Cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecule and volatile organic molecule presentation system

Abstract

The present invention provides a technology for lessening the effect of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than volatile organic molecules desired to be carried or presented.　The present invention provides, among other things, a volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge comprising: a ventilation part that takes in air; a flow-directing part that communicates with the ventilation part and has an impregnation material for impregnation of volatile organic molecules; and a discharge part that communicates with the flow-directing part and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air, wherein all or part of the impregnation material is formed from an inorganic substance, and the inorganic substance has a macropore structure.

Description

Cartridge for displaying volatile organic molecules and volatile organic molecule display system

[0001] The present technology relates to a cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules and a volatile organic molecule presentation system. More specifically, the present technology relates to a cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules and a volatile organic molecule presentation system in which the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules to be supported or presented, is reduced.

[0002] Conventionally, a technique has been proposed in which air is supplied to a carrier that carries volatile organic molecules, and the volatile organic molecules are released by the air flow, thereby providing the volatile organic molecules to a user.

[0003] Specifically, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a fragrance device having a fragrance head that can release gas containing a fragrance substance at the user's nose and can exhaust air for deodorization. Patent Document 2 also discloses a fragrance providing device that includes a cylindrical shielding tube with an internal cavity that serves as a fragrance-transporting airway and an opening on one side, a fragrance container that stores a fragrance and is attached to the outer surface of the shielding tube and has an opening on the side facing the shielding tube, and an air blowing means that can blow air to one end of the fragrance-transporting airway, wherein the shielding tube and the fragrance container rotate relative to each other while in close contact, thereby overlapping the opening of the shielding tube with the opening of the fragrance container, thereby enabling the interior of the fragrance container to be in a penetrated state with the fragrance-transporting airway, and the shielding tube and the fragrance container rotate relative to each other while in close contact, thereby overlapping one opening of the shielding tube with the part other than the opening, thereby enabling the interior of the fragrance container to be in a non-penetrated state with the fragrance-transporting airway.

[0004] JP 2005-304608 A JP 2013-094436 A

[0005] However, in conventional technologies, problems have arisen with supports that support volatile organic molecules, such as volatile organic molecules contained in the material that constitutes the support itself, leakage of volatile organic molecules due to elution of the material, and adsorption of the volatile organic molecules that are desired to be displayed by the material.

[0006] Therefore, the main object of the present technology is to provide a technology that reduces the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules that are desired to be supported or displayed.

[0007] In this technology, first, a cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules is provided, which includes an air vent section that takes in air, a flow section that communicates with the air vent section and has an impregnating material for impregnating volatile organic molecules, and an ejection section that communicates with the flow section and ejects air containing volatile organic molecules, wherein part or all of the impregnating material is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure.

[0008] The present technology also provides a volatile organic molecule presentation system comprising: a ventilation section that takes in air; a flow section that communicates with the ventilation section and has an impregnating material for impregnating volatile organic molecules; and a discharge section that communicates with the flow section and discharges air containing volatile organic molecules, wherein part or all of the impregnating material is made of an inorganic material and the inorganic material has a macropore structure; the volatile organic molecule presentation device comprising a cartridge holding section that has one or more cartridges for presenting volatile organic molecules; and a control device that controls the discharge of the air containing volatile organic molecules.

[0009] As used herein, "volatile organic molecules" include any molecule that stimulates some or all of the receptors present in the nasal cavity, such as volatile organic molecules. Therefore, "volatile organic molecules" also include odor molecules. In addition to olfactory receptors, the nasal cavity also contains trigeminal receptors that control stimuli such as cold, hot, and painful sensations. The term "volatile organic molecules" as used herein is a broad concept that includes any molecule that stimulates some or all of these receptors. Specifically, for example, when menthol is used as a volatile organic molecule, menthol can stimulate not only olfactory receptors but also trigeminal receptors (TRPA1 channels), and therefore is included in the "volatile organic molecules" as used herein. Furthermore, compounds such as capsaicin, which stimulate the trigeminal nerve in the nostrils and cause a feeling of warmth, are odorless but are included in volatile organic molecules. Furthermore, for agricultural applications, pheromones, which are so-called odorless volatile organic molecules, are also included.

[0010] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an embodiment of a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1. FIG. 2 is a front view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a left side view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a right side view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1, taken along line A-A. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1, taken along line B-B. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1, taken along line C-C. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1, taken along line D-D. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is an explanatory view illustrating a liquid leakage prevention structure. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which volatile organic molecule-containing air is released from the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a first modified example of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a second modified example of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1. 23 is a perspective view showing an example of an embodiment of the impregnated material holding unit 14. FIG. 24 is a schematic view showing an example of an embodiment of the volatile organic molecule presenting system 100. FIG. 25 is an explanatory view showing modified example 3 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing modified example 3 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 during the manufacturing process of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing modified example 1 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 23 equipped with an auxiliary air duct 26. FIG. 29 is a front view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 29 is a rear view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 29 is a left side view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 29 is a right side view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 29 is a plan view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24.It is a perspective cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 24. It is a conceptual diagram showing how volatile organic molecule-containing air mixes with the auxiliary air. In a modified example of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to the second embodiment, it is a perspective cross-sectional view showing an example when the flow-through portion 23 includes two spiral flow paths 231. It is a perspective view showing the case where the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 24 includes a blower source 90. A and B are conceptual diagrams showing modified examples regarding the openings of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a modified example 2 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a modified example 3 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. It is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example 4 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a modified example 5 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. It is a perspective view showing the first embodiment of the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. It is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 41. It is a perspective view showing the second embodiment of the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. It is a perspective view showing the third embodiment of the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. It is a perspective view showing the fourth embodiment of the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. It is an example of a mechanism other than the pump direct-acting mechanism 6, and it is a perspective view showing a mechanism 7 using a link structure. A and B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the deodorizing mechanism 51. A and B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the deodorizing mechanism 51. It is an explanatory diagram showing the state of automatically switching to another volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 with a large remaining amount of the same kind when the volatile organic molecules in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 reach a specified amount. It is an explanatory diagram showing a mechanism 400 for cooling and / or heating the inside of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1. It is a structure holding one or more volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges (1, 2), and it is a schematic cross-sectional view of the peripheral structure regarding the valve opening / closing structure. It is a perspective view of the structure shown in FIG. 51. A to C are schematic cross-sectional views of the peripheral structure regarding the valve opening / closing structure shown in FIG. 51. It is a perspective view of the structure shown in A of FIG. 53. It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the peripheral structure regarding the contamination countermeasure of the fragrance discharged from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges (1, 2). A and B are perspective views showing the state where the fragrance and strong wind are discharged.60 and 61.

[0046] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a peripheral structure relating to a countermeasure against contamination of a fragrance discharged from a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge (1, 2). A and B are cross-sectional schematic views of a peripheral structure relating to a removal structure of a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge (1, 2). An explanatory diagram showing a case where there is not enough space to remove the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge (1, 2) by the method shown in FIG. 58. A cross-sectional schematic view of a peripheral structure relating to a removal structure of a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge (1, 2), different from that ...60.

[0047] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional schematic view of a peripheral structure relating to a removal structure of a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge (1, 2), different from that shown in FIG. 60.

[0048] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the structure shown in FIG. 63.

[0049] FIG. 63 is a perspective view of an example of an embodiment of a fin-like structure.

[0011] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for carrying out the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are examples of typical embodiments of the present technology, and are not intended to narrow the scope of the present technology. The description will be given in the following order. 1. First Embodiment (Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) (1) Configuration Example of the Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules (1-1) Vent Section 11 (1-2) Flow Section 12 (1-3) Discharge Section 13 (2) Information Display Section (3) Operation Example of the Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules (4) Others (5) Modification 1 (6) Modification 2 (7) Modification 3 2. Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) (1) Configuration Example of the Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules (1-1) Retaining Section 21 (1-2) Vent Section 22 (1-3) Flow Section 23 (1-4) Discharge Section 24 (2) Information Display Section (3) Others 3. 1. Modification Example 1 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) (1) Modification Example 1 of the Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules (1-1) Ventilation section 22 and air pressure generation section 25 (1-2) Auxiliary air flow section 26 (2) Example of the case where the flow section 23 has two spiral channels 231 (3) Others 4. Modification Example 2 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) 5. Modification Example 3 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) 6. Modification Example 4 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) 7. Modification Example 5 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules) 8. 4. Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 and Other Mechanisms (1) Configuration Example of Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (1-1) First Embodiment of Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (1-2) Second Embodiment of Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (1-3) Third Embodiment of Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (1-4) Fourth Embodiment of Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (2) Mechanism Example Other than Pump Direct-Acting Mechanism 6 (Mechanism 7 Using Link Structure) 9. Deodorizing Mechanism 51 (1) Configuration Example of Deodorizing Mechanism 51 (2) Front Member 511 (3) Rear Member 512 (4) Engagement Example of Front Member 511 and Rear Member 512 10. Third Embodiment (Volatile Organic Molecule Presentation System 100) (1) Configuration Example of Volatile Organic Molecule Presentation System 100 (2) Volatile Organic Molecule Presentation Device 200 (2-1) Cartridge Holding Section 201 (2-2) Engagement Section 202 (2-3) Release Section 2031 and Front Storage Section 203(2-4) Driving mechanism 2041, arrangement driving unit 2042, and rear storage unit 204 (3) Control device 300 (3-1) Memory unit (3-2) User interface unit (3-3) Output unit 11. Peripheral structure of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) (1) Valve opening / closing structure of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) (2) Countermeasures against fragrance contamination (3) Removal structure of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) (4) SMA length adjustment (5) Drain structure 12. Application examples of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) and the volatile organic molecule presenting system 100

[0012] 1. First embodiment (cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules)

[0013] (1) Configuration example of cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules

[0014] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an embodiment of a cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules (hereinafter also simply referred to as "cartridge 1"). Also, Figs. 2 to 7 are six-view diagrams of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules. Furthermore, Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A, Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B, Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C, Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D, and Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E.

[0015] In this embodiment, the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules comprises, as shown in Figure 8, an air vent 11 for taking in air, a flow passage 12 that communicates with the air vent 11 and has an impregnating material 10 for impregnating volatile organic molecules, and an outlet 13 that communicates with the flow passage 12 and discharges air containing volatile organic molecules, and part or all of the impregnating material 10 is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure.

[0016] In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 is generally cylindrical, as shown in Figure 1, but the shape of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 is not particularly limited, and may be generally polygonal, such as a generally cylindrical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), generally polygonal, such as a cone, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), generally polygonal, such as a truncated cone, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), or generally polygonal, such as a truncated cone, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), or a freely combined shape of one or more of these. Furthermore, for example, it may be a shape that combines generally cylindrical shapes with different diameters.

[0017] In the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, the flow passage 12 is located at a position extending from the vent passage 11, the discharge passage 13 is located at a position extending from the flow passage 12, and the flow passage 11, the flow passage 12, and the discharge passage 13 are aligned in a substantially straight line. This reduces the number of parts and facilitates manufacturing.

[0018] Hereinafter, each part of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules according to this embodiment will be described.

[0019] (1-1) Ventilation section 11

[0020] The ventilation section 11 is a section for taking in air. The air is basically the outside air around the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge 1, but it may also be air collected from a specific location, air containing a specific substance, or the like.

[0021] 8 , the ventilation section 11 includes a ventilation opening 110, a first lid section 111, a first spring 112, a spacer 113, an O-ring 114, and a housing 115 that surrounds these components. A portion of a shaft 121, which will be described later, is also provided in the ventilation section 11.

[0022] The spacer 113 is preferably formed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound and serves to secure the first spring 112. The O-ring 114 is used to improve the sealing performance of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules. The first lid 111 and / or the housing 115 shown in FIG. 11 are also preferably formed of an inorganic material. This reduces leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the materials constituting the first lid 111 and / or the housing 115. It also prevents volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. Preferred inorganic materials are those composed of metals and / or inorganic compounds. Examples of metals and / or inorganic compounds include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these metals, and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

[0023] There are various methods for taking in air into the ventilation portion 11, but specific methods will be described later in "(3) Example of operation of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules."

