Smoking system and method for producing electrode

Abstract

Provided is a smoking system that includes a flavor inhaler and a flavor-generating article. The flavor inhaler comprises: a first electrode that is electrically grounded; a second electrode that is disposed opposite to the first electrode; and an oscillation unit that is electrically connected to the second electrode and is capable of emitting microwaves through oscillation. The flavor-generating article includes a first flavor source that is positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking. In the width direction orthogonal to both the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article and the direction in which the first electrode and the second electrode face each other, the length of the first flavor source is at most the length of the first electrode and is at least the length of the second electrode.

Description

Smoking system and method for manufacturing electrodes

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking system and a method for manufacturing an electrode.

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

[0003] International Publication No. 2021 / 090022

[0004] In a device such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is required to appropriately transmit microwaves to the flavor source of the flavor-generating article and efficiently heat the flavor source.

[0005] One of the objects of the present invention is to efficiently heat a flavor source by microwaves.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a smoking system including a flavor inhaler and a flavor-generating article. The flavor inhaler includes a first electrode that is electrically grounded, a second electrode disposed opposite the first electrode, and an oscillator electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of emitting microwaves. The flavor-generating article includes a first flavor source positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking. In a width direction of the flavor-generating article that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the direction in which the first electrode and the second electrode face each other, the length of the first flavor source is equal to or less than the length of the first electrode and equal to or greater than the length of the second electrode.

[0007] According to the first aspect, the length of the first flavor source in the width direction is equal to or less than the length of the first electrode and equal to or greater than the length of the second electrode, so that microwaves radiated from the second electrode can be efficiently transmitted to the first flavor source and can be efficiently reflected or absorbed by the first electrode. Therefore, according to the first aspect, microwaves can be appropriately transmitted to the first flavor source and can efficiently heat the first flavor source. Furthermore, leakage of microwaves from the flavor inhaler can be suppressed.

[0008] In the width direction, the length of the first flavor source may be smaller than the length of the first electrode.

[0009] In this case, the first electrode can more efficiently reflect or absorb microwaves, so that the first flavor source can be heated more efficiently.

[0010] In the width direction, the length of the first flavor source may be greater than the length of the second electrode.

[0011] In this case, the microwaves emitted from the second electrode can be transmitted to the first flavor source more efficiently, so that the microwaves can be transmitted to the first flavor source more appropriately and the first flavor source can be heated more efficiently.

[0012] During smoking, the downstream end of the first flavor source may be located downstream of the downstream end of the second electrode.

[0013] The electromagnetic field strength of the microwaves radiated from the second electrode is stronger the closer to the second electrode, particularly the closer to the downstream end (tip) of the second electrode. Therefore, the microwave electromagnetic field strength is relatively strong even in the space downstream of the downstream end of the second electrode. Therefore, when the downstream end of the first flavor source is located downstream of the downstream end of the second electrode, the first flavor source can be positioned at a position where the microwave electromagnetic field strength is relatively strong, and microwaves can be efficiently transmitted to the first flavor source.

[0014] The first electrode may be longer than the second electrode in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler.

[0015] In this case, the microwaves radiated from the second electrode can be efficiently reflected or absorbed by the first electrode, which further reduces the leakage of microwaves from the flavor inhaler.

[0016] The first electrode may be in direct contact with the flavor generating article.

[0017] In this case, when the flavor generating article is positioned at a desired position in the flavor inhaler to heat the flavor generating article, the first electrode comes into direct contact with the flavor generating article, making it difficult for the flavor generating article to come out of the flavor inhaler. That is, in this case, the retention force of the flavor generating article in the flavor inhaler can be improved.

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

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

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

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

[0022] A second flavor source may be positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode when smoking.

[0023] In this case, the microwaves radiated from the second electrode toward the third electrode are absorbed and heated by the second flavor source, allowing efficient use of the microwaves radiated from the second electrode, and as a result, vapor or aerosol can be generated in the second flavor source, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol generated and supplied to the user.

[0024] The first electrode may have a coating layer on a surface facing the second electrode.

[0025] In this case, it is possible to prevent stains caused by the first flavor source of the flavor-generating article from adhering to the first electrode. The covering layer may be formed of, for example, paper, glass, ceramic, etc. The covering layer is preferably gas-impermeable.

[0026] The second electrode may have a flat shape.

[0027] In this case, the second electrode has a flat surface (main surface), and the electromagnetic field intensity of the microwaves at the main surface can be improved compared to when the second electrode has a cylindrical or columnar shape. Therefore, by arranging the first flavor source so that it faces the main surface of the second electrode, the first flavor source can be efficiently heated by microwaves.

[0028] The second electrode may have a hollow structure.

[0029] In this case, for example, a cylindrical member (tubular member) can be used as the second electrode. Furthermore, by compressing this cylindrical member, a flat-shaped second electrode can be easily formed. The flat-shaped second electrode thus formed does not have corners (edges) on its side. If the second electrode has corners, the corners tend to heat up more than other parts. Furthermore, if the second electrode has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the flavor source located near the corners. Therefore, by not having corners on the second electrode, overheating of the second electrode and the flavor source can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no corners are formed on the side of the second electrode, damage to the flavor-generating product when the flavor-generating product comes into contact with the second electrode can be suppressed.

[0030] The second electrode may have a coating layer on an outer surface thereof.

