HK1239471B - Non-combusting flavor inhaler and package - Google Patents

Description

Non-burning aroma inhaler and packaging

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a non-burning flavor inhaler and a package provided with a second cigarette cartridge and a first cigarette cartridge.

Background Art

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

For example, a non-combustion flavor inhaler includes a power supply unit, a first cartridge, and a second cartridge. The power supply unit includes at least a battery. The first cartridge includes at least an aerosol source and an atomizer for atomizing the aerosol source. The second cartridge includes at least a flavor source. The second cartridge and the first cartridge are replaceable.

Prior art literature

Patent Literature

Patent Document 1: WO2013/116558

Summary of the Invention

The key point of the first feature is to provide a non-burning flavor inhaler, which comprises: a power supply unit, which has at least a battery; a first cigarette cartridge, which has at least an aerosol source and an atomization part, and the atomization part atomizes the aerosol source without combustion by using the power supplied by the battery; a second cigarette cartridge, which has at least a flavor source, and imparts flavor to the aerosol by allowing the aerosol atomized by the atomization part to pass through; and a control part, which controls the notification part according to the detection of the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge to notify the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge.

The key point of the second feature is that, in the first feature, the control unit controls the notification unit based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge to notify the replacement timing of the first cartridge, and the control unit detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge.

The gist of the third feature is that, in the first feature or the second feature, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge based on the number of puff actions or the duration of power supply to the atomization unit.

The key point of the fourth feature is that, in the third feature, the control unit has a counter that counts the number of puffing actions or the power-on time of the atomization unit. When the count value of the counter reaches a specified value, the control unit detects the timing of replacing the second cartridge and resets the count value of the counter.

The key point of the fifth feature is that, in the third feature, the control unit has a counter that counts the number of puffing actions or the power-on time of the atomization unit. When the count value of the counter reaches a specified value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge, and the control unit resets the count value of the counter according to the user's specified operation.

The key point of the sixth feature is that in any one of the first to fifth features, the control unit controls the notification unit based on the detection of the replacement timing of the battery or the charging timing of the battery to notify the replacement timing of the battery or the charging timing of the battery.

The seventh feature, in addition to the sixth feature, is that the control unit detects a timing to replace the battery or a timing to charge the battery based on an output voltage of the battery.

The gist of the eighth feature, in the fourth or fifth feature, is that the control unit stops the supply of power from the battery to the atomizing unit from the time the count value of the counter reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset.

The key point of the ninth feature is that, in the first feature, the control unit has a first counter and a second counter as a counter for counting the number of puffing actions or the power-on time of the atomization unit. When the count value of the first counter reaches a first specified value, the control unit detects the timing of replacing the second cartridge. When the count value of the second counter reaches a second specified value, the control unit detects the timing of replacing the first cartridge. The second specified value is an integer multiple of the first specified value.

The tenth feature is that, in the second feature, the control unit includes a counter for counting the number of times the second cartridge is replaced, and when the count value of the counter reaches a predetermined value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the first cartridge.

The key point of the eleventh feature is that, in any one of the first to fifth features, the control unit detects the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge based on the number of puff actions or the power-on time, and as an instruction to the battery, the control unit outputs a prescribed instruction to the battery to make the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit within a desired range, and when a prescribed period has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit, the control unit stops the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit, and the prescribed period is shorter than the upper limit value of the standard puff period derived from the statistics of the user's puff period.

The gist of the twelfth feature is that, in any one of the first to eleventh features, the control unit changes the prescribed instruction as the amount of power stored in the battery decreases so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit falls within the desired range.

The gist of the thirteenth feature is that, in any one of the first to twelfth features, when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is stopped, the control unit performs a detection process for detecting the timing for replacing the second cartridge.

The gist of the fourteenth feature is that, in the thirteenth feature, the control unit performs the detection process during a period from when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit stops until a determination period elapses.

The key point of the fifteenth feature is that in the fourteenth feature, when the replacement timing of the second cartridge is detected in the detection process, the control unit controls the notification unit during the period from the time when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is stopped to the time when the judgment period passes, so as to notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge.

The key point of the sixteenth feature is that, in the fourteenth feature or the fifteenth feature, when the puffing action starts during the period from when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is stopped to when the detection process is performed, the control unit performs the detection process until the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is started in response to the start of the puffing action.

The gist of the seventeenth feature is that, in any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth features, the control unit performs the detection process when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is stopped upon detection of the end of the puffing action.

The gist of the eighteenth feature is that, in any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth features, the control unit performs the detection process when the power supply from the battery to the atomization unit is stopped after a predetermined period has passed since the start of the power supply to the atomization unit.

The key point of the nineteenth feature is to provide a package for the non-combustion flavor inhaler described in any one of the first to eighteenth features, the package comprising: a first cartridge, which has at least an aerosol source and an atomization part, and the atomization part atomizes the aerosol source without combustion; a second cartridge, which has at least a flavor source, and the number of the second cartridges is determined according to the life of the first cartridge.

The key point of the twentieth feature is that in the nineteenth feature, the first cartridge determines the number of puffing actions allowed by the first cartridge, i.e., the allowed number of puffs, or the power-on time allowed by the first cartridge, i.e., the allowed power-on time, and the time when the number of puffing actions or the power-on time to the atomization part reaches the specified value is the time to replace the second cartridge, and the number of the second cartridges is the integer part of the quotient of the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time divided by the specified value.

The key point of the twenty-first feature is that, in the nineteenth feature, the time when the number of puff actions or the power-on time to the atomization part reaches a first specified value is the time to replace the second cartridge, and the time when the number of puff actions or the power-on time to the atomization part reaches a second specified value is the time to replace the first cartridge, and the second specified value is an integer multiple of the first specified value.

In the fourteenth to sixteenth features, the determination period may be any period that is considered shorter than the period from the end of the current puff to the start of the next puff. For example, a period such as 3 seconds may be used, and preferably 1 second.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a cross-sectional view showing a non-burning flavor inhaler 1 according to an embodiment.

FIG2 is a cross-sectional view showing the power supply unit 10 according to the embodiment.

FIG3 is a cross-sectional view of the first cigarette cartridge 20 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the first cigarette cartridge 20 according to the embodiment.

FIG5 is a cross-sectional view showing the second cigarette cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG6 is an exploded perspective view showing the second cigarette cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG7 is a cross-sectional view showing the flavor source housing 31 according to the embodiment (a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown in FIG5 ).

FIG8 is a cross-sectional view (B-B cross-sectional view shown in FIG7 ) showing the flavor source housing 31 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of an opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the opening 32A according to the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to the embodiment.

FIG14 is a diagram showing a C-C cross section shown in FIG13.

FIG. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of duty ratio control according to the embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of duty ratio control according to the embodiment.

FIG18 is a flowchart showing a control method according to the embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to Modification Example 1. FIG.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to Modification Example 2. FIG.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a connected state of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 according to Modification 3. FIG.

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the aerosol amount in Modification Example 4. FIG.

FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the aerosol amount in Modification Example 4. FIG.

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the aerosol amount in Modification Example 4. FIG.

FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the aerosol amount in Modification Example 4. FIG.

FIG. 26 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the fifth modification.

FIG. 27 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the sixth modification.

FIG28 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 according to the seventh modification.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to Modification Example 8. As shown in FIG.

FIG30 is a flowchart showing a control method according to Modification Example 9. FIG.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes the embodiment. In addition, in the description of the following drawings, the same or similar parts are marked with the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and there may be cases where the dimensional ratios thereof are different from the actual dimensional ratios.

Therefore, the following description should be considered when determining specific dimensions, etc. In addition, it is obvious that the drawings may include portions having different dimensional relationships or ratios.

[Public Summary]

The inventors conducted intensive research and found that the lifespan of the second cigarette cartridge is different from that of the first cigarette cartridge.

Based on this new insight, referring to the non-burning flavor inhaler involved in the background art, the above-mentioned non-burning flavor inhaler does not notify the user of the replacement timing of the first cigarette cartridge or the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge, which impairs the convenience of the user.

The non-combustion flavor inhaler disclosed in the outline comprises: a power supply unit, which has at least a battery; a first cartridge, which has at least an aerosol source and an atomization part, and the atomization part atomizes the aerosol source without combustion by using power supplied by the battery; a second cartridge, which has at least a flavor source, and imparts flavor to the aerosol by allowing the aerosol atomized by the atomization part to pass through; and a control part, which controls the notification part based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge to notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge.

In the disclosed summary, the control unit controls the notification unit based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge to notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the second cartridge.

