atomizing unit 22 in one puffing operation. It should be noted that the flow shown in Fig. 18 starts upon detection of the start of a puffing operation.

[0096] It should be noted that the premise of the flow shown in Figure 18 is that the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the puff period when the puffing operation is being performed, but does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the non-puff period when the puffing operation is not being performed.

[0097] 18, in step S10, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) estimates the amount of stored power in the battery 11. As described above, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 preferably estimates the amount of stored power in the battery 11 based on the voltage value output from the battery 11.

[0098] In step S20, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines a predetermined instruction (e.g., a duty ratio) to be output to the battery 11. In detail, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 determines the duty ratio to be output to the battery 11 so that the duty ratio increases as the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases. In other words, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 outputs an instruction to increase the duty ratio as a change in the predetermined instruction.

[0099] In step S30, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. In other words, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 determines whether the puff period has exceeded the predetermined period. If the determination result is YES, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to the process of step S50, and if the determination result is NO, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to the process of step S40.

[0100] In step S40, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether the puffing operation has ended. If the determination result is NO, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 returns to the process of step S30, and if the determination result is YES, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 stops the supply of power to the atomization unit 22 and ends the series of processes. Note that, as described above, the end of the puffing operation may be detected by the detection unit 51 if the detection unit 51 is capable of detecting the puffing operation. Alternatively, the end of the puffing operation may be detected by operation of a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for switching whether or not to supply power to the atomization unit 22.

[0101] In step S50, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1 (that is, the power control unit 53) stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 even during the puffing period when the user is actually performing a puffing action.

[0102] (Action and effect) In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. The predetermined period of time is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of users' puff periods. Therefore, even if a user whose puff period is longer than the predetermined period uses a non-combustion flavor inhaler, a drastic decrease in the amount of stored power in the battery 11 is suppressed, and it is easy to control the predetermined instruction so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range.

[0103] In this way, regardless of the length of the user's puffing period and the amount of charge stored in the battery 11, the amount of aerosol supplied per puffing action can be kept within a desired range throughout the puffing action from the start of smoking (the early stage when the amount of charge stored in the battery 11 is sufficient) to the end of smoking (i.e., the final stage when the amount of charge stored in the battery 11 decreases).

[0104] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 changes the predetermined instruction output to the battery 11 in one puffing operation as the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases. This makes it possible to reduce the difference in the amount of power actually supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 between an initial stage when the amount of stored power in the battery 11 is sufficient and a final stage when the amount of stored power in the battery 11 is insufficient. This makes it possible to keep the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 within a desired range, regardless of the length of the user's puffing period or the amount of stored power in the battery 11.

[0105] In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 in response to detection of the timing to replace the second cartridge 30. Therefore, the user can easily know the timing to replace the second cartridge 30.

[0106] In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 in response to detection of the timing to replace the first cartridge 20. Therefore, the user can easily know the timing to replace the first cartridge 20.

[0107] In this embodiment, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. This makes it easy to detect the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the lifespan of the first cartridge 20 will end while the second cartridge 30 is being used. It goes without saying that the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 corresponds to the number of second cartridges 30 (number of replacements) that can be used with one first cartridge 20.

[0108] In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the timing to replace or charge the battery 11 in response to detection of the timing to replace or charge the battery 11. Therefore, the user can easily know the timing to replace or charge the battery 11.

[0109] In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 after the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. Therefore, the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped until the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Therefore, the second cartridge 30, which can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol, The use of the cartridge 30 is reduced.

[0110] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls predetermined instructions so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within a desired range, and stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. This reduces the variation in the amount of power consumed per puffing operation, improving the accuracy of detecting the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 when the timing is detected based on the number of puffing operations.

[0111] In the embodiment, an aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X so as to suppress unevenness of the aerosol flow in the second flow path 30X. This allows the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X to easily pass through the flavor source without unevenness in the second flow path 30X.

[0112] In the embodiment, reservoir 21 is located around flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to first flow path 20X (predetermined direction A). This makes it possible to ensure the volume of reservoir 21 that stores aerosol source 21A while suppressing the overall length of first cartridge 20 in first flow path 20X (predetermined direction A).