[0031] In this case, it is possible to prevent contamination caused by the first flavor source of the flavor-generating article from adhering to the second electrode. The coating layer may be formed of, for example, paper, glass, ceramic such as alumina, or Teflon (registered trademark). The coating layer is preferably gas-impermeable.

[0032] During smoking, the second electrode may not be in direct contact with the first flavor source.

[0033] In this case, it is possible to prevent stains or the like caused by the first flavor source of the flavor-generating product from adhering to the second electrode.

[0034] The flavor generating article may have a mouth end, a distal end opposite the mouth end, and an upstream portion located closer to the distal end than the first flavor source.

[0035] In this case, the end of the first flavor source is covered by the upstream portion, so that the first flavor source can be prevented from falling from the flavor-generating article.

[0036] The flavor-generating article has a mouth end, a distal end opposite the mouth end, and a filter portion positioned closer to the mouth end than the first flavor source, and during smoking, the downstream end of the first electrode may be located downstream of the downstream end of the filter portion.

[0037] In this case, since the first electrode is located downstream of the downstream end of the filter unit, the first electrode can be positioned so as to overlap most of the flavor-generating article. This allows the microwaves radiated from the second electrode to be reflected or absorbed over a wider area by the first electrode, further preventing microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler. In this case, since the downstream end of the filter unit can be located inside the flavor inhaler, it is preferable that the flavor inhaler have a detachable mouthpiece.

[0038] The downstream end of the second electrode may be chamfered.

[0039] When the second electrode has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other parts. Furthermore, when the second electrode has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the flavor source located near the corners. Therefore, by chamfering the downstream end of the second electrode, overheating of the second electrode and the flavor source can be suppressed. Furthermore, by chamfering the downstream end of the second electrode, damage to the flavor-generating product when the flavor-generating product comes into contact with the second electrode can be suppressed. Note that the term "chamfering" as used herein includes "c-chamfering" and "r-chamfering." Furthermore, "r-chamfering" also includes processing to make the downstream end (tip) of the second electrode spherical.

[0040] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method for manufacturing an electrode for heating a flavor-generating article with microwaves, the method comprising the steps of forming a cylindrical electrode into a flattened shape.

[0041] In this case, a flat electrode can be easily formed by, for example, compressing this cylindrical member. The flat electrode thus formed does not have corners (edges) on its side. When an electrode with corners is used as an electrode for generating microwaves, the corners tend to become hotter than other parts. Furthermore, when an electrode has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which can result in overheating of the flavor source located near the corners. Therefore, by having an electrode without corners, overheating of the electrode and flavor source can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no corners are formed on the side of the electrode, damage to the flavor-generating product when the flavor-generating product comes into contact with the electrode can be suppressed. Note that the term "cylinder" as used herein can include both solid and hollow cylinders.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a schematic side sectional view of the smoking system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic side sectional view of the smoking system as seen from arrow 2-2 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view of the smoking system as seen from arrow 3-3 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view of the smoking system according to another embodiment as seen from arrow 3-3 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view of the smoking system according to another embodiment as seen from arrow 3-3 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of the smoking system according to another embodiment as seen from arrow 3-3 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. In this specification, the "longitudinal direction" refers to the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article, in other words, the direction in which the flavor-generating article is inserted into the flavor inhaler. In addition, in this specification, the "transverse direction" or "radial direction" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a smoking system according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the smoking system as viewed from arrow 2-2 in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the smoking system as viewed from arrow 3-3 in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a smoking system 10 according to this embodiment includes a flavor-generating article 20 and a flavor inhaler 100. The flavor inhaler 100 is preferably a portable or handheld device. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flavor inhaler 100 includes a battery 102, a printed circuit board (PCB) 103, a microwave oscillator 104 (corresponding to an example of an oscillator), a waveguide 105, a housing 110, and a heating unit 120. The flavor-generating article 20 includes a flavor source 50 that is heated by the flavor inhaler 100. The detailed configuration of the flavor-generating article 20 will be described later.

[0045] The flavor inhaler 100 is configured to atomize a flavor or an aerosol source contained in a flavor source 50 of the flavor generating article 20. The flavor source 50 constitutes a part of the flavor generating article 20, which has, for example, a columnar shape extending along the longitudinal direction. The flavor generating article 20 may be, for example, a tobacco stick in which the flavor source 50 contains tobacco. The battery 102 stores power used by the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the battery 102 is a lithium-ion battery. The battery 102 may be rechargeable by an external power source.

[0046] The PCB 103 is configured with a CPU, memory, etc., and controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100, specifically the operation of the microwave oscillator 104. For example, the PCB 103 controls the microwave oscillator 104 to start heating the flavor source 50 in response to a user's operation on an input device such as a push button or slide switch (not shown), and stops heating the flavor source 50 after a certain time has elapsed. If the number of puffing actions by the user exceeds a certain value, the PCB 103 may stop heating the flavor source 50 even before the certain time has elapsed since heating of the flavor source 50 began. For example, the puffing action is detected by a sensor (not shown).

[0047] Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the microwave oscillator 104 to start heating the flavor source 50 in response to the start of a puffing action, and may stop heating the flavor source 50 in response to the end of the puffing action. The PCB 103 may stop heating the flavor source 50 when a certain time has elapsed since the start of the puffing action, even before the end of the puffing action. In this embodiment, the PCB 103 is disposed between the battery 102 and the heating unit 120.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the flavor inhaler 100 is configured to receive a stick-shaped flavor-generating article 20. As illustrated, the battery 102, PCB 103, microwave oscillator 104, and heating unit 120 can be arranged in a direction in which the flavor-generating article 20 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 100. The housing 110 is a housing that houses the battery 102, PCB 103, and heating unit 120.

