TWI895035B - Flavor inhaler and flavor inhaler system - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention provides a flavor inhaler for heating a solid smokeable substance and atomizing the smokeable substance. The flavor inhaler includes: a compartment which has an opening and a side surface surrounding the opening, and defines an accommodation portion for receiving a smokeable substance; a heating portion for heating the compartment; a fixing portion for fixing the heating portion to the compartment; and a first heat insulation portion arranged between the heating portion and the fixing portion.

Description

Fragrance inhaler and fragrance inhalation system

The present invention relates to a heating unit for a fragrance inhaler and the fragrance inhaler.

Conventionally, a fragrance inhaler that allows users to inhale fragrances without burning a material is well known. For example, the fragrance inhaler includes a chamber that contains a fragrance product and a heater that heats the fragrance product contained in the chamber (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

(Prior Technical Literature)

(Patent Literature)

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-521123

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 5963375

Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2016/207407

According to a first aspect, a heating unit for a flavor inhaler is provided for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance. The heating unit comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening, which defines a storage area for the smokeable substance; a heating unit for heating the compartment; a fixing unit for securing the heating unit to the compartment; and a first heat insulating unit disposed between the heating unit and the fixing unit. The smokeable substance may also be a solid smokeable substance.

According to the first aspect, the heating unit is secured to the compartment via the fixing portion, effectively integrating the compartment and heating unit. The first thermal insulation reduces the thermal impact of the heating unit on the fixing portion, ensuring that the fixing portion can withstand high-temperature operation. Therefore, the first aspect provides a comprehensive heating unit for a fragrance inhaler capable of high-temperature heating. Such a comprehensive unit offers enhanced stability against shock and vibration, offering advantages in both the mass production of the unit itself and the mass production of fragrance inhalers incorporating the unit.

The heating portion may also be arranged on the outer side surface of the compartment portion (the opposite side to the receiving portion). The heating portion is, for example, a resistance heating portion, which can heat the compartment portion by heat conduction. The resistance heating portion has, for example, a heating element, which may also be a heating track. The heating portion may also be a thin film heater. The thin film heater may, for example, have a structure in which a layer composed of an electrically insulating material and a layer composed of a heating track are overlapped. In addition, the heating portion may have a structure in which a layer composed of a heating track is arranged between two layers composed of an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material can be, for example, polyimide, PEEK (polyether ether ketone), or Teflon (registered trademark)-based fluororesins. Furthermore, the heating rail can be made of metals such as stainless steel or copper. The use of these materials for the electrically insulating material and heating rail results in a flexible heating structure that is easy to manufacture and highly reliable.

The heating unit may include a first portion located on the side opposite the opening and a second portion located on the side of the opening. The heater power density of the second portion is preferably higher than that of the first portion, or the temperature rise rate of the second portion is preferably higher than that of the first portion, or the heating temperature of the second portion is preferably higher than that of the first portion at all times. The second portion preferably covers the outer surface of the compartment corresponding to at least half of the length of the smokeable material when the smokeable material is positioned at a desired location within the compartment. This reduces energy consumption while shortening the time from activation of the heating unit to the first puff.

The maximum temperature of the temperature curve of the heating unit when heating the smokeable substance is preferably selected from 250°C to 310°C, 250°C to 300°C, or 250°C to 290°C. Here, the temperature of the heating unit refers to the temperature of the portion that generates heat to heat the smokeable substance, such as the temperature of the resistance heater or the temperature of the heater. Setting the maximum temperature of the temperature curve of the heating unit when heating the smokeable substance within any of these temperature ranges allows the smokeable substance to be heated rapidly without damaging the device.

The first heat-insulating portion preferably contacts the heating portion and the fixing portion. This allows the heating unit for the flavor inhaler to have a simpler and more stable structure, compared to a case where the first heat-insulating portion does not contact either the heating portion or the fixing portion.

The heating portion has a main surface parallel to the side surface of the compartment portion, and the first thermal insulation portion is preferably arranged so as to extend along the main surface of the heating portion. This allows the first thermal insulation portion to effectively insulate the heating portion. "Parallel to the side surface of the compartment portion" includes being substantially parallel to the side surface of the compartment portion. Furthermore, the first thermal insulation portion is preferably arranged so as to entirely cover the main surface of the heating portion.

The wall thickness of the compartment is preferably substantially uniform. This allows for more uniform heating throughout the compartment. This simplifies the compartment structure and facilitates high-precision manufacturing. The term "uniform thickness" herein includes substantially uniform thickness. The thickness of the compartment is, for example, 0.04 mm to 1.00 mm, preferably 0.04 mm to 0.50 mm, and even more preferably 0.05 mm to 0.10 mm.

The compartment portion may be a cylindrical member with or without a bottom. In addition, the compartment portion may have a bottom. Alternatively, the heating unit for the flavor inhaler may have a blocking portion inside or outside the compartment portion, and the blocking portion blocks the consumables containing smokable substances (hereinafter referred to as consumables) from being inserted into the storage portion of the compartment portion. It is preferred that the bottom or blocking portion supports a portion of the consumables in such a way that at least a portion of the end surface of the consumables is exposed. The bottom or blocking portion of the compartment portion may also have a protrusion or a groove. In addition, the bottom or blocking portion of the compartment portion may also have a hole portion for sucking air into the compartment portion. The compartment portion may be made of, for example, a metal with high thermal conductivity such as stainless steel, a heat-resistant resin, or paper. The compartment can be, for example, a bottomed cylindrical container or a bottomless cylindrical body, and can be cylindrical or rectangular.

The compartment may also include a heat sink. In this case, the heating element includes a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side of the compartment, and the first heat insulating element is preferably magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). "Non-conductive" here means substantially non-conductive. This provides an integrated, stable IH (induced heating) assembly.

The sides of the compartment may also contain a heat sink. This allows the compartment to more efficiently receive energy from the induction coil (magnetic field lines generated around the induction coil), compared to a case where only the bottom of the compartment contains the heat sink. More specifically, the sides of the compartment may contain a tubular heat sink surrounding the receiving portion and forming a current path around the receiving portion. This creates a circular current path, effectively generating eddy current. Furthermore, the sides of the compartment may also be formed of a heat sink and form a current path around the receiving portion. In this case, the sides of the compartment themselves are formed of the heat sink, resulting in a simpler and more inexpensive design.

The term "heat sink" in this specification refers to a material that converts electromagnetic energy into heat and is used to heat the "smokable substance." The heat sink is positioned to transfer heat to the "smokable substance." When the heat sink is within a fluctuating electromagnetic field, the eddy currents induced within the heat sink or the hysteresis losses within the heat sink cause the heat sink to heat.

The heat sink preferably comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, iron, nickel, and alloys thereof (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy or stainless steel). The heat sink may have any shape, such as granules, rods, bars, tubes, or cylinders. A tubular heat sink with an annular electrical flow path effectively generates eddy currents. Multiple heat sinks of the same shape or different shapes may be arranged in the compartment.

In this manual, "magnetically permeable" refers to a relative magnetic permeability greater than 1 and less than 1.000001. Examples of magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating) materials include glass, plants, wood, paper, and resins such as PEEK.