[0113] In the embodiment, the size of the second flow path 30X is larger than the size of the first flow path 20X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). In other words, because the first flow path 20X is small in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the volume of the reservoir 21 located around the flow path forming body 23 can be ensured. Because the size of the second flow path 30X is large in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), flavor components can be efficiently extracted from the flavor source 31A.

[0114] In the embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), outer edge 25out of end cap 25 contacts inner wall surface 24in of outer frame body 24, and inner edge 25in of end cap 25 is located between outer edge 25out of flow path forming body 23 and inner edge 25in of flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove end cap 25 from the downstream side. Furthermore, when end cap 25 is placed inside outer frame body 24, end cap 25 is unlikely to interfere with flow path forming body 23.

[0115] In the embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X toward the outside of the first flow path 20X, the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X is defined as the shift distance, and the length LG of the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G in the predetermined direction A is determined according to the longest shift distance among the shift distances. This allows the aerosol flow guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X to be appropriately adjusted by the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G, and the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X easily passes through the flavor source 31A without being biased within the second cartridge 30.

[0116] In this embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A provided in the mesh body 32 has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin and a maximum width Wmax, which are widths passing through the center of gravity of the respective openings 32A. Here, the minimum width Wmin is smaller than the size of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source 31A, so that the falling out of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source 31A can be suppressed, and the maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin, so that the open area ratio of the mesh body as a whole can be increased.

[0117] In this way, in the second cartridge 30 for the non-burning type flavor inhaler, This makes it possible to ensure an opening rate for the mesh body 32 as a whole while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces.

[0118] In this embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the openings 32A is larger than the lower limit of the size of the ingredient pieces that make up the flavor source 31 A. Therefore, the opening rate of the mesh body 32 as a whole is improved.

[0119] In this embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the openings 32A is between √2 and 6 times the minimum width Wmin of the openings 32A. Therefore, when the maximum width Wmax is √2 or more times the minimum width Wmin, the opening rate of the mesh body 32 as a whole is improved, and when the maximum width Wmax is 6 times or less the minimum width Wmin, the strength of the mesh body 32 can be maintained.

[0120] In this embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from square, rectangle, rhombus, hexagon, and octagon. The plurality of openings 32A are arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel to each other. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is 0.15 mm or more and 0.30 mm or less. This allows the plurality of openings 32A to be arranged efficiently, improving the overall opening rate of the mesh body 32 while maintaining the strength of the mesh body 32.

[0121] In this embodiment, the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31 is provided with ribs 31R extending from upstream to downstream in a predetermined direction A. Therefore, while the ribs 31R reinforce the flavor source container 31, the flow of the aerosol in the predetermined direction A within the flavor source container 31 is not obstructed by the ribs 31R, making it easy to extract flavor components from the flavor source 31A.

[0122] In this embodiment, the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 includes a tapered portion 31T that widens from upstream to downstream. This allows the second cartridge 30 to be easily fitted into the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20, and prevents the second cartridge 30 from falling off while allowing for manufacturing errors in the outer shape of the flavor source container 31.

[0123] In this embodiment, in the predetermined direction A, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, the downstream end of the rib 31R contacts the filter 33 without reaching the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. Therefore, the rib 31R reinforces the flavor source container 31 while also fulfilling the function of positioning the filter 33.

[0124] [Change Example 1] Modification 1 of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0125] Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has a protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer that forms the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G. In contrast, in Modification Example 1, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

[0126] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing the connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to Modification Example 1. However, it should be noted that Fig. 19 omits the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34.

[0127] 19, the flavor source container 31 has a main body 31P that contains a flavor source 31A and a flange 31Q disposed on the side of the main body 31P. It should be noted that in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the flange 31Q protrudes outward beyond the main body 31P and protrudes outward by at least the same amount as the inner surface of the outer frame 24. 19, flange portion 31Q is provided on the side surface of the downstream end portion of main body portion 31P, but this is not limited thereto, and flange portion 31Q may be provided anywhere on the side surface of main body portion 31P as long as it is engaged with the inner surface of outer frame 24.