[0049] The heating unit 120 has a microwave generating electrode 122 (corresponding to an example of a second electrode), an electrode mount 124, and a chamber 126. The microwave generating electrode 122 has a shape that can be inserted into the flavor source 50, and is configured so that microwaves are radiated from the inside of the flavor-generating article 20 to the flavor source 50 by the microwave oscillator 104. That is, the microwave oscillator 104 is electrically connected to the microwave generating electrode 122 and is configured so as to be able to oscillate microwaves. Specifically, the microwave generating electrode 122 extends in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and may have a flat shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 3 .

[0050] The chamber 126 is configured to accommodate at least the flavor source 50 of the flavor-generating article 20. The microwave-generating electrode 122 is arranged to overlap the flavor source 50 in the longitudinal direction when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within the chamber 126. The microwave-generating electrode 122 is electrically connected to the battery 102 so that power from the battery 102 is supplied to the microwave-generating electrode 122. The electrode mount 124 is a member for attaching the microwave-generating electrode 122 to the housing 110. The electrode mount 124 can be formed of a material that has a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less and does not substantially absorb microwaves, for example.

[0051] The flavor inhaler 100 may include a thermocouple or radiation thermometer configured to detect the temperature of a desired location in the flavor inhaler 100, such as the chamber 126, in order to control the microwave power. The PCB 103 may control the microwave oscillator 104 based on data detected by the thermocouple or radiation thermometer. Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 by detecting the dielectric constant or impedance of a desired component of the flavor inhaler 100, such as the chamber 126, which changes due to heating. Alternatively, the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 based on reflected waves that change in accordance with the change in impedance. In this case, the flavor inhaler 100 may further include, for example, an antenna that receives microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122, and the PCB 103 may control the power supplied to the microwave generating electrode 122 based on a signal acquired via the antenna.

[0052] The microwave oscillator 104 is, for example, a solid-state oscillator, and generates a high-frequency electromagnetic field at a predetermined frequency. Examples of the semiconductor oscillator include an LDMOS transistor, a GaAs FET, a SiC MESFET, and a GaN HFET. In this specification, a "high-frequency electromagnetic field" refers to a high-frequency electromagnetic field between 3 Hz and 3 THz. Furthermore, a "microwave" refers to a high-frequency electromagnetic field between 300 MHz and 300 GHz. The microwave oscillator 104 may generate, but is not limited to, a microwave having a frequency of 2.40 to 2.50 GHz. In this embodiment, the microwave oscillator 104 generates a microwave having a frequency of 2.45 GHz.

[0053] The microwave oscillator 104 may include an amplifier for amplifying the high-frequency electromagnetic field. The microwave oscillator 104 itself may have the amplifier function, or an amplifier may be provided using an electronic component separate from the microwave oscillator 104.

[0054] Although magnetron oscillators are also used as devices for generating high-frequency electromagnetic fields, when a semiconductor oscillator is used as the microwave oscillator 104, the main body can be made smaller than when a magnetron oscillator is used. Furthermore, semiconductor oscillators can operate at a lower operating voltage than magnetron oscillators, and have high frequency stability and output stability. However, the microwave oscillator 104 of this embodiment may be a magnetron oscillator as long as it can generate a high-frequency electromagnetic field of a predetermined frequency.

[0055] The microwaves generated by the microwave oscillator 104 propagate through the waveguide 105 and are guided to the microwave generating electrode 122. A coaxial cable may be used instead of the waveguide 105. Furthermore, when the microwave oscillator 104 and the microwave generating electrode 122 are directly connected, the waveguide 105 or the coaxial cable may be omitted.

[0056] The waveguide 105 connects the microwave oscillator 104 and the microwave generating electrode 122 and is a tube that guides the microwaves generated by the microwave oscillator 104 to the microwave generating electrode 122. The waveguide 105 may be provided with an isolator that protects the microwave oscillator 104 by absorbing reflected waves that are not absorbed by the flavor-generating article 20 and return toward the microwave oscillator 104. The waveguide 105 may also be provided with a power monitor that detects the power of the incident wave from the microwave oscillator 104 and the power of the reflected wave from the flavor-generating article 20, or an impedance matching unit that matches the impedance on the microwave oscillator 104 side with the impedance on the flavor-generating article 20 side to reduce the power of the reflected wave.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the flavor inhaler 100 of this embodiment has an electrically grounded first ground electrode 81 (corresponding to an example of a first electrode). The first ground electrode 81 may be, for example, a flat-plate electrode as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . Preferably, the flavor inhaler 100 further has an electrically grounded second ground electrode 82 (corresponding to an example of a third electrode). The second ground electrode 82 may be, for example, a flat-plate electrode as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . When the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 are both flat-plate electrodes, they may be arranged to face each other substantially parallel to each other, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 may be arranged to face at least the first ground electrode 81. This allows microwaves generated by the microwave generating electrode 122 to be shielded by the first ground electrode 81. Preferably, the microwave generating electrode 122 is arranged between the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . In this case, a first ground electrode 81 and a second ground electrode 82 are arranged on both sides of the microwave generating electrode 122, and the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be reflected or absorbed by the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82, thereby further preventing microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100.