The bottom of the compartment is preferably made of a magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating) material. If a heater is included in the bottom of the compartment, there is a risk of localized overheating of the tip of the smokeable material. Therefore, by forming the bottom of the compartment from the aforementioned material, induction heating is eliminated, allowing the smokeable material to be heated more evenly from the side compared to a bottom with a heater.

Furthermore, the heating unit for the flavor inhaler preferably includes a second insulating portion between the compartment and the induction coil. In this case, the second insulating portion may be magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). "Non-conductive" herein includes substantially non-conductive properties. This provides an integrated, stable IH (Induction Heating) assembly. Furthermore, the unit has at least one of the following effects: The second insulating portion reduces heat transfer from the heater to the outer sheath of the Litz wire that constitutes the induction coil. The second insulating portion inhibits heat transfer from the heater to the induction coil, thereby preventing heat from migrating from the housing to the exterior. Excessive heating of the housing due to heat from the heater can be reduced. Furthermore, the second insulation section is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating), making it difficult for the second insulation section to generate heat. This allows the heat sink, located inside the second insulation section, to efficiently generate heat by utilizing the magnetic flux generated by the induction coil.

The first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion have the same structure. Thereby, compared with the case where the first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion have different structures, the heating unit for the fragrance inhaler can be simply and cheaply constructed. At least one of the first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion may also have a portion located between adjacent wires in the induction coil. That is, the first heat insulating portion may have a portion located between adjacent wires in the induction coil, and the second heat insulating portion may also have a portion located between adjacent wires in the induction coil. Thereby, the position of the induction coil in the long axis direction can be fixed, and stable induction heating can be performed. Both the first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion may have a portion located between adjacent wires in the induction coil. This further stabilizes the longitudinal axis position of the induction coil and provides more stable induction heating.

The first and second insulation sections can also form a single, integrated insulation section. This simplifies the insulation structure of the fragrance inhaler heating unit. The sensor coil can be embedded in the integrated insulation section, or the integrated insulation section can partially cover at least both the inner and outer sides of the sensor coil. This securely holds the sensor coil in place. The second insulation section can also contact both the compartment and the sensor coil. This provides a more stable structure for the fragrance inhaler heating unit compared to a case where the second insulation section does not contact either the compartment or the sensor coil.

At least one of the first or second insulating sections includes air and a support portion. The support portion maintains a predetermined distance between the heating section and the compartment when the heating section is fixed to the compartment, or restricts movement of air contained within the first or second insulating section, with air contained within the support portion. Specifically, the first insulating section may include the support portion and air disposed therebetween, the second insulating section may include the support portion and air disposed therebetween, or both the first and second insulating sections may include the support portion and air disposed therebetween. This effectively insulates heat generated by a resistance heater or a heat sink, etc., used to heat the smokeable substance. The thickness of at least one of the first heat insulating portion or the second heat insulating portion can be set, for example, to be between 0.10 mm and 3.00 mm, between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm, or between 0.50 mm and 1.0 mm. That is, the thickness of the first heat insulating portion can be set to between 0.10 mm and 3.00 mm, between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm, or between 0.50 mm and 1.0 mm, and the thickness of the second heat insulating portion can be set to between 0.10 mm and 3.00 mm, between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm, or between 0.50 mm and 1.0 mm. The thickness of both the first and second heat insulating portions can also be set to between 0.10 mm and 3.00 mm, between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm, or between 0.50 mm and 1.0 mm. In this way, while maintaining the desired heat insulating performance, the space required for the configuration of the first heat insulating portion or the second heat insulating portion can be reduced. The thermal conductivity of the support portion of at least one of the first thermal insulation section or the second thermal insulation section is preferably 0.300 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.100 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less. In other words, the thermal conductivity of the support portion of the first thermal insulation section is preferably 0.300 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.100 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less. Alternatively, the thermal conductivity of the support portion of the second thermal insulation section is preferably 0.300 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.100 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less. Alternatively, the thermal conductivity of the support portions of both the first and second thermal insulation sections is preferably 0.300 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.100 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less. This can reduce the thermal conductivity of the first insulation portion or the second insulation portion.

The thermal conductivity of at least one of the first thermal insulating portion or the second thermal insulating portion is preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.026 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W/m/K or less. In other words, the thermal conductivity of the first thermal insulating portion is preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.026 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W/m/K or less. Alternatively, the thermal conductivity of the second thermal insulating portion is preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.026 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W/m/K or less. Alternatively, the thermal conductivity of both the first and second thermal insulating portions is preferably 0.050 W/m/K or less, more preferably 0.026 W/m/K or less, and most preferably 0.013 W/m/K or less. This allows for more effective insulation of heat generated by the resistance heater or heat sink, etc., used to heat the smokeable material. Furthermore, the thermal conductivity of at least one of the first or second insulating portion can be varied based on, for example, the thickness of the first or second insulating portion, the thermal conductivity of the support portion, the shape or volume of the support portion, and the volume of air disposed between the support portions.

The support portion of at least one of the first or second insulating portion can be made of, for example, fiber, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or a porous material. Specifically, the support portion of the first insulating portion can be made of fiber, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or a porous material, while the support portion of the second insulating portion can be made of fiber, nonwoven fabric, woven fabric, or a porous material. Furthermore, the support portion of at least one of the first or second insulating portion can be made of any material that exhibits the desired insulating properties, such as ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant matter, wood, or paper. That is, the support portion of the first insulation part may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood or paper, the support portion of the second insulation part may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood or paper, or the support portions of the first and second insulation parts may be made of ceramic, glass, aerogel, plant, wood or paper. It is preferred that the support portion of at least one of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is flexible. That is, it is preferred that the support portion of the first insulation part is flexible, the support portion of the second insulation part is flexible, or the support portions of the first and second insulation parts are flexible. Thereby, the first insulation part or the second insulation part is easy to install and can be installed to compartments of various shapes. The supporting portion of at least one of the first insulating portion or the second insulating portion can be made of any material that can exhibit the desired insulating properties, and can be made of, for example, metal fibers, organic compound fibers, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, thin-sheet ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, glass wool, super wool (registered trademark), rock wool, or mineral wool. That is, the support portion of the first heat insulating portion may be composed of, for example, metal fiber, organic compound fiber, ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, thin sheet-shaped ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, glass wool, super wool (registered trademark), asbestos or mineral wool, and the support portion of the second heat insulating portion may be composed of, for example, metal fiber, organic compound fiber, ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, thin sheet-shaped ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, glass wool, super wool (registered trademark), asbestos or mineral wool, etc. The first and second insulating sections may be made of, for example, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, thin sheets of ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, glass wool, super wool (registered trademark), asbestos, or mineral wool. The supporting sections of the first and second insulating sections may also be made of, for example, ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, thin sheets of ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, glass wool, super wool (registered trademark), asbestos, or mineral wool. Other examples of glass fibers include carbon fibers, alumina fibers, and silicon carbide fibers. Examples of the materials used to form the metal fibers include a metal or alloy coated with an organic compound resin such as a metal, alloy, or plastic, and a core completely covered with a metal or alloy. Examples of metals constituting the metal or alloy include aluminum, stainless steel, and iron. Examples of organic compound fibers include those formed from highly heat-resistant materials such as PEEK in a fibrous form. Furthermore, if at least the support portion is composed of ceramic fibers such as glass fibers, it is expected to reduce radiative heat conduction from areas that are heated by heat generated by the resistor heating element or the heat sink, etc., to heat the smokable substance.

