Heating unit for flavor inhaler and flavor inhaler

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

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

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

[0005] According to the first aspect, the heating unit is fixed to the partition unit by the fixing unit, so the partition unit and the heating unit can be substantially integrated. In this case, the first insulating unit can reduce the thermal influence from the heating unit to the fixing unit, so the fixing unit can withstand use even under high-temperature heating. Therefore, according to the first aspect, an integrated heating unit for a flavor inhaler capable of high-temperature heating is provided. Such an integrated unit is highly stable against impacts and vibrations, and may be advantageous for mass production of the unit itself and for mass production of flavor inhalers incorporating the unit.

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

[0007] The heating section may have a first section located on the opposite side of the opening and a second section located on the opening side. The heater power density of the second section is preferably higher than the heater power density of the first section, or the temperature rise rate of the second section is preferably higher than the temperature rise rate of the first section, or the heating temperature of the second section is preferably higher than the heating temperature of the first section at any given time. The second section preferably covers the outer surface of the compartment corresponding to at least half of the smokable material in the longitudinal direction of the smokable material when the smokable material is positioned at a desired position within the compartment. This allows the heating section to be started up while suppressing energy consumption. This reduces the time it takes for the first puff to be performed after activation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0014] The side surface of the partition may include a susceptor. This allows the partition to receive energy from the induction coil (magnetic field lines generated around the induction coil) more efficiently than when only the bottom of the partition includes a susceptor. More specifically, the side surface of the partition may include a tubular susceptor surrounding the accommodation portion and have a current path surrounding the accommodation portion. This provides a ring-shaped current path, allowing eddy currents to be generated efficiently. Alternatively, the side surface of the partition may be made of a susceptor and have a current path surrounding the accommodation portion. In this case, since the side surface of the partition itself is made of a susceptor, the partition can have a simple and inexpensive configuration.

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

[0016] The susceptor is made of aluminum, iron, nickel, and their alloys (e.g., nichrome and stainless steel). It is preferable that the material be at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel. The shape of the susceptor may be any shape, such as granular, rod-like, strip-like, tubular, or cylindrical. If the shape of the susceptor is tubular with a circular electrical flow path, eddy currents can be generated efficiently. Multiple susceptors of the same shape may be arranged in the partition, or susceptors of different shapes may be arranged.

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

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

[0019] The flavor inhaler heating unit preferably has a second insulating section between the partition and the induction coil. In this case, the second insulating section may be magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating). Here, "having electrical non-conductivity" includes being substantially electrically non-conductive. This provides an IH (induction heating) assembly with an integrated and stable structure. The second insulating section also has at least one of the following effects: The second insulating section reduces heat transfer from the susceptor to the sheath of the Litz wire that may form the induction coil. The second insulating section prevents heat from being transferred from the susceptor to the induction coil, thereby reducing heat transfer from the housing to the outside. Overheating of the housing due to heat from the susceptor can be reduced. Furthermore, because the second insulating section is magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating), heat generation in the second insulating section is reduced, and the susceptor located inside the second insulating section can be efficiently heated by magnetic field lines generated by the induction coil.

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

[0021] The first and second insulating parts may be integrated into an integrated insulating part, which can simplify the insulating structure of the flavor inhaler heating unit. The induction coil may be embedded in the integrated insulating part, or at least the inner and outer parts of the induction coil may be embedded in the integrated insulating part. Both sides may be partially covered with an integral insulating portion, thereby firmly fixing the position of the induction coil. The second insulating portion may be in contact with both the partition portion and the induction coil, thereby providing a more stable structure for the heating unit for a flavor inhaler than when the second insulating portion is not in contact with either the partition portion or the induction coil.

