HK1248075B - Atomization unit - Google Patents

Description

Atomization unit

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an atomizing unit having a heating element for atomizing an aerosol source without combustion.

Background Art

Currently, there is known a non-combustion type fragrance inhaler for inhaling fragrance without combustion. The non-combustion type fragrance inhaler has an atomizing unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion. The atomizing unit has a storage portion for storing the aerosol source, a liquid holding component for holding the aerosol source supplied from the storage portion, and a heating element (atomizing portion) for atomizing the aerosol source held by the liquid holding component. Here, the heating element is a coil having a spiral shape and has a shape extending along a prescribed direction. The liquid holding component has a shape extending along a prescribed direction and is arranged in contact with the outer side surface of the atomizing portion in a direction orthogonal to the prescribed direction (for example, patent documents 1 and 2).

Prior art literature

Patent Literature

Patent Document 1: (Japan) Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-517229

Patent Document 2: (Japan) Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-504652

Summary of the Invention

The first feature provides an atomization unit, which is conceived to have: a liquid retaining component that retains an aerosol source; a heating element that atomizes the aerosol source retained by the liquid retaining component; a covering component that limits the supply amount of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining component; the liquid retaining component has a shape extending along a prescribed direction, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component in an orthogonal direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction is in contact with or close to the heating element, and at least a portion of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining component in the orthogonal direction is covered by the covering component.

The second feature is based on the first feature, and is conceived as follows: within the range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part is in contact with or close to the heating element, the covering part covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part along the entire length of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part in the specified direction.

The third feature is based on the first or second feature, and is conceived as follows: within the range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part is in contact with or close to the heating element, the covering part covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part all around the circumference of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part with the prescribed direction as the axis.

The fourth feature is based on any one of the first to third features, wherein the covering member uniformly covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member.

The fifth feature is based on the first and fourth features, and is configured such that the covering member covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member without having an opening.

The sixth feature is based on the fourth feature, and is configured such that the covering member has ten or more openings arranged at equal intervals.

The seventh feature is based on the fourth or sixth feature, and its concept is that the covering part has a plurality of openings arranged at equal intervals, and the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part covered by the covering part, that is, the covering area, is more than 60% of the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part.

The eighth feature is based on any one of the first to seventh features, and is conceived as follows: the covering member presses the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member inward in the orthogonal direction, thereby making the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member contact or approach the heating element.

The ninth feature is based on any one of the first to eighth features, and is conceived so that, in the orthogonal direction, the thickness of the liquid retaining member in the state covered by the covering member is smaller than the thickness of the liquid retaining member in the state not covered by the covering member.

The tenth feature is based on any one of the first to ninth features, and is conceived as comprising a storage portion for storing the aerosol source, wherein at least a portion of the storage portion is disposed outside the cover member in the orthogonal direction.

The eleventh feature is based on any one of the first to tenth features, and is conceived as comprising a barrier component having an outer side surface between the outer side surface of the heating element and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component in the orthogonal direction and at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component.

The twelfth feature is based on the eleventh feature, and is configured such that the outer side surface of the blocking member is provided at a position facing a portion of the inner side surface of the covering member.

The thirteenth feature is based on the eleventh or twelfth feature, and is conceived as follows: the blocking part includes a first tubular part, and a second tubular part arranged to be spaced apart from the first tubular part in the prescribed direction, and at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part is in contact with or close to the heating element between the first tubular part and the second tubular part.

The fourteenth feature is based on the thirteenth feature, and its concept is that the first tubular component and the second tubular component are composed of conductive components, the first tubular component constitutes a first contact point by electrically contacting the heating element, and the second tubular component constitutes a second contact point by electrically contacting the heating element.

The fifteenth feature is based on any one of the eleventh to fourteenth features, wherein the blocking member has a strength capable of withstanding stress caused by the covering member pressing the outer side surface of the blocking member inward in the orthogonal direction.

The sixteenth feature is based on any one of the eleventh to fifteenth features, and is configured such that the blocking member is a tubular member that forms at least a portion of the air flow path.

The seventeenth feature is based on the sixteenth feature, and is configured such that the blocking member includes an aerosol inlet for allowing the aerosol atomized by the heating element to flow into the air flow path.

The eighteenth feature is based on the seventeenth feature, and is conceived as follows: the blocking part includes a first tubular part that forms at least a part of the air flow path, and a second tubular part that forms at least a part of the air flow path, the second tubular part is arranged to be separated from the first tubular part in the prescribed direction, and the aerosol inlet is the gap between the first tubular part and the second tubular part in the prescribed direction.

The nineteenth feature is based on any one of the first to eighteenth features, wherein the thermal conductivity of the covering member is lower than the thermal conductivity of the aerosol source or the liquid retaining member.

In the above-mentioned feature, the covering member is preferably made of a liquid-impermeable member. The covering member may also be a liquid-impermeable coating.

In the above-mentioned feature, the covering member is preferably formed of a member having a lower thermal conductivity than the aerosol source or the liquid holding member. With such a structure, heat loss due to heating and atomization is suppressed.

In the above-mentioned features, the range in which the covering part uniformly covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part may be only the range in which the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part is in contact with or close to the heating element, or it may be the entire range in which the inner side surface of the covering part and the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part are in contact.

In the above-mentioned feature, the heating element may be a resistance heating element that generates heat by the power output supplied to the heating element. Furthermore, the heating element may be a coil formed of a helical wire and extending in a predetermined direction.

In the above-mentioned feature, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component is close to the heating element, which means that the distance between the heating element and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component is maintained in a manner such that the aerosol source can be atomized by the heating element when the liquid retaining component retains the aerosol source.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the atomizing unit 111 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 3(A) is a diagram showing a cross section taken along line P-P shown in FIG. 2 , and FIG. 3(B) is a diagram showing a cross section taken along line Q-Q shown in FIG. 2 .

4(A) to 4(D) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to the embodiment.

5(A) to 5(C) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to the embodiment.

6(A) to 6(D) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 1. FIG.

7(A) and 7(B) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 2. FIG.

8(A) and 8(B) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 3. FIG.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 4. As shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to a fifth modification.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to a sixth modification.

12(A) to 12(E) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 7. FIG.

13(A) to 13(D) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 8. FIG.

14(A) to 14(E) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification Example 9. FIG.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to a tenth modification.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 11. As shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 12. As shown in FIG.

18(A) and 18(B) are diagrams for explaining a method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 13. FIG.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 14. As shown in FIG.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes the embodiment. In addition, in the following drawings, the same or similar parts are marked with the same or similar symbols. However, the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the ratios of the various dimensions and the like may differ from those shown.

Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined in reference to the following description. Furthermore, of course, the drawings may include portions where the relationships and ratios of the dimensions differ from one another.

[Public Summary]

In the atomizing unit described in the background art, a liquid transmission member is disposed on the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction. Furthermore, an annular member is disposed on the outer side surface of the liquid transmission member in the perpendicular direction for the purpose of increasing the supply of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining member.

However, in such an atomizing unit, the annular member is provided to increase the supply amount of the aerosol source, but the situation where the aerosol source is excessively supplied to the liquid retaining member (hereinafter referred to as oversupply) is not considered at all.

The disclosed outline of the atomization unit comprises: a liquid retaining component that retains an aerosol source; a heating element that atomizes the aerosol source retained by the liquid retaining component; a covering component that limits the supply amount of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining component; the liquid retaining component has a shape extending along a prescribed direction, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component in an orthogonal direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction is in contact with or close to the heating element, and at least a portion of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining component in the orthogonal direction is covered by the covering component.

In the disclosed summary, at least a portion of the outer side surface of the orthogonal liquid retention member is covered by a covering member. This prevents excessive aerosol source from being supplied to the liquid retention member (oversupply). By suppressing oversupply, the risk of liquid leakage is reduced. Furthermore, suppressing oversupply reduces heat loss from heating atomization, thereby suppressing a decrease in atomization efficiency.

[Implementation Method]

(Non-burning aroma inhaler)

The following is a description of the non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment. FIG1 is a diagram showing a non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiment. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 is an apparatus for inhaling flavor components without combustion, and has a shape extending in a direction from the non-mouthpiece end toward the mouthpiece end (i.e., a predetermined direction A). FIG2 is a diagram showing an atomization unit 111 according to the embodiment. FIG3(A) is a diagram showing a P-P cross section of the atomization unit 111 shown in FIG2, and FIG3(B) is a diagram showing a Q-Q cross section of the atomization unit 111 shown in FIG2. In addition, it should be noted that hereinafter, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 is simply referred to as the flavor inhaler 100.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the flavor inhaler 100 includes an inhaler body 110 and a cigarette cartridge 130 .

The inhaler body 110 forms the main body of the flavor inhaler 10 and is shaped to accommodate a cigarette cartridge 130. Specifically, the inhaler body 110 includes an inhaler housing 110X, with the cigarette cartridge 130 connected to the downstream end of the housing 110X. The inhaler body 110 includes an atomizer unit 111, which atomizes the aerosol source without combustion, and an electrical component unit 112. The atomizer unit 111 and the electrical component unit 112 are housed within the housing 110X.

In an embodiment, the atomizer unit 111 has an atomizer unit housing 111X that constitutes a part of the inhaler housing 110X. The atomizer unit 111 has a connecting portion 111C connected to the power supply of the electrical accessory unit 112 and a mouthpiece side opening 111O provided on the opposite side of the connecting portion 111C. The connecting portion 111C is, for example, a connector connected to the power supply. The mouthpiece side opening 111O is an opening for receiving the cigarette cartridge 130 and is provided on the mouthpiece end side. As shown in Figure 2, the atomizer unit 111 has a storage portion 11, a liquid retaining component 12, a heating element 13, a cylindrical component 14 (cylindrical component 14 ₁ and cylindrical component 14 ₂ ), a covering component 15, a cover 16, and a flange 17 (flange 17 ₁ and flange 17 ₂ ). These components are housed in the atomizer unit housing 111X. The atomizer unit housing 111X has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A (e.g., a cylindrical shape). 2 , although the connecting portion 111C described above is omitted, the connecting portion 111C is provided on the non-sucking nozzle end side of the flange ₁₇₂ (the electrical accessory unit 112 side).

The storage portion 11 stores an aerosol source. The storage portion 11 has a structure (size, material, structure, etc.) suitable for storing an aerosol source for multiple puffing actions. For example, the storage portion 11 may be a porous body made of a material such as a resin mesh, or a cavity for storing an aerosol source. The storage portion 11 is preferably capable of storing more aerosol sources per unit volume. The storage portion 11 only needs to be arranged at a position where the aerosol source can be supplied to the liquid retaining component 12, and is in contact with at least a portion of the liquid retaining component 12. In an embodiment, as shown in Figures 3(A) and 3(B), at least a portion of the storage portion 11 is preferably arranged on the outside of the covering component 15 in a direction B orthogonal to the prescribed direction A.