[0024] In this embodiment, the ventilation part 11 has a first cover part 111. This provides a sliding rib 1111 and a check valve function, which will be described later.

[0025] That is, as shown in Figures 8 and 11, the first lid portion 111 has a sliding rib 1111 that slides against the inside of the housing 115 of the ventilation portion 11. This allows the first lid portion 111 to slide smoothly when outside air flows in through the ventilation opening 110. Note that the sliding rib 1111 can be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first lid portion 111, for example, as shown in Figures 8 and 11, but is not limited to this in the present embodiment.

[0026] The first lid 111 also functions as a check valve. As will be described later in "(3) Example of Operation of the Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules," after air flows in through the ventilation opening 110, the restoring force of the spring 112 causes the first lid 111 to return to its original position, thereby preventing the airflow from flowing back.

[0027] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 10, a spacer 113 is provided downstream of the ventilation opening 110, and the first lid portion 111 and / or the spacer 113 have a liquid leakage prevention structure that prevents leakage of volatile organic molecules.

[0028] 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the liquid leakage prevention structure. For example, in the case of the first lid portion 111, a liquid reservoir is formed by providing a recess 1112 on part or all of the inner periphery as shown in FIG. 13 . For example, in the case of the spacer 113, a notch 1131 is provided in a part of the spacer 113, and a liquid reservoir is formed by the contact surface with the housing 115. By forming a liquid reservoir, fluid is guided into the liquid reservoir, preventing volatile organic molecules from leaking to the outside.

[0029] Note that liquid leakage is particularly likely to occur due to capillary action when injecting liquid volatile organic molecules. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, liquid volatile organic molecules are first injected into the impregnating material 10 using a pipette or the like, and then the discharge portion 13 is tightened with a tool to seal it, but this embodiment is not limited to this. Liquid leakage may also occur during storage, transportation, or when dropped, and the above-described liquid leakage prevention structure is also useful in such cases.

[0030] (1-2) Flow section 12

[0031] The flow section 12 communicates with the ventilation section 11 and has an impregnating material 10 for impregnating with volatile organic molecules. The impregnating material 10 is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure. Macropores are generally pores with a diameter of approximately 50 nm to 0.5 mm.

[0032] In this embodiment, the macropore structure may be any one or more selected from the group consisting of a mesh structure, a fiber structure, a nonwoven fabric structure, a sponge-like structure, a foam-like structure, a fin-like structure, and a three-dimensional network structure. Note that the fin-like structure is a structure that has a physical shape and function similar to a fin, as shown in Figure 65 (although in this embodiment, the fin-like structure is not limited to the structure shown in Figure 65).

[0033] In this embodiment, the macropore structure is preferably one or more of the group consisting of a fin-like structure, a mesh structure, and a nonwoven fabric structure. This improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (especially liquid volatile organic molecules). It also facilitates the manufacture of the impregnating material 10.

[0034] In this embodiment, the flow section 12 includes a shaft 121, an impregnating material 10, flow openings 122a and 122b, and a housing 123 surrounding these, as shown in FIG. 8 . The shaft 121 can be linearly moved by linearly moving the member it contacts. The housing 123 is preferably made of an inorganic material. This reduces leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the material constituting the housing 123. It also prevents volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. A preferred inorganic material is an inorganic material composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound. Examples of the metal and / or inorganic compound include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these metals, and oxide coatings of metal oxides.

[0035] In this embodiment, the housing 115 of the ventilation section 11 and the housing 123 of the flow passage section 12 may be formed as a single housing without being separated as shown in FIG. 1 and the like.

[0036] Examples of inorganic substances include metals, metal oxides, inorganic compounds, glass, asbestos, and SiO ２By forming the impregnating material 10 from an inorganic substance, it is possible to reduce the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules that are desired to be supported or displayed.

[0037] In this embodiment, among these, metals and / or inorganic compounds are particularly preferred as the inorganic substance, and preferred metals and / or inorganic compounds include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films of metal oxides. More preferred metals include stainless steel and / or aluminum.

[0038] In this embodiment, the inorganic substance constituting the impregnating material 10 may be formed into a fibrous structure, a clay-like structure, a layered structure, or the like.

[0039] The shape of the impregnating material 10 is not particularly limited, and may be a substantially polygonal prism, such as a substantially cylindrical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid, such as a substantially conical, elliptical, triangular, or square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal truncated cone, elliptical, triangular, or square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a substantially polygonal truncated cone, elliptical, triangular, or square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a freely combined shape of one or more of these. These shapes may have a longitudinal hole for inserting the shaft 121. Furthermore, the impregnating material 10 may have a fin-like structure that employs these shapes as its outer shape.

[0040] Other shapes include, for example, a sheet, a mesh, a strip (including dense bodies thereof), a particle (including dense bodies thereof), a gel, a sol, a liquid (including a liquid maintained by the surface tension of a carrier or the like), a foam, a three-dimensional structure (for example, a pinholder, a spiral, a spring, etc.), a string (including dense bodies thereof), and the like, or a shape that is a free combination of one or more of these.

[0041] In this embodiment, the shape of the impregnating material 10 is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, an elliptical cone shape, a substantially polygonal pyramid shape, a substantially truncated cone shape, a substantially truncated elliptical cone shape, a substantially truncated polygonal pyramid shape, a fin-like structure shape that employs any of these shapes as its outer shape, and a sheet shape. Furthermore, among these, the fin-like structure shape and / or the sheet shape are particularly preferred. This improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules). It also facilitates the manufacture of the impregnating material 10.

[0042] In this embodiment, in the case of a sheet-like material, for example, the material is rolled into a cylindrical shape so as to be wrapped around the shaft 121 and stored in the housing 123. This makes it easier to store the impregnating material 10 in the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules, improving production efficiency. Note that although the sheet-like impregnating material 10 has a single-layer structure in FIG. 9 and other figures, it may be stacked in multiple layers and stored in the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules, as necessary. Furthermore, the degree of wrapping of the sheet-like impregnating material 10 can be freely determined as appropriate.

[0043] In this embodiment, the shape of the impregnating material 10 is preferably a sheet, particularly a mesh sheet and / or a nonwoven fabric. This further improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules). This also reduces the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules that are desired to be supported or presented.

[0044] The volatile organic molecules supported by the impregnated material 10 are not particularly limited as long as they are components capable of presenting volatile organic molecules (hereinafter also referred to as "fragrances"). Specifically, liquid fragrances, powdered fragrances, etc., liquid fragrances or powdered fragrances dissolved or dispersed in an appropriate solvent, essential oils, essential oils diluted with an appropriate solvent, fruit juice, food or beverages, fruit juice or food or beverages dissolved or dispersed in an appropriate solvent, etc., or any combination of these. The impregnated material 10 may also contain components other than those capable of presenting volatile organic molecules, such as components that exert a pharmacological effect when inhaled. Furthermore, if necessary, the impregnated material 10 may not contain components capable of presenting volatile organic molecules, and the mechanism of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may be used to emit odorless air. In this case, the odorless air can also be used for applications such as air curtains.

[0045] The state of the volatile organic molecules may be particulate, gel, sol, liquid, foam, etc. In this embodiment, the liquid state is particularly preferred as the state of the volatile organic molecules from the viewpoint of ease of penetration into the impregnation material 10.

[0046] In this embodiment, the flow passage 12 has a housing 123 that surrounds at least the impregnating material 10, and the housing 123 that surrounds the impregnating material 10 has one or more protrusions 124 that protrude toward the impregnating material, as shown in Fig. 9. This allows the impregnating material 10 to be fixed in a desired position.

[0047] (1-3) Discharge part 13

[0048] The outlet 13 is a part that communicates with the flow passage 12 and that outlets the air containing volatile organic molecules. Note that the term "outside" as used in this specification also includes concepts such as a specific space and a specific place.

[0049] 8 , the discharge part 13 is composed of a discharge opening 130, a second lid part 131, a second spring 132, an O-ring 133, an inner cap 134, and a housing 135 that surrounds these components. In addition, a part of the shaft 121 is also provided in the discharge part 13.

[0050] The O-ring 133 is used to improve the sealing performance inside the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1. The second lid 131 and / or the housing 135 are preferably formed from an inorganic material. This reduces leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the materials constituting the second lid 131 and / or the housing 135. It also prevents volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. Preferred inorganic materials are those composed of metals and / or inorganic compounds. Examples of metals and / or inorganic compounds include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these metals, and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

[0051] There are various methods for ejecting air containing volatile organic molecules from the ejection portion 13 to the outside, but specific methods will be described in "(3) Example of operation of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules" below.

[0052] In this embodiment, the discharge part 13 has a second lid part 131. This provides a sliding rib 1311 and a check valve function, which will be described later.

[0053] That is, as shown in Fig. 8, second lid portion 131 has sliding ribs 1311 that slide against the inside of housing 135 of discharge portion 13. This allows second lid portion 131 to slide smoothly when air containing volatile organic molecules flows in through flow opening 121b. Note that sliding ribs 1311 can be provided on the outer peripheral surface of second lid portion 131, for example, as shown in Fig. 8, but this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0054] The second lid portion 131 also functions as a check valve. As will be described later in "(3) Operational Example of the Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules," after air is discharged from the discharge opening 130, the restoring force of the spring 132 causes the second lid portion 131 to return to its original position, thereby preventing the discharged volatile organic molecule-containing air from flowing back.

[0055] (2) Information display section

[0056] Although not shown, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may further include an information display unit. The information display unit is not an essential component in the present technology, but is provided on a part of the outer circumferential surface of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, and is a portion from which information about the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 can be obtained. By including the information display unit, information related to the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 can be obtained, leading to improved usability.

[0057] The information display unit is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a pattern image such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code; a marker or LED light formed in one or more colors; or a free combination of one or more of these. The information display unit may be read by, for example, a camera, a barcode reader, or the like, or may be visually determined by a person.

[0058] Examples of information held by the information display unit include the type of volatile organic molecules in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, the remaining amount of volatile organic molecules, the names of components that can present volatile organic molecules and allergen information for those components, the expiration date and number of consumptions of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, the manufacturing date and manufacturing location, and version information of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, but this is not particularly limited in this embodiment.

[0059] In addition, when a part of the outer peripheral surface has a curvature, it is preferable that the information display unit is printed or attached to the part of the outer peripheral surface to an extent that it can be read by the above-mentioned camera, barcode, etc. In this case, the information display unit as a pattern image may be printed onto the part of the outer peripheral surface by projection.

[0060] Furthermore, the information display unit may be linked to application software, and information acquired via the application software may be displayed on a screen of a smartphone, a wearable device, a tablet device, a computer, a game console, etc. In this case, by utilizing the application software, a user may add additional information to the acquired information, such as whether or not the volatile organic molecule is preferable, and the additional information acquired from one or more users may be accumulated on a server or cloud and used for machine learning, etc.

[0061] Markers, LED lights, and the like formed in one or more colors may be used simply to add design features to the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules.

[0062] (3) Example of Operation of the Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules

[0063] 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which air containing volatile organic molecules is released from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 of this embodiment. Hereinafter, an example of the release operation of air containing volatile organic molecules from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 14 and other figures. Note that K in FIGS. 10, 12, and 14 indicates the flow of air current.

[0064] In this embodiment, when the ventilation section 11 is opened while the impregnating material 10 is carrying volatile organic molecules, air flows in from the outside through the ventilation opening 110. The air that has flowed in further flows into the flow section 12, and is scented as the airflow passes near the impregnating material 10, becoming air containing volatile organic molecules. The air then flows into the discharge section 13, and the air containing volatile organic molecules is released to the outside from the discharge opening 130.

[0065] Specifically, in this embodiment, the ventilation part 11 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism consisting of a first lid part 111, a shaft 121, and a first spring 112, and similarly, the discharge part 13 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism consisting of a second lid part 131, a shaft 121, and a second spring 132. These opening / closing mechanisms can be controlled, for example, by inserting a plunger X into the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 and connecting it to the shaft 121.