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

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

[0024] The support portion of at least one of the first and second insulating portions may be, for example, a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc. That is, the support portion of the first insulating portion may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc., the support portion of the second insulating portion may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc., and the support portions of the first and second insulating portions may be a fiber, a nonwoven fabric, a woven cloth, a porous body, etc. The support member of at least one of the first and second insulating units may be made of fiber, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or porous material. The support member of at least one of the first and second insulating units may be made of any material that exhibits the desired thermal insulation performance, such as ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood, or paper. That is, the support member of the first insulating unit may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood, or paper, and the support member of the second insulating unit may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood, or paper. The support members of the first and second insulating units may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood, or paper. It is preferable that the support member of at least one of the first and second insulating units be flexible. That is, it can be said that the support member of the first insulating unit is preferably flexible, or that the support member of the second insulating unit is preferably flexible, or that the support members of the first and second insulating units are preferably flexible. This makes it easy to assemble the first heat insulating section or the second heat insulating section, and allows them to be assembled into compartments of various shapes. The support section for at least one of the first heat insulating section or the second heat insulating section can be made of any material that can exhibit the desired heat insulating performance, and can be made of, for example, metal fiber, organic compound fiber, ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, sheet-like ceramic fiber such as sheet-like glass fiber, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, mineral wool, or the like. In other words, the support portion of the first insulating portion may be made of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-like ceramic fibers such as sheet-like glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, or mineral wool; the support portion of the second insulating portion may be made of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-like ceramic fibers such as sheet-like glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, or mineral wool; and the support portions of the first insulating portion and the second insulating portion may be made of, for example, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, sheet-like ceramic fibers such as sheet-like glass fibers, glass wool, Superwool (registered trademark), rock wool, or mineral wool.Other examples of ceramic fibers include carbon fibers, alumina fibers, and silicon carbide fibers. Examples of materials that make up metal fibers include metals, alloys, and plastics coated with organic compound resins such as metals or alloys, and non-metallic cores completely covered with metals or alloys. Examples of metals that make up metals or alloys include aluminum, stainless steel, and iron. Examples of organic compound fibers include: Examples of the material include fibers made of highly heat-resistant materials such as PEEK. If at least the support portion is made of ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, it is expected to have the effect of reducing radiant heat transfer from areas that are heated to high temperatures by the heat emitted from the resistance heating portion or susceptor to heat the smokable material.

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

[0026] The compressive stress of the support portion of at least one of the first heat insulating portion or the second heat insulating portion is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following is most preferred: The compressive stress of the support part of the insulation part is 0.1N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is the most preferable, and the compressive stress of the second insulating part is 0.1N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is most preferable, and the compressive stress of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following can be said to be most preferable. This suppresses changes in the shape of the first insulating section or the second insulating section even when the first insulating section or the second insulating section is fixed, for example, under pressure from the fixing section, and can reduce a decrease in the insulating function due to a decrease in the volume of air contained in the insulating section. Furthermore, the first insulating section or the second insulating section can maintain an appropriate flexibility, which can improve the ease of arrangement of the first insulating section or the second insulating section.

[0027] In addition, when at least one of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is a sheet, the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2The most preferable value is 0.1 N / mm. That is, the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm. 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is most preferable, and the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the second heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 It can be said that the following is most preferable, and the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 1.0N / mm 2 Less than 0.1N / mm is preferable. 2 More than 0.5N / mm 2 More preferably, 0.1 N / mm 2 More than 0.3N / mm 2 The following can also be said to be most preferable. This prevents the first or second insulating section from changing shape even when the first or second insulating section is fixed, for example, by a fixing section that applies pressure in the thickness direction of the insulating sheet, and can prevent a decrease in insulating function due to a decrease in the volume of air contained in the insulating section. Furthermore, the first or second insulating section can maintain an appropriate degree of flexibility, making it easier to arrange the first or second insulating section.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0038] The hollow filter may be composed of a packed layer having one or more hollow channels and a plug wrapper covering the packed layer. Because the packed layer has a high fiber packing density, air or aerosols flow only through the hollow channels during inhalation, with almost no flow within the packed layer. The hollow filter may have a mouthpiece composed of an adjacent filter section, etc.