The liquid retaining part 12 retains the aerosol source supplied from the storage part 11. The liquid retaining part 12 has a structure (size, material, structure, etc.) suitable for moving a part of the aerosol source that can be stored in the storage part 11 (for example, the aerosol source used for one puff action) from the storage part 11 to a position in contact with or close to the heating element 13 and retaining it. The liquid retaining part 12 can also be a part that moves the aerosol source from the storage part 11 to the liquid retaining part 12 by capillary action. In addition, the liquid retaining part 12 moves the aerosol source to the liquid retaining part 12 by contacting the storage part 11. In the case where the storage part 11 is a cavity, the contact between the liquid retaining part 12 and the storage part 11 means that the liquid retaining part 12 is exposed in the cavity (storage part 11). However, it should be noted that the liquid retaining part 12 is configured so that the liquid retaining part 12 is in contact with the aerosol source filled in the cavity (storage part 11) after the aerosol source is filled in the storage part 11. For example, the liquid retaining member 12 is made of glass fiber or porous ceramic. For example, the liquid retaining member 12 is a core material made of glass fiber or porous ceramic. The liquid retaining member 12 preferably has heat resistance sufficient to withstand heating by the heating element 13. As shown in Figures 3(A) and 3(B), the liquid retaining member 12 has a cylindrical shape extending along a predetermined direction A.

Here, in the orthogonal direction B, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13. Furthermore, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 being close to the heating element 13 means that the distance between the heating element 13 and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 is maintained to such an extent that the distance maintained between the heating element 13 and the aerosol source allows the aerosol source to be atomized by the heating element 13 when the liquid retaining part 12 retains the aerosol source. The distance between the heating element 13 and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 depends on the type of the aerosol source or the liquid retaining part 12, the temperature of the heating element 13, etc., but may be considered to be, for example, less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. In addition, at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12 is close to the heating element 13, which means that the distance between the heating element 13 and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12 is maintained to a degree that the aerosol source can be atomized by the heating element 13. Therefore, when there is a component between the heating element 13 and the aerosol source, which makes the aerosol source in a state where it cannot be atomized by the heating element 13 or the atomization of the aerosol source is hindered, it cannot be said that at least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12 is close to the heating element 13.

In the embodiment, as shown in FIG3(A), the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 is in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13. On the other hand, as shown in FIG3(B), a cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is provided between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion _13B1 , and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 does not contact or close to the first end portion _13B1 of the heating element 13. Similarly, a cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is provided between the liquid retaining member 12 and the second end portion _13B2 , and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 does not contact or close to the second end portion _13B2 of the heating element 13.

3(A) and 3(B) , at least a portion of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 in the orthogonal direction B is covered by the covering member 15 .

The heating element 13 is an example of an atomizing portion that atomizes the aerosol source held by the liquid retaining member 12. In an embodiment, the heating element 13 is a resistive heating element that generates heat by the power output supplied to the heating element 13. Furthermore, the heating element 13 is formed of a wire having a spiral shape, and is a coil having a shape extending along a predetermined direction A. In addition, the inner side of the heating element 13 forms at least a portion of the flow path (i.e., the air flow path) of the air sucked in from the nozzle end (the outlet 130O shown in FIG. 1 ). Preferably, the inner side of the heating element 13 is hollow.

Here, the heating element 13 includes a heating portion 13A, a first end portion _13B1 , and a second end portion _13B2 . The heating element 13 has a first contact electrically connected to the first pole of a power source and a second contact electrically connected to the second pole of the power source, spaced apart on the wire. In the embodiment, the first contact is formed by the first end portion _13B1 and the cylindrical member _141. Similarly, the second contact is formed by the second end portion _13B2 and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ .

The heating portion 13A is composed of the wire between the first and second contacts that are closest to each other on the wire. The first end portion _13B1 is composed of the wire on the outside of one side of the heating portion 13A (in the embodiment, the wire on the downstream side of the air flow path). The second end portion _13B2 is composed of the wire on the outside of the other side of the heating portion 13A (in the embodiment, the wire on the upstream side of the air flow path). The spacing between the wires forming the heating portion 13A, the first end portion _13B1 , and the second end portion _13B2 is the same. In addition, it should be noted that "spacing" refers to the interval between wires adjacent to each other in a specified direction A. The same spacing between the wires does not mean that the spacing between the wires is strictly the same, but that the spacing between the wires is substantially the same. Substantially the same means that the spacing differences between the wires forming the heating portion 13A, the first end portion _13B1 , and the second end portion _13B2 are not deliberately set, and differences in degree due to manufacturing errors, etc. are allowed.

The cylindrical component 14 has a cylindrical shape and includes a cylindrical component ₁₄₁ and a cylindrical component _142. The cylindrical component ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ have a cylindrical shape that forms at least a portion of the air flow path that is connected from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130O (the nozzle end). That is, the cylindrical component ₁₄₁ constitutes a first cylindrical component, and the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ constitutes a second cylindrical component that is spaced apart from the cylindrical component ₁₄₁ in a predetermined direction A. Preferably, the cylindrical component ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ each do not have an opening on the outer side of the cylindrical component ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ , but have a completely closed cylindrical shape. In an embodiment, the inner diameter of the cylindrical component ₁₄₁ is the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ .

The tubular component 14 has an aerosol inlet for allowing the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 to pass toward the air flow path. In an embodiment, the tubular component 14 includes a tubular component 14 ₁ and a tubular component 14 ₂ , and the aerosol inlet is the gap between the tubular component 14 ₁ and the tubular component 14 _2. The above-mentioned heating portion 13A is configured to be adjacent to the aerosol inlet over the entire length of the aerosol inlet in a prescribed direction A. The above-mentioned liquid retaining component 12 is configured to be adjacent to the aerosol inlet over the entire length of the aerosol inlet in a prescribed direction A. According to this configuration, a good quality portion other than the end portion of the wire material constituting the heating element 13 (coil) can be effectively utilized as the heating portion 13A to atomize the aerosol source retained by the liquid retaining component 12. Furthermore, the term "adjacent" may include a configuration in which the heating portion 13A (or the liquid-retaining member 12) is exposed to the aerosol inlet, a configuration in which a gap exists between the heating portion 13A (or the liquid-retaining member 12) and the aerosol inlet, or a configuration in which a portion of the heating portion 13A (or the liquid-retaining member 12) extends into the aerosol inlet. Furthermore, it should be noted that even when the heating portion 13A (or the liquid-retaining member 12) is adjacent to the aerosol inlet, the heating portion 13A and the inner side surface of the liquid-retaining member 12 still satisfy the aforementioned contact or proximity relationship.

A portion or all of the cylindrical member 14 is made of a conductive member having a lower resistivity than the wire material constituting the heating portion 13A, and forms a first contact point and a second contact point by contacting the heating element 13. The cylindrical member 14 is made of, for example, aluminum or stainless steel (SUS). In an embodiment, the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ forms a first conductive member that contacts the first end portion _13B1 at the first contact point, and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ forms a second conductive member that contacts the second end portion _13B2 at the second contact point. The above-mentioned heating portion 13A is exposed from the cylindrical member 14 between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ .

In the embodiment, the tubular member 14 ₁ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion 13B ₁ in the orthogonal direction B. Similarly, the tubular member 14 ₂ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the second end portion 13B ₂ in the orthogonal direction B.

In the embodiment, as shown in FIG3(B), the tubular component 14 constitutes a barrier component having an outer side surface located between the outer side surface of the heating element 13 and the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12 in the orthogonal direction B. The outer side surface of the tubular component 14 is preferably provided at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12. Furthermore, the outer side surface of the tubular component 14 is preferably provided at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the covering component 15. However, the outer side surface of the tubular component 14 may also be provided at a position not opposite to the inner side surface of the covering component 15. The tubular component 14 preferably has a function of suppressing deformation of the heating element 13 due to the inward stress of the liquid retaining component 12 covered by the covering component 15. That is, the tubular component 14 preferably has a strength that can withstand the stress of the covering component 15 pressing the outer side surface of the tubular component 14 in the inward direction in the orthogonal direction B. Therefore, the tubular component 14 is preferably composed of a conductive component (e.g., stainless steel (SUS)) having a specified strength. In the embodiment, the tubular component 14 constituting the air flow path has a specified strength, and the outer side surface of the tubular component 14 is arranged at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the covering component 15, thereby suppressing deformation of the heating element 13 due to the stress of the covering component 15 and deformation of the air flow path.

The covering part 15 limits the amount of aerosol source supplied to the liquid retaining part 12. As shown in FIG3(A) and FIG3(B), the covering part 15 has a cylindrical shape extending along the prescribed direction A. The covering part 15 is composed of a liquid-impermeable part. The covering part 15 may also be a liquid-impermeable coating. The covering part 15 is preferably composed of a part having a thermal conductivity lower than that of the aerosol source or the liquid retaining part 12. According to this structure, the heat of the heating element 13 is difficult to be conducted to the aerosol source stored in the storage part 11. The covering part 15 is preferably a part that presses the liquid retaining part 12 inward, for example, composed of an elastic part. As a part constituting the covering part 15, for example, silicone resin or polyolefin resin can be used.

In an embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, within the range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating part 13A), the covering part 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 along the entire length of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 in a specified direction A.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG3(A), in a range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A), the covering part 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 all around the circumference of the liquid retaining part 12 with the specified direction A as the axis.

In such an example, the covering part 15 preferably uniformly covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12. For example, the covering part 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 in a manner without having an opening. Alternatively, the covering part 15 may also have more than 10 openings in which the openings are arranged at equal intervals in a prescribed direction (the extension direction of the liquid retaining part 12) and/or in a circumferential direction with the prescribed direction as the axis. Alternatively, the covering part 15 has a plurality of openings arranged at equal intervals as described above, and the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 covered by the covering part 15 (i.e., the covering area) may be more than 60% of the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12. Alternatively, the covering part 15 has more than 10 openings arranged at equal intervals as described above, and the above-mentioned covering area may also be more than 60% of the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12. The range in which the covering part 15 evenly covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 can be only the range in which the inner side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating part 13A), or it can be the entire range in which the inner side surface of the covering part 15 and the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 are in contact.

2 and 3 (B), the covering member 15 may cover the outer side of the liquid holding member 12 even in a range where the inner side of the liquid holding member 12 is not in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A).

For example, when a liquid retaining part 12 is provided on the outside of the entire heating element 13 (heating part 13A, first end part _13B1 and second end part _13B2 ), the covering part 15 can cover the outer side of the liquid retaining part 12 along the entire length of the outer side of the liquid retaining part 12 in the specified direction A within the range of contact between the inner side surface of the covering part 15 and the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12, or can cover the outer side of the liquid retaining part 12 along the entire circumference of the outer side of the liquid retaining part 12 in the circumferential direction with the specified direction A as the axis.

In the embodiment, the covering member 15 preferably presses the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 inward in the orthogonal direction B, thereby causing the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 to contact or approach the heating element 13 with a stress sufficient to prevent the heating element 13 from deforming. In addition, in the orthogonal direction B, the thickness of the liquid retaining member 12 when covered by the covering member 15 is preferably smaller than the thickness of the liquid retaining member 12 when not covered by the covering member 15.