[0066] That is, when the pusher X is pressed, the pusher X pushes the first cover portion 111 toward the inside of the ventilation portion 11, the ventilation opening 110 opens, and air flows into the ventilation portion 11. At this time, the first spring 112 is compressed by the first cover portion 111.

[0067] When the first lid part 111 is pushed inward into the ventilation part 11, the shaft 121 attached to the first lid part 111 moves in the direction of the flow passage part 12. Then, the air in the ventilation part 11 flows into the flow passage part 12 through the flow passage opening 122a as shown in FIG.

[0068] The air that has flowed into the air flow section 12 is sent as an air current around the impregnating material 10. As a result, the air current imparts aroma as it passes around the impregnating material 10, and air containing volatile organic molecules is released from the air flow opening 122b to the discharge section 13.

[0069] That is, when the first lid part 111 is pushed inwardly into the flow passage part 12, the shaft 121 attached to the first lid part 111 moves in the direction of the discharge part 13. This shaft 121 pushes the second lid part 131 inwardly into the discharge part 13, and the air containing volatile organic molecules in the flow passage part 12 flows into the discharge part 13 through the flow passage opening 122b as shown in Figure 12. At this time, the second spring 132 is compressed by the second lid part 131.

[0070] The air containing volatile organic molecules that has flowed into the discharge portion 13 is then discharged to the outside from the discharge opening 130 .

[0071] After the air containing volatile organic molecules is released to the outside, when the pressure on the plunger X is released, the first lid part 111 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the compressed first spring 112. Similarly, the second lid part 131 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the second spring 132.

[0072] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the airflow K passes only around the outer periphery of the impregnating material 10 and does not pass through the inside, but depending on the shape of the impregnating material 10 and the degree to which the sheet-shaped impregnating material 10 is wound, the airflow K may pass through the inside of the impregnating material 10.

[0073] The pusher X connected to the shaft 121 will be described in "(2-4) Driving mechanism unit 2041, arrangement driving unit 2042, and rear storage unit 204" in "10. Third embodiment (volatile organic molecule presentation system 100)" to be described later.

[0074] (4) Other

[0075] The amount of volatile organic molecules held by the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 can be changed as needed. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the dimensions of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 or by changing the type or volume of the impregnating material 10. Naturally, each volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may be provided with an impregnating material 10 that holds a different amount or type of volatile organic molecules.

[0076] Furthermore, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 can be a replaceable disposable type, thereby improving usability.

[0077] Furthermore, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1 can be sealed and stored in a sealed container or the like until use (preferably immediately before use), thereby preventing deterioration of the components capable of generating volatile organic molecules. In this case, it is preferable that the container portion of the sealed container and the lid portion for the sealed container are partially or entirely (preferably entirely) formed from a material with high drug resistance and / or low gas permeability. Examples of materials with high drug resistance and / or low gas permeability include metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof; resins such as PTFE (poly tetra fluoro ethylene) and ETFE (ethylene tetra fluoro ethylene); and glass.

[0078] The cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules may be distributed with volatile organic molecules carried on the impregnating material 10, or may be distributed without volatile organic molecules carried on the impregnating material 10, and volatile organic molecules may be injected immediately before use.

[0079] In this embodiment, the housing 135 of the discharge part 13 may have a D-cut shape 15 in part as shown in Fig. 6. This makes it easier to tighten with a tool. However, depending on the shape of the tool, the D-cut shape 15 is not necessarily required, and can be freely designed as appropriate.

[0080] Furthermore, the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge 1 according to this embodiment can be attached to a cartridge holding unit 201 of a volatile organic molecule presentation system 100 (described later), and in this case, a fixing feature 16 that promotes fixation may be provided, for example, on the housing 123 of the flow section 12. Examples of the fixing feature 16 include one or more grooves provided in a part of the housing 123, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. Note that, depending on the shape of the cartridge holding unit 201, the fixing feature does not necessarily have to be a groove, and can be freely designed as appropriate.

[0081] In addition, the housing 115 of the ventilation part 11 may have a fitting shape 17 for fitting with the cartridge holding part 201 as shown in Fig. 5, or a fall-off prevention shape 18 for preventing the cartridge from falling off from the cartridge holding part 201 as shown in Fig. 4. Examples of these shapes include a shape in which a part of the housing 115 is cut out. Note that, depending on the shape of the cartridge holding part 201, these shapes do not necessarily have to be a shape in which a part of the housing 115 is cut out, and can be designed freely as appropriate.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 50 , the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 according to this embodiment may have a mechanism 400 for cooling and / or heating the interior of the cartridge 1, thereby increasing or decreasing the intensity of the fragrance. That is, by shifting the gas-liquid / gas-solid phase equilibrium of the volatile molecules and controlling the airborne concentration of the volatile organic molecules, a phenomenon occurs in which the fragrance volatilizes more easily when heated and less easily when cooled. Specifically, when the remaining amount of volatile organic molecules is low, heating may be performed to increase the intensity of the fragrance, or changes in the interior environment may be reduced to present the fragrance at a constant intensity (for example, when the temperature or room temperature inside the car is high in midsummer, the cartridge 1 may be cooled before presenting the fragrance, or when the temperature or room temperature inside the car is low in midwinter, the cartridge 1 may be heated before presenting the fragrance).

[0083] Furthermore, for example, when starting to present fragrance inside a car or room after parking, it is expected that cartridge 1 will be used as is at an appropriate temperature inside the car or room after parking in spring or autumn, so the cooling and heating functions will be turned off and adjusted, while in the car or room after parking in summer, the cooling function of the hot cartridge 1 will be turned on to cool it and adjust to the desired fragrance strength, and in the car or room after parking in winter, the heating function of the cold cartridge 1 will be turned on to heat it and adjust to the desired fragrance strength.

[0084] The mechanism 400 for cooling and / or heating the inside of the cartridge 1 can be implemented by using, for example, a Peltier element, a heating wire, etc. Alternatively, the air temperature or room temperature inside the vehicle may be sensed by a temperature sensor or the like, and the result may be used to determine whether to cool, heat, or leave the cartridge 1 as is.

[0085] (5) Modification 1

[0086] 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a first modified example of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules. In this modified example, the impregnating material 10 is substantially cylindrical, with a shaft 121 inserted in the center. As such, in this embodiment, the shape of the impregnating material 10 can be various shapes other than a sheet shape. Note that the other parts are the same as those described above, and therefore will not be described here.

[0087] (6) Modification 2

[0088] 16 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a second modification of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules. In this modification, the impregnating material 10 has one or more impregnating material holding portions 14. This creates an air passage, allowing the scent to be reliably applied to air from the outside. Furthermore, if the impregnating material 10 is made of fiber, it is possible to prevent the fiber from entering a portion that should be sealed, resulting in an unsealed state. Note that the other portions are the same as those described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0089] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing an example of an embodiment of the impregnating material holding part 14. The impregnating material holding part 14 is formed, for example, to support the impregnating material 10 in a spiral shape, and can be provided so as to sandwich the impregnating material 10 near the flow openings (122a, 122b) as shown in Fig. 16, for example, but is not limited to this in the present embodiment.

[0090] It is also preferable that the impregnating material holding part 14 has a difference in height, which can increase the efficiency of assembling the impregnating material 10. That is, since it is difficult to assemble the impregnating material 10 into the impregnating material holding part 14 by aligning all surfaces, it becomes easier to assemble by gradually assembling.

[0091] (7) Modification 3

[0092] Fig. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example 3 of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules, and Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the modified example 3 of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules. Fig. 19A shows the shape of the sheet-like impregnated material 10 when unfolded (the shape before being wound), and Fig. 19B shows only one side being oblique. Fig. 19C shows an image of the installation of the rolled up sheet-like impregnated material 10, and Fig. 19C is a cross-sectional view excluding the discharge portion 13 when installed.

[0093] Referring to Y in C of FIG. 19 and Y in FIG. 20, a space is created, and this pocket structure temporarily serves as a receptacle before volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules) are soaked into the impregnating material 10 when they are injected, and the volatile organic molecules then gradually soak into the impregnating material 10, thereby improving the ability of the impregnating material 10 to support the volatile organic molecules.

[0094] 2. Second embodiment (cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules)

[0095] (1) Configuration example of the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules

[0096] 21 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment of a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "cartridge 2"). In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 at least includes a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has one spiral flow path 231, and a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[0097] Furthermore, if necessary, an information display unit, a pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. may be provided. The pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, and the deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms" and "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51," respectively.

[0098] The material for forming the housing 20 of the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include metals such as stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum; resins such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin; pottery; porcelain; ceramic; or any combination of one or more of these.

[0099] 21, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is generally cylindrical, but the shape of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is not particularly limited as long as there is space inside to store at least the holding section 21 and the flow section 23. The shape may be, for example, a generally polygonal prism such as a generally cylindrical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), a generally polygonal pyramid such as a generally conical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), a generally polygonal pyramid such as a generally truncated cone, elliptical, triangular, or square frustum (including those with rounded corners), or a generally polygonal truncated cone such as a generally truncated elliptical, triangular, or square frustum (including those with rounded corners), or a freely combined shape of one or more of these. Furthermore, the shape may be, for example, a combination of generally cylindrical shapes with different diameters.

[0100] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0101] (2-1) Holding section 21

[0102] The holding portion 21 is a portion that holds volatile organic molecules. The holding portion 21 is not particularly limited as long as it can hold volatile organic molecules, but for example, it can be an impregnated material impregnated with a component that can generate volatile organic molecules.

[0103] The material forming the impregnating material may be, for example, an organic polymer material that allows volatile organic molecules to easily penetrate. Examples of organic polymer materials that can be used include polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, protein, nucleic acid, lipid, polysaccharide, etc., or a combination of one or more of these. Other examples include polymer resins such as acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin; metals such as stainless steel and aluminum; inorganic crystals such as quartz; glass; filter paper; and a combination of one or more of these.

[0104] The impregnating material may be formed into a porous structure, and examples of the material that can be used include mesh structures, cork, mesoporous silica, calcium carbonate, etc. Furthermore, the impregnating material may be formed into a fibrous structure or a layered structure (for example, clay minerals, etc.).

[0105] The form of the impregnating material is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a sheet, a mesh, a strip (including a dense body thereof), a particle (including a dense body thereof), a gel, a liquid (including a liquid maintained by the surface tension of a carrier or the like), a foam, a three-dimensional structure (for example, a pinholder, a spiral, a spring, etc.), a string (including a dense body thereof), and the like, or a form in which one or more of these are freely combined.

[0106] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 21, the impregnating material is in sheet form and rolled into a cylindrical shape and stored inside the cylindrical cartridge 2. By using a sheet-like impregnating material, it becomes easier to store in the cylindrical cartridge 2, improving production efficiency. Note that although the sheet-like impregnating material in Figure 21 has a single-layer structure, it is also possible to store multiple layers of impregnating material inside the cartridge 2 as needed.

[0107] The volatile organic molecules to be supported on the impregnating material are not particularly limited as long as they are components that can present volatile organic molecules (hereinafter also referred to as "fragrances"), and since they are the same as those described in "(1-2) Flow section 12" of "1. First embodiment (cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules)," a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0108] (1-2) Ventilation section 22

[0109] The ventilation section 22 is a section for taking in air. The air is basically the outside air around the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2, but it may also be air collected from a specific location, air containing a specific substance, or the like.

[0110] There are various methods for taking in air into the ventilation section 22, but for example, air can be taken in by directly moving a component such as a pump that abuts against a part of the flow section 23 through the ventilation section 22.

[0111] Note that the pump and other components, the power source for the components, etc. may be integrated with the cartridge 2 (may be formed in the same housing), or may be formed separately and used in combination with the cartridge 2 before being linearly moved. Also, the cartridge 2 integrated with the pump and other components, the power source for the components, etc. may be distributed, or the pump and other components formed separately, the power source for the components, etc. may be distributed independently.

[0112] The mechanism by which a part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is opened and closed by a member such as a pump will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms."