[Implementation Method]

(Non-burning aroma inhaler)

The following describes a non-burning flavor inhaler according to an embodiment. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a non-burning flavor inhaler 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a power supply unit 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a first cartridge 20 according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is an internal structure diagram of the first cartridge 20 according to an embodiment. However, it should be noted that the storage container 21 described later is omitted in Figure 4. Figure 5 is a side view of a second cartridge 30 according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second cartridge 30 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a flavor source container 31 according to an embodiment (the A-A cross-sectional view shown in Figure 5). Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a flavor source container 31 according to an embodiment (the B-B cross-sectional view shown in Figure 7). However, it should be noted that the flavor source 31A described later is omitted in Figure 6.

1 , the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 has a shape extending from the non-mouthpiece end toward the mouthpiece end (ie, a predetermined direction A). The non-burning flavor inhaler 1 is an appliance for inhaling flavor without combustion.

Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 includes a power supply unit 10, a first cartridge 20, and a second cartridge 30. The first cartridge 20 is removable relative to the power supply unit 10, and the second cartridge 30 is removable relative to the first cartridge 20. In other words, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

As shown in FIG2 , the power supply unit 10 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A and includes at least a battery 11. Battery 11 may be a disposable battery or a rechargeable battery. The initial output voltage of battery 11 is preferably within a range of 1.2V to 4.2V. Furthermore, the battery capacity of battery 11 is preferably within a range of 100mAh to 1000mAh.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first cigarette cartridge 20 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A. The first cigarette cartridge 20 includes a storage container 21, an atomizing unit 22, a flow path forming body 23, an outer frame 24, and an end cap 25. As an aerosol flow path extending along the predetermined direction A, the first cigarette cartridge 20 has a first flow path 20X disposed downstream of the atomizing unit 22. In the aerosol flow path, it should be noted that the side closer to the atomizing unit 22 is referred to as the upstream side, and the side farther from the atomizing unit 22 is referred to as the downstream side.

The storage container 21 stores an aerosol source 21A. The storage container 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A). In the embodiment, the storage container 21 is located in the gap between the flow path forming body 23 and the outer frame 24. The storage container 21 is composed of a porous body such as a resin fiber mesh or cotton. However, the storage container 21 can also be composed of a tank that contains a liquid aerosol source 21A. The aerosol source 21A contains a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

The atomizing section 22 utilizes the electricity supplied by the battery 11 to atomize the aerosol source 21A without combustion. In the embodiment, preferably, the atomizing section 22 is composed of a heating wire (winding) wound at a prescribed interval, and the atomizing section 22 is composed of a heating wire having a resistance value in the range of 1.0Ω to 3.0Ω. The prescribed interval is greater than the value at which the heating wires do not touch, and is preferably a smaller value. The prescribed interval is preferably less than 0.40 mm, for example. In order to stabilize the atomization of the aerosol source 21A, it is preferred that the prescribed interval does not change. In addition, the prescribed interval is the interval between the centers of adjacent heating wires.

The flow channel forming body 23 has a shape extending in the predetermined direction A. The flow channel forming body 23 has a cylindrical shape in which the first flow channel 20X extending in the predetermined direction A is formed.

The outer frame 24 has a shape extending in a predetermined direction A. The outer frame 24 has a cylindrical shape that accommodates the flow channel forming body 23. In the embodiment, the outer frame 24 extends to the downstream side of the end cap 25 and accommodates a portion of the second cigarette cartridge 30.

The end cap 25 is a cap that closes the gap between the flow channel forming body 23 and the outer frame 24 from the downstream side. The end cap 25 prevents the aerosol source 21A stored in the storage container 21 from leaking toward the second cartridge 30.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6 , the second cartridge 30 includes at least a flavor source 31A. The second cartridge 30 is mounted on the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 . In this embodiment, the second cartridge 30 is connected to the first cartridge 20 . Specifically, as described above, a portion of the second cartridge 30 is housed within the outer frame 24 of the first cartridge 20 .

The second cartridge 30 has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A. The second cartridge 30 includes a flavor source container 31, a mesh body 32, a filter 33, and a cap 34. The second cartridge 30 includes a second flow path 30X as an aerosol flow path disposed downstream of the first flow path 20X.

The second cigarette cartridge 30 imparts flavor to the aerosol by passing the aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22. In this embodiment, it should be noted that the aerosol can be imparted with flavor without heating the flavor source 31A. It should also be noted that the aerosol is not actually generated from the flavor source 31A.

In the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably less than 40 mm. Further preferably, in the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is less than 25 mm. On the other hand, in the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably more than 5 mm. Further preferably, in the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is more than 1 mm. In the direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably less than 20 mm. Further preferably, in the direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction A, the maximum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is less than 10 mm. On the other hand, in the direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is preferably more than 3 mm. Further preferably, in the direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction A, the minimum size of the second cigarette cartridge 30 is more than 1 mm.

The flavor source container 31 has a cylindrical shape and forms a second flow path 30X extending along the prescribed direction A. The flavor source container 31 contains a flavor source 31A. The flavor source 31A that imparts flavor to the aerosol is contained in the second flow path 30X. Here, in the cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), in order to ensure the volume of the storage container 21 that stores the aerosol source 21A, the size of the first flow path 20X is preferably smaller. Therefore, in the case where the second cigarette cartridge 30 is housed in the outer frame 24 having a constant cross-sectional area along the entire aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), as a result, the size of the second flow path 30X tends to become larger than the size of the above-mentioned first flow path 20X.

The flavor source 31A is composed of a raw material sheet that imparts flavor to the aerosol generated by the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. The lower limit of the raw material sheet size is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less. Further preferably, the lower limit of the raw material sheet size is 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. The smaller the size of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A, the larger the specific surface area, and therefore, the easier it is to release flavor components from the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A. As the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A, shredded tobacco or a granular formed body formed by shaping tobacco raw materials can be used. The flavor source 31A can also be composed of plants other than tobacco (for example, mint, herbs, etc.). The flavor source 31A can also contain spices such as menthol.

Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are obtained by, for example, using a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801 and then sieving them according to JIS Z 8815. For example, the raw material pieces are sieved using a 0.71 mm mesh stainless steel sieve by dry and mechanical vibration for 20 minutes, obtaining raw material pieces that pass through the 0.71 mm mesh stainless steel sieve. Next, the raw material pieces are sieved using a 0.212 mm mesh stainless steel sieve by dry and mechanical vibration for 20 minutes, removing raw material pieces that pass through the 0.212 mm mesh stainless steel sieve. In other words, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A are those that pass through a stainless steel sieve of a predetermined upper limit (mesh size = 0.71 mm) and do not pass through a stainless steel sieve of 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 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve of the predetermined lower limit. The upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31A is defined by the mesh size of the stainless steel sieve that specifies the upper limit.

In an embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7 , the flavor source container 31 preferably has a protrusion 31E that protrudes from the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A) toward the upstream side (in an embodiment, the flow path forming body 23 or the end cap 25 side). The protrusion 31E may be provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31, or it may be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the flavor source container 31. Furthermore, in the event that there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, the protrusion 31E is preferably provided continuously along the outer edge of the upstream end (here, the mesh body 32) of the flavor source container 31. This prevents aerosol from stagnating in the space formed upstream of the tapered portion 31T.

In the embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7 , the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31 preferably includes a tapered portion 31T that expands from upstream to downstream. The tapered portion 31T only needs to be included in a portion of the outer wall surface of the flavor source container 31. The taper angle α of the tapered portion 31T is, for example, approximately 5 degrees.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG7 , ribs 31R are preferably provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31, extending from upstream to downstream along a predetermined direction A. Although not particularly limited, the number of ribs 31R is preferably two or more. The downstream end of the rib 31R preferably does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. For example, in the predetermined direction A, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, when the filter 33 is inserted into the flavor source container 31, the downstream end of the rib 31R preferably does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source container 31, but is in contact with the filter 33.