[0128] Here, the distance L3 from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the end cap 25 (i.e., the distance from the portion where the outer frame 24 abuts against the flange portion 31Q to the downstream end of the end cap 25) is longer than the length L4 of the main body 31P (i.e., the distance from the upstream end of the flange portion 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P). Therefore, by having the flange portion 31Q catch on the downstream end of the outer frame 24, an aerosol flow adjusting chamber G that adjusts the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X is formed even if the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

[0129] In addition, when the first cartridge 20 does not have an end cap 25, the distance from the downstream end of the outer frame body 24 to the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (i.e., the distance from the part where the outer frame body 24 abuts the flange portion 31Q to the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23) is longer than the length of the main body portion 31P (i.e., the distance from the upstream end of the flange portion 31Q to the upstream end of the main body portion 31P).

[0130] [Change Example 2] Modification 2 of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0131] Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has a protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer that forms the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G. In contrast, in Modification Example 2, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

[0132] Figure 20 is a diagram showing the connection state between the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to Modification Example 2. Note that the reservoir 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33, and the cap 34 are omitted from Figure 20. The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (preferably, the outer edge of the upstream end).

[0133] 20, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes downstream (toward the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). The protrusion 25E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25, or may be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the end cap 25. Note that, when a gap exists between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, the protrusion 25E is preferably provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25. This makes it possible to prevent aerosol from accumulating in the space formed in the upstream part of the tapered portion 31T.

[0134] In this way, by providing protrusion 25E instead of protrusion 31E, an aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is formed that adjusts the flow of aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X, even if the flavor source container 31 does not have protrusion 31E.

[0135] In addition, when the first cartridge 20 does not have an end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 has a protrusion similar to the protrusion 25E that protrudes downstream (towards the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (specific direction A).

[0136] [Change Example 3] The third modification of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0137] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first flow path 20X completely overlaps with the second flow path 30X when viewed from the predetermined direction A. In addition, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the size of the second flow path 30X is preferably larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

[0138] In contrast, in Modification Example 3, as shown in Fig. 21, when viewed from the predetermined direction A, the first flow path 20X does not completely overlap with the second flow path 30X, but is shifted from the second flow path 30X. In such a case, the size of the second flow path 30X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A) is not particularly limited, but may be approximately the same as the size of the first flow path 20X or may be smaller than the size of the first flow path 20X. However, the size of the second flow path 30X may be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

[0139] [Change Example 4] Modification 4 of the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 22 to 25. Differences from the embodiment will be mainly described below. In Figures 22 to 25, the vertical axis represents the amount of aerosol (TPM (Total Particulate Matter) amount) (mg / puffing in Figures 22 to 25), and the horizontal axis represents the number of puffing actions (puff number). The further away from the intersection of the vertical and horizontal axes, the larger the values ​​represented.

[0140] In the fourth modification, similarly to the embodiment, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of power supply to atomization unit 22, power control unit 53 stops the power supply from battery 11 to atomization unit 22. The predetermined period of time is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff period.

[0141] The amount of aerosol atomized by atomization unit 22 depends on the puffing period during which the user actually performs a puffing operation and the output voltage output to battery 11. Here, we will assume a case in which the standard puffing period derived from statistics of users' puffing periods can be considered to follow a normal distribution with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second. In such a case, the upper limit of the standard puffing period is derived as m+nσ (where m is the average value, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number) as described above, and is, for example, about 3 to 4 seconds.

[0142] In sample E, the initial value of the output voltage of battery 11 is 4.2 V, and the battery capacity of battery 11 is 220 mAh. Furthermore, atomization portion 22 is composed of a wound heating wire, and the resistance value of the heating wire is 3.5 Ω. In FIG. 22, sample E1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puffing period of 2 seconds per puffing action, and sample E2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puffing period of 3 seconds per puffing action. Here, if the standard puffing period follows a normal distribution with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second, it should be noted that the probability of inhaling with a puffing period of 3 seconds or more per puffing action, as shown in sample E2, is approximately 27%, which is a quite plausible event.