[0113] (1-3) Flow section 23

[0114] The flow passage 23 is a portion that communicates with the ventilation portion 22 and includes at least one spiral flow path 231. By including the spiral flow path 231, manufacturability can be improved by utilizing rolling, a method used to manufacture screws and the like. Furthermore, since the flow passage 23 can be metallized, the flow passage 23 can be formed from a material with high chemical resistance and / or low gas permeability. Furthermore, the flow passage 23 has a simplified structure in the area through which the air containing volatile organic molecules flows, resulting in less fragrance residue. Examples of metals include stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum, but this embodiment is not particularly limited to these.

[0115] In this embodiment, it is preferable that a part or all of the holding part 21 abuts against the spiral flow path 231. This increases the contact area between the holding part 21 and the air flowing through the spiral flow path 231, thereby enabling efficient scenting of the air. Furthermore, since it is possible to generate volatile organic molecule-containing air even in a relatively short spiral flow path 231, the overall dimensions of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 can be reduced.

[0116] In addition, in order to prevent leakage of fragrance, the flow passage section 23 may be provided with a flow passage section spring 232, as shown in Figure 21, to return the moved flow passage section 23 to its original position after air flows in through the ventilation section 22.

[0117] (1-4) Discharge section 24

[0118] The outlet 24 is a part that communicates with the flow passage 23 and that outlets the air containing volatile organic molecules. Note that the term "outside" as used herein also includes concepts such as a specific space and a specific place.

[0119] In this embodiment, the discharge port 24 is provided with a discharge port lid 241 and a discharge port spring 242, as shown in FIG. 21 , to prevent leakage of the fragrance. By opening the discharge port lid 241, air containing volatile organic molecules is discharged outside the cartridge 2. That is, air flows in through the vent 22 due to the linear movement of a member such as a pump that abuts against a part of the flow port 23. The air then flows through the flow port 23 and comes into contact with the holding portion 21, forming volatile organic molecule-containing air. The volatile organic molecule-containing air is then discharged to the outside through the discharge port 24 from the discharge port lid 241, which has been opened by the linear movement of the member such as the pump. Thereafter, the flow port 23 and the discharge port lid 241 return to their original positions due to the restoring forces of the flow port spring 232 and the discharge port spring 242, thereby closing the discharge port lid 241 and the vent 22.

[0120] (2) Information display section

[0121] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment may further include an information display unit. The information display unit is the same as that described in "(2) Information Display Unit" of "1. First Embodiment (Volatile Organic Molecule Presenting Cartridge 1)," and therefore will not be described here.

[0122] (3) Other

[0123] The amount of volatile organic molecules held in the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 can be changed as needed. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the dimensions of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 or by changing the type or volume of the impregnating material. Naturally, each volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 may be provided with an impregnating material that holds a different amount or type of volatile organic molecules.

[0124] Furthermore, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 can be a replaceable disposable type, thereby improving usability.

[0125] Furthermore, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 can be sealed and stored in a sealed container or the like until use (preferably immediately before use), thereby preventing deterioration of the components capable of generating volatile organic molecules. In this case, it is preferable that the container portion of the sealed container and the lid portion for the sealed container are partially or entirely (preferably entirely) formed from a material with high drug resistance and / or low gas permeability. Examples of materials with high drug resistance and / or low gas permeability include metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof; resins such as PTFE (poly tetra fluoro ethylene) and ETFE (ethylene tetra fluoro ethylene); and glass.

[0126] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules during the manufacturing process of the embodiment shown in Figure 21. No fragrance has yet been injected into the cartridge 2 at the manufacturing stage shown in Figure 22. That is, up until the cartridge 2 at the manufacturing stage shown in Figure 22, there is no need to worry about the fragrance, and a manufacturing method such as thermal welding can be used. Furthermore, in the cartridge 2 at the manufacturing stage shown in Figure 22, once the components constituting the cartridge 2 have been assembled to a certain extent, the reservoir formed above the flow section 23 can be used to automatically gradually inject the fragrance into the holding section 21 (see the arrow in Figure 22).

[0127] 3. Modification 1 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)

[0128] (1) Modification 1 of the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules

[0129] 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a first modified example of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 includes at least a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has one spiral flow path 231, a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air, and an air pressure generator 25.

[0130] Furthermore, if necessary, the air conditioner may be provided with an auxiliary airflow section 26, an information display section, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. The deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51".

[0131] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the holding part 21, the ejection part 24, and the information display part are the same as those described in "2. Second embodiment (volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2)" above, and therefore their description will be omitted here.

[0132] (1-1) Ventilation section 22 and air pressure generating section 25

[0133] In this embodiment, in order to prevent leakage of the fragrance, the ventilation part 22 includes a ventilation part cover 221 and a ventilation part spring 222, as shown in Fig. 23. Therefore, in this embodiment, by opening the ventilation part cover 221, outside air is introduced into the cartridge 2. After the outside air is introduced, the ventilation part cover 221 returns to its original position due to the restoring force of the ventilation part spring 222.

[0134] In this embodiment, the area through which the air containing volatile organic molecules passes has a simpler structure than the conventional structure, which has the advantage of leaving less fragrance behind.

[0135] Although the air pressure generating unit 25 is not an essential component of the present technology, in this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 further includes an air pressure generating unit 25 that communicates with the ventilation unit 22. By using the air pressure generating unit 25, it is possible to pressurize the outside air, and using this pressure as an energy source, send the compressed outside air into the ventilation unit 22, thereby opening the ventilation unit lid 221 and the discharge unit lid 241 using air pressure alone. Therefore, in this embodiment, when odor-containing air is discharged from the discharge unit 24, the entire cartridge 2 moves toward the right in FIG. 23 .

[0136] The material for forming the air pressure generating unit 25 is not particularly limited, but is preferably flexible. Specific examples include polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, polyimide resin, and the like, or any combination of two or more of these.

[0137] The structure of the air pressure generating unit 25 is not particularly limited as long as it can generate air pressure, and a syringe structure or the like can be adopted, but in this embodiment, it is preferable to use a spring structure as shown in Figure 23.

[0138] (1-2) Auxiliary ventilation section 26

[0139] Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 23 equipped with an auxiliary airflow passage 26. Fig. 25 is a front view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24, Fig. 26 is a rear view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24, Fig. 27 is a left side view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24, Fig. 28 is a right side view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24, Fig. 29 is a plan view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24, and Fig. 30 is a bottom view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24. Furthermore, Fig. 31 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in Fig. 24.

[0140] The auxiliary air flow passage 26 is not an essential component of the present technology, but is provided outside the flow passage 23 and is a section through which auxiliary air flows. By providing the auxiliary air flow passage 26, the air outside the flow passage 23 and flowing through the housing 20 can be used as auxiliary air when discharging air containing volatile organic molecules (see the arrow in FIG. 31 ).

[0141] The auxiliary airflow duct 26 may be detachable from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. This allows the auxiliary airflow duct 26 to be freely detachable depending on space, necessity, and the like. In this case, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 and the auxiliary airflow duct 26 preferably have an engagement mechanism that allows them to be attached with one touch. The engagement mechanism is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include engagement using a concave-convex shape; engagement using a claw, pin, hook, clamp, or the like; engagement using an adhesive with sufficient adhesiveness to allow detachment; and slide engagement, but is not particularly limited in this embodiment.

[0142] In this embodiment, the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules equipped with the auxiliary airflow passage 26 may be distributed, or the auxiliary airflow passage 26 itself may be distributed alone. It is also possible to remove and reuse only the auxiliary airflow passage 26. This improves usability and also contributes to environmental friendliness, as some components can be reused.

[0143] Furthermore, it is preferable that part or all of the auxiliary air flow passage 26 is formed on the upper surface side of the surface where the discharge section 24 is present, as shown in Figures 24 and 25. Figure 32 is a conceptual diagram showing how the air containing volatile organic molecules mixes with the auxiliary air. As shown in Figure 32, by forming the auxiliary air flow passage 26 on the upper surface side of the surface where the discharge section 24 is present, the auxiliary air and the air containing volatile organic molecules can be efficiently mixed together, and the air containing volatile organic molecules can be delivered to the user.

[0144] In addition, as shown in Figure 32, a spring structure or the like may be provided between the discharge section 24 and the auxiliary air flow section 26 to the extent that it does not interfere with the discharge of air containing volatile organic molecules from the discharge section 24.

[0145] In this embodiment, a portion of the auxiliary air flow section 26 is formed on the upper surface side of the surface on which the discharge section 24 is present, but in this case, the auxiliary air flow section 26 may be provided with one or more auxiliary air flow discharge sections 261 that discharge auxiliary air, as shown in Fig. 30. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 30, a plurality of auxiliary air flow discharge sections 261 may be formed so as to form parts of concentric circles. In this case, the air containing volatile organic molecules discharged from the discharge section 24 may be discharged from the center side of the concentric circles.

[0146] As in the present embodiment, the auxiliary air flow passage 26 may be formed continuously from the upper surface side of the surface where the discharge portion 24 is present, so as to cover part or all of the longitudinal direction of the housing 20 of the cartridge 2. By forming the auxiliary air flow passage 26 in such a shape, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 and the auxiliary air flow passage 26 can be easily set with one touch.

[0147] (2) Example in which the flow passage 23 has two spiral flow paths 231

[0148] 33 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing an example in which the flow section 23 has two spiral channels 231 in a modified example of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to the second embodiment. In this example, the flow section 23 has two spiral channels 231. In this case, as shown in FIG. 33, it is preferable that the holding section 21 is provided between the two spiral channels 231. In other words, the spiral channels 231 are located on both the inside and outside of the holding section 21. This further increases the contact area between the air flowing through the spiral channels 231 and the holding section 21, thereby enabling more efficient scenting of the air.

[0149] (3) Other

[0150] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 34, an air blowing source 90 may be provided on the air pressure generating unit 25 side of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. By providing the air blowing source 90, a large amount of auxiliary air can be generated (see the arrows in Fig. 34), and the air containing volatile organic molecules can be delivered over a longer distance.

[0151] Examples of the air blower source 90 include an axial fan, a blower fan, a centrifugal fan, etc. The air blower source 90 may also be a combination of a diaphragm pump, particularly a diaphragm pump using a piezoelectric element or a motor (e.g., a microblower), and an airflow expansion mechanism.

[0152] Fig. 35 is a conceptual diagram showing a modified example of the opening of the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules. Fig. 35B shows an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 35A. In Fig. 35A and Fig. 35B, the arrows indicate the direction in which the air containing volatile organic molecules is ejected.

[0153] In the modified example shown in Figure 35, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is structured to open in the pulling direction. Specifically, the outermost member 1002 in the ejection direction of the cartridge 2 is pulled using a pulling member 1001 engaged with the outermost member 1002 and the outermost member 1003 on the opposite side of the ejection direction, thereby opening the outermost portion of the cartridge 2 in the ejection direction. By adopting this structure, only a ventilation path for volatile organic molecule-containing air remains, and very little fragrance remains. Furthermore, after loading the fragrance into the cartridge 2, there is no need to use a separate member or the like to prevent leakage of the fragrance. This allows for cost reduction.

[0154] In the modified example shown in FIG. 35, the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules has a structure in which it opens in the pulling direction, but in this embodiment, a structure in which the cartridge 2 opens in the pressing direction may also be employed.

[0155] 4. Modification 2 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)

[0156] 36 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing Modification 2 of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2. In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 includes at least a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has one spiral flow path 231, and a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[0157] Furthermore, if necessary, an information display unit, a pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. may be provided. The pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, and the deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms" and "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51," respectively.

[0158] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the holding section 21, the ventilation section 22, the flow section 23, and the information display section are the same as those described in "2. Second embodiment (volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2)" above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

[0159] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment is designed to eject volatile organic molecule-containing air by moving the entire cartridge 2 in the ejection direction of the volatile organic molecule-containing air (i.e., forward of the cartridge 2). The arrow in Figure 36 indicates the pressing direction of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. In this case, the periphery of the ejection portion 24 may be formed from a separate member, and a protrusion 240 may be provided so that even if there is an obstacle such as a wall in front of the cartridge 2, the housing 20 of the cartridge 2 will not directly abut against the obstacle. The pressing operation may also be performed by a member such as a pump, a movable source for the member, or the like.