In addition, from the viewpoint of applying stress to an extent that the heating element 13 will not be deformed, it is preferred that the covering member 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 even in a range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 is not in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A), and that the cylindrical member 14 ₁ is provided on the inner side of the covering member 15 within a range where the first end portion 13B ₁ is provided, and that the cylindrical member 14 ₂ is provided on the inner side of the covering member 15 within a range where the second end portion 13B ₂ is provided.

The cover 16 is a component that blocks the supply port, which is used to supply an aerosol source to the storage portion 11. In an embodiment, the supply port is provided at the end of the storage portion 11 on the downstream side of the air flow path (hereinafter referred to as the downstream end). In other words, the supply port is provided on the opposite side of the connection portion 111C to the power source (i.e., the nozzle-side opening 111O side) with respect to the storage portion 11. The supply port opens in a prescribed direction (the downstream side of the prescribed direction A in FIG. 2 ), which is the direction in which the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 is directed toward the nozzle-side opening 111O. The cover 16 is configured to block the supply port from the nozzle-side opening 111O side. In the prescribed direction (the downstream side of the prescribed direction A in FIG. 2 ) in which the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 is directed toward the nozzle-side opening 111O, the connection portion 111C, the storage portion 11, the cover 16, and the nozzle-side opening 111O are arranged in order. The connecting portion 111C, the reservoir 11, the cover 16, and the nozzle-side opening 111O are arranged in a straight line. Preferably, the cover 16 is fixed to the suction device housing 110X and/or the cylindrical member 14 ₁ . Separation of the cover 16 from the reservoir 11 (here, downstream movement) may damage at least one of the heating element 13 or the power supply component.

Here, the power supply component can be any component that electrically connects the heating element 13 to the power supply. The power supply component may be, for example, the cylindrical component 14, the flange 17, or a wire (not shown in FIG. 2 ) that connects the cylindrical component 14 or the flange 17 to the power supply. The wiring of the wire is not particularly limited, but for example, the wire may be connected to the power supply through the inside of the atomizing unit housing 111X.

Flange 17 is formed of a conductive member, such as a conductor connected to the aforementioned conductor. For example, flange 17 includes flange 17 ₁ connected to a conductor extending from the first pole of a power source, and flange 17 ₂ connected to a conductor extending from the second pole of the power source. Flange 17 ₁ is fixed to tubular member 14 ₁ , and flange 17 ₂ is fixed to tubular member 14 ₂ . Flange 17 ₁ may also be fixed to cover 16 . As described above, the conductors connected to flange 17 and flange 17 may be an example of a power supply member. The power supply member includes a first power supply portion (e.g., a conductor connected to flange 17 ₂ and flange 17 ₂ ), which includes a portion extending from heating element 13 toward connection portion 111C with the power source; and a second power supply portion (e.g., a conductor connected to flange 17 ₁ and flange 17 ₁ ), which includes a portion extending from heating element 13 toward the opposite side of connection portion 111C (i.e., toward nozzle-side opening 111O). In such an example, the action of separating the cover 16 from the reservoir 11 (here, the downstream action) will cause, for example, the second power supply portion (eg, the flange ₁₇₁ and the wires connected to the flange ₁₇₁ ) to be damaged.

Here, "damage" refers to a phenomenon in which the function of each component is reduced. In the embodiment, it should be noted that "damage" includes concepts such as deformation of the heating element 13, poor contact between the cylindrical component 14 and the heating element 13, detachment of the flange ₁₇₁ , peeling of the wire from the flange ₁₇₁ , and disconnection of the wire.

In the embodiment, when the direction of separating the cover 16 from the storage portion 11 is the separation direction, the power supply component is provided on the separation direction side of at least a portion of the cover 16. The power supply component may also be arranged so as to pass through the interior of the cover 16. The power supply component may be fixed to the cover 16.

For example, since the cover 16 is fixed to the cylindrical member 14 ₁ , the separation of the cover 16 may cause deformation of the heating element 13, poor contact between the cylindrical member 14 and the heating element 13, etc. Alternatively, since the flange 17 ₁ is provided on the downstream end surface of the cover 16 , the separation of the cover 16 may cause the flange 17 to fall off, the wires to peel off from the flange 17 , or the wires to break. Alternatively, if the flange 17 ₁ is fixed to the cylindrical member 14 ₁ and the cover 16 , the separation of the cover 16 may cause deformation of the heating element 13, poor contact between the cylindrical member 14 and the heating element 13, etc.

In the embodiment, the heating element 13 is more easily damaged than the power supply components such as the cylindrical member 14 , the flange 17 , and the lead wire. The lead wire is more easily damaged than the cylindrical member 14 and the flange 17 .

The aerosol source is a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol source is, for example, retained by a porous body made of a material such as a resin mesh, as described above. The porous body can be made of a non-tobacco material or a tobacco material. In addition, the aerosol source can contain a flavor component (nicotine component, etc.). Alternatively, the aerosol source may not contain a flavor component.

The electrical component unit 112 includes an electrical component unit housing 112X that forms part of the inhaler housing 110X. In an embodiment, the electrical component unit 112 includes an inlet 112A. As shown in FIG2 , air flowing in from the inlet 112A is introduced into the atomization unit 111 (heating element 13). The electrical component unit 112 includes a power supply for driving the fragrance inhaler 100 and a control circuit for controlling the fragrance inhaler 100. The power supply and the control circuit are housed in the electrical component unit housing 112X. The electrical component unit housing 112X has a tubular shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) extending along a predetermined direction A. The power supply is, for example, a lithium-ion battery. The control circuit is, for example, composed of a CPU and memory.

The cigarette cartridge 130 can be connected to the inhaler body 110 that constitutes the flavor inhaler 100. The cigarette cartridge 130 is positioned downstream of the atomizer unit 111 in the air flow path that connects the inlet 112A to the outlet 130O (the mouthpiece end). In other words, the cigarette cartridge 130 does not necessarily need to be physically located closer to the mouthpiece end than the atomizer unit 111; it only needs to be positioned downstream of the atomizer unit 111 in the air flow path that guides the aerosol generated by the atomizer unit 111 to the mouthpiece end.

For example, the cigarette cartridge 130 includes a cigarette cartridge housing 131 , a flavor source 132 , a mesh 133A, and a filter 133B.

The cartridge housing 131 has a tubular shape (eg, a cylindrical shape) extending along a predetermined direction A. The cartridge housing 131 houses the flavor source 132. Here, the cartridge housing 131 is configured to be inserted into the inhaler housing 110X along the predetermined direction A.

The fragrance source 132 is provided downstream of the atomizing unit 111 in the air flow path. The fragrance source 132 imparts a fragrance component to the aerosol generated from the aerosol source. In other words, the fragrance imparted to the aerosol by the fragrance source 132 is carried to the mouthpiece end.

In an embodiment, the flavor source 132 is composed of a raw material sheet that imparts flavor components to the aerosol generated from the atomization unit 111. The size of the raw material sheet is preferably not less than 0.2 mm and not more than 1.2 mm. Furthermore, the size of the raw material sheet is preferably not less than 0.2 mm and not more than 0.7 mm. The smaller the size of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132, the larger the specific surface area, and therefore, the flavor components are easily released from the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132. Therefore, when imparting a desired amount of flavor components to the aerosol, the amount of raw material sheet can be suppressed. As the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132, shredded tobacco or a granular formed body of tobacco raw material can be used. However, the flavor source 132 can also be a granular formed body of tobacco raw material. In addition, the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132 can also be composed of plants other than tobacco (such as mint, vanilla, etc.). The flavor source 132 can also be imparted with flavorings such as menthol.

Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 are obtained by screening in accordance with JIS Z 8815, using, for example, a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801. For example, the raw material pieces are screened using a stainless steel sieve with a mesh size of 0.71 mm using a dry method and mechanical shaking method for 20 minutes, obtaining raw material pieces that pass through the 0.71 mm mesh. Next, the raw material pieces are screened using a stainless steel sieve with a mesh size of 0.212 mm using a dry method and mechanical shaking method for 20 minutes, removing raw material pieces that pass through the 0.212 mm mesh. In other words, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 are those that pass through a stainless steel sieve with a predetermined upper limit (mesh size = 0.71 mm) but fail to pass through a stainless steel sieve with a predetermined lower limit (mesh size = 0.212 mm). Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve with a predetermined lower limit. The upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve that specifies the upper limit.

In an embodiment, the flavor source 132 is a tobacco source having an alkaline pH. The pH of the tobacco source is preferably greater than 7, more preferably greater than 8. This allows for efficient delivery of flavor components generated from the tobacco source via the aerosol. This allows for the amount of tobacco source to be reduced while delivering a desired amount of flavor components to the aerosol. Furthermore, the pH of the tobacco source is preferably below 14, more preferably below 10. This reduces damage (e.g., corrosion) to the flavor inhaler 100 (e.g., the cartridge 130 or the inhaler body 110).

In addition, it should be noted that the aroma components generated from the aroma source 132 are transported via aerosol, without heating the aroma source 132 itself.

The mesh 133A is configured to block the opening of the cartridge housing 131 upstream of the flavor source 132, and the filter 133B is configured to block the opening of the cartridge housing 131 downstream of the flavor source 132. The mesh 133A has a density that does not allow the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132 to pass through. The density of the mesh 133A is, for example, a mesh having a size of 0.077 mm or more and 0.198 mm or less. The filter 133B is composed of a breathable material. The filter 133B is preferably, for example, an acetate filter. The filter 133B has a density that does not allow the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 132 to pass through.

(How to use a non-burning fragrance inhaler)

The following describes how to use the non-combustion fragrance inhaler according to the embodiment. When the fragrance inhaler 100 detects a user's inhalation action, it begins supplying power to the heating element 13. This starts atomizing the aerosol source held by the liquid retaining member 12. On the other hand, when the fragrance inhaler 100 no longer detects the user's inhalation action, it stops supplying power to the heating element 13. This also stops atomizing the aerosol source held by the liquid retaining member 12.

(Manufacturing method of atomization unit)

4 and 5 are diagrams for explaining the method for manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG4(A), the base member 300 has an axis X extending in a predetermined direction A, and the heating element 13 is arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the side surface of the base member 300 (step A). In the embodiment, the base member 300 is a jig including a cylindrical portion.

Next, as shown in FIG4(B), the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ , to which the flange ₁₇₂ is fixed, is slid in the predetermined direction A to place the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ on the outer side surface of the heating element 13. Furthermore, the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is slid in the predetermined direction A to place the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ on the outer side surface of the heating element 13 (step E). In this example, the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ are placed apart from each other to expose the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13.

Next, as shown in FIG4(C), the housing cover 111X1, which constitutes a portion of the atomizing unit housing _111X , is slid in a predetermined direction A, thereby bringing the housing cover _111X1 into contact with the flange _172. Next, the liquid retaining member 12 is slid in the predetermined direction A, so that it contacts or approaches at least a portion (heating portion 13A) of the heating element 13 (step C). The housing cover _111X1 is fixed to the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ and the flange ₁₇₂ .