The air volume ratio of at least one of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% or more, and most preferably 80% or more. In addition, it is preferably 95% or less. That is, it can be said that the air volume ratio of the first insulation part is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% or more, most preferably 80% or more, and most preferably 95% or less. It can also be said that the air volume ratio of the second insulation part is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% or more, most preferably 80% or more, and most preferably 95% or less. It can also be said that the air volume ratio of the first insulation part and the second insulation part is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 65% or more, most preferably 80% or more, and most preferably 95% or less. In addition, the "air volume ratio" refers to the ratio of the volume of air to the volume of the support part and the air. By setting the air volume ratio within the above range, it is possible to maintain higher insulation performance while also making it easier to obtain appropriate compressive stress in the insulation area.

The compressive stress of the supporting portion of at least one of the first insulation portion or the second insulation portion is preferably 0.1 N/mm ² to 1.0 N/mm ² , more preferably 0.1 N/mm ² to 0.5 N/mm ² , and most preferably 0.1 N/mm ² to 0.3 N/mm ² . That is, it can be said that the compressive stress of the support portion of the first thermal insulation portion is preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2 . It can also be said that the compressive stress of the second thermal insulation portion is preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2. It can also be said that the compressive stress of the first and second thermal insulation portions is preferably 0.1N/mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/mm2 to 0.5N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2 . ² or more and 0.3 N/ ^mm² or less is optimal. This prevents changes in the shape of the first or second insulating portion, even when the first or second insulating portion is fixed by, for example, a fixing portion, while bearing pressure. This also reduces the reduction in insulation performance caused by the reduced volume of air contained within the insulating portion. Furthermore, the first or second insulating portion maintains appropriate flexibility, increasing the degree of freedom in its placement.

In addition, when at least one of the first insulation part or the second insulation part is a thin sheet, the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the insulation sheet is preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2 . That is, it can be said that the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part is preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/mm2, and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2 . It can also be said that the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the second heat insulating part is preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , more preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.3N/ ^mm2. It can also be said that the compressive stress in the thickness direction of the heat insulating sheet of the first heat insulating part and the second heat insulating part is preferably 0.1N/mm2 to 1.0N/ ^mm2 , and most preferably 0.1N/ ^mm2 to 0.5N/mm2. ² and less than 0.5 N/ ^mm² , more preferably, and most preferably, ^less than 0.1 N/mm² and less than 0.3 N/ ^mm² . Thus, even when the first or second insulating portion is subjected to pressure and secured in the thickness direction of the insulating sheet, for example, by a fixing portion, changes in the shape of the first or second insulating portion are suppressed, thereby reducing the reduction in the insulating function caused by the reduced volume of air contained in the insulating portion. Furthermore, appropriate flexibility of the first or second insulating portion is maintained, and the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the first or second insulating portion is increased.

The density of the air provided between the supporting portions of at least one of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion. In other words, the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the first thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first thermal insulation portion, the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the second thermal insulation portion, or the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the first thermal insulation portion and the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the thickness direction of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion. In this way, the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion can have a more uniform thermal insulation function. The uniformity here refers to a situation where it is substantially uniform. The thickness direction of the first or second insulation portion may refer to a direction perpendicular to the side surface of the compartment, a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the compartment, or a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the smokable substance into the compartment.

The density of the air provided between the supporting portions of at least one of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion. In other words, the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the first thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first thermal insulation portion, the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the width direction of the second thermal insulation portion, or the density of the air provided between the supporting portions of the first thermal insulation portion and the second thermal insulation portion is preferably uniform in the width direction of the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion. In this way, the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion can have a more uniform thermal insulation function. The uniformity here refers to a situation where it is substantially uniform. The width of the first or second insulating portion refers to the direction parallel to the side of the compartment, and may also refer to the longitudinal direction of the compartment or the direction in which the smokable material is inserted into the compartment.

The fixing portion may also be a resilient member that pushes the heating portion toward the compartment. The resilient member may be, for example, a ring or sheet that contracts when heated, or an elastic ring or sheet made of rubber or the like. Preferably, the resilient member is configured to contract when heated. This allows the resilient member to more securely secure the heating portion. Furthermore, after the uncontracted fixing portion is positioned in a predetermined position, the fixing portion can be retracted to secure the heating portion, thereby simplifying assembly. When covering the compartment and the heating unit, the elastic portion preferably has a higher rate of contraction in the circumferential direction of the compartment (also referred to as the circumferential direction with the longitudinal direction of the compartment as the axis) than in the longitudinal direction of the compartment (also referred to as the direction of insertion of the smokable material into the compartment). More preferably, the elastic portion thermally contracts only in the circumferential direction of the compartment. By not thermally contracting in the longitudinal direction of the compartment, the elastic portion does not reduce the longitudinal extent of the compartment that the fixing portion can secure, thereby enabling more secure fixation of the heating unit. The heat resistance temperature of the spring member is determined by its flexibility (a component with a heat resistance that is too high may degrade into ceramic, potentially causing flexibility issues). For example, it can be selected from 150°C to 300°C, 150°C to 270°C, or 150°C to 230°C.

The repelling member may be a sheet member or a tape member (which may be rolled into a ring shape). For example, the repelling member may be composed of at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyurethane, nylon, polyvinyl formal, polyvinyl butyral, polyimide (PI), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), gelatin, and polysaccharides. The repelling member is preferably composed of polyimide.

The heating unit for the aroma inhaler may also include an electromagnetic shield between the fixing portion and the induction coil. The electromagnetic shield may include, for example, Ni-Zi-based granular iron.

The induction coil can also be constructed from a single wire, but for more efficient heat dissipation, a spiral Litz wire is also suitable. A Litz wire has a metal core and a sheath covering the core with an electrically insulating material. The core of the single wire or Litz wire is preferably made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, and alloys thereof, such as stainless steel. The sheath of the Litz wire can be, for example, polyimide or polyester. The heat resistance temperature of the outer skin is determined by considering its flexibility (a component with a heat resistance that is too high may become ceramic, for example, and may have flexibility issues). For example, it can be selected from 150°C to 300°C, 150°C to 270°C, or 150°C to 230°C.

The induction coil can be wound into a spiral (a three-dimensional helix) or a vortex (a two-dimensional vortex). The shape of the induction coil can be cylindrical (a curved spiral or snail coil) or flat. The induction coil can be adjacent to the compartment, surround the compartment, or protrude into the compartment. However, positioning the induction coil around the compartment allows for efficient energy supply to the heat-generating portion of the compartment. There can be one or more induction coils. In the example of a configuration surrounding the partition, the induction coil can be formed in a spiral shape surrounding the partition, or a spiral coil can be bent around the partition, or multiple flat coils can be formed around the partition. However, forming the induction coil in a spiral shape around the partition allows for a simpler configuration and lowers manufacturing costs.