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

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

[0041] For solid smokable materials, tobacco lamina, ribs, etc., or other known plants may be used as a flavor source. Furthermore, the form of the flavor source, such as tobacco, may be shredded, sheet-like, string-like, powdered, granular, pellet-like, slurry-like, or porous. The content of the smokable material, such as tobacco, in consumable products ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg, preferably 250 mg to 320 mg, when the smokable material has a circumference of 20 mm to 23 mm and a length of 18 mm to 22 mm. The moisture content (weight % relative to the total weight of the smokable material) of a smokable material containing tobacco as a flavor source is, for example, 8 wt% to 18 wt%, preferably 10 wt% to 16 wt%. Such a moisture content suppresses the occurrence of stains and improves the suitability for wrapping during manufacturing. There are no particular limitations on the size or preparation method of the tobacco shreds used as an example of a smokable material. For example, dried tobacco leaves shredded to a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm may be used. In addition, dried tobacco leaves are crushed and homogenized to an average particle size of about 20 μm to 200 μm, and then sheeted. The smokable substance may be formed by processing the sheet into a shape that is then cut into widths of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm and then used. Furthermore, the above-mentioned sheet-processed material may be gathered without being cut into pieces and used as the smokable substance. Furthermore, the smokable substance may be liquid, and the liquid may have viscosity. In this case, the smokable substance may be mostly made up of the aerosol source. The content of the aerosol source in the liquid smokable substance (weight % relative to the total weight of the smokable substance) may be 80 wt % or more, 90 wt % or more, or 95 wt % or more. Furthermore, the smokable substance may contain one or more flavorings. The type of flavoring is not particularly limited, but menthol is preferred from the viewpoint of imparting a good smoking experience.

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

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

[0044] It should be noted that the first embodiment may combine or apply features of other embodiments as long as the functions and effects of the first embodiment are not impaired.

[0045] According to a second aspect, there is provided a flavor inhaler. The flavor inhaler has the above-mentioned flavor inhaler heating unit and an external insulation part. The external insulation part is disposed between the fixing part and the housing. As a result, the flavor inhaler has the first insulation part of the flavor inhaler heating unit and the external insulation part, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the smokable material and suppressing the temperature rise of the housing. In other words, the first insulation part keeps the compartment warm in a position where the space is relatively small and close to the heating part, and the external insulation part reduces overheating of the outer surface of the housing in a position where the space is relatively large and far from the heating part.

[0046] The flavor inhaler is preferably a portable or handheld device. The outer insulating section is preferably thicker than the first insulating section, thereby improving the insulating effect. Here, the thickness refers to the thickness in a direction perpendicular to the side surface of the partition section. The outer insulating section is disposed so as to cover at least the entire main surface of the first insulating section, thereby improving the insulating effect.

[0047] The outer insulation may include, for example, a case that defines an interior space. The case may be made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel, or a synthetic resin such as plastic. The interior space may be, for example, evacuated or filled with an insulating material such as aerogel. In particular, when aerogel insulation is combined with a first insulating material such as ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, the first insulating material may act as a heat source. Since the radiant heat from the first insulating section can be reduced before it reaches the aerogel insulation, which is the outer insulating section, even an aerogel insulation with poor insulating performance against radiant heat can effectively contribute to insulation. In this case, the emissivity of the first insulating section is preferably 0.7 or higher, and more preferably 0.9 or higher. By selecting an emissivity within the above range, the transmittance is reduced, thereby effectively suppressing radiant heat transfer from the location where heat is generated to heat the hottest smokable material inside the flavor inhaler. In other words, by combining an outer insulating section made of an insulating material such as aerogel insulation with poor insulating performance against radiant heat with a first insulating section with an emissivity of preferably 0.7 or higher, and more preferably 0.9 or higher, a synergistic insulating effect can be expected, where the two insulating sections complement each other.

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

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

[0050] If the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the housing is A, it is preferable that the heat insulating section be positioned within a range of A / 5, preferably A / 10, and more preferably A / 20 from the outer surface of the compartment, thereby enabling efficient insulation of the compartment.

[0051] If the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the housing is A, the external insulation is preferably positioned at a distance of 5A / 6 or more, preferably 4A / 6 or more, and more preferably 3A / 6 or more from the outer surface of the compartment, thereby more efficiently preventing overheating of the outer surface of the housing.