[0143] In sample F, the configuration of battery 11 and atomization unit 22 is the same as in sample E. In Fig. 23, sample F1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample F is inhaled with a puffing period of 2 seconds per puffing action, and sample F2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample F is inhaled with a puffing period of 3 seconds per puffing action. However, in samples F1 and F2, power control unit 53 starts the power supply to atomization unit 22 after a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed. If this occurs, the power supply from battery 11 to atomization unit 22 is stopped. It should be noted that the predetermined period of 2.2 seconds is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff period and shorter than the average value of the puff period.

[0144] In Sample G, the battery 11 has the same configuration as Samples E and F. However, the atomization unit 22 is configured with a heating wire wound at a predetermined pitch, and differs from Samples E and F in that the resistance of the heating wire is 2.9 Ω. In FIG. 24, Sample G1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample G is inhaled with a puffing period of 2 seconds per puffing operation, and Sample G2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample G is inhaled with a puffing period of 3 seconds per puffing operation. However, in Samples G1 and G2, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22.

[0145] In Sample H, the battery 11 and atomization unit 22 are configured similarly to those in Sample G. However, the predetermined pitch of the heating wire constituting the atomization unit 22 is uniformly wound within a range of 0.35 mm to 0.40 mm, which is narrower than the predetermined pitch in Sample G. In FIG. 25, Sample H1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample H is inhaled with a puffing period of 2 seconds per puffing operation, while Sample H2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample H is inhaled with a puffing period of 3 seconds per puffing operation. Furthermore, in Samples H1 and H2, as in Sample G, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. However, in Samples H1 and H2, the duty ratio during power supply to the atomization unit 22 is changed depending on the value of the output voltage of the battery 11 detected by the detection unit 51. Specifically, as described above, as the amount of electricity stored in the battery 11 decreases, the output voltage of the battery 11 decreases, and therefore the duty ratio of the power supplied to the atomization unit 22 is increased in response to the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11.

[0146] Under these assumptions, for sample E, in which the puff period and the duration of energization to atomization unit 22 are the same regardless of the length of the puff period, the amount of aerosol varies greatly between when the puff period is 3 seconds and when it is 2 seconds, as shown in Figure 22. Furthermore, as can be seen by comparing the slopes of sample E1 and sample E2, the longer the puff period, i.e., the longer the energization time, the more significant the variation in the amount of aerosol from the first puff to the final puff.

[0147] The inventors focused on these results and found that by setting a predetermined period shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics on users' puff periods and stopping the supply of power from battery 11 to atomization unit 22 when the predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to atomization unit 22 for one puffing operation, it is possible to suppress fluctuations in the amount of aerosol from the first puff to the final puff, even for sample F2, which has a puff period of 3 seconds, as shown in Figure 23. This suppresses fluctuations in the amount of aerosol caused by variations in users' puff periods.

[0148] Furthermore, the inventors have focused on these results and discovered that by changing the configuration of the atomizing unit 22 so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 falls within a desired range when the time that electricity is applied to the atomizing unit 22 is a predetermined period, the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 can fall within a desired range over a longer number of puffs from the first puff to the final puff, as shown in Figure 24. Comparing sample G2 shown in Figure 24 with sample F2 shown in Figure 23, sample G2 is able to keep the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 within a desired range over a longer number of puffs than sample F2, while the range of variation in the amount of aerosol from the first puff to the final puff is The fluctuation range is larger than that of sample F2. This is because the change in the configuration of atomization part 22 increases the amount of power supplied from battery 11 to atomization part 22 per puffing operation.

[0149] Furthermore, the inventors have focused on these results and discovered that the rate of decrease in the amount of aerosol can be reduced by making the following changes. Specifically, the rate of decrease in the amount of aerosol can be reduced by increasing the duty ratio of the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in response to a decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11. The rate of decrease in the amount of aerosol can also be reduced by narrowing the predetermined pitch of the heating wire. By making these changes, as shown in FIG. 25, the inventors discovered that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 falls within a desired range throughout the entire period from the first puff to the final puff, for both H1, which has a puff period of 2 seconds, and H2, which has a puff period of 3 seconds.