The mesh body 32 is arranged upstream (non-mouthpiece side) of the fragrance source 31A. In an embodiment, the mesh body 32 is arranged at the upstream end of the fragrance source container 31. In the case where the mesh body 32 is provided in a very small fragrance source container 31, from the perspective of ensuring the strength of the mesh body 32, it is preferred that the fragrance source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are formed by integral molding. That is, in an embodiment, the mesh body 32 is a part of the fragrance source container 31. In this case, the fragrance source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are preferably made of resin. As the resin, for example, one or more resins selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene resin and ABS resin can be used. From the perspective of formability and texture, the resin is preferably polypropylene. The fragrance source container 31 and the mesh body 32 are formed by mold molding or injection molding.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG8 , the mesh body 32 includes a plurality of openings 32A. Each of the openings 32A has a polygonal shape with an interior angle of 180° or less. The width passing through the center of gravity of each of the openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin, which is the minimum width, and a maximum width Wmax, which is the maximum width. The minimum width Wmin is smaller than the lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A. Specifically, since the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A is actually non-spherical, the minimum width Wim is preferably less than half the lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A to prevent the raw material sheet from falling out. The maximum width Wmax is larger than the minimum width Wmin. For example, the maximum width Wmax is preferably larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet. Alternatively, the maximum width Wmax is preferably at least 100 times and no more than 60 times the minimum width Wmin. In other words, the openings 32A each have a shape other than a circle. Furthermore, to prevent the raw material sheet from being easily inserted into the openings 32A, each of the openings 32A is preferably a quadrilateral. Furthermore, each side of the quadrilateral shape of the opening 32A may include a nonlinear portion generated when the opening 32A is manufactured. Furthermore, each vertex of the quadrilateral shape of the opening 32A may include a curved portion generated when the opening 32A is manufactured.

Here, as shown in Figures 9 to 12, preferably, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, and an octagon. The plurality of openings 32A may each have a single shape, as shown in Figures 9 to 11, or may have two shapes, as shown in Figure 12. The plurality of openings 32A may each have three or more shapes. In addition, considering aspects such as the arrangement efficiency of the plurality of openings 32A and the ease of manufacturing, it is preferred that each of the plurality of openings 32A has a quadrilateral shape.

In the examples shown in Figures 9 to 12, the plurality of openings 32A are preferably arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is preferably 0.15 mm to 0.30 mm. In this case, the thickness of the mesh body 32 is preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

The filter 33 is made of a predetermined fiber, having a thickness that prevents the raw material sheet from passing through. The filter 33 is located downstream of the flavor source 31A. The filter 33 is, for example, an acetate filter. The cap 34 is located downstream of the filter 33 (on the mouthpiece side).

Furthermore, the flavor source container 31 (including the mesh body 32 in this case), the filter 33 and the cover 34 are preferably bonded or welded to each other.

In the embodiment, it is preferable that all openings of the mesh body 32 are the openings 32A described above, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The openings of the mesh body 32 may include openings other than the openings 32A described above.

(Connection Status)

The following describes the connection between the first and second cigarette cartridges 20, 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 13 illustrates the connection between the first and second cigarette cartridges 20, 30 according to the embodiment. Figure 14 illustrates the cross-section taken along line C-C in Figure 13. However, it should be noted that Figure 13 omits the storage container 21, atomizing unit 22, flavor source 31A, filter 33, and cap 34.

As shown in Figure 13, to suppress uneven aerosol flow within the second flow path 30X, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X. In the embodiment, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source housing 31. Specifically, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the end cap 25 and the mesh body 32.

Here, the filling rate of the flavor source 31A contained within the flavor source container 31 may not be 100% relative to the volume of the flavor source container 31. In other words, it is conceivable that there may be voids within the flavor source container 31. However, it is clear that the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G does not contain voids caused by the filling rate of the flavor source 31A not being 100%.

In an embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, with the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X on a straight line extending from the center of gravity of the first flow path 20X toward the outside of the first flow path 20X being the offset distance, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A can be determined by taking into account the maximum offset distance among the offset distances. In other words, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can be determined based on the maximum offset distance. To minimize uneven flow of the aerosol flowing within the flavor source container 31, the longer the maximum offset distance, the longer the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. The length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is preferably at least 1/10 of the maximum offset distance.

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

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

In the embodiment, preferably, the entire downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) is exposed to the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. Preferably, the entire upstream end of the flavor source housing 31 (second flow path 30X) is exposed to the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. Thus, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can efficiently adjust the flow of the aerosol guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X.

The aerosol flow adjustment chamber G preferably does not include any portion extending upstream of the downstream end of the flow channel forming member 23 (first flow channel 20X). The aerosol flow adjustment chamber G preferably does not include any portion extending downstream of the upstream end of the flavor source container 31 (second flow channel 30X). This prevents unnecessary stagnation of aerosol in the space.

Preferably, the inner wall surface of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is continuous from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 (first flow path 20X) to the outer edge of the upstream end of the flavor source containing body 31 (second flow path 30X) in a manner that does not include a height difference.

In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 13 and 14 , in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (predetermined direction A), the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 preferably contacts the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame 24, while the inner edge 25in of the end cap 25 is positioned between the outer edge 23out and the inner edge 23in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove the end cap 25 from the downstream side. Furthermore, when the end cap 25 is positioned within the outer frame 24, it is less likely to interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

(Control Circuit)

The following mainly describes the control circuit of the embodiment. Fig. 15 is a diagram mainly showing functional blocks of the control circuit 50 of the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 includes a notification unit 40 and a control circuit 50 .

The notification unit 40 provides various notifications. The notification unit 40 can be comprised of a light-emitting element, a vibration element, or a sound output element. Alternatively, the notification unit 40 can be a combination of two or more of these elements. The notification unit 40 is preferably located in the power supply unit 10, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The notification unit 40 can be located in either the first or second cartridge 20 or 30.

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

The detection unit 51 detects puffing. In this case, the detection unit 51 is connected to a suction sensor and detects puffing based on the suction sensor's output. Furthermore, the detection unit 51 detects the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In this case, the detection unit 51 is connected to a voltage sensor provided on the wire connecting the battery 11 and the atomization unit 22 and detects the power supply based on the voltage sensor's output.

The notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify various information. For example, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30. As described above, the notification unit 40 can notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30 by emitting light from a light-emitting element, vibrating a vibration element, or outputting sound from a sound output element.

Here, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomization unit 22. Furthermore, the number of puffs can be determined by the puffs detected by the detection unit 51. Similarly, the duration of power supply to the atomization unit 22 can be determined by the power supply detected by the detection unit 51.

Specifically, the notification control unit 52 includes a counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. When the count value of counter 52X reaches a specified value, the notification control unit 52 detects when the second cartridge 30 should be replaced and resets the count value of counter 52X. Furthermore, preferably, the notification control unit 52 resets the count value of counter 52X after the second cartridge 30 is replaced. Alternatively, when the count value of counter 52X reaches a specified value, the notification control unit 52 notifies the user of the timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 and resets the count value of counter 52X through a specified user operation. If a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for turning the power of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 on and off or a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for controlling the power supply to the atomizing unit 22 is provided on the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1, the specified user operation may be an operation on the hardware interface. Alternatively, if the detection unit 51 can detect a puff, the specified user operation may also be an operation of blowing air through the mouthpiece of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Alternatively, if the detection unit 51 can detect a puff action and the puff action can be distinguished from a normal puff action, the user's predetermined operation may be an inhalation action (e.g., two short inhalations). The counter 52X may be an incrementing counter or a decrementing counter.

In an embodiment, the notification control unit 52 preferably controls the notification unit 40 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. In this case, the notification control unit 52 preferably detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 when the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 reaches a predetermined number.

In the embodiment, notification control unit 52 preferably controls notification unit 40 based on detection of a replacement timing or a charging timing for battery 11, thereby notifying the user of the replacement timing or the charging timing for battery 11. In this case, notification control unit 52 preferably detects the replacement timing or the charging timing for battery 11 based on the output voltage of battery 11. Specifically, notification control unit 52 preferably detects the replacement timing or the charging timing for battery 11 when the output voltage of battery 11 falls below a predetermined threshold.

However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the notification control unit 52 may also detect the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the notification control unit 52 may also detect the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11 when the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

In addition, similar to the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30, the notification unit 40 notifies the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20, the replacement timing of the battery 11, or the charging timing of the battery 11 by emitting light from the light emitting element, vibrating the vibration element, or outputting sound from the sound output element.

As a command to the battery 11, the power control unit 53 outputs a predetermined command to the battery 11. This predetermined command is output to the battery 11 so that the amount of aerosol generated by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range. The predetermined command may be output once per puff. Furthermore, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the puff period. However, it should be noted that the power control unit 53 does not instruct the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the non-puff period. Furthermore, the puff period and the non-puff period may be determined based on the puff detected by the detection unit 51.

Here, the power control unit 53 controls the prescribed instructions so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 remains within a desired range. For example, as the battery 11's stored charge decreases, the power control unit 53 changes the prescribed instructions. Furthermore, if a prescribed period of time has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22, the power control unit 53 stops supplying power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22. In other words, even during a puff period where the user is actually taking a puff, if the puff period exceeds the prescribed period, the power control unit 53 stops supplying power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22.