In addition, the process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 in such a manner as to contact or approach the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 may also be a process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 by causing the liquid retaining component 12 to contact or approach the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 by configuring the covering component 15 shown in FIG4(D) described later. Furthermore, the process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 may also be a process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 while causing the liquid retaining component 12 to press the outer side surface of the heating portion 13A. The process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 may also be a process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 in such a manner as to contact the outer side surface of the heating portion 13A all around. In addition, the process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 is a process of configuring the liquid retaining component 12 on the outer side surface of the heating element 13 when the heating element 13 is configured on the outer side surface of the base component 300 (clamp).

4(D) , the covering member 15 is slid in a predetermined direction A, thereby being arranged on the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12. By arranging the covering member 15, the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 is brought into good contact with or close to the liquid retaining member 12.

Next, as shown in FIG5(A), the housing barrel _111X2, which constitutes a portion of the atomizing unit housing 111X, is secured to the housing cover _111X1 . Next, the storage portion 11 is disposed in the space defined by the housing cover _111X1 , the housing barrel 111X2 _, and the tubular member 14. Preferably, a portion of the storage portion 11 is also disposed outside the covering member 15. The storage portion 11 may also be disposed before securing the housing barrel _111X2 to the housing cover _111X1 .

Here, preferably, after the cylindrical component 14 is arranged on the outer side surface of the heating element 13, the heating element 13 is fixed to the cylindrical component 14. The fixing process of the heating element 13 and the cylindrical component 14 can be performed after the process shown in Figure 4(B) and before the process shown in Figure 5(B). The fixing process of the heating element 13 and the cylindrical component 14 is preferably performed before the process shown in Figure 5(A), and more preferably before the process shown in Figure 4(C). Thus, the heating element 13 and the cylindrical component 14 can be fixed in a state where there are no extra components on the outer side surface of the cylindrical component 14, and the heating element 13 and the cylindrical component 14 are easily fixed.

Next, as shown in Figure 5(B), after the storage portion 11 is filled with the aerosol source, the downstream end of the storage portion 11 is sealed by the cap 16. The cap 16 is fixed to the housing cylindrical body _111X2 . Note that the upstream end of the storage portion 11 is sealed by the housing cap _111X1 . Next, a flange ₁₇₁ is positioned on the downstream end surface of the cap 16. The flange ₁₇₁ is fixed to the tubular member ₁₄₁ .

Then, as shown in FIG5(C), the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated with the axis X as the rotation axis, so that the entire heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 (step B). Here, it should be noted that the cylindrical member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X (housing cover _111X1 and housing cylinder _111X2 ) via the cover 16 or the flange 17. Therefore, the process shown in FIG5(C) is performed after the cylindrical member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X and/or after the cylindrical member 14 is fixed to the heating element 13. Here, a space used as an air flow path is formed on the inner side of the heating element 13 by the process shown in FIG5(C). The process shown in FIG5(C) is a process for forming an aerosol inlet (the gap between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ ) by separating the heating element 13 so that the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 flows to the inner side of the heating element 13. Furthermore, since the aerosol inlet begins to communicate with the inner side of the heating element 13 by separating the heating element 13 from the base member 300 , it should be noted that the step shown in FIG. 5(C) is a step of forming the aerosol inlet.

Furthermore, the process shown in FIG5(C) is a process of forming at least a portion of the air flow path on the inner side of the heating element 13 by separating the heating element 13. Specifically, the process shown in FIG5(C) is a process of separating the entire heating element 13 from the base component 300 (clamp), and forming at least a portion of the air flow path on the inner side of the heating element 13 by separating the heating element 13. In such an example, preferably, a process of configuring a flow path forming component that forms at least a portion of the air flow path is performed before the process shown in FIG5(C) (step G). The flow path forming component can be considered to be, for example, the above-mentioned cylindrical component 14. Therefore, the process of configuring the flow path forming component can be considered to be the process shown in FIG4(B).

In the embodiment, from the perspective of electrical connection between the cylindrical member 14 and the heating element 13, the depth of the groove of the base member 300 or the height of the protrusion of the base member 300 is preferably equal to or less than the diameter of the wire forming the heating element 13. On the other hand, from the perspective of retaining the heating element 13 by the base member 300, the depth of the groove of the base member 300 or the height of the protrusion of the base member 300 is preferably at least half the diameter of the wire forming the heating element 13.

(Function and Effect)

In the embodiment, at least a portion of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 in the orthogonal direction B is covered by the covering member 15. This configuration can prevent the aerosol source from being excessively supplied to the liquid retaining member 12 (oversupply). By preventing oversupply, the risk of liquid leakage is reduced. Furthermore, by preventing oversupply, heat loss from heating and atomization is suppressed, thereby preventing a decrease in atomization efficiency.

Here, the covering member 15 is composed of a member that is impermeable to liquid. Thus, excessive supply of the aerosol source is suppressed. The covering member 15 is preferably composed of a member having a thermal conductivity lower than that of the aerosol source or the liquid retaining member 12. According to such a structure, heat loss due to heating atomization is suppressed. The covering member 15 is preferably composed of a member that presses the liquid retaining member 12 inward. According to such a structure, the liquid retaining member 12 can be brought into good contact with or close to the heating element 13.

In the embodiment, preferably, within the range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A), the covering member 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 along the entire length of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 along the predetermined direction A. With such a structure, the above-mentioned oversupply can be further suppressed.

In the embodiment, preferably, within the range where the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 is in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A), the covering member 15 covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 along the entire circumference of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 in the predetermined direction A, in the circumferential direction with the predetermined direction A as the axis. With such a structure, the above-mentioned oversupply can be further suppressed.

In an embodiment, the covering part 15 preferably uniformly covers the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12. According to such a structure, the aerosol source can be uniformly supplied to the heating element 13 (heating part 13A), thereby improving the atomization efficiency. For example, the covering part 15 can cover the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 in a manner without having an opening. Thereby, the above-mentioned oversupply can be more effectively suppressed. Alternatively, the covering part 15 can also have more than 10 openings arranged at equal intervals. By adjusting the number or size of the more than 10 openings arranged at equal intervals, not only can the above-mentioned oversupply be suppressed, but the supply amount of the aerosol source can also be adjusted to an arbitrary amount, and the aerosol source can be easily supplied uniformly, thereby improving the atomization efficiency. Alternatively, the covering part 15 has a plurality of openings arranged at equal intervals, and the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12 covered by the covering part 15 (covered area) can be more than 60% of the area of the outer side surface of the liquid retaining part 12. With this structure, the supply amount of the aerosol source can be more effectively suppressed.

In the embodiment, the thickness of the liquid retaining member 12 when covered by the covering member 15 is preferably smaller than the thickness of the liquid retaining member 12 when not covered by the covering member 15. In other words, it is preferable to have a structure in which the liquid retaining member 12 covers and compresses the cover member 15. With such a structure, the compression of the liquid retaining member 12 prevents an excessive amount of the aerosol source from being retained by the liquid retaining member 12.

In the embodiment, at least a portion of the storage portion 11 is preferably arranged outside the cover member 15 in the orthogonal direction B. With this configuration, the space outside the cover member 15 is allocated to the storage portion 11, thereby increasing the capacity of the storage portion 11 (i.e., the amount of aerosol source that can be stored in the storage portion 11), while also being able to suppress the aforementioned oversupply by the cover member 15.

In an embodiment, the tubular member 14 constitutes a barrier member having an outer side surface located between the outer side surface of the heating element 13 and the inner side surface of the covering member 15 in the orthogonal direction B. The outer side surface of the tubular member 14 is preferably provided at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12. Furthermore, the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 is preferably provided at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the covering member 15. According to such a structure, deformation of the heating element 13 caused by the inward stress of the liquid retaining member 12 covered by the covering member 15 is suppressed. Furthermore, when the tubular member 14 constitutes an air flow path and has a specified strength (for example, a strength that can withstand the stress of the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 pressing the inward direction of the covering member 15 in the orthogonal direction B), deformation of the heating element 13 and deformation of the air flow path caused by the stress of the covering member 15 are suppressed. That is, when the inside of the cylindrical member 14 is an air flow path, the cylindrical member 14 functions as a barrier member to suppress deformation of the heat generating element 13 and the air flow path due to stress from the covering member 15 .

In the embodiment, the cylindrical member 14 forming at least a portion of the air flow path is made of a conductive member, and includes a cylindrical member 14 ₁ that contacts the first end portion 13B ₁ at a first contact point, and a cylindrical member 14 ₂ that contacts the second end portion 13B ₂ at a second contact point. This reduces the number of parts required to form the air flow path and the electrical contacts.

In this embodiment, a cover 16 is provided to block the supply port for supplying the aerosol source to the reservoir 11. Separation of the cover 16 from the reservoir 11 (here, downstream movement) could damage at least one of the heating element 13 and the power supply component. This effectively prevents the use of the flavor inhaler 100 associated with refilling the aerosol source into the reservoir 11. Furthermore, since the cover 16 blocks the supply port, located on the opposite side of the reservoir from the connection portion 111C with the power source, the use of the flavor inhaler 100 associated with refilling the aerosol source is effectively suppressed.

In the embodiment, the power supply component includes: a first power supply portion (e.g., flange ₁₇₂ and the wire connected to flange ₁₇₂ ), which includes a portion extending from the heating element 13 toward the connection portion 111C for the power source; and a second power supply portion (e.g., flange ₁₇₁ and the wire connected to flange ₁₇₁ ), which includes a portion extending from the heating element 13 toward the side opposite to the connection portion 111C (i.e., toward the nozzle-side opening 111O). Therefore, a structure is adopted in which the second power supply portion is easily damaged by the movement of the cover 16 being separated from the storage portion 11 (here, the movement toward the downstream).

In an embodiment, the coil constituting the heating element 13 includes: a heating portion 13A, which is constituted by a wire between a first contact point and a second contact point that are arranged closest to each other on the wire; a first end portion 13B ₁ , which is constituted by a wire on the outside of one side of the heating portion 13A on the wire; and a second end portion 13B ₂ , which is constituted by a wire on the outside of the other side of the heating portion 13A on the wire. At least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid retaining component 12 is in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A. That is, since the ends with a high possibility of poor quality (the first end portion 13B ₁ and the second end portion 13B ₂ in the embodiment) are not used as the heating portion, but the portions with good quality other than the ends of the wire constituting the heating element 13 (coil) (the heating portion 13A in the embodiment) are used as the heating portion, the uniformity of the aerosol generation amount can be improved in a manner that does not depend on the manufacturing method of the heating element 13.

In the embodiment, since only the central portion of the heating element 13 (coil) is used as the heating portion 13A, it is easy to configure the liquid retaining component 12 in the entire central portion used as the heating component 13A, and it is easy to form an atomization unit 111 with less energy loss.

In the embodiment, the cylindrical component 14 is composed of a conductive component and includes a cylindrical component ₁₄₁ that contacts the first end portion _13B1 at a first contact point and a cylindrical component ₁₄₂ that contacts the second end portion _13B2 at a second contact point. The cylindrical component ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical component ₁₄₂ are arranged on the side surfaces of the heating element 13 (the outer side surfaces in the embodiment). In addition, the side surfaces of the heating element 13 refer to: when the coil constituting the heating element 13 is considered to be a cylindrical component, the side surfaces of the heating element 13 are the outer circumferential surface and the inner circumferential surface of the coil. Therefore, the side surfaces of the heating element 13 are actually composed of the side surfaces of the wire forming the coil. Through the above-mentioned structure, contact with the cylindrical component 14 occurs on the side surfaces of the heating element 13, thereby achieving an electrical connection on the surface and realizing a stable electrical connection. In addition, when the electrical connection is performed on the side surfaces of the heating element 13 accompanied by fixation with the cylindrical component 14, fixation on the surface can be performed, and the heating element 13 can be firmly fixed to the cylindrical component 14. In addition, fixation such as welding can be easily performed.