[0160] 5. Modification 3 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)

[0161] 37 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a modified example 3 of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2. In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 includes at least a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has one spiral flow path 231, and a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[0162] Furthermore, if necessary, an information display unit, a pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. may be provided. The pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, and the deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms" and "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51," respectively.

[0163] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the holding section 21, the ventilation section 22, and the information display section are the same as those described in "2. Second embodiment (volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2)" above, and therefore their description will be omitted here.

[0164] The volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment generates volatile organic molecule-containing air by moving the cartridge 2 in the direction opposite to the direction of ejection of the volatile organic molecule-containing air (i.e., toward the rear of the cartridge 2). The white arrow in FIG. 37 indicates the pressing direction of the cartridge 2. In this case, the area around the ejection portion 24 may be formed from a separate member, and an air duct hole 243 may be formed in the separate member to utilize air outside the flow portion 23 as auxiliary air (see the black arrow in FIG. 37). Furthermore, in this embodiment, since more space can be created within the cartridge 2, it is possible to increase the amount of fragrance compared to cartridges 2 of other configurations. Note that the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment may also include a shaft 230 for pushing open the ejection portion lid 241, if necessary. Note that the pressing operation may be performed by a member such as a pump, a source for moving the member, or the like.

[0165] 6. Modification 4 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)

[0166] 38 is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth modified example of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2. In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 includes at least a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has two spiral flow paths 231, and a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[0167] Furthermore, if necessary, an information display unit, a pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. may be provided. The pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, and the deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms" and "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51," respectively.

[0168] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the holding section 21, the ventilation section 22, and the information display section are the same as those described in "2. Second embodiment (volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2)" above, and therefore their description will be omitted here.

[0169] The volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment generates volatile organic molecule-containing air by pressing a portion of the vent lid 221 from the vent 22 side of the cartridge 2. The white arrow in FIG. 38 indicates the pressing direction of the vent lid 221. In this case, the vent lid 221 pressed through the vent 22 opens the discharge lid 241 via the shaft 230. As a result, air flowing in through the vent 22 flows through the flow passage 23 and is scented, and volatile organic molecule-containing air is discharged from the discharge lid 24. After the volatile organic molecule-containing air is discharged, the restoring forces of the discharge spring 242 and the vent spring 222 return the discharge lid 241 and the vent lid 221 to their original positions. In this embodiment, two spiral channels 231 are provided, allowing efficient scenting of the air flowing in through the vent 22.

[0170] In this embodiment, the periphery of the discharge unit 24 is formed from a separate member, thereby saving space on the discharge unit 24 side of the housing 20. This makes it possible to efficiently generate air containing volatile organic molecules even in a limited space. The pressing operation may be performed by a member such as a pump, a source for moving the member, or the like.

[0171] 7. Modification 5 of the Second Embodiment (Cartridge 2 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)

[0172] 39 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a modified example 5 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment includes at least a holding section 21 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent section 22 that takes in air, a flow section 23 that communicates with the vent section 22 and has one spiral flow path 231, and a discharge section 24 that communicates with the flow section 23 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[0173] Furthermore, if necessary, an information display unit, a pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, a deodorizing mechanism 51, etc. may be provided. The pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms, and the deodorizing mechanism 51 will be described later in "8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms" and "9. Deodorizing mechanism 51," respectively.

[0174] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the ventilation section 22, the discharge section 24, and the information display section are the same as those described in "2. Second embodiment (volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2)" above, and therefore their description will be omitted here.

[0175] The cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules shown in this embodiment is designed to generate volatile organic molecule-containing air by sliding internal parts (see the area surrounded by a thick line in Figure 39) against the housing 20 of the cartridge 2. The "internal parts" here include at least the holding part 21 and the flow part 23, but in this embodiment, it is preferable that all of the internal parts (see the area surrounded by a thick line in Figure 39) slide. The white arrow in Figure 39 indicates the sliding direction. In this case, if the holding part 21 hits the housing 20 during sliding, resistance is high and size accuracy is low, so it is preferable to form a cover member 211 to cover this. Furthermore, the flow part 23 may be provided with a flow part spring 232 during sliding.

[0176] The volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 shown in this embodiment slides, leaving space and allowing air to pass through easily, making it possible to mix in and expel air containing volatile organic molecules. Note that the method for mixing in the volatile organic molecules is not particularly limited, and a spring structure, a stent, a longitudinal slit, or the like, or a combination of one or more of these, can be used.

[0177] 8. Pump direct acting mechanism 6 and other mechanisms

[0178] (1) Configuration example of pump direct acting mechanism 6

[0179] 40 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. By using the pump direct-acting mechanism 6, as described above, the pump unit 61 can be directly actuated relative to the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2, thereby pressing one or more selected from the group consisting of a part of the flow section 23, the vent section lid 221, the discharge section lid 241, and a member (valve) 64 provided between the pump unit 61 and the cartridge 2, thereby opening and closing these components. Conventionally, the pump unit was fixed and a separate plunger was moved. In contrast, the present technology allows air to flow efficiently and does not require a separate plunger or other member, thereby reducing the number of parts and providing a compact opening and closing mechanism.

[0180] The pump linear motion mechanism 6 includes at least a pump unit 61, a sealing unit 62, and a linear motion source 63. Other units may be included as needed. As shown in FIG. 40 , the pump unit 61 moves in a linear motion direction in part or in whole as the linear motion source 63 moves, thereby pressing on one or more members selected from the group consisting of a part of the flow section 23, the vent section cover 221, the discharge section cover 241, and a member 64 provided between the pump unit 61 and the cartridge 2, thereby opening and closing them. After the odor cartridge 2 is opened in response to the movement of the pump unit 61, the odor cartridge 2 is sealed by a sealing unit 62 formed in contact with a necessary portion, such as the outer circumferential surface of the member 64, as shown in FIG. 40 , to prevent the intrusion of excess outside air, dust, and the like.

[0181] The material for forming the pump portion 61 and the sealing portion 62 is not particularly limited, but is preferably flexible. Specific examples include polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, polyimide resin, and the like, or any combination of two or more of these.

[0182] The shape of the pump portion 61 is not particularly limited, and may be a substantially polygonal prism such as a substantially circular cylinder, a substantially elliptical cylinder, a substantially triangular prism, or a substantially square prism (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid such as a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical cone, a substantially triangular pyramid, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a shape that is a free combination of one or more of these. Furthermore, for example, the pump portion 61 may have a shape that combines substantially cylindrical shapes with different diameters.

[0183] The linearly moving source 63 is not particularly limited as long as it can move the pump unit 61 in the linear direction, and examples thereof include an actuator equipped with a shape memory alloy (SMA), a motor, a solenoid, a linear slide type, a pneumatic (air pump type), a small electromagnet, etc. Note that, as described above, the term "linearly moving" here includes not only the case where one member moves in a linear direction, but also the case where some members of a group of multiple connected members move in a linear direction.

[0184] Below, we will explain each embodiment of the pump direct-acting mechanism 6. Note that the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules is the same as that explained in "2. Second embodiment (cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules)" above, so we will not explain it here.

[0185] (1-1) First embodiment of pump direct acting mechanism 6

[0186] Figure 41 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a pump linear motion mechanism 6, and Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 41. The pump linear motion mechanism 6 of the embodiment shown in Figures 41 and 42 at least includes three volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 2, three pump units 61 that abut against the vent cover 221 of each cartridge 2, a plurality of sealing units 62 (not shown in Figure 41), three linear motion movable sources 63 that move the pump units 61, and three members 64 provided between the pump units 61 and the cartridges 2.

[0187] In this embodiment, a plurality of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 2, pump units 61, sealing units 62, direct-acting movable sources 63, and members 64 are provided, and this configuration can be adopted as the pump direct-acting mechanism 6 in the present technology. Note that, in the present technology, the type, shape, or number of each component may be the same, or some or all of them may be different. In this embodiment, the direct-acting movable sources 63 use a shape memory alloy SMA, and the movement of the shape memory alloy SMA causes each pump unit 61 to move directly in blocks. Note that, as shown in this embodiment, the pump units 61 and / or the member 64 provided between the pump units 61 and the cartridge 1 may be provided with a return spring 611 as necessary.

[0188] This embodiment also includes a movable source holder 631 that holds the linearly moving movable source 63. The movable source holder 631 may hold not only the linearly moving movable source 63, but also the pump unit 61 and the cartridge 2. If the linearly moving movable source 63 is prone to generate heat, the movable source holder 631 is preferably made of a heat-resistant material. In this embodiment, the required heat-resistant temperature is preferably 70°C or higher, more preferably 80°C or higher, even more preferably 85°C or higher, and particularly preferably 90°C or higher.

[0189] Examples of heat-resistant materials include heat-resistant resin compositions. Examples of heat-resistant resin compositions include polyamide resins such as polycaproamide (nylon 6) and polyhexamethylene adipamide (nylon 66); polyphenylene sulfide resins (PPS resins); and the like, or combinations of two or more of these. Furthermore, these resins may be mixed with reinforcing fibers such as glass fiber, carbon fiber, and aramid fiber in a desired amount.

[0190] (1-2) Second embodiment of pump direct acting mechanism 6

[0191] 43 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the pump linear motion mechanism 6. The pump linear motion mechanism 6 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 43 includes at least a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2, a pump section 61 that abuts against the vent cover section 221 of the cartridge 2, a sealing section 62 (not shown), a linear motion source 63 that linearly moves the pump section 61, and a member 64 provided between the pump section 61 and the cartridge 2.

[0192] In this embodiment, a DC motor is used as the linearly moving source 63, and linear movement of the DC motor linearly moves the pump unit 61. The shape of the pump unit 61 in this embodiment is different from the shape of the pump unit 61 in the linear pump movement mechanism 6 according to the first embodiment. As such, in this technology, the shape of the pump unit 61, the arrangement of the linearly moving source 63, the presence or absence of the member 64, and the like can be devised as necessary.

[0193] (1-3) Third embodiment of pump direct acting mechanism 6

[0194] Fig. 44 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the pump linear motion mechanism 6. The pump linear motion mechanism 6 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 44 includes at least a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2, a pump section 61 that abuts against the vent cover section 221 of the cartridge 2, a sealing section 62 (not shown), a linear motion source 63 that linearly moves the pump section 61, and a member 64 provided between the pump section 61 and the cartridge 2, and has a configuration in which a part of the pump linear motion mechanism 6 according to the first embodiment described above is extracted.

[0195] In this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, a shape memory alloy SMA is used as the linear motion movable source 63, and as shown in Fig. 44, the shape memory alloy SMA is folded back multiple times. In this case, it is preferable that the linear motion movable source 63 further includes an excess length adjustment mechanism 632 for the shape memory alloy SMA. By including the excess length adjustment mechanism 632, it is possible to simplify the excess length adjustment, double the number of folds (doubling the amount of displacement), etc., and it also contributes to the miniaturization of the linear motion movable source 63.

[0196] (1-4) Fourth embodiment of pump direct acting mechanism 6

[0197] 45 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of the pump linear motion mechanism 6. The pump linear motion mechanism 6 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 45 includes at least three volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 2, three pump units 61 that abut against the vent cover 221 of each cartridge 2, a plurality of sealing units 62 (not shown), one linear motion movable source 63 that moves the pump units 61, and one member 64 provided between the pump units 61 and the cartridges 2.

[0198] In this embodiment, compared to the first embodiment described above, there is only one direct-acting movable source 63. In this embodiment, a camshaft and a motor are used as the direct-acting movable source 63, and when the motor is operated, the camshaft rotates, and each pump unit 61 moves directly on a block-by-block basis. This allows the number of direct-acting movable sources 63 to be reduced when there is no need to open the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 2 individually, leading to cost reduction.

[0199] (2) Example of a mechanism other than the pump linear motion mechanism 6 (mechanism 7 using a link structure)

[0200] 46 is a perspective view showing a mechanism 7 using a link structure, which is an example of a mechanism other than the pump linear motion mechanism 6. In this embodiment, a mechanism other than the pump linear motion mechanism 6 can open or close any one or more selected from the group consisting of a part of the flow section 23, the vent section cover 221, the discharge section cover 241, and the valve 74.