Furthermore, even before the predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the puff, if the puffing action has ended, the power control unit 53 stops supplying power from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Thus, since aerosol is not generated during the period when no puffing action is being taken (the non-puffing period), the generation of droplets due to aerosol stagnation and condensation within the aerosol flow path during the non-puffing period can be suppressed. This can prevent aerosol generated during the puffing action that follows the non-puffing period from being captured by the droplets. This can thereby prevent the supply of aerosol within the desired range from being hindered, and prevent a deterioration in taste due to droplets.

Here, the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods. More preferably, the predetermined period is shorter than the average puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff periods. Of course, the average puff period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period.

Because the prescribed period is determined to suppress variations in user puff durations, it is necessary that a certain number of users have puff durations longer than the prescribed period. For this reason, the prescribed period is preferably derived from statistics. Furthermore, because the prescribed period is shorter than the statistically derived average of puff durations, the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 during a majority of puffs can be kept constant within the prescribed period, thereby suppressing fluctuations in aerosol volume caused by variations in user puff durations.

For example, the predetermined period is between 1 second and 3 seconds. By setting the predetermined period to 1 second or longer, the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 is not too short compared to the duration of the puff, thereby reducing the user's unnatural sensation. On the other hand, by setting the predetermined period to 3 seconds or shorter, the number of puffs in which the power supply to the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period can be limited to a certain number or more.

In addition, the predetermined period may be 1.5 seconds or more and 2.5 seconds or less. This can further reduce the unnatural feeling given to the user and increase the number of inhalation actions in which the power supply time to the atomizing unit 22 is fixed to the predetermined period.

In the embodiment, the predetermined period is preferably determined in advance. In this case, the predetermined period is preferably determined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of a plurality of users.

Here, the standard puff duration can be derived from statistics of a user's puff durations and is the duration between a lower limit value among multiple users' puff durations and an upper limit value among multiple users' puff durations. The lower limit and upper limit values can also be derived based on the distribution of the user's puff duration data, for example, as the lower limit and upper limit values of a 95% confidence interval around the mean, or as m±nσ (where m is the mean, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number).

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably changes (or amends) the prescribed command as the battery 11's charge level decreases, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 remains within a desired range. For example, when the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 is controlled by pulse control, the power control unit 53 preferably increases the duty cycle of the power supplied to the battery 11 during a single puff as the battery 11's charge level decreases, as a change to the prescribed command.

For example, as shown in FIG16 , the power control unit 53 controls the on-time interval (pulse interval) during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the duty ratio of the power output to the battery 11 during one puff by changing the pulse interval P1 to the pulse interval P2.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG17 , the power control unit 53 controls the length of time (pulse width) during which power is supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Specifically, the power control unit 53 increases the duty cycle of the power output to the battery 11 during one puff by changing the pulse width W1 to the pulse width W2.

Furthermore, as a change in the predetermined command, the power control unit 53 may increase the duty ratio in stages or continuously as the amount of electricity stored in the battery 11 decreases.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the voltage output from the battery 11. Alternatively, the power control unit 53 may estimate the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. The number of puffs may be determined based on the puffs detected by the detection unit 51. Similarly, the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 may be determined based on the power supply detected by the detection unit 51.

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 preferably stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 from the time the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. In other words, the power control unit 53 preferably stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 from the time the second cartridge 30 replacement is notified until the count value is reset. In other words, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is stopped until the second cartridge 30 is replaced. This prevents the use of the second cartridge 30, which can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol.

(Control Method)

The following describes the control method of the embodiment. Figure 18 is a flow chart of the control method of the embodiment. Figure 18 is a flow chart of the method for controlling the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 during a single puff. Note that the flow shown in Figure 18 begins upon detection of the start of a puff.

It should also be noted that, as a prerequisite for the process shown in Figure 18, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) commands the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 11 during the puffing period when the puffing action is performed, but does not command the battery 11 to output power to the atomization unit 22 during the non-puffing period when no puffing action is performed.

18 , in step S10, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 (ie, the power control unit 53) estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11. As described above, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 preferably estimates the amount of charge in the battery 11 based on the voltage value outputted from the battery 11.

In step S20, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines a predetermined command (e.g., a duty cycle) to be output to the battery 11. Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 determines the duty cycle to be output to the battery 11 so that the duty cycle increases as the amount of power stored in the battery 11 decreases. In other words, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 increases the duty cycle as a change in the predetermined command.

In step S30, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed since power was supplied to the atomizing unit 22. In other words, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 determines whether the puffing period has exceeded the predetermined period. If the determination result is "yes," the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S50; if the determination result is "no," the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S40.

In step S40, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the power control unit 53) determines whether the puffing action is ended. If the determination result is "no", the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 returns to the process of step S30. If the determination result is "yes", the power supply to the atomization unit 22 is stopped, and a series of processes are ended. In addition, as described above, if the detection unit 51 is capable of detecting the puffing action, the end of the puffing action can also be detected by the detection unit 51. Alternatively, the end of the puffing action can also be detected by operating a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for switching whether to supply power to the atomization unit 22.

In step S50 , even during the puff period when the user actually takes a puff, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (ie, the power control unit 53 ) stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 .

(Function and Effect)

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. The predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of user puff periods. Therefore, even if a user uses the non-combustion flavor inhaler with a puff period longer than the predetermined period, an extreme decrease in the battery 11's charge level can be suppressed, making it easier to control the predetermined command so that the aerosol volume atomized by the atomizing unit 22 falls within the desired range.

In this way, regardless of the length of the user's puffing period and the power storage level of the battery 11, the amount of aerosol supplied in each puffing action can be kept within the desired range through the puffing action from the start of smoking (the early stage when the power storage level of the battery 11 is sufficient) to the end of smoking (i.e., the final stage when the power storage level of the battery 11 is reduced).

In this embodiment, as the battery 11's charge level decreases, the power control unit 53 changes the specified command output to the battery 11 during a single puff. This allows for a reduction in the difference in the amount of power actually supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 between the early stages, when the battery 11's charge level is sufficient, and the late stages, when the battery 11's charge level is insufficient. Consequently, the amount of aerosol generated by the atomization unit 22 can be kept within a desired range, regardless of the length of the user's puff and the battery 11's charge level.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 to notify the user of the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20.

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30. Therefore, the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 can be easily detected. Furthermore, the possibility of the first cartridge 20 expiring during use of the second cartridge 30 can be reduced. Furthermore, it is clear that the replacement timing (lifespan) of the first cartridge 20 corresponds to the number of second cartridges 30 that can be used with one first cartridge 20 (the number of replacements).

In the embodiment, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 based on the detection of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11, so as to notify the user of the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the timing to replace the battery 11 or the timing to charge the battery 11.

In this embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 from the time the count value of the counter 52X reaches a predetermined value until the count value is reset. Therefore, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is stopped until the second cigarette cartridge 30 is replaced. This prevents the use of the second cigarette cartridge 30, which can only impart a small amount of flavor to the aerosol.

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the prescribed instructions so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range, and stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 when a prescribed period has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. Therefore, since the unevenness in the amount of power consumed during a single puff is reduced, the detection accuracy of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 can be improved when detecting the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the number of puffs.

In the embodiment, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is provided between the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X, thereby suppressing uneven aerosol flow within the second flow path 30X. This facilitates uniform passage of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X through the flavor source within the second flow path 30X.

In this embodiment, the storage container 21 is located around the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A). This allows the total length of the first cigarette cartridge 20 to be reduced along the first flow path 20X (prescribed direction A), while ensuring the volume of the storage container 21 for storing the aerosol source 21A.

In this embodiment, the second flow path 30X is larger than the first flow path 20X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A). In other words, because the first flow path 20X is smaller in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the volume of the storage container 21 surrounding the flow path forming body 23 can be maintained. The larger second flow path 30X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) allows for efficient extraction of flavor components from the flavor source 31A.

In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the outer edge 25out of the end cap 25 contacts the inner wall surface 24in of the outer frame 24, while the inner edge 25in of the end cap 25 is positioned between the outer edge 23out and the inner edge 23in of the flow path forming body 23. This makes it difficult to remove the end cap 25 from the downstream side. Furthermore, when the end cap 25 is positioned within the outer frame 24, it is less likely to interfere with the flow path forming body 23.