Furthermore, in the embodiment, since the cylindrical member 14 is a member having surfaces, electrical connection between the surfaces can be achieved, enabling stable electrical connection and firmly fixing the heating element 13 to the cylindrical member 14. Furthermore, fixing by welding or the like can be easily performed.

In the embodiment, the tubular member ₁₄₁ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion _13B1 in the orthogonal direction B, and the tubular member ₁₄₂ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the second end portion 13B2 in the orthogonal direction _B. Therefore, since the heating element 13 is supported by the tubular member ₁₄₁ and the tubular member ₁₄₂ , deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed even if the inside of the heating element 13 is hollow.

In an embodiment, the base member 300 (jig) has an axis X extending along a predetermined direction A. The atomizing unit 111 is manufactured by arranging the heating element 13 along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on a side surface of the base member 300 (jig), and rotating the base member 300 about the axis X to separate the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300. That is, during the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111, the heating element 13 is supported by the base member 300, thereby suppressing deformation of the heating element 13 during the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111, and manufacturing the atomizing unit 111 having a high-quality heating element 13.

In the embodiment, after the liquid retaining member 12 is brought into contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13, the base member 300 (the jig) is rotated about the axis X, thereby separating the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300. The process of disposing the liquid retaining member 12 so as to be in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 (particularly the process of bringing the heating portion 13A into contact with or close to the liquid retaining member 12) can suppress deformation of the heating element 13, thereby enabling the manufacture of the atomization unit 111 having a high-quality heating element 13.

In the embodiment, before the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about the axis X to separate the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300, the cylindrical member 14 is positioned on the outer side of the heating element 13 in the orthogonal direction. In other words, during the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111, the heating element 13 is always supported by the base member 300 or the cylindrical member 14. Therefore, deformation of the heating element 13 during the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111 can be constantly suppressed, and the atomizing unit 111 with a high-quality heating element 13 can be manufactured.

Alternatively, the step of placing the liquid retaining member 12 may involve placing the liquid retaining member 12 while pressing against the outer side surface of the heating portion 13A. Alternatively, the step of placing the liquid retaining member 12 may involve placing the liquid retaining member 12 so that the liquid retaining member 12 contacts the entire circumference of the outer side surface of the heating portion 13A. In these examples, since the liquid retaining member 12 is placed before the heating element 13 is separated from the base member 300, deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed during the step of placing the liquid retaining member 12, enabling the manufacture of the atomization unit 111 having a high-quality heating element 13.

Furthermore, by separating the heat generating element 13, at least a portion of the air flow path can be formed inside the heat generating element 13. Thus, before the heat generating element 13 is separated from the base member 300, intrusion of foreign matter into the air flow path can be suppressed.

In the embodiment, after the cylindrical member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X and/or after the heating element 13 is fixed to the cylindrical member 14, the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about the axis X, so that the entire heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300. Therefore, deformation of the heating element 13 caused by the rotation of the base member 300 can be suppressed, and the atomizing unit 111 having a high-quality heating element 13 can be manufactured.

[Change Example 1]

Hereinafter, a modification example 1 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In Modification Example 1, a modification of the process (the process shown in FIG4(C)) of configuring the liquid retaining part 12 in a manner of contacting or approaching the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 is described. FIG6 is a diagram for illustrating a modification of the step shown in FIG4(C). It should be noted that Modification Example 1 differs from the embodiment in that the process of rotating the base part 300 (clamp) about the axis X to separate the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base part 300 is performed in the middle of the process shown in FIG4(C).

Specifically, as shown in FIG6(A), the sliding member 400 having a cylindrical shape is slid along a predetermined direction A, thereby positioning the sliding member 400 on the outer side surfaces of the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14. In other words, the sliding member 400 is slid along the outer side surfaces of the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14 in a direction orthogonal to the direction B (step C1).

Next, as shown in FIG6(B), the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about the axis X, and the entire heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 (step B). It should be noted that the cylindrical member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X (housing cover _111X1 ) via the flange 17 and the like.

Next, as shown in FIG6(C), the liquid retaining member 12 is slid along the outer side surface of the sliding member 400 in the orthogonal direction B (step C2). Here, the heating element 13 is covered by the sliding member 400. Therefore, even when the liquid retaining member 12 is placed with the entire heating element 13 separated from the base member 300 (clamp), deformation of the heating element 13 caused by the placement of the liquid retaining member 12 can be suppressed.

Next, as shown in FIG6(D), the sliding member 400 is removed by sliding it in the predetermined direction A. In other words, the sliding member 400 is removed from between the liquid retaining member 12 and the heating element 13 by sliding (step C3). Therefore, it should be noted that the liquid retaining member 12 is positioned so as to contact or be close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13.

In such an example, the sliding member 400 is preferably formed of a member that slides more easily along the predetermined direction A than the liquid retaining member 12. For example, the sliding member 400 is configured so that the friction force (dynamic friction and/or static friction) acting between the inner side surface of the sliding member 400 and the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 is smaller than the friction force between the inner side surface of the liquid retaining member 12 and the outer side surface of the tubular member 14. With this structure, the sliding member 400 makes it easier to slide the liquid retaining member 12, compared to an example in which the liquid retaining member 12 is configured alone. In such an example, the rigidity of the sliding member 400 is preferably higher than that of the liquid retaining member 12. With this structure, the sliding member 400 is less likely to get stuck in the slit of the tube when sliding between the tubular members ₁₄₁ and ₁₄₂ , compared to a case in which the liquid retaining member 12 is configured alone, thereby facilitating the configuration of the liquid retaining member 12.

In the example shown in FIG6 , after the sliding member 400 is slid along the outer side surface of the tubular member 14, the liquid retaining member 12 is slid along the outer side surface of the sliding member 400. However, Modification 1 is not limited to this. Specifically, after the sliding member 400 is inserted into the inner side of the liquid retaining member 12, the sliding member 400 may be slid along the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 while the sliding member 400 is inserted into the inner side of the liquid retaining member 12.

In the example shown in FIG6 , the sliding member 400 is removed by sliding after the heat generating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300. However, Modification 1 is not limited to this. Specifically, the step of removing the sliding member 400 by sliding may be performed before the step of separating the heat generating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300.

In Modification 1, the depth of the groove of the base member 300 or the height of the protrusion of the base member 300 is preferably the same as in the embodiment, and is approximately equal to or less than the diameter of the wire forming the heating element 13 and is at least half the diameter of the wire.

In Modification 1, the process of separating the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 is preferably performed after the tubular member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X and/or after the heating element 13 is fixed to the tubular member 14 , similar to the embodiment.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 1, the heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 before the liquid retaining member 12 is arranged in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13. This allows the base member 300 to be separated as early as possible before assembling the liquid retaining member 12 and other components, allowing the base member 300 to be used in the manufacture of the next semi-finished product in a short time, thereby improving the productivity of the atomizing unit 111.

In addition to achieving the above-mentioned effects, the use of the sliding member 400 can suppress deformation of the heating element 13 during the process of placing the liquid retaining member 12 in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 (for example, the process of sliding the liquid retaining member 12), thereby enabling the manufacture of an atomizing unit 111 having a high-quality heating element 13. Furthermore, it is easy to place the liquid retaining member 12 on the outer side surfaces of the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14.

[Change Example 2]

Hereinafter, a modification example 2 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, the base member 300 is a cylindrical fixture. In contrast, in Modification 2, the base member 300 is, for example, the cylindrical member 14 (cylindrical member 14 ₁ and cylindrical member 14 ₂ ). FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 2. Note that FIG. 7 omits the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover 16 , and the flange 17 .

Specifically, as shown in FIG7(A), the cylindrical member 14 has an axis X extending along a predetermined direction A, the heating element 13 is arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the inner side surface of the cylindrical member 14, and the cylindrical member 14 and the heating element 13 are electrically connected (steps A and D). Here, the cylindrical member 14 is arranged outside the heating element 13.

In the second modification, the cylindrical member 14 ₁ and the cylindrical member 14 ₂ are continuous in the predetermined direction A. In other words, step A is a step of arranging the heating element 13 across both the cylindrical member 14 ₁ and the cylindrical member 14 ₂ .

Here, it should be noted that the liquid retaining member 12 is arranged on the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 (the tubular member 14 ₁ and the tubular member 14 ₂ ) in the orthogonal direction B.

Next, in FIG7(B), at least one of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is rotated about the axis X, thereby separating the heat generating element 13 from the groove or protrusion (step B). Specifically, step B is to separate the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ from each other while maintaining the heat generating element 13 arranged astride both the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ .

In Modification 2, the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 is exposed to the liquid retaining member 12 by separating the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ from each other. Furthermore, the liquid retaining member 12 is arranged so as to contact or approach the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 (step C or step C4). Here, since the gap between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is first formed by the step shown in FIG. 7(B), the process shown in FIG. 7(B) is a process for forming an aerosol inlet (the gap between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member 142) by separating the heating element 13, allowing the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 to pass into the inner side of the heating element ₁₃ .

Here, if the heating element 13 is to be fixed to the tubular member 14, such a fixing step can be performed after the step shown in FIG7 (B). Alternatively, after one of the conductive members of the tubular member ₁₄₁ and the tubular member ₁₄₂ is fixed to the heating element 13, the other conductive member can be separated from the one conductive member. The step of electrically connecting the tubular member 14 and the heating element 13 (step D) can be considered such a fixing step.

In addition, in the state before the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ are separated from each other (that is, the state shown in FIG. 7(A) ), the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ may be connected by screwing.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 2, the heating element 13 is arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the inner side surface of the cylindrical member 14. At least one of the cylindrical member 141 or the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is rotated about the axis X to separate the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion. Specifically, during the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111, since the heating element 13 is supported by the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ , deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed, allowing the atomizing unit 111 to be manufactured with a high-quality heating element 13.

In the second modification, since the cylindrical member 14 is used as the base member 300 , an additional jig for forming the heating element 13 as shown in the embodiment is not required, and the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111 can be simplified.

[Change Example 3]

Hereinafter, Modification 3 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from Modification 2 will be mainly described.

In Modification 2, the heating element 13 is arranged along the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the inner side surface of the tubular member 14. In contrast, in Modification 3, the heating element 13 is arranged along the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the tubular member 14.

Specifically, as shown in FIG8(A), the cylindrical member 14 has an axis X extending along a predetermined direction A, the heating element 13 is arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the cylindrical member 14, and the cylindrical member 14 and the heating element 13 are electrically connected (steps A and D). Here, the cylindrical member 14 is arranged on the inner side of the heating element 13.