[0058] 1 and 2 , the flavor-generating article 20 of this embodiment preferably has a mouth end 20a, a distal end 20b opposite the mouth end 20a, and a tip filter 60 (corresponding to an example of an upstream portion) arranged closer to the distal end 20b than the flavor source 50. In this case, the end of the flavor source 50 is covered by the tip filter 60, which prevents the flavor source 50 from falling out of the flavor-generating article 20.

[0059] More specifically, the flavor-generating article 20 may include a mouth filter 30 (corresponding to an example of a filter section), a hollow filter 40, a flavor source 50, and a tip filter 60. In the flavor-generating article 20, the tip filter 60, the flavor source 50, the hollow filter 40, and the mouth filter 30 are arranged adjacently in this order from the tip side in the insertion direction into the chamber 126 of the smoking system 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . The flavor-generating article 20 generates flavor by being heated by microwaves. Therefore, it is preferable that microwaves are not absorbed in parts of the flavor-generating article 20 other than the flavor source 50. For this reason, in the flavor-generating article 20 of this embodiment, it is preferable that one or more filters selected from the group consisting of the mouth filter 30, the hollow filter 40, and the tip filter 60 have a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less. This suppresses absorption of microwaves from the microwave-generating electrode 122 by the filters, allowing the flavor source 50 to be heated efficiently. The flavor-generating article 20 only needs to have at least the flavor source 50, and other components may be omitted as appropriate.

[0060] The mouth filter 30 may be, for example, a paper filter or an acetate filter. The mouth filter 30 preferably does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin readily absorbs microwaves, not including it in the mouth filter 30 can suppress absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. The mouth filter 30 may have a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This suppresses absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 by the mouth filter 30, allowing efficient heating of the flavor source 50. The mouth filter 30 may contain at least one material selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This suppresses leakage of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. Specifically, the metal mesh or metal ring reflects microwaves, while the charcoal absorbs microwaves.

[0061] The hollow filter 40 is located closer to the mouth end 20a (downstream) than the flavor source 50. The hollow filter 40 has, for example, one or more hollow channels 40a and a packed layer 40b that defines the hollow channels 40a. Because the packed layer 40b has a high fiber packing density, during inhalation, air, flavor, or aerosol flows mostly through the hollow channels 40a and very little through the packed layer 40b. The flavor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 is cooled by passing through the hollow channels 40a before reaching the user's mouth. When it is desired to reduce the loss of aerosol components due to filtration by the mouth filter 30 in the flavor-generating article 20, shortening the length of the mouth filter 30 and replacing it with the hollow filter 40 is effective in increasing the amount of flavor or aerosol delivered.

[0062] The hollow filter 40 may be formed of, for example, paper, acetate, or the like. Preferably, the hollow filter 40 does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin easily absorbs microwaves, the hollow filter 40 does not contain triacetin, thereby suppressing absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122. The relative dielectric constant of the hollow filter 40 may be, for example, 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This suppresses absorption of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 by the hollow filter 40, allowing efficient heating of the flavor source 50. The hollow filter 40 may contain at least one material selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This suppresses leakage of microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0063] The tip filter 60 is disposed upstream of the flavor source 50 and prevents the flavor source 50 from falling off the flavor-generating article 20. The tip filter 60 is disposed upstream of the flavor source 50 and adjacent to the flavor source 50. The tip filter 60 may be, for example, a paper filter, a molded filter, or an acetate filter. The relative dielectric constant of the tip filter 60 may be, for example, 10 or less, preferably 4 or less. This prevents microwaves from the microwave generating electrode 122 from being absorbed by the tip filter 60, allowing the flavor source 50 to be heated efficiently. The tip filter 60 preferably does not contain triacetin. Because triacetin easily absorbs microwaves, not including it in the tip filter 60 can prevent microwaves from being absorbed by the microwave generating electrode 122. The tip filter 60 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of charcoal, a metal mesh, and a metal ring inside or on its surface. This prevents microwaves from leaking from the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0064] The tip filter 60 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is solid. This allows the components of the heated flavor source 50 adhering to the surface of the microwave generating electrode 122 to be wiped off by the tip filter 60 when the microwave generating electrode 122 is pulled out from the flavor-generating article 20. In this case, the tip filter 60 is perforated when the microwave generating electrode 122 is inserted into the flavor-generating article 20. However, the tip filter 60 may be hollow. In other words, the tip filter 60 may have a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction through which the microwave generating electrode 122 can be inserted. In this case, the insertion resistance of the tip filter 60 to the microwave generating electrode 122 is reduced, allowing the microwave generating electrode 122 to be smoothly inserted into the flavor source 50.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the flavor-generating article 20 preferably further includes a sheet member 70 surrounding the filter and the flavor source 50. This allows the flavor source 50 to be integrally joined to filters, such as the mouthpiece filter 30, the hollow filter 40, and the tip filter 60. The sheet member 70 may be made of a non-tobacco material. Specifically, the sheet member 70 may be made of a material that does not substantially absorb microwaves, such as paper or resin, with a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less. The sheet member 70 may also contain a microwave-absorbing substance, such as charcoal. The sheet member 70 may also be made of a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, or a metal-laminated paper, such as aluminum-laminated paper. In this case, microwaves can be reflected toward the flavor source 50 by metals such as aluminum, allowing the microwaves to be efficiently applied to the flavor source 50. In addition to aluminum, the sheet member 70 may be made of silver, copper, iron, permalloy, nickel, stainless steel, or an alloy containing two or more of these metals.