In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the predetermined direction A, with the distance from the outer edge of the first flow path 20X to the outer surface of the second flow path 30X being the offset distance, the length LG of the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G in the predetermined direction A is determined based on the maximum offset distance among the offset distances. Thus, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can appropriately adjust the flow of the aerosol guided from the first flow path 20X to the second flow path 30X, allowing the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X to easily pass through the flavor source 31A without causing unevenness within the second cartridge 30.

In the embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A provided in the mesh body 32 has a polygonal shape with an internal angle of 180° or less. Each of the plurality of openings 32A has a minimum width Wmin and a maximum width Wmax, as the width passing through the center of gravity of each opening 32A. The minimum width Wmin is smaller than the size of the raw material sheet constituting the fragrance source 31A, thereby preventing the raw material sheet from falling off. Since the maximum width Wmax is greater than the minimum width Wmin, the overall mesh body porosity can be increased.

In this manner, in the second cartridge 30 for the non-combustion flavor inhaler, the opening rate of the entire mesh body 32 can be ensured while suppressing the falling of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source.

In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the openings 32A is larger than the lower limit of the size of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A. Therefore, the opening ratio of the entire mesh body 32 is increased.

In the embodiment, the maximum width Wmax of the opening 32A is not less than times and not more than six times the minimum width Wmin of the opening 32A. Therefore, by making the maximum width Wmax not less than times the minimum width Wmin, the overall opening ratio of the mesh body 32 is increased, and by making the maximum width Wmax not less than six times the minimum width Wmin, the strength of the mesh body 32 can be maintained.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of openings 32A has a shape selected from a square, a rectangle, a rhombus, a hexagon, and an octagon. The plurality of openings 32A are arranged so that the sides of adjacent openings 32A are parallel. The spacing P between adjacent openings 32A is not less than 0.15 mm and not more than 0.30 mm. This allows for efficient arrangement of the plurality of openings 32A, increasing the overall porosity of the mesh body 32 while maintaining the strength of the mesh body 32.

In the embodiment, ribs 31R are provided on the inner wall surface of the flavor source container 31, extending from upstream to downstream along a predetermined direction A. Thus, the ribs 31R reinforce the flavor source container 31, and the flow of aerosol along the predetermined direction A within the flavor source container 31 is not hindered by the ribs 31R, allowing flavor components to be easily extracted from the flavor source 31A.

In the embodiment, the outer wall of the flavor source container 31 includes a tapered portion 31T that expands from upstream to downstream. This facilitates the second cigarette cartridge 30 to fit easily into the outer frame 24 of the first cigarette cartridge 20, while allowing for manufacturing tolerances in the outer shape of the flavor source container 31 and preventing the second cigarette cartridge 30 from falling out.

In the embodiment, the length L2 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the rib 31R in the predetermined direction A is shorter than the length L1 from the mesh body 32 to the downstream end of the flavor source container 31. In other words, the downstream end of the rib 31R does not reach the downstream end of the flavor source container 31, but instead contacts the filter 33. Therefore, the rib 31R serves both to reinforce the flavor source container 31 and to position the filter 33.

[Change Example 1]

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

Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. In contrast, in Modification 1, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

FIG19 is a diagram showing the connection state of the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30 in Modification 1. However, it should be noted that the storage container 21, the atomizing unit 22, the flavor source 31A, the filter 33 and the cap 34 are omitted in FIG19.

As shown in FIG19 , the fragrance source container 31 includes a main body 31P for housing the fragrance source 31A and a flange 31Q disposed on a side of the main body 31P. It should be noted that, in a cross-section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A), the flange 31Q extends further outward than the main body 31P and extends outward to an equal or greater extent than the inner surface of the outer frame 24. In FIG19 , the flange 31Q is disposed on the side of the downstream end of the main body 31P, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be disposed anywhere on the side of the main body 31P as long as it is capable of being latched onto the inner surface of the outer frame 24.

Here, the distance L3 from the downstream end of the outer frame 24 to the end cap 25 (i.e., the distance from the portion of the outer frame 24 where the flange 31Q contacts the downstream end of the end cap 25) is longer than the length L4 of the main body 31P (i.e., the distance from the upstream end of the flange 31Q to the upstream end of the main body 31P). Therefore, by having the flange 31Q engage the downstream end of the outer frame 24, even if the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E, an aerosol flow adjustment chamber G can be formed to adjust the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X.

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

[Change Example 2]

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

Specifically, in the embodiment, the flavor source container 31 has the protrusion 31E (first protrusion) as a spacer forming the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G. In contrast, in Modification 2, the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E.

Figure 20 shows the connection between the first and second cigarette cartridges 20 and 30 in Modification 2. Note that Figure 20 omits the storage container 21, atomizing unit 22, flavor source 31A, filter 33, and cap 34. The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end (preferably the outer edge) of the flavor source container 31.

As shown in Figure 20, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (the side of the flavor source container 31). The protrusion 25E can be provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25, or it can be provided intermittently along the outer edge of the end cap 25. In addition, when there is a gap between the outer frame 24 and the flavor source container 31, it is preferable that the protrusion 25 is provided continuously along the outer edge of the end cap 25. This can prevent the aerosol from being retained in the space formed in the upstream portion of the tapered portion 31T.

Thus, by providing the protrusion 25E instead of the protrusion 31E, even if the flavor source container 31 does not have the protrusion 31E, it is possible to form the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G that adjusts the flow of the aerosol supplied from the first flow path 20X.

In addition, when the first cigarette cartridge 20 does not have an end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 has a protrusion that is the same as the protrusion 25E, which protrudes from the outer edge of the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (flavor source container 31 side).

[Change Example 3]

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

Specifically, in the embodiment, the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X completely overlap when viewed from the predetermined direction A. In addition, preferably, the second flow path 30X is larger than the first flow path 20X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (the predetermined direction A).

In contrast, in Modification 3, as shown in FIG21 , when viewed from the predetermined direction A, the first flow path 20X and the second flow path 30X do not completely overlap, but are offset from the second flow path 30X. In this case, the size of the second flow path 30X in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (the predetermined direction A) is not particularly limited and can be approximately the same as or smaller than the size of the first flow path 20X. However, the size of the second flow path 30X can also be larger than the size of the first flow path 20X.

[Change Example 4]

The following describes Modification 4 of the embodiment with reference to Figures 22 to 25 . The following primarily describes the differences from the embodiment. In Figures 22 to 25 , the vertical axis represents the aerosol volume (TPM (Total Particulate Matter) in Figures 22 to 25 ) (mg/puff), and the horizontal axis represents the number of puffs (Puff number). On both the vertical and horizontal axes, the farther away from their intersection, the larger the value.

In Modification 4, as in the embodiment, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. The predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of user puff periods.

It should be noted that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 depends on the puff duration during which the user actually takes a puff and the output voltage to the battery 11. Here, the explanation assumes that the standard puff duration, derived from statistics of the user's puff duration, follows a normal distribution with a mean of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second. Furthermore, in this case, as described above, the upper limit of the standard puff duration is derived by m+nσ (where m is the mean, σ is the standard deviation, and n is a positive real number), for example, to be approximately 3 to 4 seconds. Here, the explanation assumes that the upper limit of the standard puff duration is 3 seconds (n = 0.6).

In sample E, the initial value of the output voltage of battery 11 is 4.2V, and the battery capacity of battery 11 is 220mAh. In addition, the atomization section 22 is composed of a wound heating wire, and the resistance value of the heating wire is 3.5Ω. In Figure 22, sample E1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds in each puff action, and sample E2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample E is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds in each puff action. It should be noted here that, when the standard puff period follows a normal distribution with an average of 2.4 seconds and a standard deviation of 1 second, as shown in sample E2, the probability of inhaling with a puff period of more than 3 seconds in each puff action is approximately 27%, which can be said to be a fully occurring phenomenon.

In Sample F, the configuration of the battery 11 and the atomization unit 22 is the same as that of Sample E. In FIG23 , Sample F1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample F is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds per puff, and Sample F2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when Sample F is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds per puff. However, in Samples F1 and F2, the power control unit 53 stops the supply of power from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 after a specified period (here, 2.2 seconds) has passed since the start of power supply to the atomization unit 22. It should be noted that the specified period of 2.2 seconds is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of the user's puff period, and is shorter than the average value of the puff period.

In sample G, the structure of the battery 11 is the same as that of samples E and F. On the other hand, the atomization section 22 is composed of a heating wire wound at a predetermined pitch, and the resistance value of the heating wire is 2.9Ω, which is different from samples E and F. In Figure 24, sample G1 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample G is inhaled with a puff period of 2 seconds per puff action, and sample G2 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol when sample G is inhaled with a puff period of 3 seconds per puff action. However, in samples G1 and G2, when a predetermined period (here, 2.2 seconds) has passed since the start of the power supply to the atomization section 22, the power control section 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization section 22.