The frequency applied to the induction coil can be approximately 80 kHz to 500 kHz, preferably approximately 150 kHz to 250 kHz, and more preferably 190 kHz to 210 kHz. Alternatively, the frequency applied to the induction coil can be set to 1 MHz to 30 MHz, preferably 2 MHz to 10 MHz, and more preferably 5 MHz to 7 MHz. These frequencies can also be determined based on the material and shape of the heat sink.

The heating unit for the aroma inhaler can also be configured to operate under a variable magnetic field having a magnetic flux density of approximately 0.5 Tesla (T) to 2.0 Tesla (T).

The solid smokeable material may also be wrapped around a first, breathable paper roll. A cover may be provided on the first paper roll to provide ventilation and prevent the smokeable material from falling. The cover may be adhered to the first paper roll using an adhesive or secured to the first paper roll by friction. The cover may be, for example, a paper filter or a cellulose acetate filter. The consumable may also comprise a cylindrical member, which may be a paper tube or a hollow filter nozzle.

Hollow filters can be constructed from a filling layer with one or more hollow channels and a plug wrapper covering the filling layer. The filling layer is densely packed with fibers, so during inhalation, air or mist flows only through the hollow channels, with little flow within the filling layer. Hollow filters can also have a mouthpiece constructed using an adjacent filter element.

The length of the solid smokeable substance in the longitudinal direction is preferably 40 mm to 90 mm, more preferably 50 mm to 75 mm, and even more preferably 50 mm to 60 mm. The circumference of the solid smokeable substance is preferably 15 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 17 mm to 24 mm, and even more preferably 20 mm to 23 mm. Furthermore, the length of the solid smokeable substance may be 12 mm to 22 mm, the length of the first web may be 12 mm to 22 mm, the length of the hollow filter portion may be 7 mm to 26 mm, and the length of the filter portion may be 6 mm to 20 mm.

The smokeable substance contained in the consumable may include an aerosol source that generates aerosol when heated to a predetermined temperature. The type of aerosol source is not specifically limited; extracts from various natural substances and/or their components can be selected depending on the intended use. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. The amount of the aerosol source contained in the solid smokeable substance (in weight percent relative to the total weight of the smokeable substance) is not specifically limited; however, to ensure sufficient aerosol generation and a pleasant smoking flavor, it is typically 5% by weight or greater, preferably 10% by weight or greater, and typically 50% by weight or less, preferably 20% by weight or less.

As for solid smokeable substances, tobacco leaves or veins, or other well-known plants can be used as flavor sources. Furthermore, the tobacco flavor source can be in the form of filaments, sheets, ribbons, powder, granules, pellets, slurries, or porous materials. The amount of smokeable substances such as tobacco contained in consumables ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg, preferably from 250 mg to 320 mg, when the smokeable substance has a circumference of 20 mm to 23 mm and a length of 18 mm to 22 mm. The moisture content of the smokeable substance containing tobacco as a flavor source (in terms of weight percentage relative to the total weight of the smokeable substance) ranges from 8 wt% to 18 wt%, preferably from 10 wt% to 16 wt%. If the moisture content is as described above, the occurrence of rolling pollution will be suppressed and the rolling adaptability during manufacturing will be improved. The size of tobacco shreds used as an example of a smokable substance and the preparation method thereof are not specifically limited. For example, dried tobacco leaves may be cut into shreds with a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. In addition, dried tobacco leaves may be crushed into particles with an average diameter of about 20 μm to 200 μm and then homogenized and then processed into thin sheets, and then cut into shreds with a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm after the thin sheet processing. Furthermore, tobacco leaves that have not been cut into shreds but have been gathered may be used as the smokable substance. Furthermore, the smokeable substance may be in liquid form, and the liquid may also have viscosity. In this case, the smokeable substance may also contain the majority of the aerosol source. The aerosol source content in the liquid smokeable substance (in weight % relative to the total weight of the smokeable substance) may be set to 80% by weight or greater, 90% by weight or greater, or 95% by weight or greater. Furthermore, the smokeable substance may contain one or more flavorings. The type of flavoring is not specifically limited, but menthol is preferred for its pleasant flavor.

The consumable product may include a second paper roll, different from the first paper roll, comprising at least one of a wound cylindrical member, a hollow filter portion, and a filter portion. The second paper roll may also be wound around a portion of the first paper roll, which is wound with the smokeable material. The first and second paper rolls in the consumable product may be made from a base paper having a basis weight of, for example, 20 gsm to 65 gsm. The thickness of the first and second paper rolls is not specifically limited, but is preferably 10 μm to 100 μm from the perspectives of rigidity, air permeability, and ease of adjustment during papermaking.

The first and second rolls of consumables may contain fillers. The filler content is, for example, 10% to 60% by weight relative to the total weight of the first and second rolls, preferably 15% to 45% by weight. For a preferred basis weight range (25 gsm to 45 gsm), a filler content of 15% to 45% by weight is preferred. Examples of fillers include calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, and kaolin. Paper containing fillers such as those described above exhibits a bright white color, which is preferred for the appearance of the roll as a consumable, and can maintain its whiteness permanently. By containing a large amount of fillers such as those described above, the ISO whiteness of the roll can be set to 83% or higher, for example. Furthermore, from a practical perspective of utilizing the roll paper as a consumable item, the first and second rolls preferably have a tensile strength of 8N/15mm or greater. This tensile strength can be increased by reducing the filler content. Specifically, the tensile strength can be increased by reducing the filler content beyond the upper limit of the filler content indicated in the respective basis weight ranges exemplified above.

Additionally, features from other aspects of the first aspect may be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the first aspect.

According to a second aspect, a flavor inhaler is provided. The flavor inhaler comprises the aforementioned flavor inhaler heating unit and an external insulation portion. The external insulation portion is disposed between the fixing portion and the outer casing. Thus, the flavor inhaler comprises the first insulation portion and the external insulation portion of the flavor inhaler heating unit, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the smokable substance and suppressing the temperature rise of the outer casing. In other words, the first insulation portion insulates the compartment in a relatively small space near the heating portion, while the external insulation portion reduces excessive heating of the outer surface of the outer casing in a relatively large space far from the heating portion.

The fragrance inhaler is preferably a portable or handheld device. Furthermore, the outer insulation portion is preferably thicker than the first insulation portion. This enhances the insulation effect. The thickness herein refers to the thickness perpendicular to the side surfaces of the compartment portion. The outer insulation portion is positioned so as to cover at least the entire main surface of the first insulation portion. This enhances the insulation effect.