Next, in FIG8(B), at least one of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is rotated about the axis X, separating the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion (step B). Since the gap between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is initially formed in the step shown in FIG8(B), the step shown in FIG8(B) is a step for forming an aerosol inlet (the gap between the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ ) by separating the heating element 13, allowing the aerosol atomized by the heating element 13 to pass into the inner side of the heating element 13.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 3, similarly to Modification 2, the atomizing unit 111 having the high-quality heating element 13 can be manufactured, and the manufacturing process of the atomizing unit 111 can be simplified.

[Change Example 4]

Hereinafter, a modification example 4 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical member _142. In contrast, in Modification 4, as shown in FIG9 , the inner and outer diameters of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ are larger than those of the cylindrical member _142. Note that FIG9 omits the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover 16, the flange 17, and the like.

In such an example, as shown in Figure 9, the heating element 13 has a heating portion 13A and a first end portion _13B1 , but does not have a second end portion _13B2 . The outer side surface of the first end portion _13B1 contacts the inner side surface of the tubular component _141. In other words, the tubular component ₁₄₁ is arranged on the outside of the heating element 13. On the other hand, a wire pulled upstream from the heating portion 13A is connected to the outer side surface or end surface of the tubular component _142. Here, the wire is composed of the same component as the heating element 13 (for example, a nickel-chromium alloy wire). The wire can also be a component that directly extends the wire material forming the heating element 13. The outer side surface or end surface of the tubular component ₁₄₂ and the wire constitute the second contact CP2. The wire is fixed to the outer side surface of the tubular component ₁₄₁ by welding or soldering.

In addition, in FIG. 9 , the conductive wire is shown protruding for convenience of illustration, but it should be noted that the conductive wire is actually arranged between the liquid retaining member 12 and the tubular member 14 .

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 4, the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ disposed on the downstream side is larger than the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ disposed on the upstream side. Therefore, the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₁ is smaller than the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₂ , and thus it is possible to suppress excessive supply of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining member 12 on the downstream side.

In Modification 4, the tubular member ₁₄₁ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion _13B1 in the orthogonal direction B. Therefore, since the heating element 13 is supported by the tubular member ₁₄₁ , deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed even if the inside of the heating element 13 is hollow.

[Change Example 5]

Hereinafter, a modification example 3 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical member _142. In contrast, in Modification 4, as shown in FIG10 , the inner and outer diameters of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ are larger than those of the cylindrical member _142. Note that FIG10 omits the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover 16, the flange 17, and the like.

In this example, as shown in FIG10 , the heating element 13 includes a heating portion 13A, a first end portion _13B1 , and a second end portion _13B2 . However, the outer diameter of the second end portion _13B2 is smaller than that of the first end portion _13B1 . The outer side surface of the first end portion _13B1 contacts the inner side surface of the tubular member _141. Similarly, the outer side surface of the second end portion _13B2 contacts the inner side surface of the tubular member _142. In other words, the tubular members ₁₄₁ and ₁₄₂ are arranged outside the heating element 13.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 5, the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ disposed on the downstream side is larger than the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ disposed on the upstream side. Therefore, as in Modification 4, the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₁ is smaller than the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₂ , thereby suppressing excessive supply of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining member 12 on the downstream side.

In Modification 5, the tubular member ₁₄₁ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion _13B1 in the orthogonal direction B, and the tubular member ₁₄₂ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the second end portion 13B2 in the orthogonal direction _B. Therefore, since the heating element 13 is supported by the tubular member ₁₄₁ , deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed even if the inside of the heating element 13 is hollow.

[Example 6]

Hereinafter, a sixth modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical member _142. In contrast, in Modification 6, as shown in FIG11 , the inner and outer diameters of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ are larger than those of the cylindrical member _142. Note that FIG11 omits the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover 16, the flange 17, and the like.

In this example, as shown in Figure 11, the heating element 13 has a heating portion 13A and a second end portion _13B2 , but does not have a first end portion _13B1 . The inner side surface of the second end portion _13B2 contacts the outer side surface of the tubular member _142. In other words, the tubular member ₁₄₂ is positioned inside the heating element 13. Meanwhile, a conductive wire extending downstream from the heating portion 13A is connected to the outer side surface or end surface of the tubular member _141. The outer side surface or end surface of the tubular member ₁₄₁ and the conductive wire constitute a first contact point CP1.

In addition, in FIG. 11 , the conductive wire is bulged for convenience of illustration, but it should be noted that the conductive wire is actually arranged between the liquid retaining member 12 and the tubular member 14 .

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 6, the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ disposed on the downstream side is larger than the outer diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ disposed on the upstream side. Therefore, as in Modifications 4 and 5, the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₁ is smaller than the distance between the covering member 15 and the tubular member ₁₄₂ , thereby suppressing excessive supply of the aerosol source to the liquid retaining member 12 on the downstream side.

In Modification 6, the tubular member ₁₄₂ is disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the first end portion _13B2 in the orthogonal direction B. Therefore, since the heating element 13 is supported by the tubular member ₁₄₂ , deformation of the heating element 13 can be suppressed even if the inside of the heating element 13 is hollow.

[Change Example]

Hereinafter, a seventh modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In Modification Example 7, the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 shown in Modification Example 4 (Figure 9) is described. However, the installation method of the atomizing unit housing 111X, the covering part 15, the cover 16 and the flange 17 is roughly the same as that in the embodiment, so their installation method is omitted. In Modification Example 7, the base part 300 (clamp) having an axis X extending along a specified direction includes: a first support part 310 having a first outer diameter, a second support part 320 having a second outer diameter smaller than the first outer diameter, a base part 330, and a step part 340. The inner diameter of the cylindrical part ₁₄₁ corresponds to the first outer diameter, and the inner diameter of the cylindrical part ₁₄₂ corresponds to the second outer diameter. The base part 330 is a part that supports the first support part 310 and constitutes a first locking part for locking the cylindrical part _141. The step part 340 is the boundary part between the first support part 310 and the second support part 320 and constitutes a second locking part for locking the cylindrical part ₁₄₂ .

In Modification 7, the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ corresponds to the first outer diameter, meaning that the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the outer diameter of the first support portion 310 have such a size relationship that the inner side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ can slide along the outer side surface of the first support portion 310, and the heat generating element 13 arranged in the first support portion 310 contacts the inner side surface of the cylindrical member _141. On the other hand, the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ corresponds to the second outer diameter, meaning that the inner diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ and the outer diameter of the second support portion 320 have such a size relationship that the inner side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ can slide along the outer side surface of the second support portion 320, and that the central axis of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ does not deviate from the central axis of the second support portion 320 when the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is arranged on the outer side surface of the second support portion 320 (e.g., in a manufacturing step).

As shown in FIG. 12(A) , the heat generating element 13 is arranged along the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the first supporting portion 310 (step A).

Next, as shown in FIG12(B), the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is slid along the axis X to a position where the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is locked by the base portion 330, thereby positioning the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ along the outer side surface of the first support portion 310 (steps E1 and E3). The process shown in FIG12(B) is a step of positioning the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ from the second support portion 320 side having a smaller outer diameter toward the first support portion 310 side having a larger outer diameter. It should be noted that the overall length of the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ in the predetermined direction along the axis X is shorter than the overall length of the first support portion 310.

Next, as shown in FIG12(C), the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is slid along the axis X to a position where the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is locked by the base portion 340. Thus, the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is arranged along the outer side surface of the second support portion 320 (steps E2 and E4). The process shown in FIG12(C) is a step of arranging the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ from the second support portion 320 side having a smaller outer diameter toward the first support portion 310 side having a larger outer diameter. It should be noted that the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is locked at the step portion 340. Thus, the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ are arranged in a state separated from each other.

Next, as shown in FIG12(D), the second contact point CP2 is formed by connecting the conductive wire drawn upstream from the heating portion 13A to the outer side surface of the cylindrical member _142. For example, the conductive wire is fixed to the outer side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ by welding or soldering. The second contact point CP2 can also be formed by connecting the conductive wire to the end surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ .

Next, the liquid retaining member 12 is slid along the axis X, and is positioned on the outer side surfaces of the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14. Specifically, the liquid retaining member 12 is positioned so as to contact or be close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 (step C). Here, the process of positioning the liquid retaining member 12 so as to contact or be close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 is as follows: the liquid retaining member 12 is positioned from the side of the second support portion 320 having a smaller outer diameter toward the side of the first support portion 310 having a larger outer diameter.

Next, in FIG12(E), the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about axis X, separating the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 (step B). The formation of the aerosol inlet and air flow path by the process shown in FIG12(E) is the same as in the embodiment.

Although omitted in FIG12 , similar to the embodiment, the tubular member 14 is preferably fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X (housing cover 111X ₁ and housing barrel 111X ₂ ) via the cap 16 or the flange 17 . Specifically, the step shown in FIG12(E) is preferably performed after the tubular member 14 is fixed to the atomizing unit housing 111X.

12 , the conductive wire is bulged for ease of illustration. However, it should be noted that the conductive wire is actually disposed between the liquid retaining member 12 and the tubular member 14 .

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 7, the second contact point CP2 is formed by connecting the conductive wire drawn upstream from the heating portion 13A to the outer side surface or end surface of the tubular member _142. Therefore, the second contact point CP2 can be easily formed.

In Modification 7, the tubular member 14 ₁ is locked by the base portion 330, and the tubular member 14 ₂ is locked by the step portion 340. Therefore, the tubular members _{14 1 and} 14 ₂ can be positioned more easily and _easily separated from each other by a distance corresponding to the heating portion 13A.

In Modification 7, the tubular member 14 ₁ , the tubular member 14 ₂ and the liquid retaining member 12 are slid from the second support portion 320 having a smaller outer diameter toward the first support portion 310 having a larger outer diameter.

[Change Example 8]

Hereinafter, Modification Example 8 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from Modification Example 7 will be mainly described.

In Modification 8, the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 shown in Modification 5 ( FIG. 10 ) is described. However, the assembly method of the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover member 15 , the lid 16 , and the flange 17 is substantially the same as in the embodiment, and therefore, the assembly method thereof is omitted. In Modification 8, the same base member 300 (jig) as in Modification 7 is used.

In Modification Example 8, the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ corresponds to the first outer diameter, which means that the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ and the outer diameter of the first support portion 310 have the following size relationship: the inner side surface of the tubular member ₁₄₁ can slide along the heating element 13 arranged on the outer side surface of the first support portion 310, and the heating element 13 arranged on the first support portion 310 is in contact with the inner side surface of the tubular member _141. Similarly, the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ corresponds to the second outer diameter, which means that the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ and the outer diameter of the second support portion 320 have the following size relationship: the tubular member ₁₄₂ can slide along the heating element 13 arranged on the outer side surface of the second support portion 320, and the heating element 13 arranged on the second support portion 320 is in contact with the inner side surface of the tubular member ₁₄₂ .

As shown in FIG13(A) , the heating element 13 is arranged along the spiral grooves or protrusions formed on the outer side surfaces of the first support portion 310 and the second support portion 320 (step A).

13(B) , the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is slid along the axis X to a position where the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is locked by the base portion 330 , thereby arranging the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ along the outer side surface of the first support portion 310 (steps E1 and E3 ).