In Sample H, the configuration of the battery 11 and atomizing section 11 is identical to that of Sample G. However, the prescribed pitch of the heating wire constituting the atomizing section 22 is uniformly wound within a range of 0.35 mm to 0.40 mm, and is narrower than that of Sample G. Figure 25 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and aerosol volume for Sample H1 when each puff of Sample H is inhaled for 2 seconds, and the relationship between the number of puffs and aerosol volume for Sample H2 when each puff of Sample H is inhaled for 3 seconds. Furthermore, in Samples H1 and H2, as in Sample G, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 after a prescribed period (here, 2.2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing section 22. However, in Samples H1 and H2, the duty cycle of the power supply to the atomizing section 22 is changed based on the output voltage of the battery 11 detected by the detection unit 51. Specifically, as described above, the output voltage of the battery 11 decreases as the amount of electricity stored in the battery 11 decreases. Therefore, the duty ratio of the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 increases in accordance with the decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11.

Under these circumstances, as shown in Figure 22, for Sample E, where the puff period and the duration of power flow to the atomizing unit 22 remain consistent regardless of the length of the puff period, the aerosol amount fluctuates significantly between the puff periods of 3 seconds and 2 seconds. Furthermore, a comparison of the slopes for Samples E1 and E2 reveals that the longer the puff period, i.e., the power flow time, the more pronounced the change in aerosol amount from the first to the last puff.

Based on the above findings, the inventors set a predetermined period shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period derived from statistics of user puff periods. When the predetermined period elapses from the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22 during a single puff, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped. As shown in FIG23 , even in sample F2, which has a puff period of 3 seconds, fluctuations in aerosol volume from the first to the last puff can be suppressed. This suppresses fluctuations in aerosol volume caused by uneven puffing during a user's puff.

Furthermore, the inventors, focusing on these results, discovered that by modifying the configuration of the atomizing section 22, the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 remains within a desired range when the power to the atomizing section 22 is supplied for a predetermined period. Consequently, as shown in FIG24 , the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 can be maintained within the desired range over a longer period of puffs, from the first to the last puff. Comparing sample G2 shown in FIG24 with sample F2 shown in FIG23 , sample G2 maintains the aerosol atomized by the atomizing section 22 within the desired range over a longer period of puffs than sample F2. Furthermore, the fluctuation range of the aerosol amount from the first to the last puff is greater than that of sample F2. This is because the modification of the configuration of the atomizing section 22 increases the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 during a single puff.

Furthermore, the inventors, focusing on these results, discovered that the rate of aerosol reduction could be reduced by making the following changes. Specifically, the rate of aerosol reduction could be reduced by increasing the duty cycle of the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in response to a decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11. Furthermore, the rate of aerosol reduction could be reduced by narrowing the prescribed spacing between the heating wires. As shown in Figure 25 , these changes revealed that, in either case, the aerosol volume atomized by the atomizing unit 22 remained within the desired range throughout the entire puff period, from the first to the last puff, regardless of whether it was H1, with a puff period of 2 seconds, or H2, with a puff period of 3 seconds.

Based on these results, the inventors have newly discovered that the following control is effective for the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 .

(1) When a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the atomizing unit 22, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22. Preferably, the predetermined period is shorter than an upper limit of a standard puff period derived from statistics of a user's puff periods and shorter than an average value of puff periods.

(2) The resistance value of the heating wire of the atomizing section 22 is determined so that the aerosol amount within a desired range is atomized when the power supply to the atomizing section 22 is kept for a predetermined period. Here, the resistance value of the heating wire is preferably determined so that the voltage supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing section 22 is assumed to be a voltage at the end of a period when the battery 11 is insufficiently charged, and so that the aerosol amount atomized by the atomizing section 22 is kept within a desired range when the power supply to the atomizing section 22 is kept for a predetermined period.

(3) Furthermore, the power control unit 53 increases the duty cycle of the power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 in response to a decrease in the output voltage of the battery 11, thereby keeping the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 within a desired range throughout the entire period from the first puff to the last puff.

Through the above-mentioned control, regardless of the length of the user's puff period, from the initial stage when the battery 11 has sufficient power to the final stage when the battery 11 has insufficient power, the difference in the amount of power actually supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 can be suppressed, so that the aerosol amount is within the desired range.

That is, in modification example 4, by adjusting the prescribed spacing and resistance value of the heating wire constituting the atomizing section 22, the atomizing section 22 can atomize a larger amount of aerosol than the desired range of the aerosol supply amount in a single inhalation action, at least when the atomizing section 22 is started to be used (in other words, when the battery 11 is fully charged).

Under this premise, the prescribed command (here, the duty cycle) output from the power control unit 53 is determined based on the length of the prescribed period, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 during the prescribed period remains within a desired range. In other words, by determining the prescribed period, the prescribed command is determined based on the length of the prescribed period, while suppressing fluctuations in the aerosol amount caused by variations in the length of the user's puff. Therefore, from the initial stage (start of puff) when the battery 11's charge level is sufficient to the final stage (end of puff) when the battery 11's charge level is insufficient, the aerosol amount can be easily maintained within the desired range, regardless of the length of the user's puff.

In Modification 4, the upper limit of the aerosol amount (desirable range) atomized by the atomization unit 22 is preferably 4.0 mg/puff. More preferably, the upper limit is 3.0 mg/puff. By setting this upper limit, degradation of the raw material sheet constituting the flavor source 31A housed in the second cartridge 30 can be suppressed.

On the other hand, the lower limit of the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit 22 (desirable range) is preferably 0.1 mg/puff. By setting this lower limit, a sufficient amount of aerosol can be supplied to the user without causing a sensation of insufficiency, and the aerosol can be used to extract flavor components from the flavor source 31A housed in the second cigarette cartridge 30.

[Change Example 5]

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

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

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

As shown in FIG. 26 , the control circuit 50 includes a storage unit 54 and a calculation unit 55 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 15 .

The storage unit 54 stores a period during which the user performs a puff action, that is, stores a puff period.

The calculation unit 55 calculates the predetermined period based on the statistics of puff periods stored in the storage unit 54. In other words, the predetermined period is derived from the statistics of puff periods stored in the storage unit 54. However, it should be noted that the predetermined period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard puff period described above.

For example, the calculation unit 55 calculates the predetermined period by the following procedure.

First, in the initial setting, similarly to the above-described embodiment, a predetermined period (1 second) is predetermined based on a standard puff period derived from statistics of puff periods of a plurality of users.

Second, for example, an average value is derived based on statistics of puff periods detected within a certain period (for example, from the start of use of the first cartridge 20 to replacement of the first cartridge 20).

Third, change the specified period to an average value (X seconds).

Fourth, the duty cycle is changed so that the amount of power supplied to the atomizing unit 22 during x seconds of suction is equal to the amount of power supplied during the initial setting (1 second of suction). Specifically, if the average value (x) is less than the initial setting (1), the duty cycle corresponding to each battery voltage is increased. On the other hand, if the average value (x) is greater than the initial setting (1), the duty cycle is decreased.

In addition, it is preferable that the predetermined period is recalculated, for example, at regular intervals (for example, when the first cartridge 20 is replaced).

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 5, the prescribed period is derived from statistics of puff periods by users who actually use the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the prescribed period to be referenced when stopping power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit. Specifically, by setting a prescribed time tailored to the user's actual puff period, compared to using a prescribed period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users, users with longer puff periods can experience a less unnatural feeling by delivering aerosol throughout their entire puff period. Users with shorter puff periods can also experience a greater number of puffs that deliver a desired aerosol range.

[Example 6]

Hereinafter, a modification example 6 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

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

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

As shown in FIG. 27 , the control circuit 50 includes a storage unit 54 and an interface 56 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 15 .

The storage unit 54 stores a period during which the user performs a puff action, that is, stores a puff period.

The interface 56 is an interface for communicating with an external device 200 provided separately from the non-burning aroma inhaler 1. The interface 56 may be a USB port, a wired LAN module, a wireless LAN module, or a short-range communication module (e.g., Bluetooth or Felica). The external device 200 may be a personal computer or a smartphone.

Specifically, the interface 56 transmits the puff period stored in the storage unit 54 to the external device 200. The interface 56 receives from the external device 200 a predetermined period calculated by the external device 200 based on statistics of the puff period.