The outer insulation part may include, for example, a shell that separates the inner space. The shell may be made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel or a synthetic resin such as plastic. The inner space may be, for example, a vacuum or may be filled with an insulating material such as aerogel. In particular, if the aerogel insulating material is combined with a first insulating part such as a ceramic fiber such as glass fiber, the first insulating part can reduce the radiant heat from the heating part before it reaches the aerogel insulating material belonging to the outer insulation part. Therefore, even an aerogel insulating material with a low insulating performance against radiant heat can effectively help with insulation. In this case, the emissivity of the first insulating part is preferably 0.7 or above, and more preferably 0.9 or above. Selecting an emissivity within the above range reduces transmittance, effectively suppressing radiant heat conduction from the area within the flavor inhaler where the highest temperatures are generated, heating the smokeable material. Specifically, by combining an outer insulation portion constructed from an insulating material, such as aerogel insulation, which has relatively low insulation properties relative to radiant heat, with a first insulation portion having an emissivity of preferably 0.7 or higher, and more preferably 0.9 or higher, a synergistic insulating effect can be expected.

Furthermore, in the second aspect, features from other aspects may be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the second aspect.

According to a third aspect, a flavor inhaler for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance is provided. The flavor inhaler comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening; a heating unit for heating the compartment; an outer housing for housing the compartment and the heating unit; an insulating unit disposed between the side surfaces of the compartment and the outer housing; and an outer insulating unit disposed between the insulating unit and the outer housing. The smokeable substance may also be a solid smokeable substance. Thus, the flavor inhaler comprises an insulating unit and an outer insulating unit, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the smokeable substance and suppressing temperature increases in the outer housing. In other words, the insulation is used to insulate the compartment in a relatively small area close to the heating element, while the external insulation is used to reduce overheating of the outer surface of the housing in a relatively large area far from the heating element.

When the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the outer shell is set to A, the insulation is preferably placed within a distance of A/5, more preferably A/10, and even more preferably A/20 from the outer surface of the compartment. This allows for efficient insulation of the compartment.

When the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the outer casing is set to A, the outer insulation is preferably positioned at a distance of at least 5A/6, preferably at least 4A/6, and even more preferably at least 3A/6, from the outer surface of the compartment. This effectively prevents excessive heating of the outer surface of the outer casing.

Additionally, features from other aspects may be combined or applied within the third aspect as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the third aspect.

According to a fourth aspect, a heating unit for a flavor inhaler is provided for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance. The flavor inhaler heating unit comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening, which partitions off a storage area for the smokeable substance; a heating unit for heating the compartment; and a second heat insulating unit disposed between the compartment and the heating unit. The compartment contains a heat receiver. The heating unit is a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surfaces of the compartment. The second heat insulating unit is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The smokeable substance may also be a solid smokeable substance. Here, "non-conductive" includes substantially non-conductive properties.

According to a fourth aspect, an integrated, stable IH (induction heating) assembly is provided. Furthermore, the second thermal insulator reduces the transfer of heat from the heat sink to the outer sheath of the Litz wire that constitutes the induction coil. Furthermore, the second thermal insulator inhibits the transfer of heat from the heat sink to the induction coil, thereby reducing the absorption of heat from the heat sink by the induction coil. Consequently, heat transfer from the housing to the exterior is minimized. Similarly, excessive heating of the housing due to heat from the heat sink is minimized. The second thermal insulator is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating), thus minimizing heat generation. This allows the heat sink, located inside the second thermal insulator, to be efficiently heated by utilizing the magnetic flux generated by the induction coil.

Furthermore, in the fourth aspect, features from other aspects may be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the fourth aspect.

According to a fifth aspect, a heating unit for a flavor inhaler is provided for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance. The flavor inhaler heating unit comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening, which partitions off a storage area for the smokeable substance; a heating unit for heating the compartment; and a second heat-insulating unit disposed between the compartment and the heating unit. The second heat-insulating unit is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The compartment contains a heat receiver. The heating unit is a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surfaces of the compartment. "Non-conductive" herein means substantially non-conductive. The smokeable substance may also be a solid smokeable substance.

According to the fifth aspect, the heating unit induction heats the compartment, but the second insulation reduces the amount of heat transferred from the compartment to the heating unit. Furthermore, in the fifth aspect, the aroma inhaler heating unit can also include an external insulation unit, if necessary. This can reduce the temperature rise of the outer casing. Furthermore, in the fifth aspect, the aroma inhaler heating unit can also include electromagnetic shielding, if necessary.

Furthermore, within the fifth aspect, features from other aspects may be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the fifth aspect.

According to a sixth aspect, a heating unit for a flavor inhaler is provided for heating and atomizing a smokeable substance. The flavor inhaler heating unit comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening, which partitions off a storage area for the smokeable substance; a heating unit for heating a heater disposed within the storage area; and a fixing unit for securing the heating unit to the compartment. The compartment is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The heating unit is a cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side surfaces of the compartment. The smokeable substance may be a solid smokeable substance. The compartment may also be made of a resin material such as PEEK.

According to the sixth aspect, an integrated, stable IH (Induced Heating) assembly is provided. Furthermore, the heating unit is configured to heat a heat sink disposed within the housing, thereby reducing the risk of heat from the heat sink being released from the housing.

Furthermore, in the sixth aspect, features from other aspects may be combined or applied as long as they do not hinder the function or effect of the sixth aspect.

10:Battery

20:PCB

30: Smokable substances

31: Consumables

40: Heating unit for aroma inhaler

50: Partition

51: Opening

52:Side

53: Containment Department

54: Hole

55: Bottom

60: Heating section

61: Insulating layer

62: Heating layer

70: First insulation part

70a, 73a: Partial

71: Support Department

72: Air

73: Second insulation section

75: Insulation

80: Fixed part, push part

85: External insulation

86: Shell

87: Interior Space

88: Electromagnetic Shielding

90: Heater

92: Heater

A:Distance

L1: Distance

L2: Distance

100: Aroma Inhaler

102: Shell

102a: Air flow path

Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a fragrance inhaler.

Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first insulation section.

Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the external insulation section.

FIG4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the heating unit for the flavor inhaler of the first embodiment.

Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a fragrance inhaler.

Figure 6 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the first and second insulation sections.

FIG7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the heating unit for the flavor inhaler according to the second embodiment.

FIG8 shows another example of the fragrance inhaler according to the second embodiment.

FIG9 is a diagram showing yet another example of the fragrance inhaler of the second embodiment.

Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a fragrance inhaler.

<First Implementation Type>

The following describes embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following drawings, identical or corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a fragrance inhaler 100 . The fragrance inhaler 100 is preferably a portable or handheld device. As shown in FIG. 1 , the fragrance inhaler 100 includes a battery 10 , a printed circuit board (PCB) 20 , a fragrance inhaler heating unit 40 , and a housing 102 .

The flavor inhaler heating unit 40 is configured to heat the solid smokeable substance 30 and atomize it. The smokeable substance 30 is, for example, a portion of a consumable product 31 that is cylindrical and extends longitudinally. The consumable product 31 may be, for example, a stick containing tobacco. The battery 10 stores electricity used by the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the battery 10 is a lithium-ion battery. The battery 10 may also be rechargeable by an external power source.

The PCB 20, comprised of a CPU and memory, controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the PCB 20 initiates heating of the smokeable substance 30 in response to a user operation of an input device (not shown), such as a push button or slide switch, and terminates heating of the smokeable substance 30 after a predetermined time has elapsed. If the number of puffs taken by the user exceeds a predetermined value, the PCB 20 terminates heating of the smokeable substance 30 even before the predetermined time has elapsed. For example, the puffs are detected by a sensor (not shown).