[0150] Based on these results, the inventors have newly discovered that it is effective to control the power supply from battery 11 to atomization part 22 as follows.

[0151] (1) When a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of power supply to atomization unit 22, power control unit 53 stops the power supply from battery 11 to atomization unit 22. Here, the predetermined period of time is preferably shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff period and shorter than the average value of the puff period.

[0152] (2) The resistance value of the heating wire of atomization unit 22 is determined so as to atomize a desired amount of aerosol when current is applied to atomization unit 22 for a predetermined period of time. Here, it is preferable to determine the resistance value of the heating wire so that the amount of aerosol atomized by atomization unit 22 falls within the desired range when current is applied to atomization unit 22 for a predetermined period of time, assuming that the voltage supplied to atomization unit 22 from battery 11 is the voltage at the end of the battery 11 when the amount of stored power is insufficient.

[0153] (3) Furthermore, the power control unit 53 increases the duty ratio of the power supplied to the atomization unit 22 in accordance with a decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11 so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 falls within the desired range throughout the entire period from the first puff to the final puff.

[0154] The above-described control makes it easy to keep the amount of aerosol within the desired range, regardless of the length of the user's puff period, from the initial stage when the battery 11 has sufficient stored power to the final stage when the battery 11 has insufficient stored power.

[0155] That is, in modified example 4, by adjusting the predetermined pitch and resistance value of the heating wire that constitutes the atomization section 22, the atomization section 22 is configured to be able to atomize a larger amount of aerosol than the desired range of aerosol supply amount in one puff operation, at least when the atomization section 22 starts to be used (in other words, when the battery 11 is fully charged).

[0156] Under these conditions, the predetermined instruction (here, the duty ratio) output from power control unit 53 is determined based on the length of the predetermined period so that the amount of aerosol atomized by atomization unit 22 during the predetermined period falls within a desired range. In other words, by determining the predetermined period, the predetermined instruction is determined based on the length of the predetermined period in a state in which fluctuations in the amount of aerosol resulting from variations in the length of the user's puffing period are suppressed. Therefore, the amount of aerosol can be easily kept within the desired range regardless of the length of the user's puffing period, from the initial stage (start of smoking) when the amount of stored power in battery 11 is sufficient to the final stage (end of smoking) when the amount of stored power in battery 11 is insufficient.

[0157] In the fourth modification, the upper limit of the amount (desired range) of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is preferably 4.0 mg / puff operation. Furthermore, the upper limit is preferably 3.0 mg / puff operation. By setting the upper limit at the above-mentioned value, deterioration of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A contained in the second cartridge 30 is suppressed.

[0158] On the other hand, the lower limit of the amount (desired range) of aerosol atomized by atomization unit 22 is preferably 0.1 mg / puff operation. By setting the above-mentioned value as the lower limit, it is possible to supply an amount of aerosol that does not cause the user to feel insufficient, and to extract flavor components from flavor source 31A contained in second cartridge 30 by the aerosol.

[0159] [Change Example 5] The fifth modification of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0160] In the above-described embodiment, the predetermined period is determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of the puff periods of multiple users. In contrast, in Modification 5, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puff periods of users who actually use the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

[0161] Fig. 26 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to Modification 5. In Fig. 26, the same components as those in Fig. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a description of the same components as those in Fig. 15 will be omitted.

[0162] As shown in FIG. 26, the control circuit 50 includes a memory 54 and a calculation unit 55 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0163] The memory 54 stores a puff period, which is the period during which the user performs a puffing action.

[0164] The calculation unit 55 calculates the above-mentioned predetermined period from the statistics of the puffing periods stored in the memory 54. That is, the predetermined period is derived from the statistics of the puffing periods stored in the memory 54. However, it should be noted that the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of the above-mentioned standard puffing period.

[0165] For example, the calculation unit 55 calculates the predetermined period in the following procedure.