Note that the external device 200 calculates the predetermined period using the same method as the calculation unit 55 of the fifth modification.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 6, the prescribed period is derived from statistics of puff periods by users who actually use the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1. Therefore, a period suitable for the user can be set as the prescribed period to be referenced when stopping power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit. Specifically, by setting a prescribed time tailored to the user's actual puff period, compared to using a prescribed period derived from statistics of puff periods of multiple users, users with longer puff periods can experience a less unnatural feeling by supplying aerosol throughout their entire puff period. Users with shorter puff periods can also increase the number of puffs required to deliver a desired aerosol range.

[Example 7]

Hereinafter, a modification example 7 of the embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

In the above-described embodiment, the notification control unit 52 includes a counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22. In contrast, in Modification 7, as shown in FIG28 , the notification control unit 52 includes a first counter 52A and a second counter 52B as the counter 52X that counts the number of puffs or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit 22.

In addition, it should be noted that in Modification 7, the life of the first cartridge 20 is the life of the second cartridge 30 × T (T is an integer) + β. Here, β is a value less than the life of the second cartridge 30, but is not particularly limited.

When the count value of the first counter 52A reaches a first predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30. When the count value of the second counter 52B reaches a second predetermined value, the notification control unit 52 detects the timing for replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple of the first predetermined value.

Alternatively, when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the specified value P, the notification control unit 52 can simultaneously detect the timing of replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30 and increment the count value of the second counter 52B. Thus, the notification control unit 52 can detect the timing of replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the specified value Q. That is, similar to the above-described embodiment, the notification control unit 52 can detect the timing of replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20 when the number of times the second cigarette cartridge 30 has been replaced reaches the specified number (prescribed value Q).

In this way, it should be noted that since the second predetermined value is an integral multiple of the first predetermined value, as a result, the notification control unit 52 detects the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 based on the number of replacements of the second cartridge 30 .

In Modification 7, the notification control unit 52 can reset the count value of the first counter 52A when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first specified value and simultaneously detect the timing of replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30. Alternatively, the notification control unit 52 can also detect the timing of replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30 when the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first specified value and reset the count value of the first counter 52A through a specified user operation. In this case, preferably, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 from the time the count value of the first counter 52A reaches the first specified value until the count value is reset.

In Modification 7, the notification control unit 52 can reset the count value of the second counter 52B when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second specified value, detecting the timing for replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20. Alternatively, the notification control unit 52 can detect the timing for replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20 when the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second specified value and reset the count value of the second counter 52B through a specified user operation. In this case, preferably, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 from the time the count value of the second counter 52B reaches the second specified value until the count value is reset.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 7, since the second specified value is an integer multiple of the first specified value, even when the second cartridge 30 is repeatedly replaced, the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 can be notified simultaneously, thereby improving user convenience.

[Change Example 8]

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

In Modification Example 8, a package including a first cartridge and a second cartridge will be described. FIG29 is a diagram showing a package 300 according to Modification Example 8.

As shown in Figure 29, a package 300 includes a first cigarette cartridge 20 and a second cigarette cartridge 30. The number of second cigarette cartridges 30 can be determined based on the lifespan of the first cigarette cartridge 20. For example, the package 300 shown in Figure 29 includes one first cigarette cartridge 20 and five second cigarette cartridges 30. In other words, the lifespan of one first cigarette cartridge 20 is exhausted when five second cigarette cartridges 30 are used up, and the number of second cigarette cartridges 30 is determined in this way.

Specifically, the first cigarette cartridge 20 is set with the number of puff actions allowed by the first cigarette cartridge 20 (i.e., the allowed number of puffs) or the power-on time allowed by the first cigarette cartridge 20 (i.e., the allowed power-on time). The allowed number of puffs and the allowed power-on time are values for suppressing the depletion of the aerosol source 21A. In other words, the allowed number of puffs and the allowed power-on time are upper limits for stably supplying the aerosol source 21A to the atomization section 22 and atomizing appropriate aerosols. As the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30, the timing when the number of puff actions or the power-on time to the atomization section 22 reaches a specified value is set. The number of second cigarette cartridges 30 is the integer part of the quotient of the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time divided by the specified value. Here, the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time may not be divided by the specified value. In other words, the life of the first cigarette cartridge 20 can be a life with a margin relative to the number of the second cigarette cartridges 30.

Alternatively, the second cigarette cartridge 30 may be replaced when the number of puffs or the duration of power flow to the atomization unit 22 reaches a first predetermined value. The first cigarette cartridge 20 may be replaced when the number of puffs or the duration of power flow to the atomization unit 22 reaches a second predetermined value. The second predetermined value is an integer multiple T of the first predetermined value. The integer multiple T is the number of second cigarette cartridges 30 contained in the package 300.

(Function and Effect)

In Modification 8, because the number of second cartridges 30 is determined based on the lifespan of the first cartridge 20, even when the second cartridge 30 is repeatedly replaced, the timing of replacing the first and second cartridges 20, 30, remains consistent, thereby improving user convenience. In other words, by using up the second cartridges 30 contained in the package 300, the user can easily determine when to replace the first cartridge 20.

[Change Example 9]

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

In Modification Example 9, when the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is stopped, the power control unit 53 performs a detection process to detect the replacement timing of the second cigarette cartridge 30. According to this structure, even if the original timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30 (for example, the timing when the power supply time to the atomizer 22 reaches a specified value) is included in the middle of the puffing action, the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 will continue. Compared to the situation where the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizer 22 is forcibly stopped at the original timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30, the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied during the final puffing action, which can reduce the unnatural feeling caused to the user.

In this case, the power control unit 53 preferably performs detection processing from the time the battery 11 stops supplying power to the atomization unit 22 until the determination period has elapsed. The determination period can be considered to be shorter than the period from the end of the current puff to the start of the next puff. For example, the determination period can be 3 seconds or 1 second. This design increases the likelihood that detection processing will be performed before the next puff begins, preventing the expected amount of aerosol from being delivered during the next puff (the final puff).

Furthermore, preferably, when the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 is detected during the detection process, the notification control unit 52 controls the notification unit 40 to notify the user of the timing to replace the second cartridge 30 during the period from when the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 stops supplying power until the determination period has passed (notification process). This design increases the likelihood that the notification process will be performed before the next puff is taken, thereby preventing the user from taking the next puff that fails to deliver the desired amount of aerosol.

However, preferably, when a puff action is started between the time when the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 stops and the time when the detection process is performed, the power control unit 53 performs the detection process until the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 is started in response to the start of the puff action. In other words, preferably, the power control unit 53 performs the detection process before restarting the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 in the next puff action. According to this design, at least the situation in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied in the next puff action can be suppressed. In addition, preferably, when the timing for replacing the second cartridge 30 is detected during the detection process, the notification control unit 52 performs the notification process before restarting the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 in the next puff action.

(Control Method)

The following describes a control method according to Modification 9. Fig. 30 is a flowchart illustrating the control method according to the embodiment. Fig. 30 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 during a single puff.

As shown in FIG30 , in step S110, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 (i.e., the control circuit 50, the same applies hereinafter) determines whether the start of a puff has been detected. If the determination result is "yes," the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S120. If the determination result is "no," the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 enters a standby state.

In step S120, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 starts supplying power to the atomizing unit 22. As in the embodiment, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 can output a predetermined command to the battery 11 to keep the aerosol amount atomized by the atomizing unit 22 within a desired range.

In step S130, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 determines whether the end of the puffing action has been detected. If the determination result is "yes", the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 moves to the processing of step S140. If the determination result is "no", the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 enters the standby state. However, as in the embodiment, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 can also stop the power supply to the atomization unit 22 when a predetermined period has passed since the start of the power supply to the atomization unit 22, even during the puffing period when the user is actually performing the puffing action.

In step S140 , the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 stops supplying power to the atomizing unit 22 .

In step S150, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 counts the counter 52X. Similar to the embodiment, the counter 52X can count the number of puffs or the time the atomizing unit 22 is powered on.

In step S160, the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 determines whether the count value of the counter 52X has reached a predetermined value. If the determination result is "yes", the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 proceeds to step S170. If the determination result is "no", the non-burning flavor inhaler 1 returns to step S110.

In step S170 , the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 performs an end process. The end process may be, for example, a process in which the notification unit 40 notifies the user of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 or a process in which the power of the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 is forcibly turned off.

As described above, in the process shown in FIG30 , preferably, step S150 (counting of the counter 52X) and step S160 (determination of whether the count value of the counter 52X has reached a predetermined value) are performed from the time the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 stops until the determination period has passed. Step S170 (for example, the process of notifying the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30) is also preferably performed from the time the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 stops until the determination period has passed.