[0066] The sheet member 70 preferably has one or more holes penetrating between its inner surface and its outer surface, which allows outside air to pass through the holes in the sheet member 70 and flow into the flavor-generating article 20, thereby enabling the flavor generated in the flavor source 50 to be delivered to the user more efficiently.

[0067] The flavor source 50 may come into contact with the sheet member 70. The flavor source 50 is preferably adhered to the sheet member 70. Specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the flavor source 50 and the inner peripheral surface of the sheet member 70 are preferably adhered to each other with an adhesive or the like. This prevents the flavor source 50 from moving relative to the sheet member 70. In this case, a cast sheet may be created on the sheet member 70 by thinly casting the raw materials including tobacco leaves and a binder that constitute the flavor source 50 onto the sheet member 70 and then drying the tobacco leaves. Alternatively, a rolled sheet may be created on the sheet member 70 by applying pressure to thinly expand the raw materials including tobacco leaves and a binder that constitute the flavor source 50 and then drying the tobacco leaves.

[0068] The flavor source 50 does not have to be adhered to the sheet member 70. Also, the flavor source 50 does not have to be in contact with the sheet member 70. In these cases, for example, the flavor source 50 can be sandwiched between the hollow filter 40 and the tip filter 60 to fix its position.

[0069] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the flavor source 50 of this embodiment includes a first flavor source 50a positioned between the first ground electrode 81 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within the chamber 126). Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the flavor source 50 preferably further includes a second flavor source 50b positioned between the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within the chamber 126). In this case, the second flavor source 50b absorbs and is heated by microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 toward the second ground electrode 82, thereby enabling efficient use of the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122. As a result, vapor or aerosol can be generated in the second flavor source 50b, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol generated and supplied to the user. 2 and 3, a gap S1 is formed between the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b, and the microwave generating electrode 122 can be inserted into this gap S1. The flavor source 50 of this embodiment has the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b facing each other, but is not limited thereto, and may have, for example, a cylindrical flavor source 50 (substantially including the first flavor source 50a and the second flavor source 50b).

[0070] 2 and 3, it is preferable that the microwave generating electrode 122 does not come into direct contact with the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b during smoking. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains or the like caused by the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b of the flavor generating article 20 from adhering to the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0071] 1 to 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a flat shape. Specifically, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a flat cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In this case, the microwave generating electrode 122 has a flat surface (main surface 122a), and the electromagnetic field strength of the microwaves at the main surface 122a can be improved compared to when the microwave generating electrode 122 has a cylindrical or columnar shape. Therefore, by arranging the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b so that it faces the main surface 122a of the microwave generating electrode 122, the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be efficiently heated by microwaves.

[0072] In particular, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably does not have any corners in the cross section shown in FIG. 3 . That is, the microwave generating electrode 122 preferably does not have any corners on the circumferential surface (side surface) centered on the longitudinal axis. If the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other parts. Furthermore, if the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the first flavor source 50 a or the second flavor source 50 b located near the corners. Therefore, by not having corners in the microwave generating electrode 122, overheating of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50 a or the second flavor source 50 b can be suppressed. Furthermore, since no corners are formed on the side surface of the microwave generating electrode 122, damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122 can be suppressed.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 has a flat shape with a solid cross section. However, for example, the microwave generating electrode 122 may have a hollow structure. Specifically, in the cross section shown in FIG. 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 may have a hollow cross section. The microwave generating electrode 122 having the cross section shown in FIG. 3 can be manufactured, for example, by a manufacturing method including a step of forming a cylindrical electrode into a flat shape. Specifically, the flat microwave generating electrode 122 can be easily formed by, for example, compressing this cylindrical member. The flat microwave generating electrode 122 formed in this manner has no corners (edges) on its side surface. Therefore, the lack of corners in the microwave generating electrode 122 can prevent the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50 a or the second flavor source 50 b from being overheated. Furthermore, the lack of corners on the side surface of the microwave generating electrode 122 can prevent damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122. The term "cylinder" as used herein can include a solid cylinder and a hollow cylinder (cylinder).

[0074] Furthermore, the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ) may be chamfered. As described above, when the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, the corners tend to become hotter than other portions. Furthermore, when the microwave generating electrode 122 has corners, microwaves tend to be concentrated and radiated from the corners, which may result in overheating of the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b located near the corners. Therefore, by chamfering the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122, overheating of the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b can be suppressed. Furthermore, by chamfering the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122, damage to the flavor generating article 20 when the flavor generating article 20 comes into contact with the microwave generating electrode 122 can be suppressed. The term "chamfering" as used herein includes c-chamfering and r-chamfering. The r-chamfering also includes processing to make the downstream end 122b (tip) of the microwave generating electrode 122 spherical.

[0075] The microwave generating electrode 122 preferably has a coating layer on its outer surface. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains, etc., caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor generating article 20 from adhering to the microwave generating electrode 122. The coating layer may be formed of, for example, paper, glass, ceramics such as alumina, or Teflon (registered trademark). The coating layer is preferably gas impermeable. The coating layer formed on the microwave generating electrode 122 is preferably formed of a material having a relative dielectric constant of 10 or less and substantially not absorbing microwaves.