[0201] The link structure in this example includes at least a shape memory alloy SMA 71 and links (72, 73). By operating the shape memory alloy SMA 71, the links (72, 73) are moved, and for example, a force that pulls the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 shown in FIG. 46 downward is generated, thereby opening and closing the valve 74. Note that the shape, configuration, pulling direction, etc. of the link structure in this example are merely examples, and are not particularly limited in this embodiment as long as the valve 74 can be opened and closed.

[0202] 9. Deodorizing mechanism 51

[0203] (1) Configuration example of deodorizing mechanism 51

[0204] 47 and 48 are explanatory diagrams illustrating the deodorizing mechanism 51. Note that B in Fig. 47 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 indicated by A, and B in Fig. 48 is a partial cross-sectional view of the deodorizing mechanism 51 indicated by A. As described above, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 may further include a deodorizing mechanism 51, if necessary.

[0205] The deodorizing mechanism 51 shown in this embodiment applies deodorizing measures to the suction hole 612 of the pump linear motion mechanism 6 described above. In A of FIG. 47 and A of FIG. 48, the white arrow indicates the discharge direction of air containing volatile organic molecules. By applying deodorizing measures to the suction hole 612, odors from components such as resin and the surrounding environment can be deodorized before air containing volatile organic molecules is generated, thereby presenting the desired fragrance. In FIG. 47, the cartridge 2 is housed in a substantially rectangular prism-shaped outer member, as shown in B of FIG. 47. In B of FIG. 48, the black arrow indicates the inflow direction of odors from the components and the surrounding environment, and the gray arrow indicates the flow direction of outside air after deodorization.

[0206] As shown in Fig. 48B, the deodorizing mechanism 51 includes a front member 511 and a rear member 512, which are fitted together. Also, as shown in Fig. 48B, a deodorizing material portion 513 and the like are present between the front member 511 and the rear member 512.

[0207] (2) Front member 511

[0208] The material for forming the front member 511 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include glass; metals such as stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum; resins such as polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin; and the like, or any combination of one or more of these.

[0209] The shape of the front member 511 is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate the deodorizing material part 513 described below, and can be, for example, a substantially polygonal shape such as a substantially triangular prism or a substantially square prism, a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, or a freely combined shape of one or more of these. Furthermore, if the front member 511 is a polygonal shape, the corners may be rounded, or a portion of the front member 511 may be tapered or stepped.

[0210] As shown in FIG. 48B , the front member 511 includes a deodorizing material portion 513 therein. The deodorizing material portion 513 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a gas adsorbing substance woven or kneaded into the material, packed in a bag made of a gas-permeable material, or various fibers or structures themselves having a gas adsorbing structure, or may be a filter structure. Examples of gas adsorbing substances include activated carbon (e.g., palm, fir, bamboo, resin, wood, fiber, coal, etc.), zeolite, layered compounds (e.g., sheet silicate, alumina, etc.), porous silica (including mesoporous silica), etc., or any combination of one or more of these. The shape of the deodorizing material portion 513 is also not particularly limited, and may be, for example, powder, granules, fibers, molded products, sheets (e.g., nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, etc.), rods, plates, etc. Furthermore, the surface treatment of the deodorizing material portion 513 may be performed with or without activation treatment, and may include, for example, surface functional group exposure treatment (e.g., acidification, alkalinization, polarization, non-polarization, etc.).

[0211] The upper and / or lower surface of the deodorizing material part 513 may have one or more fall prevention parts 5131 to prevent the deodorizing material part 513 from falling. The fall prevention part 5131 is not particularly limited as long as it can prevent the deodorizing material part 513 from falling, and can be formed, for example, in a sheet-like shape, a mesh structure, a filter structure, or the like. Furthermore, by attaching the fall prevention part 5131, it is possible to prevent the pump part 61 from suctioning gas adsorbent materials such as activated carbon, which are formed in powder or granular form. The fall prevention part 5131 can be attached to the deodorizing material part 513 using, for example, an adhesive, and it is preferable that the attachment be such that no gaps are formed.

[0212] (3) Rear member 512

[0213] The material and shape of the rear member 512 are not particularly limited and are similar to those of the front member 511 described above, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0214] Furthermore, one or more attachment portions 515 for attaching the deodorizing mechanism 51 to another article, a housing, or the like may be formed on the surface of the rear member 512 itself that is not fitted with the front member 511. In A of Fig. 48, the deodorizing mechanism 51 is attached to another article (in this embodiment, the pump linear motion mechanism 6). The attachment portion 515 is not particularly limited as long as it can fix the deodorizing mechanism 51, and can be formed, for example, from a sheet-like adhesive, double-sided tape, or the like.

[0215] The rear member 512 may have an internal air blower, if necessary. The air blower may be, but is not limited to, an axial fan, a blower fan, a centrifugal fan, or the like. Alternatively, the air blower may be a diaphragm pump, particularly a diaphragm pump using a piezoelectric element or a motor (e.g., a microblower). In this case, the rear member 512 preferably has a groove through which a harness or the like connecting the air blower to an external driving source (e.g., a piezoelectric element, a motor, or the like) can be routed, so that the air blower can obtain energy from the external driving source. Furthermore, the underside of the air blower may be provided with one or more fixing portions for fixing the air blower. The fixing portions are not particularly limited as long as they can fix the air blower, and may be formed, for example, using a sheet-like adhesive, double-sided tape, or the like.

[0216] (4) Example of fitting of the front member 511 and the rear member 512

[0217] If the rear member 512 has, for example, a fitting groove (not shown), adhesive is applied to the fitting groove when fitting the front member 511 to the rear member 512, and the front member 511 is inserted into the fitting groove of the rear member 512 to fit the two members together. Furthermore, the adhesive or the like can completely eliminate any gaps, thereby sealing the front member 511 and the rear member 512. Note that in this embodiment, the fitting groove is not an essential component, and the front member 511 and the rear member 512 may be sealed using an O-ring, screw fastening, or the like.

[0218] 10. Third embodiment (volatile organic molecule presentation system 100)

[0219] (1) Configuration example of volatile organic molecule presentation system 100

[0220] 18 is a perspective view showing an example of an embodiment of a volatile organic molecule presentation system 100. The volatile organic molecule presentation system 100 according to this embodiment includes a volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 and a control device 300.

[0221] These devices may be connected via a wired or wireless network. Furthermore, there may be multiple devices, and each device may be provided externally, such as in a cloud, and connected via a network.

[0222] Hereinafter, each part of the volatile organic molecule presentation system 100 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0223] (2) Volatile organic molecule presentation device 200

[0224] In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 includes a volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge 1, a cartridge holding section 201, an engagement section 202, a front storage section 203 having a release section 2031, and a rear storage section 204 having a drive mechanism section 2041 and a placement drive section 2042. Other sections may also be included as necessary. Each section will be described in detail below.

[0225] (2-1) Cartridge holding portion 201

[0226] The cartridge holding portion 201 is a portion that holds the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules.

[0227] The cartridge holding section 201 can hold one or more volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1. The number of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 held in the cartridge holding section 201 is not particularly limited and can be freely set as appropriate.

[0228] The cartridge holding section 201 is formed with a space into which, for example, one or more volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 1 can be attached. The shape of the space is not particularly limited and can be formed to suit the shape of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1, for example, in a shape such as a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical conical shape, a substantially polygonal pyramidal shape, a substantially truncated conical shape, a substantially truncated elliptical conical shape, or a substantially truncated polygonal pyramidal shape.

[0229] Furthermore, instead of a space, the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules may be attached using a plurality of convex pins as shown in Fig. 18. The lower surface of the cartridge holding part 201 may be formed with one or more communication holes through which a pusher X in a drive mechanism part 2041 (described later) can communicate.

[0230] The cartridge holder 201 is preferably formed from an inorganic material. This reduces the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules to be supported or presented. Preferred inorganic materials are those composed of metals and / or inorganic compounds. Examples of metals and / or inorganic compounds include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

[0231] The cartridge holding portion 201 may hold a plurality of cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules, for example, by arranging the cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules in a circular arrangement in the space as shown in FIG. 18 .

[0232] In this embodiment, when the number of cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules is small, each can be mounted one by one in a predetermined location. However, when the number of cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules to be mounted is large, as shown in FIG. 18, a cartridge holding section 201 (hereinafter also referred to as a "cartridge unit") in which multiple cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules are supported in advance can be used to mount multiple cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules on the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 at one time.

[0233] Here, the number of volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 1 included in the cartridge unit is, for example, 40, but is not limited to this in the present embodiment. The shape of the cartridge unit is not particularly limited as long as it is formed to include a plurality of volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 1, and can be freely formed as appropriate to suit the shape, etc., of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 1.

[0234] The cartridge unit may have one or more volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 pre-installed, and in this case, the cartridge unit may be distributed in a state in which one or more volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 are pre-installed. Furthermore, when some or all of the volatile organic molecules in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 are depleted, or when a certain period of time has passed since the cartridge unit was purchased, the user can simply replace the cartridge unit. Therefore, the cartridge unit may be distributed on its own. Furthermore, it is also possible to replace only some or all of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 in the cartridge unit. Therefore, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may also be distributed on its own.

[0235] The cartridge unit may also have an information display unit, which is the same as that described in "(2) Information Display Unit" of "1. First Embodiment (Cartridge 1 for Presenting Volatile Organic Molecules)," and therefore will not be described here.

[0236] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cartridge unit may include multiple cartridges 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules of the same type, and as shown in Figure 49, when the volatile organic molecules in the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules reach a specified amount (see XX in Figure 49), it may be possible to automatically and smoothly switch to another cartridge 1 of the same type with a larger remaining amount.

[0237] (2-2) Engagement portion 202

[0238] The engaging portion 202 is a portion that engages with the cartridge holding portion 201. The form of the engaging portion 202 is not particularly limited and can be freely designed as appropriate to suit the shape of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, its arrangement, etc., but as shown in Fig. 18 , the engaging portion 202 engages with the cartridge holding portion 201 that supports, for example, a plurality of volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 in a multiple annular shape in a planar view.

[0239] The material for forming the engaging portion 202 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include polymer resins such as organic polymer materials, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) resin, polyacetal (POM) resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin; metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof; and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

[0240] The engagement portion 202 has a discharge hole 2021 that discharges air containing volatile organic molecules. It is preferable that there are a plurality of discharge holes 2021, for example, the same number as the number of volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridges 1 supported by the cartridge unit. Furthermore, it is preferable that the discharge hole 2021 is located at a position corresponding to the discharge portion 2031 after being driven by the arrangement drive portion 2042. In this case, the air containing volatile organic molecules sent from the discharge hole 2021 can be discharged to the outside via the discharge portion 2031.

[0241] (2-3) Discharge section 2031 and front storage section 203

[0242] The release section 2031 is a section that releases the air containing volatile organic molecules to the outside. The release section 2031 may be provided in the front storage section 203, for example, as shown in FIG. 18 , and in this case, may be able to communicate with the discharge hole 2021 of the engagement section 202.

[0243] In this embodiment, the release unit 2031 may have a guide unit (not shown) that guides the volatile organic molecule-containing air to the vicinity of the user's nose. The material for forming the guide unit is not particularly limited. Part or all of the guide unit may be formed to be detachable. In this case, for example, the guide unit may be disposable for each user.

[0244] (2-4) Driving mechanism unit 2041, arrangement driving unit 2042, and rear storage unit 204

[0245] 18, the rear housing 204 is provided with a drive mechanism 2041. Furthermore, it is provided with a substrate for energizing the drive mechanism 2041 and the placement drive unit 2042 based on instructions from the control device 300, etc. The drive mechanism 2041 is provided with a drive mechanism housing, and is ultimately connected to the shaft 121 in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 to linearly move the shaft 121. The drive mechanism housing can be, for example, substantially cylindrical in shape, but can be freely designed as appropriate to fit the shape of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1.