[0166] First, in the initial setting, similar to the above-described embodiment, the predetermined period (1 second) is determined in advance according to the standard puff period derived from statistics of the puff periods of a plurality of users.

[0167] Second, for example, an average value is derived from statistics of puff durations detected over a certain period (for example, from the start of use of the first cartridge 20 until the first cartridge 20 is replaced).

[0168] Third, change the predetermined period to the average value (X seconds).

[0169] Fourth, the duty ratio is changed so that the amount of power supplied to atomization unit 22 after inhalation for X seconds is equal to the amount of power supplied at the initial setting (after inhalation for I seconds). That is, when the average value (X) is smaller than the initial setting value (I), the duty ratio corresponding to each battery voltage is relatively increased. On the other hand, when the average value (X) is larger than the initial setting value (I), the duty ratio is decreased.

[0170] It is preferable that the predetermined period be recalculated, for example, at regular intervals (for example, after the first cartridge 20 is replaced).

[0171] (Action and effect) In the fifth modified example, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puffing periods of users who actually use the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the predetermined period to be referenced when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In particular, by setting a predetermined time suitable for the user's actual puffing period, compared to the case where a predetermined period derived from statistics of the puffing periods of multiple users is used, for users with long puffing periods, the discomfort caused by the supply of aerosol throughout the puffing period can be reduced, and for users with short puffing periods, the number of puffing actions to supply aerosol within the desired range can be increased.

[0172] [Change Example 6] The sixth modification of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0173] In the above-described embodiment, the predetermined period is determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of the puff periods of multiple users. In contrast, in Modification 6, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puff periods of users who actually use the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

[0174] Fig. 27 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of a control circuit 50 according to Modification 6. In Fig. 27, the same components as those in Fig. 15 are given the same reference numerals, and a description of the same components as those in Fig. 15 will be omitted.

[0175] As shown in FIG. 27, the control circuit 50 includes a memory 54 and an interface 56 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0176] The memory 54 stores a puff period, which is the period during which the user performs a puffing action.

[0177] The interface 56 is an interface for communicating with an external device 200 provided separately from the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1. The interface 56 may be a USB port, a wired LAN module, a wireless LAN module, or a short-range communication module (for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or FeliCa). The external device 200 may be a personal computer or a smartphone.

[0178] Specifically, the interface 56 transmits the puff duration stored in the memory 54 to the external device 200. The interface 56 receives from the external device 200 a predetermined duration calculated by the external device 200 from statistics based on the puff duration.

[0179] It should be noted that the external device 200 calculates the predetermined period in the same manner as the calculation unit 55 according to the fifth modified example.

[0180] (Action and effect) In the sixth modified example, the predetermined period is derived from statistics of the puffing periods of users who actually use the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the predetermined period to be referenced when stopping the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In particular, by setting a predetermined time suitable for the user's actual puffing period, compared to the case where a predetermined period derived from statistics of the puffing periods of multiple users is used, for users with long puffing periods, the discomfort caused by the supply of aerosol throughout the puffing period can be alleviated, and for users with short puffing periods, the number of puffing actions that supply aerosol within the desired range can be increased.

[0181] [Change Example 7] The seventh modification of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0182] In the above-described embodiment, notification control unit 52 has counter 52X that counts the number of puffing operations or the time that power is supplied to atomization unit 22. In contrast, in modified example 7, notification control unit 52 has first counter 52A and second counter 52B as counter 52X that counts the number of puffing operations or the time that power is supplied to atomization unit 22, as shown in FIG.

[0183] It should be noted that in Modification Example 7, the lifespan of the first cartridge 20 is the lifespan of the second cartridge 30 × T (T is an integer) + β. Note that β is a value smaller than the lifespan of the second cartridge 30, but is not particularly limited to this value.

[0184] When the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing to replace the second cartridge 30. When the count value of the second counter 52B reaches a second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing to replace the first cartridge 20. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value.

[0185] Alternatively, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a predetermined value P, and may also increment the count value of the second counter 52B. In this way, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches a predetermined value Q. That is, similar to the embodiment described above, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace the first cartridge 20 when the number of times the second cartridge 30 has been replaced reaches a predetermined number (predetermined value Q).