[Other embodiments]

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

In the embodiment, the first cigarette cartridge 20 has an end cap 25, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, if the storage container 21 has a structure that can suppress leakage of the aerosol source 21A (e.g., a canister), the first cigarette cartridge 20 may not have the end cap 25. In this case, the aerosol flow adjustment chamber G is formed between the downstream end of the flow path forming body 23 and the upstream end of the flavor source housing 31.

In the embodiment, the second cigarette cartridge 30 is housed in the first cigarette cartridge 20 (protrusion 25E), but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the power supply unit 10 may house the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30. Alternatively, the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30 may be connected with their end surfaces facing each other. In this case, the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30 are connected, for example, by a threaded connection.

Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the end cap 25 is preferably joined to the storage container 21 in order to suppress refilling of the storage container 21 by the aerosol source 21A.

In the embodiment, the end cap 25 has a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the end cap 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (toward the flavor source container 31). However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In the absence of the end cap 25, the flow path forming body 23 may also have a protrusion 25E that protrudes from the outer edge of the flow path forming body 23 in a cross section perpendicular to the aerosol flow path (prescribed direction A) toward the downstream side (toward the flavor source container 31). The protrusion 25E contacts the upstream end (e.g., the outer edge of the upstream end) of the flavor source container 31.

In the embodiment, the atomizing unit 22 is exemplified as a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The heating wire constituting the atomizing unit 22 may have any shape.

In the embodiment, the atomizing unit 22 is exemplified as being composed of a heating wire. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The atomizing unit 22 may also be configured to atomize the aerosol source 21A using ultrasonic waves.

In the embodiment, the first cigarette cartridge 20 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 may be provided with an atomizing unit having a storage container 21 and an atomizing portion 22, and this atomizing unit is a non-replaceable unit, thereby replacing the first cigarette cartridge 20.

In the embodiment, the second cigarette cartridge 30 is replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Specifically, the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1 may be provided with a flavor source unit having a flavor source 31A, and the flavor source unit is a non-replaceable unit, thereby replacing the second cigarette cartridge 30. However, if the second cigarette cartridge 30 is an essential feature, this limitation does not apply.

In the embodiment, the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30 are replaceable. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, the structure of the first cigarette cartridge 20 and the second cigarette cartridge 30 can also be provided in the non-combustion flavor inhaler 1.

In the embodiment, the package 300 includes one first cigarette cartridge 20 . However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The package 300 may also include two or more first cigarette cartridges 20 .

In an embodiment, the power control unit 53 controls the amount of power supplied from the battery 11 to the atomization unit 22 by pulse control. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The power control unit 53 may also control the output voltage of the battery 11. In this case, preferably, the power control unit 53 changes (or corrects) the prescribed instruction as the storage capacity of the battery 11 decreases, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range. Specifically, as a change in the prescribed instruction, the power control unit 53 may increase the instruction voltage output to the battery 11 as the storage capacity of the battery 11 decreases. The change (or correction) of the output voltage of the battery 11 is achieved, for example, using a DC/DC converter. The DC/DC converter may be a buck converter or a boost converter. In addition, the power control unit 53 may also control both the pulse control and the output voltage, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomization unit 22 is within a desired range.

In the embodiment, as a change to the prescribed command, the power control unit 53 increases the duty cycle of the power output to the battery 11 during a single puff as the battery 11's charge level decreases. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. As a change to the prescribed command, the power control unit 53 may also extend the prescribed period during which the power supply from the battery 11 to the atomizing unit 22 is stopped as the battery 11's charge level decreases.

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

In the embodiment, the power control unit 53 instructs the battery 11 to supply power to the atomizer 22 during the puffing period, and does not instruct the battery 11 to supply power to the atomizer 22 during the non-puffing period. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The power control unit 53 may also switch the power output to the atomizer 22 based on the operation of a hardware interface (e.g., a switch or button) for outputting power to the atomizer 22. In other words, the puffing action and the non-puffing action are switched based on the operation of the hardware interface.

Industrial applicability

A non-burning flavor inhaler and package can be provided that improves user convenience by notifying the user of the timing for replacing the first cigarette cartridge or the timing for replacing the second cigarette cartridge.

Claims (19)

1. A non-combustible aroma attractor, characterized in that it comprises: A power supply unit, which has at least a battery; The first smoke cartridge has at least an aerosol source and an atomizing part, wherein the atomizing part atomizes the aerosol source without combustion by means of power supplied by the battery; The second cartridge has at least one flavor source, which imparts flavor to the aerosol by passing it through the atomizing part; The control unit controls the notification unit to notify the user of the replacement time of the second cartridge based on the detection of the replacement time of the second cartridge. The control unit controls the notification unit based on the detection of the replacement timing of the first cartridge, so as to notify the replacement timing of the first cartridge. The control unit detects when to replace the first cartridge based on the number of times the second cartridge has been replaced. 2. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit detects when to replace the second cartridge based on the number of inhalation actions or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit. 3. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit has a counter that counts the number of suction actions or the energizing time of the atomizing unit. When the counter reaches a predetermined value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge and resets the counter. 4. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit has a counter that counts the number of suction actions or the energizing time of the atomizing unit. When the counter reaches a predetermined value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge. The control unit resets the counter's count value according to the user's instructions. 5. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit controls the notification unit based on the detection of the battery replacement time or the battery charging time, so as to notify the battery replacement time or the battery charging time. 6. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit detects when the battery should be replaced or when it should be charged based on the battery's output voltage. 7. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 3, characterized in that, From the moment the counter reaches a predetermined value until the counter value is reset, the control unit stops supplying power from the battery to the atomizing unit. 8. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit includes a first counter and a second counter, which serve as counters for counting the number of suction actions or the energizing time of the atomizing unit. When the count value of the first counter reaches a first predetermined value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the second cartridge. When the count value of the second counter reaches the second predetermined value, the control unit detects the timing for replacing the first cartridge. The second specified value is an integer multiple of the first specified value. 9. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit has a counter that counts the number of times the second cartridge is replaced. When the counter reaches a predetermined value, the control unit detects when the first cartridge should be replaced. 10. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit detects when to replace the second cartridge based on the number of inhalation actions or the duration of power-on. As an instruction to the battery, the control unit outputs a predetermined instruction to the battery to ensure that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit is within a desired range. If a predetermined period has elapsed since power was first supplied to the atomizing unit, the control unit stops supplying power from the battery to the atomizing unit. The specified period is shorter than the upper limit of the standard suction period derived from statistics of the user's suction period. 11. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The control unit changes the prescribed command as the battery's charge decreases, so that the amount of aerosol atomized by the atomizing unit is within the desired range. 12. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit is stopped, the control unit performs a detection process to determine when the second cartridge should be replaced. 13. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The control unit performs the detection process during the period from the time the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit stops until the determination period. 14. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 13, characterized in that, If the timing for replacing the second cartridge is detected during the detection process, the control unit controls the notification unit to notify the timing for replacing the second cartridge during the period from the time the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit stops until the determination period. 15. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 13, characterized in that, If a suction operation begins during the period from when the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit stops until the detection process is performed, the control unit performs the detection process until it starts supplying power from the battery to the atomizing unit in response to the start of the suction operation. 16. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The control unit performs the detection process when the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit is stopped upon detection that the suction action has ended. 17. The non-combustible aroma attractor as described in claim 12, characterized in that, If the power supply from the battery to the atomizing unit is stopped after a predetermined period has elapsed since the power supply to the atomizing unit was started, the control unit performs the detection process. 18. A package, characterized in that it is used for the non-combustible aroma attractor according to any one of claims 1 to 17. This packaging features: The first smoke cartridge has at least an aerosol source and an atomizing part, wherein the atomizing part atomizes the aerosol source without combustion; The second cartridge, at least, has a flavor source. The number of the second e-cigarette cartridges is determined based on the lifespan of the first e-cigarette cartridges. The first cartridge determines the number of inhalations allowed by the first cartridge, i.e., the allowed number of inhalations, or the allowed power-on time of the first cartridge, i.e., the allowed power-on time. The timing for replacing the second cartridge is when the number of inhalations or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit reaches a predetermined value. The number of the second cartridges is the integer part of the quotient of the allowed number of puffs or the allowed power-on time divided by the specified value. 19. The packaging as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The timing for replacing the second cartridge is when the number of inhalations or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit reaches a first predetermined value. The timing when the number of inhalation actions or the duration of power supply to the atomizing unit reaches a second predetermined value is the timing for replacing the first cartridge. The second specified value is an integer multiple of the first specified value.