[0246] The drive mechanism 2041 is provided inside the drive mechanism housing with a pusher X connected to the shaft 121 and a thin wire of shape memory alloy SMA that serves as a drive source for driving the pusher X. The rear end of the pusher X is fixed to a drive mechanism fixing part provided at the rear end inside the drive mechanism housing. An SMA sliding part that folds back and slides the shape memory alloy SMA is provided near the tip of the pusher X. The entire drive mechanism 2041 is fixed by a support or the like attached below the drive mechanism housing, and a wiring capable of supplying power is connected to the rear end of the shape memory alloy SMA located inside the drive mechanism fixing part.

[0247] The pusher X is movable in the extension direction inside the drive mechanism housing by expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy SMA. The shape of the pusher is not particularly limited as long as it is a shape that can push the shaft 121, and may be a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical conical shape, a substantially polygonal pyramidal shape, a substantially truncated conical shape, a substantially truncated elliptical conical shape, a substantially truncated polygonal pyramidal shape, or the like.

[0248] The shape memory alloy SMA is folded back into a U-shape at an SMA sliding part provided near the tip of the plunger, passes through the inside of the plunger, and both ends are fixed to a drive mechanism fixing part located at the rear end of the plunger. Furthermore, the actuator serving as the drive source is not limited to the shape memory alloy SMA, and may be any linear motion mechanism that linearly moves the plunger, such as a motor, solenoid, linear slide type, pneumatic (air pump type), small electromagnet, etc. Here, the linear motion mechanism includes not only a case where one member moves in a linear direction, but also a case where some members of a group of multiple connected members move in a linear direction.

[0249] The rear storage section 204 also includes a placement driver 2042, as shown in FIG. 18 . The placement driver 2042 is a component that positions a specific volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 among the multiple volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges 1 near the release section 2031. The volatile organic molecule presenting device 200 includes the placement driver 2042, which allows any volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 to be moved near the release section 2031, thereby enabling the volatile organic molecules carried by the impregnated material 10 of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 to be delivered to a desired location (e.g., the tip of the user's nose). This also minimizes adhesion of volatile organic molecules to components constituting the volatile organic molecule presenting device 200. In this embodiment, the placement driver 2042 is provided within the rear storage section 204. The rear storage section 204 includes a circuit board for applying electricity to the placement driver 2042 based on instructions from the control device 300.

[0250] The arrangement driving unit 2042 can be driven in accordance with the form of the cartridge unit or the like, and can be driven, for example, in a linear motion, XY axis, rotational motion, etc. The arrangement driving unit 2042 is not particularly limited, and a conventionally known actuator or the like can be used.

[0251] (3) Control device 300

[0252] The control device 300 controls the discharge of the volatile organic molecule-containing air. Specifically, in this embodiment, the control device 300 controls each part of the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 described above to control the discharge of the volatile organic molecule-containing air. In this case, the control device 300 may take the form of, for example, various devices, and a user can give instructions to each part of the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 via the various devices. Specifically, examples of such devices include tablet terminals, wearable terminals, personal computer terminals, and smartphones.

[0253] The control device 300 may include, for example, a storage unit, a user interface unit, an output unit, etc. Furthermore, it may include other units as necessary. Each unit will be described in detail below.

[0254] (3-1) Storage section

[0255] The storage unit stores information acquired from the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 and / or information prepared in advance. The storage unit may be located within the housing of the external control unit, or may be connected to the external control unit via a network and installed on a server or cloud. In this case, each user can share all information stored in the storage unit on the server or cloud via the network. In consideration of users' personal information, some information may be viewable only by those authorized to view it.

[0256] The storage unit may also perform machine learning using AI based on all stored information. Furthermore, the machine learning may be performed on a server or the cloud, in which case each user may share the results of the machine learning stored on the server or the cloud via a network.

[0257] The location and number of memory units to be installed are not particularly limited, and they may be installed on the housing side of the control device 300, or the memory unit may be installed externally, such as in the cloud, and connected to the control device 300 via a network.

[0258] (3-2) User interface section

[0259] The user interface unit is a portion that is operated by a user, and may display information about the volatile organic molecules to be emitted, information associated with the user, and the like to the user.

[0260] A user can access and control each part of the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 and the control device 300 through the user interface unit. The installation location and number of the user interface units are not particularly limited, and they may be installed on the housing side of the control device 300, on the volatile organic molecule presentation device 200 side, or on both sides.

[0261] The user interface unit also displays various information to the user and receives instructions from the user, such as information about the set volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 (e.g., number of uses, period of use, type of volatile organic molecule, concentration of volatile organic molecule, etc.), progress, and information about the volatile organic molecule presenting device 200 (e.g., number of uses, period of use, usage history, etc.).

[0262] Furthermore, the user interface unit can acquire various information from the information display unit provided on the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules via a reading unit (not shown), and based on the various information, can manage the number for individually identifying the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules, the manufacturing number, the type of volatile organic molecule, the concentration of the volatile organic molecule, the manufacturing date, etc.

[0263] The user interface unit may be, for example, a display, one or more buttons, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mobile information terminal, etc. The user interface unit is not an essential component of the control device 300, and an external display device may be used.

[0264] (3-3) Output section

[0265] The output unit receives instructions via the user interface unit and outputs, for example, various types of information.

[0266] The output unit may be, for example, a visual display on a monitor, a screen of a mobile information terminal, a control device used for entertainment purposes, etc.; an audio output from a speaker, earphones, headphones, a microphone, etc.; a tactile output due to deformation of a member, a change in the arrangement of a member, a temperature change such as cold or warm of a member, a stimulation by a weak current, etc., or a combination of one or more of these, but is not particularly limited in this embodiment. Furthermore, the output unit is not an essential component of the control device 300, and an external output device may be used.

[0267] 11. Peripheral structure of cartridges (1, 2) for displaying volatile organic molecules

[0268] (1) Valve opening and closing structure of cartridges (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules

[0269] Figures 51A and 51B are cross-sectional schematic diagrams of a structure holding one or more cartridges (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules and the surrounding structure related to the valve opening and closing structure. The arrows in Figure 51B indicate the direction of the generated force. In the structure shown in Figure 51, the sealed state of the dashed frame portion in Figure 51A could not be maintained unless the required number of cartridges (1, 2) were loaded. However, with the structure shown in Figure 51, the sealed state of the dashed frame portion in Figure 51A can be maintained even before the cartridges (1, 2) are loaded. This eliminates the phenomenon of air leakage due to the sealed state not being maintained unless all cartridges (1, 2) are loaded. Therefore, this structure can be used even when only some cartridges (1, 2) are loaded. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the intrusion of dust, dirt, water, etc. when the cartridges (1, 2) are not loaded.

[0270] Furthermore, in the structure shown in Figure 51, the SMA drive unit and the valve opening / closing mechanism were conventionally positioned in a straight line, but have been moved to a position parallel to the cartridges (1, 2) to save space. Normally, when attempting to open or close the cartridges (1, 2) in this state, a diagonal force is generated, preventing the SMA from sliding properly or preventing the valve from being pushed straight. In contrast, in the structure shown in Figure 51, the part 402 that pushes the plunger X is formed separately, and the two are brought into point contact as shown by the dashed line in B in Figure 51, thereby minimizing diagonal forces and applying lateral forces, allowing the valve 403 to slide smoothly.

[0271] Figure 52 is a perspective view of the structure shown in Figure 51. As shown in Figure 52, a part 402 that presses the pusher X and a part 401 that drives the SMA are formed separately. Note that Figure 52 shows a state in which all cartridges (1, 2) are filled, but as described above, in this structure, only some of the cartridges (1, 2) may be filled.

[0272] In addition, in this embodiment, multiple cartridges (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules of the same type may be provided, and when the volatile organic molecules in a cartridge (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules reach a specified amount, the cartridge may be automatically and smoothly switched to another cartridge (1, 2) of the same type that has a larger remaining amount.

[0273] Figures 53A to 53C are schematic cross-sectional views of the peripheral structure related to the valve opening / closing mechanism shown in Figure 51. In Figure 53A, a valve 403 is also provided on the valve opening / closing mechanism side so that a sealed state can be maintained even when cartridges (1, 2) are not installed. In this case, the valve 403 can operate independently. Next, in Figure 53B, when cartridges (1, 2) are installed, the valve 403 moves backward, releasing the sealed state. At this point, the valve (first cover 111) of cartridges (1, 2) is functioning, so air does not flow (the sealed state remains maintained). Next, in Figure 53C, air only flows in once the valve (first cover 111) of cartridges (1, 2) using SMA is opened. In Figure 53C, the area enclosed by the dashed line is a sealed space.

[0274] From the above, by adopting the structure shown in Figure 51, it is possible to ensure a sealed state when the cartridges (1, 2) are not installed. Furthermore, one pump can send air to multiple cartridges (1, 2). Note that Figure 54 is a perspective view of the structure shown in Figure 53A (404 indicates the installation portion of the cartridges (1, 2)), but Figure 54 assumes a case where one pump moves four cartridges (1, 2). Note that the pump position can be anywhere as long as it is input into the sealed space shown in Figure 53C.

[0275] (2) Measures to prevent contamination of fragrances

[0276] Figure 55 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the peripheral structure related to contamination prevention measures for the fragrance ejected from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2). In Figure 55, the fragrance ejected from the cartridge (1, 2) is carried by the strong wind of the FAN 405, which blows the fragrance far away and prevents the fragrance from coming into contact with other components, thereby reducing the amount of fragrance remaining. As a result, even if the cartridge (1, 2) is replaced, there is no remaining fragrance from the previous cartridge (1, 2). In this case, it is preferable to eject the fragrance from the cartridge (1, 2) after ejecting the strong wind. Figures 56A and 56B are perspective views showing the fragrance and the strong wind being ejected. In Figures 56A and 56B, the darker the color, the stronger the wind.

[0277] 57 is a perspective view of the peripheral structure related to the countermeasures against contamination of the fragrance discharged from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges (1, 2). In this structure, it is preferable to design the fragrance discharged from the cartridges (1, 2) so that it does not hit any wall before it encounters the strong wind from the fan 405. This is because if the wind containing the fragrance hits a wall, it will cause the fragrance to remain.

[0278] (3) Removal structure of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules

[0279] Figures 58A and 58B are cross-sectional schematic diagrams of the peripheral structure relating to the removal structure of the cartridge (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules. In Figure 58, a fixed barb 406 is formed on the ejection port side of the cartridge (1, 2), while a spring force generator or a spring itself 407 is provided on the ventilation opening side of the cartridge (1, 2). By pushing and lifting the cartridge (1, 2) in the direction of the arrow B in Figure 58, the cartridge (1, 2) can be removed. Note that this structure is intended to fix the cartridge (1, 2) by pressing it from behind against the barb 406 at the front.

[0280] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 59, if there is insufficient space, it becomes difficult to remove the cartridges (1, 2) using the method shown in Fig. 58. In this case, for example, as shown in Fig. 60, by moving the SMA at the same time as the contact between the substrate 408 of the cartridges (1, 2) and the pogo pins is released, the cartridges (1, 2) can be pushed out and removed even if there is insufficient space.

[0281] 61, a separate part 409 may be used, inserted into the ventilation opening side of the cartridges (1, 2) and removed by pushing out the cartridges (1, 2). In this case, the separate part 409 may be a part with a spring and a damper, a battery pull string, or the like, but is not limited to these in this embodiment.

[0282] (4) SMA length adjustment

[0283] A and B of Figure 62 are explanatory diagrams showing the state when assembling an SMA. In this embodiment, when assembling the SMA wire, a constant pressure load (see the arrow in A of Figure 62) is applied, and a dedicated jig is used to precisely control and regulate the dimensions, and then the wire is crimped. In B of Figure 62, the SMA is crimped to determine its position using a crimping part 410 that stands up from the substrate 4101, and then electricity is applied (i.e., by implementing the method shown in A of Figure 62), and the SMA is simply attached directly to the substrate 4101 without using a harness or the like. This allows for a simplified structure and reduced costs.