Alternatively, the PCB 20 can also begin heating the smokeable substance 30 in response to the start of a puff and terminate heating the smokeable substance 30 in response to the end of a puff. If a certain amount of time has passed since the start of a puff, the PCB 20 can terminate heating the smokeable substance 30 even before the puff ends. In this embodiment, the PCB 20 is positioned between the battery 10 and the flavor inhaler heating unit 40.

In the illustrated example, the flavor inhaler 100 is configured to accommodate a rod-shaped smokeable substance 30. Furthermore, as shown, the battery 10, PCB 20, and heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler can be arranged horizontally, that is, arranged in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the smokeable substance 30 is inserted into the flavor inhaler 100. The housing 102 houses the battery 10, PCB 20, and heating unit 40.

The heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler comprises a compartment 50, a heating unit 60, a first insulating unit 70, and a fixing unit 80. As shown, the heating unit 60 is positioned on the outer surface of the compartment 50, and the first insulating unit 70 is positioned between the heating unit 60 and the fixing unit 80. When assembling the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler, first, with the heating unit 60 already wrapped around the outer surface of the compartment 50, the first insulating unit 70 is then wrapped around the outer surface of the heating unit 60. Next, the fixing unit 80 is wrapped around the outer surface of the heating unit 60.

The compartment 50 has an opening 51 and side surfaces 52 surrounding the opening 51, defining a housing 53 for the smokeable substance 30. In the illustrated example, the compartment 50 is a cylindrical member having a bottom 55. The bottom 55 preferably supports the smokeable substance 30, exposing at least a portion of the end surface of the smokeable substance 30. In the illustrated example, a hole 54 is provided in the bottom 55 for drawing air into the housing 53, exposing a portion of the end surface of the smokeable substance 30. The hole 54 communicates with an air flow path 102a formed in the housing 102, and the air flow path 102a communicates with the exterior of the housing 102. The compartment 50 of the first embodiment can be made of a metal with high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel.

The heating unit 60 is configured to heat the compartment 50. For example, the heating unit 60 is a resistive heater and can heat the compartment 50 by heat conduction. In the first embodiment, the heating unit 60 is a thin-film heater. Specifically, the heating unit 60 may have a structure comprising a stacked insulating layer 61 made of an electrically insulating material and a heating layer 62 formed of a heating rail. The heating unit 60 may also consist solely of the heating rail. The insulating layer 61 is disposed to cover at least one side of the heating unit 60, preferably both sides.

The first insulating section 70 is positioned so as to contact both the heating section 60 and the fixing section 80. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first insulating section 70. As shown in Figure 2, the first insulating section 70 may include a support section 71 and air 72. The support section 71 maintains a predetermined distance between the heating section 60 and the compartment 50 when the heating section 60 is fixed to the compartment 50, while the air 72 is disposed between the support section 71. In other words, the first insulating section 70 may include a support section 71 with an air layer within it. Furthermore, the support section 71 of the first insulating section 70 is preferably flexible. Specifically, for example, the support section 71 of the first insulating section 70 may be made of fiberglass, or even a thin sheet of fiberglass.

The density of the air 72 between the support portions 71 of the first insulation member 70 is preferably uniform across the thickness of the first insulation member 70. Furthermore, the density of the air 72 between the support portions 71 of the first insulation member 70 is preferably uniform across the width of the first insulation member 70.

As shown in Figure 1, the heating unit 60 has a main surface parallel to the side surface 52 of the compartment 50, and the first thermal insulation unit 70 is preferably arranged to extend along the main surface of the heating unit 60. More preferably, the first thermal insulation unit 70 covers the entirety of the heating unit 60 along the long sides of the compartment 50 (the direction in which the smokable material 30 is inserted). Furthermore, the first thermal insulation unit 70 is preferably arranged to cover the entirety of the main surface of the heating unit 60 in a direction perpendicular to the side surface 52 of the compartment 50, extending along the long sides of the compartment 50. Furthermore, the first thermal insulation unit 70 is preferably arranged to cover the entirety of the main surface of the heating unit 60, extending along the circumference of the compartment 50. Therefore, the first thermal insulation unit 70 is preferably arranged to cover the entirety of the main surface of the heating unit 60.

The fixing portion 80 is configured to secure the heating unit 60 to the compartment 50. This allows the heating unit 60 to be secured to the outer surface of the compartment 50 in close contact, thereby improving heating efficiency and stabilizing the structure around the compartment 50. The fixing portion 80 may also be a resilient member 80 that urges the heating unit 60 toward the compartment 50. The resilient member 80 may be, for example, a ring or sheet that contracts when heated, or a resilient ring or sheet made of rubber or the like. Preferably, the resilient member 80 is heat-contractible. When covering the partition 50 and the heating unit 60, the elastic member 80 preferably shrinks more circumferentially than along the longitudinal direction of the partition 50. Even more preferably, the elastic member 80 shrinks only along the circumference of the partition 50.

In the first embodiment, the elastic member 80 can be a thin sheet member. Preferably, the elastic member 80 is made of polyimide.

In the first embodiment, a first heat insulating portion 70 is provided between the fixing portion 80 and the heating portion 60 to prevent heat from being transferred from the heating portion 60 to the fixing portion 80. This allows the temperature of the heating portion 60 to be raised compared to conventional methods, heating the smokable substance 30 to a higher temperature. This helps increase mist production and enhance flavor.

As shown in Figure 1 , the flavor inhaler 100 of the first embodiment may further include an external thermal insulation portion 85 . The external thermal insulation portion 85 is disposed between the fixing portion 80 and the outer housing 102 . Thus, the flavor inhaler 100 includes the first thermal insulation portion 70 of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 and the external thermal insulation portion 85 . This improves the heating efficiency of the smokable substance 30 and suppresses temperature rise in the outer housing 102 . In other words, the first thermal insulation portion 70 insulates the compartment 50 in a relatively small area near the heating portion 60 , while the external thermal insulation portion 85 in a relatively large area farther from the heating portion 60 prevents excessive heating of the outer surface of the outer housing 102, the PCB 20, and the battery 10.

The outer insulation 85 is preferably thicker than the first insulation 70. Furthermore, the outer insulation 85 is preferably arranged so that its principal surface, parallel to the side surfaces 52 of the first insulation 70, covers the entire length of the partition 50, perpendicular to the side surfaces 52 of the partition 50. Furthermore, the outer insulation 85 is preferably arranged so that it covers the entire circumference of the partition 50.

Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of outer insulation 85. As shown in Figure 3, outer insulation 85 may include a housing 86 that separates an internal space 87. Housing 86 may be made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel or a synthetic resin such as plastic. Internal space 87 may be vacuum-filled or filled with an insulating material such as aerogel.

In Figure 1, assuming the shortest distance between the outer surface of the partition 50 and the inner surface of the outer casing 102 is A, the first insulation unit 70 is preferably positioned within a range of A/5, more preferably A/10, and even more preferably A/20 from the outer surface of the partition 50. In other words, assuming the distance between the outer surface of the partition 50 and the outer surface of the first insulation unit 70 is L1, L1 is less than A/5, preferably less than A/10, and even more preferably A/20. This effectively insulates the partition 50.