Next, as shown in FIG13(C), the tubular member ₁₄₂ is slid along the axis X until it is stopped by the stepped portion ₃₄₀ , thereby positioning the tubular member ₁₄₂ along the outer side surface of the second support portion 320 (steps E2 and E4). Next, the liquid retaining member 12 is slid along the axis X to position the liquid retaining member 12 along the outer side surfaces of the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14.

Next, in FIG13(D), the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about axis X, separating the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 (step B). The formation of the aerosol inlet and air flow path by the process shown in FIG13(D) is the same as in the embodiment.

(Function and Effect)

In the eighth modification, the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ is locked by the base portion 330, and the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is locked by the step portion 340. Therefore, the positioning of the cylindrical members ₁₄₁ and ₁₄₂ is facilitated, and the cylindrical members ₁₄₁ and ₁₄₂ can be easily separated from each other by a distance corresponding to the heating portion 13A.

In Modification 8, the tubular member 14 ₁ , the tubular member 14 ₂ and the liquid retaining member 12 are slid from the second supporting portion 320 having a smaller outer diameter toward the first supporting portion 310 having a larger outer diameter.

[Example 9]

Hereinafter, a ninth modification of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the seventh modification will be mainly described.

In Modification 9, the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 shown in Modification 6 ( FIG. 11 ) is described. However, the installation method of the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover member 15 , the lid 16 , and the flange 17 is substantially the same as in the embodiment, and therefore the description of these installation methods is omitted. In Modification 9, the same base member 300 (clamp) as in Modification 7 is used.

In Modification 9, the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ corresponds to the first outer diameter, meaning that the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₁ and the outer diameter of the first support portion 310 have such a size relationship that the inner side surface of the tubular member ₁₄₁ can slide along the outer side surface disposed on the first support portion 310, and that the central axis of the tubular member ₁₄₁ does not deviate from the central axis of the first support portion 310 when the tubular member _{141 is disposed on the outer side surface of the first support portion 310 (e.g., during the manufacturing process). Similarly, the inner diameter of the tubular member 142 corresponds} to the second outer diameter, meaning that the inner diameter of the tubular member ₁₄₂ and the outer diameter of the second support portion 320 have such a size relationship that the inner side surface of the tubular member ₁₄₂ can slide along the outer side surface disposed on the second support portion 320, and that the central axis of the tubular member ₁₄₂ does not deviate from the central axis of the second support portion 320 when the tubular member ₁₄₂ is disposed on the outer side surface of the second support portion 320 (e.g., during the manufacturing process).

As shown in FIG. 14A , the cylindrical member 14 ₁ is slid along the axis X to a position where the cylindrical member 14 ₁ is locked by the base portion 330 , thereby being arranged along the outer side surface of the first support portion ₃₁₀ (steps E1 and E3 ).

14 (B), the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is slid along the axis X to a position where the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is stopped by the step portion 340, thereby disposing the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ along the outer side surface of the second support portion 320 (steps E2 and E4).

Here, preferably, after the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is slid along the outer side surface of the second support portion 320, the outer side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ and the outer side surface of the first support portion 310 do not have a step. In other words, the outer diameter of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ is preferably equal to the outer diameter of the first support portion 310.

Next, as shown in FIG14(C), the heating element 13 is arranged on the outer side surface of the first supporting portion 310 and the outer side surface of the tubular component ₁₄₂ (step A). Here, a spiral groove or protrusion is provided on the outer side surface of the first supporting portion _310. In addition, it is preferred that a spiral groove or protrusion is also provided on the outer side surface of the tubular component _142. Preferably, the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the tubular component 142 is continuous with the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the first supporting portion 310. Step A is a step of arranging the heating element 13 along the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the first supporting portion 310 and the outer side surface of the tubular component ₁₄₂ .

Next, as shown in FIG14(D), a first contact point CP1 is formed by connecting a conductive wire drawn downstream from the heating portion 13A to the outer side surface of the tubular member _141. For example, the conductive wire is fixed to the outer side surface of the tubular member ₁₄₁ by welding or soldering. Alternatively, the first contact point CP1 can be formed by connecting a conductive wire to the end surface of the tubular member ₁₄₁ .

Next, the liquid retaining member 12 is slid along the axis X to be positioned outside the heating element 13 and the tubular member 14. That is, the liquid retaining member 12 is positioned in contact with or close to the heating portion 13A of the heating element 13 (step C).

Next, in FIG14(E), the base member 300 (clamp) is rotated about axis X, separating the entire heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the base member 300 (step B). The formation of the aerosol inlet and air flow path by the process shown in FIG14(E) is the same as in the embodiment.

In addition, in FIG. 14 , the conductive wire is bulged for convenience of illustration, but it should be noted that the conductive wire is actually arranged between the liquid retaining member 12 and the tubular member 14 .

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 9, the first contact point CP1 is formed by connecting the conductive wire drawn downstream from the heating portion 13A to the outer side surface or end surface of the tubular member _141. Therefore, the first contact point CP1 can be easily formed.

In the ninth modification, the cylindrical member 14 ₁ is locked by the base portion 330, and the cylindrical member 14 ₂ is locked by the step portion 340. Therefore, the positioning of the cylindrical members 14 ₁ and 14 ₂ is facilitated, and the cylindrical members 14 ₁ and 14 ₂ can be easily separated from each other by a distance corresponding to the heating portion 13A.

In Modification 9, the tubular member 14 ₁ , the tubular member 142 , and the liquid retaining member 12 are slid from the second support portion 320 having a smaller outer diameter toward the first support portion 310 having a larger outer diameter.

In Modification 9, the heating element 13 is preferably arranged along the spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the first support portion 310 and the outer side surface of the cylindrical member _142. This structure reduces the risk of a step being formed between the outer side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ and the outer side surface of the first support portion 310, making it easier to arrange the heating element 13. Furthermore, since the heating element 13 (second end portion _13B2 ) is arranged on the outer side surface of the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ , securing the cylindrical member ₁₄₂ and the heating element 13 (second end portion _13B2 ) is easier.

[Example 10]

Hereinafter, a modification example 10 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, the differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, flange ₁₇₁ is disposed on the downstream end surface of cover 16. In contrast, as shown in FIG15 , in Modification 10, flange ₁₇₁ is not specifically provided. Instead, a wire 18 extending from the first pole of the power supply is connected to the inner side surface of tubular member _141. Wire 18 can also be led out to tubular member ₁₄₁ through the interior of atomizing unit housing 111X.

In Modification 10, the wire 18 is disposed downstream of the cover 16 in the direction in which the cover 16 is separated from the reservoir 11 (i.e., the separation direction). In other words, when the cover 16 is to be separated from the reservoir 11, the wire 18 is caught in the cover 16. Therefore, due to the wire 18 being pulled by the cover 16, the wire 18 may be peeled off from the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ , the wire 18 may be broken, or the cylindrical member ₁₄₁ may be pulled by the wire 18, which may cause deformation of the heating element 13.

The cover 16 is fixed or fitted to the cylindrical member 14 ₁ . Therefore, when the cover 16 is to be separated from the storage portion 11 , the cylindrical member 14 ₁ is pulled, causing the heat generating element 13 to deform.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 10, the lead 18 is provided downstream of the lid 16 in the direction in which the lid 16 is separated from the reservoir 11 (i.e., the separation direction). Therefore, since the heating element 13 or the power supply component may be damaged when the lid 16 is separated from the reservoir 11, the use of the flavor inhaler 100 associated with the refilling of the aerosol source into the reservoir 11 can be effectively suppressed.

[Example 11]

Hereinafter, Modification 11 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, flange ₁₇₁ is disposed on the downstream end surface of cover 16. In contrast, in Modification 11, as shown in FIG16 , flange ₁₇₁ is disposed on the upstream end surface of cover 16. Here, a wire 18 extending from the first pole of a power supply is connected to flange _171. Wire 18 can be guided through the interior of cover 16 to flange ₁₇₁ .

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 11, similar to Modification 10, the lead wire 18 is arranged to pass through the interior of the cover 16. Therefore, when the cover 16 is separated from the reservoir 11, the heating element 13 or the power supply component is damaged, thereby effectively preventing the use of the flavor inhaler 100 caused by the re-injection of the aerosol source into the reservoir 11.

[Example 12]

The following describes a modification 12 of the embodiment. The following mainly describes the differences from the embodiment. In modification 12, it should be noted that, except for the atomizing unit 111, the structure of the flavor inhaler 100 is the same as that of the embodiment.

In the embodiment, inlet 112A is provided in electrical accessory unit housing 112X, and liquid retaining member 12 is disposed on the outer side of tubular member 14, forming an air flow path. In contrast, in Modification 12, inlet 112A is provided in atomizing unit housing 111X, liquid retaining member 12 is disposed on the inner side of tubular member 14, and air flow path is formed on the outer side of tubular member 14.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 17, the atomizing unit 111 includes a reservoir 11, a liquid holding member 12, a heating element 13, and a cylindrical member 14. The reservoir 11, liquid holding member 12, heating element 13, and cylindrical member 14 are housed in an atomizing unit housing 111X having an inlet 112A. The liquid holding member 12 includes an inserted portion inserted into the cylindrical member 14 and an exposed portion exposed from the cylindrical member 14. The inserted portion contacts the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 11. The exposed portion bulges out in a direction orthogonal to the inserted portion B.

The heating element 13 is arranged so as to straddle the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 and the outer side surface of the exposed portion of the liquid retaining member 12. The heating element 13 is arranged so as to be in contact with or close to the exposed portion of the liquid retaining member 12.

In Modification 12, air introduced from inlet 112A is guided downstream through the outer side surface of tubular member 14 and the exposed portion of liquid retaining member 12, delivering the aerosol atomized by heating element 13 to the downstream side. In Modification 12, tubular member 14 is not formed of a conductive member, and heating element 13 is connected to a power supply via a power supply such as a wire.

[Amendment 13]

Hereinafter, a modification example 13 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In Modification 13, the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 described in Modification 12 is described. FIG18 is a diagram for illustrating the manufacturing method of the atomizing unit 111 according to Modification 13. Note that FIG18 omits the atomizing unit housing 111X, the cover 16, the flange 17, and the like.

Specifically, as shown in FIG18(A), the tubular member 14 has an axis X extending along a predetermined direction A, and the heating element 13 is arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the outer side surface of the tubular member 14 (step A). Furthermore, the tubular member 14 and the heating element 13 are electrically connected (step D). It should be noted that the liquid retaining member 12 is arranged on the inner side of the tubular member 14 in the orthogonal direction B.

Next, in FIG. 18(B) , the cylindrical member 14 is rotated about the axis X, so that a portion of the heat generating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the cylindrical member 14 (step B).

In Modification 13, by separating a portion of the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion of the tubular member 14, the inhibition on the outward expansion of the liquid retaining member 12 is released, and the liquid retaining member 12 is arranged in contact with or close to the heating element 13 (step C).