[0284] (5) Drain structure

[0285] Figure 63 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the surrounding structure related to the drain structure of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2). In Figure 63, gray arrows indicate the flow of airflow, and white arrows indicate paths through which water or other liquids may enter. Although an intake / exhaust vent is essential for volatile organic molecule presenting, for example, if the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) is installed near a cup holder, there is a possibility of water or other liquids getting in. Therefore, a structure that allows ventilation but also drains water must be constructed. Specifically, as shown in Figure 63, for example, a roof 411a is provided in the area where the circuit board or electrical circuit is located to physically prevent water or other liquids from entering from above. Furthermore, by sloping the pogo pin portion or providing a groove that induces capillary action, water is drained downward (to the left of Figure 63) while ensuring a route for the fragrance to evaporate. In other words, by designing the device so that water entering from the left side of Figure 63 flows directly downward, water does not enter the cartridges (1, 2), and furthermore, as shown in Figure 63, there is a drain outlet 411b in front of the FAN 405, so water does not enter the FAN 405.

[0286] Figure 64 is a perspective view of the structure shown in Figure 63. As shown in Figure 64, a roof 411a is formed.

[0287] 12. Application examples of the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge (1, 2) and the volatile organic molecule presentation system 100

[0288] The cartridges (1, 2) for presenting volatile organic molecules and the volatile organic molecule presentation system 100 can be applied in a wide range of fields, as will be described below.

[0289] Specifically, the device is used for, for example, olfactory tests, olfactory training (including olfactory stimulation therapy), etc. The term "olfactory training" as used herein is broadly interpreted and includes practice for odor judgement tests, sommelier tests, aromatherapy certification, etc. In sommelier tests, for example, a wine glass-shaped volatile organic molecule presenting device 200 incorporating a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2) or the like may be used. It may also be used for volatile organic molecule simulations when developing pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, cosmetics, food and beverages, etc. Furthermore, the device may be installed in relaxation products such as head-mounted displays, neck pillows, massage chairs, eye pillows, eye massagers, head massagers, hand massagers, and foot massagers, as well as in vehicles such as automobiles, buses, trains, ships, and aircraft.

[0290] Additionally, the present invention may be used in products for attracting customers, such as vending machines, signs, digital signage, robots, etc. In addition, the present invention may contribute to the presentation of volatile organic molecules according to exhibits, plants and animals in art galleries, museums, libraries, zoos, botanical gardens, etc., and may be used as part of the performance in concert halls, opera houses, live music venues, stages, movie theaters, amusement facilities, etc.

[0291] Other applications include generating volatile organic molecules that calm or elevate mood, promote comfortable sleep, sleep, and awakening, and dislike pests and insects. Also, the volatile organic molecules can be generated in elevators, stores, offices, and other locations depending on conditions such as time, location, and population density. Specific targets may be classified into ordinary people, athletes, pregnant women, hospitalized patients, babies, pet animals, and the like, and volatile organic molecules appropriate for each target may be generated. In this case, the specific target may be one or more targets. The volatile organic molecules may be adjusted on a facility-by-facility basis using the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges (1, 2) and the volatile organic molecule presenting system 100 in gyms that attract athletes, obstetrics and gynecology clinics that attract pregnant women, hospitalization facilities that attract hospitalized patients, veterinary clinics that attract pet animals, and the like.

[0292] The present technology can also employ the following configurations: [1] A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules, comprising: a ventilation section for taking in air; a flow section communicating with the ventilation section and having an impregnating material for impregnating volatile organic molecular components; and an outlet section communicating with the flow section for ejecting volatile organic molecule-containing air, wherein part or all of the impregnating material is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure. [2] The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to [1], wherein the macropore structure is at least one selected from the group consisting of a mesh structure, a fiber structure, a nonwoven fabric structure, a sponge-like structure, a foam-like structure, a fin-like structure, and a three-dimensional network structure. [3] The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to [2], wherein the macropore structure is at least one selected from the group consisting of a fin-like structure, a mesh structure, and a nonwoven fabric structure. [4] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound. [5] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to [4], wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films of metal oxides. [6] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the shape of the impregnated material is at least one selected from the group consisting of a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical conical shape, a substantially polygonal pyramidal shape, a substantially truncated conical shape, a substantially truncated elliptical conical shape, a substantially truncated polygonal pyramidal shape, a fin-like structure having any one of these shapes as its outer shape, and a sheet shape. [7] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to [6], wherein the shape of the impregnated material is the fin-like structure and / or the sheet shape. [8] The cartridge for presenting a volatile organic molecule according to [7], wherein the sheet is a mesh sheet or a nonwoven fabric. [9] The cartridge for presenting a volatile organic molecule according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the housing of at least one selected from the group consisting of the ventilation part, the flow part, and the discharge part is formed of an inorganic material.

[10] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to [9], wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

[11] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[10] , wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

[12] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the flow section has a casing surrounding the impregnating material, and the casing surrounding the impregnating material has one or more convex portions protruding toward the impregnating material.

[13] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the ventilation section has a first lid portion.

[14] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[13] , wherein the discharge section has a second lid portion.

[15] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[14] , wherein the first lid part and / or the second lid part functions as a check valve.

[16] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[14] , wherein the first lid part and / or the second lid part has a sliding rib that slides on the inside of the housing of the ventilation part.

[17] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[14] , wherein the first lid part and / or the second lid part is formed of an inorganic material.

[18] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[17] , wherein the inorganic material is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

[19] The volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge according to

[18] , wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

[20] The cartridge for presenting a volatile organic molecule according to

[13] , wherein the ventilation part has a spacer on the downstream side of the ventilation opening, and the first lid part and / or the spacer has a liquid leakage prevention structure that prevents leakage of the volatile organic molecules.

[21] The cartridge for presenting a volatile organic molecule according to any one of [1] to

[20] , wherein the flow part has one or more impregnation material holding parts that hold the impregnation material.

[22] The volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge according to

[21] , wherein the impregnation material holding section has a difference in height.

[23] A volatile organic molecule presentation device comprising: a cartridge holding section having one or more volatile organic molecule presentation cartridges, each cartridge comprising: an air vent for taking in air; a flow section communicating with the air vent and having an impregnation material for impregnating volatile organic molecules; and an outlet communicating with the flow section for ejecting volatile organic molecule-containing air, wherein part or all of the impregnation material is made of an inorganic material and the inorganic material has a macropore structure; and a control device for controlling the ejection of the volatile organic molecule-containing air.

[24] The volatile organic molecule presentation system according to

[23] , wherein the cartridge holding section is made of an inorganic material.

[25] The volatile organic molecule presentation system according to

[24] , wherein the inorganic material is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

[26] The volatile organic molecule presentation system according to

[25] , wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films of metal oxides.

[0293] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1: Cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules 10: Impregnating material 11: Ventilation part 110: Ventilation opening 111: First lid part 1111: Sliding rib 1112: Recess 112: First spring 113: Spacer 1131: Notch 114: O-ring 115: Housing of ventilation part 11 12: Flow part 121: Shaft 122a, 122b: Flow opening 123: Housing of flow part 12 124: Convex part 13: Discharge part 130: Discharge opening 131: Second lid part 1311: Sliding rib 132: Second spring 133: O-ring 134: Inner cap 135: Housing of discharge part 13 14: Impregnating material holding part 15: D-cut shape 16: Fixing shape 17: Fitting shape 18: Fall-off prevention shape 100: Volatile organic molecule presentation system 200: Volatile organic molecule presentation device 201: Cartridge holding section 202: Engagement section 2021: Discharge hole 203: Front storage section 2031: Discharge section 204: Rear storage section 2041: Drive mechanism section 2042: Placement drive section 300: Control device 2: Volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 20: Housing 21: Holding section 211: Cover member 22: Ventilation section 221: Ventilation section lid section 222: Ventilation section spring 23: Flow section 231: Spiral flow path 24: Discharge section 240: Convex section 241: Discharge section lid section 242: Discharge section spring 25: Air pressure generation section 26: Auxiliary air flow section 51: Deodorizing mechanism 511: Front member 512: Rear member 513: Deodorizing material part 515: Attachment part 52: Discharge control mechanism 521, 521a, 521b: Direction control part 522: Hole communicating with discharge part 24 6: Pump direct acting mechanism 61: Pump part 611: Return spring 62: Sealing part 63: Direct acting movable source 64: Member (valve) provided between cartridge 2 7: Mechanism using link structure 71: Shape memory alloy SMA 72, 73: Link 74: Valve 90: Air blowing source 1001: Pulling member 1002, 1003: Outermost member 400: Mechanism for cooling and / or heating inside cartridge 1 401: Part for driving SMA 402: Part for pushing plunger X 403: Valve 404: Mounting part of cartridge (1, 2) 405: FAN 406: Return 407: Something that generates spring force or the spring itself 408: Substrate 409: Separate part 410: Caulking part 4101: Substrate 411a: Roof 411b: Drainage port K: Air flow X: Pusher

Claims

1. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules, comprising: an air vent for taking in air; a flow passage communicating with the air vent and having an impregnating material for impregnating volatile organic molecules; and an outlet communicating with the flow passage for discharging air containing volatile organic molecules, wherein part or all of the impregnating material is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure.

2. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 1, wherein the macropore structure is at least one selected from the group consisting of a mesh structure, a fiber structure, a nonwoven fabric structure, a sponge-like structure, a foam-like structure, a fin-like structure, and a three-dimensional network structure.

3. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 2, wherein the macropore structure is at least one selected from the group consisting of a fin-like structure, a mesh structure, and a nonwoven fabric structure.

4. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 1, wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

5. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 4, wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

6. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the impregnating material is at least one selected from the group consisting of an approximately cylindrical shape, an approximately elliptical cylindrical shape, an approximately polygonal cylindrical shape, an approximately conical shape, an approximately elliptical conical shape, an approximately polygonal pyramidal shape, an approximately truncated conical shape, an approximately truncated elliptical conical shape, an approximately truncated polygonal pyramidal shape, a fin-like structure adopting any of these shapes as its external shape, and a sheet shape.

7. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 6, wherein the shape of the impregnating material is the fin-like structure and / or the sheet-like shape.

8. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 7, wherein the sheet is a mesh sheet and / or a nonwoven fabric.

9. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 1, wherein the housing of at least one selected from the group consisting of the vent portion, the flow portion, and the discharge portion is formed from an inorganic material.

10. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 9, wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

11. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 10, wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

12. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 1, wherein the flow section has a housing that surrounds the impregnating material, and the housing that surrounds the impregnating material has one or more protrusions that protrude toward the impregnating material.

13. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 1, wherein the vent portion has a first lid portion.

14. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 13, wherein the ejection part has a second lid part.

15. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 14, wherein the first lid portion and / or the second lid portion functions as a check valve.

16. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 14, wherein the first lid portion and / or the second lid portion has a sliding rib that slides against the inside of the housing of the ventilation portion.

17. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 14, wherein the first lid portion and / or the second lid portion are formed of an inorganic material.

18. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 17, wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

19. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 18, wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

20. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules as described in claim 13, wherein the ventilation section has a spacer downstream of the ventilation opening, and the first lid section and / or the spacer have a liquid leakage prevention structure that prevents leakage of volatile organic molecules.

21. A cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 1, wherein the flow section has one or more impregnation material holding sections for holding the impregnation material.

22. The cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules according to claim 21, wherein the impregnating material holding portion has a difference in height.

23. A volatile organic molecule presentation system comprising: a ventilation section for taking in air; a flow section communicating with the ventilation section and having an impregnating material for impregnating volatile organic molecules; and a discharge section communicating with the flow section for discharging volatile organic molecule-containing air, wherein part or all of the impregnating material is made of an inorganic material and the inorganic material has a macropore structure; a volatile organic molecule presentation device comprising a cartridge holding section having one or more volatile organic molecule presentation cartridges; and a control device for controlling the discharge of the volatile organic molecule-containing air.

24. The volatile organic molecule presentation system according to claim 23, wherein the cartridge holder is made of an inorganic material.

25. The volatile organic molecule presentation system described in claim 24, wherein the inorganic substance is composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound.

26. The volatile organic molecule presentation system described in claim 25, wherein the metal and / or inorganic compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, palladium, alloys containing these, and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

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