Furthermore, the outer insulation 85 is preferably positioned at a distance of at least 5A/6, preferably at least 4A/6, and even more preferably at least 3A/6, from the outer surface of the compartment 50. In other words, when the distance between the outer surface of the compartment 50 and the inner surface of the outer insulation 85 is denoted by L2, L2 is at least 5A/6, preferably at least 4A/6, and even more preferably at least 3A/6. This effectively prevents excessive heating of the outer surface of the housing 102.

Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler of the first embodiment. In the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 shown in Figure 1 , the first thermal insulation section 70 and the fixing section 80 are located only in locations corresponding to the main surface of the heating section 60. In contrast, in the example shown in Figure 4 , the first thermal insulation section 70 also covers the end surfaces of the heating section 60. In other words, the first thermal insulation section 70 extends further than the heating section 60 in the longitudinal direction of the compartment 50, covering both ends of the heating section 60. This allows for more efficient insulation of heat from the heating section 60. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4 , the fixing section 80 may also cover the first thermal insulation section 70 and the ends of the heating section 60. That is, in the longitudinal direction of the compartment 50, the fixing portion 80 extends beyond the first insulating portion 70 and the heating portion 60, and covers both ends of the first insulating portion 70 and the heating portion 60. This allows the fixing portion 80 to more securely secure the heating portion 60 to the compartment 50.

<Second Implementation Type>

Next, the second embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 will be described. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100. The second embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40.

In the second embodiment, the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler includes a partition portion 50, a second heat insulating portion 73, a heating portion 60, a first heat insulating portion 70, an electromagnetic shield 88, and a fixing portion 80.

The heating unit 60 of the second embodiment comprises a generally cylindrical induction coil surrounding the side 52 of the compartment 50. Furthermore, the compartment 50 may include a susceptor. The susceptor may be located on the exterior or interior surface of the compartment 50, or may be incorporated into the side 52 of the compartment 50. In the illustrated example, however, it is constructed of a metal such as stainless steel so that the side 52 of the compartment 50 is inductively heated by the heating unit 60. This allows the compartment 50 to more efficiently receive energy from the heating unit 60 (magnetic field lines generated around the induction coil) compared to a case where only the bottom 55 of the compartment 50 includes the susceptor. More specifically, the side surface 52 of the compartment 50 includes a tubular heat sink surrounding the housing 53 and defines a current path surrounding the housing 53. This creates a circular current path, effectively generating eddy current.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bottom 55 of the compartment 50 can be formed from a synthetic resin such as PEEK, which is magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating). When the bottom 55 of the compartment 50 includes a heat sink, localized overheating of the front end of the smokeable substance 30 can be avoided. Therefore, since the bottom 55 of the compartment 50 is formed from a magnetically permeable and non-conductive material, induced heating is eliminated within the bottom 55 of the compartment 50. This allows for more uniform heating of the smokeable substance 30 from the side, compared to a case where the bottom 55 includes a heat sink.

The first heat insulating portion 70 is preferably magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). The first heat insulating portion 70 can protect the electromagnetic shield 88 and the fixing portion 80 from the heat of the compartment 50. Furthermore, the second heat insulating portion 73 can be magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). Thus, an IH (induced heating) assembly is provided, which has a stable structure in which the components required for heating are arranged in layers around the compartment as an axis, and the components required for heating are integrated. Such a structure will have advantages in both the mass production of the IH assembly itself and the mass production of the fragrance inhaler embedded in the IH assembly. Moreover, it has at least one of the following effects. The second thermal insulator 73 protects the sheath of the RITZ wire that makes up the induction coil of the heating unit 60 from heat from the heat sink (side surface 52 of the compartment 50). The second thermal insulator 73 inhibits heat transfer from the heat sink (side surface 52 of the compartment 50) to the induction coil of the heating unit 60, thereby preventing heat from escaping from the housing 53 to the outside. This prevents excessive heating of the housing 102 by heat from the heat sink (side surface 52 of the compartment 50).

The first insulation section 70 and the second insulation section 73 have the same structure. This allows the heating unit 40 for the flavor inhaler to be constructed more simply and cost-effectively than if the first insulation section 70 and the second insulation section 73 had different structures. Figure 6 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the first insulation section 70 and the second insulation section 73. As shown in Figure 6, at least one of the first insulation section 70 or the second insulation section 73 may include portions 70a and 73a located between adjacent conductive wires in the induction coil of the heating section 60. This stabilizes the longitudinal axis position of the induction coil, enabling stable induction heating. Alternatively, both the first insulation section 70 and the second insulation section 73 may include portions 70a and 73a located between adjacent conductive wires in the induction coil. This further stabilizes the longitudinal axis position of the induction coil, enabling more stable induction heating.

Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 7 , the first thermal insulation portion 70 and the second thermal insulation portion 73 can also be integrally formed into a thermal insulation portion 75. This allows for a simpler thermal insulation structure for the heating unit 40 for a flavor inhaler. In this case, the induction coil of the heating portion 60 can be embedded in the integral thermal insulation portion 75, or the integral thermal insulation portion 75 can cover at least a portion of both the inner and outer sides of the induction coil. This securely fixes the position of the induction coil.

In the second embodiment, the second heat insulating portion 73 can also contact both the compartment 50 and the induction coil of the heating portion 60. This allows the fragrance inhaler heating unit 40 to have a more stable structure compared to a case where the second heat insulating portion 73 does not contact either the compartment 50 or the induction coil.

As shown in Figure 2 of the first embodiment, the second insulation section 73, like the first insulation section 70, can have a support portion and air space between the support portions. This effectively insulates heat from the heat sink (the side surface 52 of the compartment 50). Furthermore, the support portion of the second insulation section 73 is preferably flexible. This facilitates assembly of the second insulation section 73 and allows attachment to a variety of compartment 50 shapes. Specifically, for example, the support portion of the second insulation section 73 can be made of fiberglass.

The density of the air between the supporting portions of the second insulation section 73 is preferably uniform across the thickness of the second insulation section 73. Furthermore, the density of the air between the supporting portions of the second insulation section 73 is preferably uniform across the width of the second insulation section 73.

As shown in Figure 5, the induction coil of the heating unit 60 can also be arranged to surround the compartment 50. The induction coil of the heating unit 60 can also be composed of a single wire, but from the perspective of efficient heating, a spiral Litz wire can also be used.

The induction coil of the heating element 60 can be wound in a helical (three-dimensional spiral) or spiral (two-dimensional vortex) shape. The shape of the induction coil can also be cylindrical (a helical or snail coil bent) or flat. The induction coil can be adjacent to the compartment 50, surround the compartment 50, or protrude into the compartment 50. However, the arrangement surrounding the compartment 50 allows for efficient energy supply to the heat-generating portion of the compartment 50. There can be one or more induction coils. For example, the induction coil can be formed in a spiral shape around the partition 50, or a spiral coil can be bent around the partition 50, or a plurality of planar coils can be formed around the partition 50. However, forming the induction coil in a spiral shape around the partition 50 can simplify the structure and reduce manufacturing costs.