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

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

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

[0055] In addition, the features of the other aspects can be combined or applied to the fourth aspect as well, as long as the functions and effects of the fourth aspect are not impaired.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0087] The first insulating portion 70 is preferably magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating). The first insulating portion 70 can protect the electromagnetic shield 88 and the fixing portion 80 from the heat of the partition portion 50. The second insulating portion 73 can also be magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating). This provides an IH (induction heating) assembly having a stable configuration in which the components necessary for heating are arranged in layers around the partition portion as an axis, and in which the components necessary for heating are integrated. This configuration may be advantageous for mass production of the IH assembly itself and for mass production of flavor inhalers incorporating the IH assembly. Furthermore, it has at least one of the following effects: The second insulating portion 73 can protect the sheath of the Litz wire that may constitute the induction coil of the heating portion 60 from the heat of the susceptor (the side surface 52 of the partition portion 50). The second heat insulating section 73 prevents heat from being transferred from the susceptor (side surface 52 of the partition section 50) to the induction coil of the heating section 60, making it difficult for heat to move from the accommodation section 53 to the outside. This prevents the housing 102 from being overheated by the heat from the susceptor (side surface 52 of the partition section 50).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0098] 8, the partitions 50 may be made of a synthetic resin such as PEEK, which is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). This prevents energy from the heating unit 60 (magnetic lines of force generated around the induction coil) from being absorbed by the partitions 50 and allows it to be efficiently transmitted to the susceptor 90.

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

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

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

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

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

[0104] In the third embodiment, the side surface 52 of the partition 50 is induction heated by the heating unit 60, but the second insulating unit 73 can prevent heat from being transferred from the partition 50 to the heating unit 60. In addition, in the third embodiment, the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler may have an outer insulating unit 85 as needed, which can reduce the temperature rise of the housing 102. In addition, in the third embodiment, the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler may have an electromagnetic shield 88 as needed.

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

[0106] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical concept described in the specification and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly described in the specification or drawings is within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention as long as it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention. Furthermore, the shape, degree, etc. expressed in the specification as "at least substantially" is not limited to "strictly the shape, degree, etc." but is intended to include "at least the shape, degree, etc. within the range that achieves the intended effect." [Explanation of symbols]

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

Claims

1. A flavor inhaler, comprising: a partition section having an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, the partition section defining a storage section for receiving columnar consumables; a heating unit that heats the partition unit; A fixed portion; a housing that accommodates the partitioning portion, the heating portion, and the fixing portion therein, the compartment includes a susceptor; the heating section includes an induction coil surrounding the side surface of the compartment; The flavor inhaler comprises: a first heat insulating portion disposed between the susceptor and the induction coil; a second heat insulating portion disposed between the induction coil and the fixed portion, The fixing part is configured to fix the second insulating part.

2. The flavor inhaler according to claim 1, The flavor inhaler, wherein the second insulating portion has a portion located between adjacent wires of the induction coil.

3. The flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, The flavor inhaler, wherein the second insulating portion includes glass fiber.

4. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The flavor inhaler, wherein the thickness of the second heat insulating portion is 0.10 mm or more and 3.00 mm or less.

5. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The flavor inhaler, wherein the first heat insulating section and the second heat insulating section have the same configuration.

6. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, At least one of the first heat insulating section and the second heat insulating section includes a sheet, and the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the sheet is 0.1 N / mm ２ 1.0N / mm or more ２ Below is the flavor inhaler.

7. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, A flavor inhaler, wherein the second insulating section is positioned within a range of A / 5 from the outer surface of the partition section, where A is the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition section and the inner surface of the housing.

8. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The flavor inhaler has a side surface of the partition portion formed by the susceptor and a current path surrounding the storage portion.

9. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The flavor inhaler, wherein the fixing part is made of polyimide.

10. The flavor inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, an outer heat insulating portion disposed between the fixing portion and the housing.

11. The flavor inhaler according to claim 10, A flavor inhaler in which, when the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition and the inner surface of the housing is A, the outer insulation part is positioned at a distance of 5A / 6 or more from the outer surface of the partition.

12. A flavor inhalation system comprising the consumable product and the flavor inhaler according to claim 1 .

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