[0076] The first ground electrode 81 preferably has a coating layer on the surface facing the microwave generating electrode 122. In this case, it is possible to prevent stains, etc., caused by the first flavor source 50a of the flavor generating article 20 from adhering to the first ground electrode 81. The coating layer may be formed of, for example, paper, glass, ceramic, etc. The coating layer is preferably gas-impermeable. Similarly, the second ground electrode 82 preferably has a coating layer on the surface facing the microwave generating electrode 122. The coating layer formed on at least one of the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 may be formed of a material with a relatively high dielectric constant. In this case, the coating layer may generate heat and heat the first flavor source 50a or the second flavor source 50b. Such a coating layer is preferably formed of ceramic, such as alumina or zirconia.

[0077] The flavor source 50 may be, for example, a non-tobacco sheet such as a nonwoven fabric, a tobacco sheet, or a tobacco molded article. When the flavor source 50 is a tobacco sheet, specific examples include a tobacco leaf sheet, a tobacco leaf cast sheet, and a rolled tobacco leaf sheet. The flavor source 50 may further include an aerosol source. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and extracts and / or their components from various natural products can be selected depending on the application. The aerosol source is preferably a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, or a mixture thereof. The tobacco flavor or aerosol source contained in the flavor source 50 contains moisture and can be heated by microwaves irradiated from the microwave generating electrode 122. Because glycerin has a high dielectric constant and is efficiently heated by microwaves, glycerin is more preferred as the aerosol source. The loading of the flavor source 50 may be, for example, from 100 mg to 350 mg, preferably from 120 mg to 250 mg.

[0078] The surface area of ​​the flavor source 50 (the surface area of ​​the flavor source 50 that contributes to aerosol generation) is 150 mm ２ Over 4000mm ２ The flavor source 50 may be made of tobacco leaves in the form of strands. In this case, the width of the tobacco leaves in the form of strands is preferably 1 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less.

[0079] The flavor source 50 may be loaded with a flavoring agent. The type of the fragrance is not particularly limited, and from the viewpoint of imparting a good fragrance sensation, examples thereof include acetanisole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, amyl alcohol, amyl butyrate, trans-anethole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resinoid, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, β-carotene, carrot juice, L-carvone, β-caryophyllene, cassia bark oil, cedarwood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronella oil, DL-citronellol, ... Lonnelol, clary sage extract, cocoa, coffee, konjac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, davanna oil, delta-decalactone, gamma-decalactone, decanoic acid, dill herb oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl levulinate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek absolute, gene absolute, gentian root infusion, geraniol, geranyl acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, gamma-heptalactone, gamma-hexalactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexyl alcohol, phenylhexyl acetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid, lauryl methylpropional Ingredients: methicone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(para-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, sodium 4-hydroxyundecanoate, immortelle absolute, beta-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyl acetate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute, cola nut tincture, labdanum oil, lemon terpeneless oil, licorice extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, robertia jasmine Orris root oil, maltol, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, L-menthyl acetate, para-methoxybenzaldehyde, methyl 2-pyrrolyl ketone, methyl anthranilate, methyl phenylacetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute, honey, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, gamma-nonalactone, nutmeg oil, delta-octalactone, octanal, octanoic acid, orange flower oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, omega-pentadeca Calactone, peppermint oil, petitgrain Paraguay oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl phenylacetate, phenylacetic acid, piperonal, plum extract, propenylguaethol, propyl acetate, 3-propylidenephthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, α-terpineol, terpinyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxacyclo(8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tridecanone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexene-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecalactone, γ-valerolactone, vanilla extract, vanillin, veratrol At least one of aldehydes, violet leaf absolute, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carboxamide) acetate (WS-5), sugars (sucrose, fructose, etc.), cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, rose pip powder, chamomile flower powder, lemon verbena powder, peppermint powder, leaf powder, spearmint powder, black tea powder, natural plant flavors (e.g., jasmine oil, lemon oil, vetiver oil, lovage oil), and esters may be selected.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 1 , when the flavor source 50 is disposed between the first ground electrode 81 or the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122, there is a possibility that components of the heated flavor source 50 will adhere to the microwave generating electrode 122. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the flavor-generating article 20 has a protective sheet 52 positioned inside the flavor source 50. This allows the microwave generating electrode 122 to come into contact with the flavor source 50, making it difficult for components of the flavor source 50 to adhere to the microwave generating electrode 122. The protective sheet 52 can be disposed between the first ground electrode 81 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 126). The protective sheet 52 can also be disposed between the second ground electrode 82 and the microwave generating electrode 122 during smoking (when the flavor-generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the chamber 126). 3, the protective sheet 52 may be tubular, more specifically, a paper tube, and may be disposed around the microwave generating electrode 122. The protective sheet 52 does not have to be tubular.

[0081] 3, flavor generating article 20 has a flat cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal direction when being smoked (when flavor generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position within chamber 126). Flavor generating article 20 may be pre-formed into the flat cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 3, or flavor generating article 20 with a circular cross-section may be deformed into the flat cross-sectional shape shown in Fig. 3 by being housed in chamber 126.

[0082] 2 and 3, it is preferable that the first ground electrode 81 directly contact the flavor generating article 20 during smoking. In this case, when the flavor generating article 20 is positioned at a desired position in the flavor inhaler 100 to heat it, the first ground electrode 81 directly contacts the flavor generating article 20, making it difficult for the flavor generating article 20 to come out of the flavor inhaler 100. That is, in this case, the retention force of the flavor generating article 20 in the flavor inhaler 100 can be improved. Similarly, it is more preferable that the first ground electrode 81 and the second ground electrode 82 directly contact the flavor generating article 20. In this case, the retention force of the flavor generating article 20 in the flavor inhaler 100 can be further improved.