The electromagnetic shield 88 disposed between the fixing portion 80 and the induction coil of the heating portion 60 may contain, for example, Ni-Zi based granules.

According to the second embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 shown in Figures 5 and 7 described above, the heating portion 60, including the induction coil, heats the side surface 52 of the compartment 50 using electromagnetic induction. The first and second thermal insulation portions 70 and 73 prevent heat from the side surface 52 of the compartment 50 from being transferred to the fixing portion 80 or the electromagnetic shield 88. This allows the compartment 50 temperature to be raised compared to conventional methods, heating the smokeable substance 30 to a higher temperature. This, in turn, helps increase mist production and enhance the aroma.

The compartment 50 of the flavor inhaler 100 of the second embodiment may also include a heater within the receiving portion 53. Figure 8 illustrates another example of the flavor inhaler 100 of the second embodiment. In the illustrated example, a pin, plate, or plate-shaped heater 90 is disposed within the receiving portion 53 of the compartment 50. The heater 90 extends along the longitudinal direction of the compartment 50. When the smokeable substance 30 is inserted and positioned in the desired position within the receiving portion 53, the heater 90 is inserted and positioned within the smokeable substance 30. In this state, the heating unit 60 senses the heater 90 and heats the smokeable substance 30.

In the example shown in Figure 8 , the compartment 50 can be formed from a synthetic resin such as PEEK, which is magnetically permeable and non-conductive (electrically insulating). This prevents energy from the heater 60 (magnetic flux generated around the induction coil) from being absorbed by the compartment 50 and is instead efficiently transferred to the heat sink 90.

Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG8 , the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not necessarily need to include the second heat insulating portion 73. This is because when the smokeable substance 30 is heated, the smokeable substance 30 is located between the heat receiver 90 and the heating portion 60, thereby reducing the amount of heat from the heat receiver 90 that is transferred to the heating portion 60.

Figure 9 shows yet another example of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 9 , the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not include a heat sink. Instead, a heat sink 92 is disposed within the smokeable substance 30. The shape of the heat sink 92 is arbitrary; for example, the heat sink 92 may be in the form of particles, rods, bars, tubes, or cylinders disposed within the smokeable substance 30. In the example shown in Figure 9 , similar to the example shown in Figure 8 , the compartment 50 may be formed of a synthetic resin such as PEEK that is magnetically permeable and electrically non-conductive (electrically insulating).

When the smokeable substance 30 is placed at the desired location within the container 53, the heater 92 is positioned within the induction coil of the heating unit 60. In this state, the heating unit 60 senses the heat of the heater 92, thereby heating the smokeable substance 30.

Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG9 , similar to the example shown in FIG8 , the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not necessarily need to include the second heat insulating portion 73 . This is because when heating the smokable substance 30, the smokable substance 30 is located between the heat receiver 92 and the heating portion 60 , thereby reducing the amount of heat transferred from the heat receiver 92 to the heating portion 60 .

<Third Implementation Type>

Next, the third embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 will be described. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the third embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100. The third embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 differs from the second embodiment of the flavor inhaler 100 shown in Figure 5 in the configuration of the flavor inhaler heating unit 40. Specifically, in the third embodiment, the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not include the first heat insulating portion 70 and the fixing portion 80.

In the third embodiment, the side surface 52 of the compartment 50 is inductively heated by the heating unit 60. However, the second thermal insulation 73 limits the transfer of heat from the compartment 50 to the heating unit 60. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the aroma inhaler heating unit 40 may also include an external thermal insulation 85 as needed. This reduces the temperature rise of the outer housing 102. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the aroma inhaler heating unit 40 may also include an electromagnetic shield 88 as needed.

Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the second heat insulating portion 73 is pushed toward the compartment 50 by the induction coil of the heating portion 60 and secured thereto. Therefore, even if the flavor inhaler heating unit 40 does not include the securing portion 80 , the second heat insulating portion 73 can still be secured to the outer surface of the compartment 50 .

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications are possible within the scope of the patent application and the technical concepts described in the specification and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly described in the specification or drawings, if it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention, falls within the scope of the technical concepts of the present invention. Furthermore, when a shape or size is described in the specification as at least "substantially," it is intended not only to be "the strict shape or size," but also to include "a shape or size that at least achieves the intended function."

10:Battery

20:PCB

30: Smokable substances

31: Consumables

40: Heating unit for aroma inhaler

50: Partition

51: Opening

52:Side

53: Containment Department

54: Hole

55: Bottom

60: Heating section

61: Insulating layer

62: Heating layer

70: First insulation part

80: Fixed part, push part

85: External insulation

100: Aroma Inhaler

102: Shell

102a: Air flow path

A:Distance

L1: Distance

L2: Distance

Claims (14)

A fragrance inhaler comprises: a compartment having an opening and side surfaces surrounding the opening, which partitions off a storage portion for cylindrical consumables; a heating portion for heating the compartment; a fixing portion; and a housing housing the compartment, the heating portion, and the fixing portion. The compartment includes a heat sink; the heating portion includes a sensing coil surrounding the side surfaces of the compartment. The fragrance inhaler further comprises a first thermal insulation portion and a second thermal insulation portion. The first thermal insulation portion is disposed between the sensing coil and the fixing portion, and the second thermal insulation portion is disposed between the heat sink and the sensing coil. The fixing portion is configured to secure the first thermal insulation portion or the second thermal insulation portion. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein the fixing portion is configured to fix the first heat insulating portion. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein the first heat insulating portion comprises a portion located between adjacent conductive wires in the sensing coil. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein the first heat insulating portion comprises glass fiber. The flavor inhaler as claimed in claim 1, wherein the thickness of the first heat insulating portion is not less than 0.10 mm and not more than 3.00 mm. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein the first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion have the same structure. The flavor inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first heat insulating portion and the second heat insulating portion comprises a thin sheet, and the compressive stress of the thin sheet in the thickness direction is not less than 0.1 N/ ^{mm2 and} not more than 1.0 N/ ^mm2 . The fragrance inhaler of claim 1, wherein, when the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the housing is set to A, the first heat insulating portion is disposed within a range of A/5 from the outer surface of the compartment. The aroma inhaler as described in claim 1 has an electromagnetic shield, which is arranged between the aforementioned fixing portion and the aforementioned induction coil. The fragrance inhaler as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side surface of the compartment is formed by the heat receiver and has a current path surrounding the receiving portion. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1, wherein the fixing portion is made of polyimide. The fragrance inhaler as described in claim 1 has an outer heat-insulating portion, which is disposed between the fixing portion and the outer shell. The fragrance inhaler as claimed in claim 12, wherein, when the shortest distance between the outer surface of the compartment and the inner surface of the outer shell is set to A, the outer heat insulating portion is disposed at a distance 5A/6 or greater from the outer surface of the compartment. A fragrance inhalation system comprising: a fragrance inhaler as described in any one of claims 1 to 13; and the aforementioned consumables.