[0186] It should be noted that, since the second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 ultimately detects the timing of replacement of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of times the second cartridge 30 has been replaced.

[0187] In the seventh modified example, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 and reset the count value of the first counter 52A. Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 and reset the count value of the first counter 52A in response to a predetermined operation by the user. In such a case, it is preferable that the power control unit 53 suspends the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 from the time when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first predetermined value until the count value is reset.

[0188] In the seventh modified example, when the count value of second counter 52B reaches a second predetermined value, notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace first cartridge 20 and reset the count value of second counter 52B. Alternatively, when the count value of second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value, notification control unit 52 may detect the timing to replace first cartridge 20 and reset the count value of second counter 52B in response to a predetermined operation by the user. In such a case, it is preferable that power control unit 53 suspends the supply of power from battery 11 to atomization unit 22 from the time when the count value of second counter 52B reaches the second predetermined value until the count value is reset.

[0189] (Action and effect) In the seventh modified example, the second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value, so that the second cartridge 30 Even when the cartridges are to be replaced repeatedly, the replacement timings of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are notified at the same time, thereby improving convenience for the user.

[0190] [Change Example 8] Modification 8 of the embodiment will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the embodiment.

[0191] In Modification 8, a package including a first cartridge and a second cartridge will be described. Figure 29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to Modification 8.

[0192] As shown in Fig. 29, the package 300 has a first cartridge 20 and a second cartridge 30. The number of second cartridges 30 is determined according to the lifespan of the first cartridge 20. For example, the package 300 shown in Fig. 29 has one first cartridge 20 and five second cartridges 30. In other words, the number of second cartridges 30 is determined so that the lifespan of one first cartridge 20 comes to an end when all five second cartridges 30 are used up.

[0193] Specifically, the first cartridge 20 is provided with a permissible number of puffs, which is the number of puffing operations permitted for the first cartridge 20, or a permissible energization time, which is the permissible energization time for the first cartridge 20. The permissible number of puffs and the permissible energization time are values ​​for preventing depletion of the aerosol source 21A. In other words, the permissible number of puffs and the permissible energization time are upper limits for stably supplying the aerosol source 21A to the atomization unit 22 and atomizing an appropriate aerosol. The timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 is determined when the number of puffing operations or the energization time for the atomization unit 22 reaches a predetermined value. The number of second cartridges 30 is the integer part of the quotient obtained by dividing the permissible number of puffs or the permissible energization time by a predetermined value. Here, the permissible number of puffs or the permissible energization time does not have to be divisible by the predetermined value. In other words, the lifespan of the first cartridge 20 may have a margin relative to the number of second cartridges 30.

[0194] Alternatively, the timing when the number of puffing operations or the duration of power supply to the atomization unit 22 reaches a first predetermined value is the timing to replace the second cartridge 30. The timing when the number of puffing operations or the duration of power supply to the atomization unit 22 reaches a second predetermined value is the timing to replace the first cartridge 20. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple T of the first predetermined value. The integer multiple T is the number of second cartridges 30 included in the package 300.

[0195] (Action and effect) In the eighth modified example, the number of second cartridges 30 is determined according to the lifespan of the first cartridges 20, and therefore, even when the second cartridges 30 are repeatedly replaced, the replacement timing of the first cartridges 20 and the second cartridges 30 is synchronized, improving convenience for the user. In other words, by using up the second cartridges 30 included in the package 300, the user can easily know when to replace the first cartridges 20.

[0196] [Other embodiments] Although the present invention has been described by the above-mentioned embodiments, the descriptions and drawings that form part of this disclosure should not be understood to limit the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples, and operating techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0197] In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 has an end cap 25. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the reservoir 21 has a configuration (e.g., a tank) that can prevent leakage of the aerosol source 21A, the first cartridge 20 does not need to have the end cap 25. In such a case, the aerosol flow adjusting chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source container 31.