[0083] Next, the relationship in size between the microwave generating electrode 122, the flavor source 50, and the first ground electrode 81 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3 , the microwave generating electrode 122 has a length L1 in a width direction W1 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor-generating article 20 and the direction in which the microwave generating electrode 122 and the first ground electrode 81 face each other. The first flavor source 50a has a length L2 in the width direction W1. Similarly, the first ground electrode 81 has a length L3 in the width direction W1. In this embodiment, the length L2 of the first flavor source 50a is equal to or less than the length L3 of the first ground electrode 81 and equal to or greater than the length L1 of the microwave generating electrode 122. This allows microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 to be efficiently transmitted to the first flavor source 50a, and for the microwaves to be efficiently reflected or absorbed by the first ground electrode 81. Therefore, in this case, microwaves can be appropriately transmitted to the first flavor source 50a, and the first flavor source 50a can be efficiently heated. Also, leakage of microwaves from the flavor inhaler 100 can be suppressed.

[0084] 3, the length L2 of the first flavor source 50a in the width direction W1 is preferably smaller than the length L3 of the first ground electrode 81. In this case, the first ground electrode 81 can more efficiently reflect or absorb microwaves, thereby more efficiently heating the first flavor source 50a. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, the length L2 of the first flavor source 50a in the width direction W1 is preferably larger than the length L1 of the microwave generating electrode 122. In this case, the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be more efficiently transmitted to the first flavor source 50a, thereby more appropriately transmitting microwaves to the first flavor source 50a and more efficiently heating the first flavor source 50a.

[0085] Similarly, in the width direction W1, the length of the second flavor source 50b is preferably equal to or less than the length of the second ground electrode 82 and equal to or greater than the length L1 of the microwave generating electrode 122. Moreover, as shown in Fig. 3, in the width direction W1, the length of the second flavor source 50b is more preferably shorter than the length of the second ground electrode 82. Moreover, as shown in Fig. 3, in the width direction W1, the length of the second flavor source 50b is more preferably greater than the length L1 of the microwave generating electrode 122.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 2, during smoking, the downstream end 51a of the first flavor source 50a is preferably located downstream of the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122. The electromagnetic field strength of microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 is stronger the closer to the microwave generating electrode 122, and particularly the closer to the downstream end 122b (tip) of the microwave generating electrode 122. Therefore, the microwave electromagnetic field strength is relatively strong even in the space downstream of the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122. Therefore, when the downstream end 51a of the first flavor source 50a is located downstream of the downstream end 122b of the microwave generating electrode 122 as shown in Fig. 2, the first flavor source 50a can be located in a position where the microwave electromagnetic field strength is relatively strong, and microwaves can be efficiently transmitted to the first flavor source 50a.

[0087] 2, the first ground electrode 81 is preferably longer than the microwave generating electrode 122 in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100. In this case, the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be efficiently reflected or absorbed by the first ground electrode 81, thereby further preventing the microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100. In this specification, the length of the microwave generating electrode 122 means the length in the longitudinal direction of the portion of the microwave generating electrode 122 located within the chamber 126. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 2, the second ground electrode 82 is preferably longer than the microwave generating electrode 122 in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 2 , in this embodiment, the downstream end 81a of the first ground electrode 81 is located upstream of the downstream end 30a of the mouth filter 30 during smoking. In other embodiments, the downstream end 81a of the first ground electrode 81 may be located downstream of the downstream end 30a of the mouth filter 30 during smoking. In this case, since the first ground electrode 81 is located downstream of the downstream end 30a of the mouth filter 30, the first ground electrode 81 can be positioned so as to overlap most of the flavor-generating article 20. This allows the microwaves radiated from the microwave-generating electrode 122 to be reflected or absorbed over a wider area by the first ground electrode 81, thereby further preventing microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100. In this case, since the downstream end 30a of the mouth filter 30 may be located inside the flavor inhaler 100, it is preferable that the flavor inhaler 100 have a detachable mouthpiece.

[0089] Next, a description will be given of other examples of the microwave-generating electrode 122 and the first ground electrode 81. Figures 4A and 4B are schematic cross-sectional views of smoking systems according to other embodiments, as viewed from the arrows 3-3 shown in Figures 1 and 2. In Figures 4A and 4B, only the microwave-generating electrode 122, the first ground electrode 81, and the second ground electrode 82 are shown.

[0090] In the example shown in Fig. 4A , the length L1 in the width direction W1 (see Fig. 3 ) of the microwave generating electrode 122 facing the first ground electrode 81 is the same as the length L3 in the width direction W1 of the first ground electrode 81. In this case, the area of ​​the main surface 122a of the microwave generating electrode 122 from which microwaves are emitted can be increased, making it possible to emit microwaves to the wider first flavor source 50a while preventing the microwaves generated from the microwave generating electrode 122 from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100. Note that, as shown in Fig. 3 , when the length L1 in the width direction W1 (see Fig. 3 ) of the microwave generating electrode 122 facing the first ground electrode 81 is smaller than the length L3 in the width direction W1 of the first ground electrode 81, leakage of the microwaves generated from the microwave generating electrode 122 from the flavor inhaler 100 can be more effectively prevented than in the case of Fig. 4A .

[0091] 4A , the length of the second ground electrode 82 in the width direction W1 is the same as the length L1 of the microwave generating electrode 122 in the width direction W1. In this case as well, microwaves generated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be emitted to the wider second flavor source 50b while preventing leakage from the flavor inhaler 100.