That is, the process shown in FIG18(B) is as follows: a portion of the heating element 13 is separated from the tubular part 14 by the rotation of the tubular part 14, and a portion of the liquid retaining part 12 arranged on the inner side of the tubular part 14 is separated from the tubular part 14, and a portion of the liquid retaining part 12 is brought into contact with or close to a portion of the heating element 13 by the bulging of a portion of the liquid retaining part 12 (steps B and C). In the example of bringing a portion of the liquid retaining part 12 into contact with or close to a portion of the heating element 13, the process shown in FIG18(B) is a process of placing the liquid retaining part 12 while the liquid retaining part 12 presses the inner side surface of a portion of the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A). In addition, the process shown in FIG18(B) is a process of placing the liquid retaining part 12 in contact with the inner side surface of a portion of the heating element 13 (heating portion 13A) over the entire circumference.

Here, when a portion of the heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the tubular member 14, it should be noted that it is preferable to fix at least the liquid retaining member 12 so that the liquid retaining member 12 does not move in the predetermined direction A as the tubular member 14 rotates. The object to which the liquid retaining member 12 is fixed only needs to not move as the tubular member 14 rotates.

In the example where the heat generating element 13 is fixed to the cylindrical member 14 , such a fixing step is performed after a portion of the heat generating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the cylindrical member 14 .

In Modification 13, a portion of the heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the tubular member 14 while the liquid retaining member 12 is disposed inside the tubular member 14. However, the liquid retaining member 12 may be disposed in a manner that contacts or approaches the heating element 13 after a portion of the heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the tubular member 14. For example, in a state where a portion of the heating element 13 is separated from the groove or protrusion of the tubular member 14, the exposed portion of the liquid retaining member 12 may be brought into contact or approach the heating element 13 by pressing the liquid retaining member 12 against the tubular member 14 from the side where the heating element 13 is not disposed toward the side where the heating element 13 is disposed.

[Amendment 14]

Hereinafter, a modification example 14 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment, the cylindrical jig (ie, base member 300 ) is not included in the atomizing unit 111 , that is, is not a component of the atomizing unit 111 . However, in Modification 14 , the base member 300 is included in the atomizing unit 111 as a component of the atomizing unit 111 .

That is, in Modification 14, as shown in FIG19 , the atomizing unit 111 includes at least: a base member 300 having an axis extending along a predetermined direction A, a heating element 13 arranged along a spiral groove or protrusion formed on the side of the base member 300, a liquid retaining member 12 arranged in contact with or close to at least a portion of the heating element 13 and holding an aerosol source, and an atomizing unit housing 111X that accommodates the heating element 13 and the liquid retaining member 12. At least a portion of the base member 300 is preferably exposed from the atomizing unit housing 111X. However, the atomizing unit 111 may also include other structures (e.g., a storage portion 11, a tubular member 14, a covering member 15, a lid 16, and a flange 17, etc.) as in the embodiment.

In the manufacturing method of the atomizer unit 111 of Modification 14, a step (step F) is included to replace the step (step B) of rotating the base member 300 about the axis X and separating the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion by housing the heating element 13 and the liquid retaining member 12 within the atomizer unit housing 111X while a portion of the base member 300 is exposed from the atomizer unit housing 111X. The step of separating the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion is performed, for example, when a user who has received the atomizer unit 111 is using the atomizer unit 111.

In addition, in Figure 19, as in the embodiment (for example, Figures 4 and 5), an example of a base part 300 as a clamp is given. However, Modification 14 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 19. As shown in Figure 7 (A) of Modification 2 or Figure 8 (A) of Modification 3, the base part 300 may also be a cylindrical part 14 (cylindrical part 14 ₁ and cylindrical part 14 ₂ ). In such an example, the cylindrical part 14 is rotated with the axis X as the rotation axis to separate the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion, thereby configuring the liquid retaining part 12 to contact or approach at least a portion of the heating element 13. In the atomization unit 111 having such a structure, a portion of the cylindrical part 14 is preferably exposed from the atomization unit housing 111X.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 14, since the base member 300 is separated from the heating element 13 during use, the heating element 13 remains held by the base member 300 until the user uses the atomizing unit 111. This prevents deformation of the heating element 13 until the user uses the atomizing unit 111. Furthermore, since the base member 300 functions as a cover, leakage of the aerosol source is suppressed until the user uses the atomizing unit 111. Furthermore, the user can clearly identify the atomizing unit 111 before and after use.

In Modification 14, it is preferable that a portion of the base member 300 is exposed from the atomizing unit housing 111X. With this structure, the heating element 13 can be easily separated from the groove or protrusion by rotating the base member 300 before using the atomizing unit 111.

In Modification 14, the step of housing the heating element 13 and the liquid retaining member 12 in the atomizing unit housing 111X is preferably performed with a portion of the base member 300 exposed from the atomizing unit housing 111X. This method facilitates the separation of the heating element 13 from the groove or protrusion by rotating the base member 300 before using the atomizing unit 111.

[Other embodiments]

The present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, but the description and drawings forming part of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

In the embodiment, the reservoir 11 is positioned outside the liquid retention member 12 in the orthogonal direction B. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The reservoir 11 need only be in contact with the liquid retention member 12 and need not be positioned outside the liquid retention member 12 in the orthogonal direction B. Furthermore, when the reservoir 11 is not positioned outside the liquid retention member 12 in the orthogonal direction B, the cover member 15 can prevent the aerosol source that accidentally leaks from the reservoir 11 before or during use of the flavor inhaler 100 from being supplied to the liquid retention member 12 from the outer peripheral surface of the liquid retention member 12.

In the embodiment, the liquid holding member 12 has a cylindrical shape. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The liquid holding member 12 may also have a string-like shape.

In the embodiment, the liquid retaining member 12 or the covering member 15 has a cylindrical shape and is arranged outside the heating element 13 by sliding along the predetermined direction A. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The liquid retaining member 12 or the covering member 15 has a sheet shape and can be wrapped around the heating element 13.

In the embodiment, the supply port for supplying the aerosol source to the storage portion 11 is provided at the downstream end of the storage portion 11, and the cover 16 blocks the downstream end of the storage portion 11. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The supply port may also be provided at the upstream end of the storage portion 11, and the cover 16 may block the upstream end of the storage portion 11.

In the embodiment, the heating element 13 is formed of a spiral wire and is a coil extending along a predetermined direction A. The interior of the heating element 13 is hollow. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The interior of the heating element 13 may also be solid. For example, as described in Modifications 12 and 13, the liquid retaining member 12 may be provided inside the heating element 13.

In the embodiment, the heating element 13 is formed of a spiral-shaped wire rod. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The heating element 13 may also be formed of a conductive member having another shape.

In the embodiment, the cylindrical member 14 forming at least a portion of the air flow path is exemplified as being made of a conductive member. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The cylindrical member 14 may be made of a member other than a conductive member.

In the embodiment, a lead 18 is provided as a component for connecting the power source and the cylindrical member 14. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the component for connecting the power source and the cylindrical member 14 can be any component as long as it forms an electrical path, and can also be a part of the housing of the fragrance inhaler 100.

In Modifications 4 to 6 and 7 to 9, the outer diameter of tubular member ₁₄₁ is larger than the outer diameter of tubular member _142. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, in Modifications 4, 5, 7, and 8, the outer diameter of tubular member ₁₄₁ may be equal to the outer diameter of tubular member _142. For example, when _the inner diameter of tubular member ₁₄₁ is larger than the inner diameter of tubular member ₁₄₂ and the outer diameter of tubular member ₁₄₁ is equal to the outer diameter of tubular member 142, it should be noted that the thickness of tubular member ₁₄₂ is greater than the thickness of tubular member ₁₄₁ .

Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the fixing method of each component may be bonding or welding.

Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the liquid retaining member 12 is formed of, for example, a sponge-like elastic member, and the liquid retaining member 12 is expanded by removing the sliding member 400 or the tubular member 14 compressing the liquid retaining member 12 , thereby contacting or approaching the heating element 13 .

Claims (18)

1. An atomizing unit, characterized in that it comprises: Liquid holding components that hold the aerosol source; A heating element that atomizes the aerosol source held by the liquid-holding component; A covering component that limits the supply of the aerosol source to the liquid holding component; The liquid-holding component has a shape that extends along a predetermined direction. At least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid-holding component in an orthogonal direction orthogonal to the specified direction is in contact with or close to the heating element. At least a portion of the outer side surface of the liquid-holding member in the orthogonal direction is covered by the covering member. The covering component presses the outer side of the liquid holding component inward in the orthogonal direction, thereby bringing the inner side of the liquid holding component into contact with or close to the heating element. 2. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, Within the range where the inner side of the liquid holding member contacts or approaches the heating element, the covering member covers the outer side of the liquid holding member along its entire length in the predetermined direction. 3. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, Within the area where the inner side of the liquid holding member contacts or approaches the heating element, the covering member covers the outer side of the liquid holding member circumferentially around the predetermined direction. 4. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The covering component evenly covers the outer side of the liquid-holding component. 5. The atomizing unit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cover component covers the outer side of the liquid-holding component in a manner that does not have an opening. 6. The atomizing unit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The covering component has more than 10 openings arranged at equal intervals. 7. The atomizing unit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The covering component has a plurality of openings arranged at equal intervals. The area of the outer side of the liquid-retaining component covered by the covering component, i.e., the coverage area, is more than 60% of the area of the outer side of the liquid-retaining component. 8. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the orthogonal direction, the thickness of the liquid holding member when it is covered by the covering member is less than the thickness of the liquid holding member when it is not covered by the covering member. 9. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a storage unit for storing the aerosol source. At least a portion of the storage section is disposed on the outside of the covering member in the orthogonal direction. 10. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes a blocking member having an outer side surface located in the orthogonal direction between the outer side surface of the heating element and the inner side surface of the liquid holding member, and at a position opposite to a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid holding member. 11. The atomizing unit according to claim 10, characterized in that, The outer side of the barrier component is positioned opposite a portion of the inner side of the cover component. 12. The atomizing unit according to claim 10, characterized in that, The blocking component includes a first cylindrical component and a second cylindrical component spaced apart from the first cylindrical component in the predetermined direction. At least a portion of the inner side surface of the liquid holding component is in contact with or near the heating element between the first cylindrical component and the second cylindrical component. 13. The atomizing unit according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first cylindrical component and the second cylindrical component are made of conductive components. The first cylindrical component forms a first contact point through electrical contact with the heating element. The second cylindrical component forms a second contact by making electrical contact with the heating element. 14. The atomizing unit according to claim 10, characterized in that, The barrier component has the strength to withstand the stress exerted by the covering component pressing the outer side of the barrier component inward in the orthogonal direction. 15. The atomizing unit according to claim 10, characterized in that, The barrier component is a cylindrical component that forms at least a portion of the airflow path. 16. The atomizing unit according to claim 15, characterized in that, The barrier component has an aerosol inlet that allows the aerosol atomized by the heating element to flow into the airflow path. 17. The atomizing unit according to claim 16, characterized in that, The blocking component includes a first cylindrical component forming at least a portion of the airflow path, and a second cylindrical component forming at least a portion of the airflow path. The second cylindrical component is arranged at a distance from the first cylindrical component in the predetermined direction. The aerosol inlet is the space between the first cylindrical component and the second cylindrical component in the specified direction. 18. The atomizing unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the covering component is lower than that of the aerosol source or the liquid holding component.