[0198] In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is housed in the first cartridge 20 (protrusion 25E), but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the power supply unit 10 may house the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30. Alternatively, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 may be connected at their opposing end surfaces. In such a case, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are connected, for example, by screwing.

[0199] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the end cap 25 is preferably joined to the reservoir 21 in order to prevent the reservoir 21 from being refilled with the aerosol source 21A.

[0200] In the embodiment, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes downstream (toward the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In a case where the end cap 25 is not provided, the flow path forming body 23 may have a protrusion 25E that protrudes downstream (toward the flavor source container 31) from the outer edge of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A). The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (for example, the outer edge of the upstream end).

[0201] In the embodiment, the atomization part 22 is an electric heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The shape of the electric heating wire that constitutes the atomization part 22 is arbitrary.

[0202] In the embodiment, the case where atomization unit 22 is configured by an electric heating wire is exemplified. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Atomization unit 22 may atomize aerosol source 21A by ultrasonic waves.

[0203] In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Specifically, instead of the first cartridge 20, an atomization unit having a reservoir 21 and an atomization part 22 may be provided in the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1, and the atomization unit may be a unit that is not replaceable.

[0204] In the embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Specifically, instead of the second cartridge 30, a flavor source unit having a flavor source 31A may be provided in the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1, and the flavor source unit may be a unit that is not replaceable. However, this does not apply when the second cartridge 30 is an essential feature.

[0205] In the embodiment, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Specifically, the configurations of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 may be provided in the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 1.

[0206] In this embodiment, the package 300 includes one first cartridge 20. However, However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The package 300 may have two or more first cartridges 20.

[0207] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 by pulse control. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may also control the output voltage of the battery 11. In such a case, the power control unit 53 may output, as a change in the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the instruction voltage to be output to the battery 11 as the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases.

[0208] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 outputs, as a change in the predetermined instruction, an instruction to increase the duty ratio of the output to the battery 11 in one puffing operation as the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may output, as a change in the predetermined instruction, an instruction to extend a predetermined period for stopping the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 as the amount of stored power in the battery 11 decreases.

[0209] In this embodiment, detection unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on the power line connecting battery 11 and atomization unit 22, and detects the power supply based on the output result of the voltage sensor. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, detection unit 51 may be connected to a current sensor provided on the power line connecting battery 11 and atomization unit 22, and detect the power supply based on the output result of the current sensor.

[0210] In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during a puffing period when a puffing operation is being performed, but does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during a non-puffing period when a puffing operation is not being performed. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may switch the output of power to the atomization unit 22 in response to operation of a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for outputting power to the atomization unit 22. In other words, the puffing operation and the non-puffing operation are switched in response to operation of the hardware interface. [Industrial Applicability]

[0211] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a cartridge and a non-combustion type flavor inhaler that can ensure the opening rate of the entire mesh body while suppressing the falling off of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source.

Claims

1. A non-combustion type flavor inhaler, a battery that stores power to be supplied to an atomizing unit that atomizes the aerosol source without combustion; A detection unit that detects puffing actions; a notification unit that notifies information; a notification control unit that controls the notification unit; a counter that counts the number of puffing operations or the duration of time that the atomization unit is energized; A non-combustion type flavor inhaler comprising:

2. The non-burning type flavor inhaler according to claim 1, The notification control unit controls the notification unit to notify the timing of cartridge replacement in response to detection of the timing of cartridge replacement.

3. The non-burning flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, The notification control unit controls the notification unit to notify the replacement timing based on the count value of the counter.

4. The non-burning flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The notification control unit detects the timing to replace or charge the battery when the output voltage of the battery falls below a predetermined threshold.

5. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Further, a power control unit is provided. The power control unit stops supplying power from the battery to the atomization unit after the count value of the counter reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset.

6. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, an interface for communicating with an external device; a memory, The interface transmits information stored in the memory.

7. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, a predetermined period of time from when power supply to the atomization unit starts is determined based on statistics of puff periods of users who use the non-combustion type flavor inhaler; The non-combustion type flavor inhaler, wherein the timing of ending the power supply to the atomization unit is associated with the predetermined period.

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