[0092] In the example shown in Fig. 4B, the microwave generating electrode 122 has a substantially circular cross section. As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4A, the cross section of the microwave generating electrode 122 is not limited to a flat shape, and may be a substantially circular shape as shown in Fig. 4B, or may be rectangular, for example.

[0093] Figures 5A and 5B are schematic cross-sectional views of a smoking system according to another embodiment, taken along the line 3-3 in Figures 1 and 2. In Figures 5A and 5B, only the microwave-generating electrode 122, the first ground electrode 81, and the second ground electrode 82 are shown.

[0094] 5A and 5B, the first ground electrode 81 is configured to surround the periphery of the microwave generating electrode 122. In this case, the microwaves radiated from the microwave generating electrode 122 can be reflected or absorbed in the circumferential direction by the first ground electrode 81, thereby further preventing the microwaves from leaking from the flavor inhaler 100. In the example shown in Fig. 5A, the rectangular tubular first ground electrode 81 surrounds the periphery of the microwave generating electrode 122 having a flat shape (flat rectangular cross section). In the example shown in Fig. 5B, the elliptical tubular first ground electrode 81 surrounds the periphery of the microwave generating electrode 122 having a substantially circular cross section. The first ground electrode 81 may have, for example, a circular tubular cross section.

[0095] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical idea described in the specification and drawings. Note that any shape or material not directly described in the specification or drawings is within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention as long as it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention.

[0096] Some aspects disclosed in this specification are described below. (1) A smoking system including a flavor inhaler and a flavor generating article, wherein the flavor inhaler has: an electrically grounded first electrode; a second electrode disposed opposite the first electrode; and an oscillator electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of emitting microwaves; the flavor generating article has a first flavor source positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking; and the length of the first flavor source is equal to or less than the length of the first electrode and equal to or greater than the length of the second electrode in a width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor generating article and the direction in which the first electrode and the second electrode face each other. (2) The smoking system described in (1), wherein the length of the first flavor source is shorter than the length of the first electrode in the width direction. (3) The smoking system described in (1) or (2), wherein the length of the first flavor source is longer than the length of the second electrode in the width direction. (4) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein, during smoking, the downstream end of the first flavor source is located downstream of the downstream end of the second electrode. (5) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the first electrode is longer than the second electrode in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler. (6) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the first electrode is in direct contact with the flavor-generating article. (7) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the first electrode is configured to surround the periphery of the second electrode. (8) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the flavor inhaler has an electrically grounded third electrode, and the second electrode is disposed between the first electrode and the third electrode. (9) The smoking system according to (8), further comprising a second flavor source positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode during smoking.(10) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the first electrode has a coating layer on a surface facing the second electrode. (11) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the second electrode has a flat shape. (12) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the second electrode has a hollow structure. (13) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the second electrode has a coating layer on an outer surface. (14) The smoking system according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the second electrode does not directly contact the first flavor source during smoking. (15) A method for manufacturing an electrode for heating a flavor-generating article with microwaves, comprising a step of forming a cylindrical electrode into a flat shape.

[0097] 10: Smoking system 20: Flavor generating article 30a: Downstream end portion 50: Flavor source 50a: First flavor source 50b: Second flavor source 51a: Downstream end portion 81: First ground electrode 81a: Downstream end portion 82: Second ground electrode 100: Flavor inhaler 122: Microwave generating electrode 122b: Downstream end portion W1: Width direction

Claims

1. In a smoking system having a flavor inhaler and a flavor generating article, The aforementioned flavor inhaler is A first electrode that is electrically grounded, A second electrode is positioned opposite the first electrode, It has an oscillator that is electrically connected to the second electrode and capable of emitting microwaves, The flavor generating article has a first flavor source located between the first electrode and the second electrode during smoking. A smoking system in which, in the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor generating article and the direction in which the first electrode and the second electrode face each other, the length of the first flavor source is less than or equal to the length of the first electrode and greater than or equal to the length of the second electrode.

2. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system in which, in the width direction, the length of the first flavor source is less than the length of the first electrode.

3. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system in which, in the width direction, the length of the first flavor source is greater than the length of the second electrode.

4. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system in which, during smoking, the downstream end of the first flavor source is located downstream of the downstream end of the second electrode.

5. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system wherein, in the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler, the first electrode is longer than the second electrode.

6. In the smoking system described in claim 1, The smoking system wherein the first electrode is in direct contact with the flavor-generating article.

7. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system in which the first electrode is configured to surround the second electrode.

8. In the smoking system described in claim 1, The aforementioned flavor inhaler has a third electrode that is electrically grounded, The second electrode is positioned between the first electrode and the third electrode in the smoking system.

9. In the smoking system described in claim 8, A smoking system having a second flavor source located between the second electrode and the third electrode during smoking.

10. In the smoking system described in claim 1, A smoking system wherein the first electrode has a coating layer on the surface facing the second electrode.

11. In the smoking system described in claim 1, The smoking system wherein the second electrode has a flattened shape.

12. In the smoking system described in claim 1, The smoking system wherein the second electrode has a hollow structure.

13. In the smoking system described in claim 1, The second electrode is a smoking system having a coating layer on its outer surface.

14. In a smoking system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A smoking system in which, during smoking, the second electrode does not come into direct contact with the first flavor source.

15. A method for manufacturing electrodes for heating flavor-generating articles with microwaves, A manufacturing method comprising a step of forming a cylindrical electrode into a flattened shape.