WO2025037376A1 - Flavor-generating article - Google Patents

Abstract

This flavor-generating article comprises a flavor source and a container for accommodating the flavor source. The container has an air inlet and an air outlet. The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container. The length of a first air flow path between the air outlet and the flavor source is greater than or equal to the length of a second air flow path between the air inlet and the flavor source, and the length of the second air flow path is greater than 0.

Description

Flavor-generating items

The present invention relates to a flavor generating product.

Conventionally, flavor inhalers for inhaling flavors and the like without burning the material are known. For example, smoking material heating devices are known as such flavor inhalers, which form an aerosol by heating smoking material made of tobacco containing volatile components. As such smoking material, consumables that have a slab of tobacco, a spacer, and a filter are known (see Patent Document 1).

International Publication No. 2019/162497

The object of the present invention is to provide a flavor generating product with a new structure.

According to a first aspect, a flavor generating article is provided. The flavor generating article includes a flavor source and a container that contains the flavor source. The container has an air inlet and an air outlet. The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container. The length of a first air flow path between the air outlet and the flavor source is at least equal to the length of a second air flow path between the air inlet and the flavor source, and the length of the second air flow path is greater than zero.

In this case, compared to when the length of the first air flow path is shorter than the length of the second air flow path, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the first air flow path during heating of the flavor source while the user is not smoking can be suppressed. Also, compared to when the length of the first air flow path is shorter than the length of the second air flow path, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source can be cooled more in the first air flow path.

The flow area of the flavor source may be greater than the flow area of the first air flow path.

In this case, since the flow area of the first air flow path is relatively small, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the first air flow path can be suppressed when the flavor source is heated while the user is not smoking. Also, the flavor source can be prevented from falling off the flavor-generating article through the first air flow path. Furthermore, the flow rate of air passing through the flavor source can be made slower than the flow rate of air passing through the first air flow path. This increases the time that the air remains around the flavor source, allowing more flavor components to be entrained in the air. Also, the flavor components passing through the first air flow path can be made less likely to aggregate on the wall surface of the first air flow path.

The flow area of the flavor source may be greater than the flow area of the second air flow path.

In this case, since the flow area of the second air flow path is relatively small, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the second air flow path can be suppressed when the flavor source is heated while the user is not smoking. Also, the flavor source can be prevented from falling off the flavor-generating article through the second air flow path. Furthermore, the flow speed of the air passing through the flavor source can be made slower than the flow speed of the air passing through the second air flow path. This allows relatively fast air to enter the flavor source from the second air flow path and collide with the flavor source to diffuse the air. As a result, the air spreads throughout the flavor source, and the flavor components generated in the flavor source can be efficiently delivered downstream.

The first air flow path may have a first flow path section having a substantially constant width, and a second flow path section that connects the flavor source to the first flow path section and narrows in width downstream.

In this case, a second flow path section that narrows toward the downstream side is provided between the flavor source and the first flow path section, so that the vapor or aerosol from the flavor source can be smoothly delivered to the first flow path section. Also, since the second flow path section is provided, the flow path width can be narrowed toward the downstream side, so that the flow path width of the first air flow path can be made small even when the width of the flavor source is relatively large. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source can be prevented from leaking from the first air flow path.

The width of the upstream end of the second flow path section may be substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the flavor source. The width of the downstream end of the second flow path section may be substantially equal to the width of the first flow path section.

In this case, since there is substantially no difference in width between the second flow path section and the first flow path section, pressure loss at the boundary between the second flow path section and the first flow path section can be suppressed. Furthermore, if the width of the upstream end of the second flow path section is substantially equal to the width of the flavor source, pressure loss at the boundary between the flavor source and the second flow path section can be suppressed.

The second air flow path may be wider as it moves downstream.

In this case, the air from the air inlet passes through the second air flow path, allowing the air to be diffused in the width direction, so that air can be supplied to a wider area of the flavor source.

The width of the upstream end of the second air flow path may be substantially equal to the width of the air inlet. The width of the downstream end of the second air flow path may be substantially equal to or less than the width of the flavor source.

In this case, since there is substantially no difference in width between the air inlet and the second air flow path, pressure loss at the boundary between the air inlet and the second air flow path can be suppressed. Furthermore, if the width of the downstream end of the second air flow path is substantially equal to the width of the flavor source, pressure loss at the boundary between the second air flow path and the flavor source can be suppressed.

The first air flow path and the second air flow path may be positioned substantially on the same axis.

In this case, the air flow path including the second air flow path and the first air flow path is prevented from bending, so an increase in suction resistance or pressure loss can be suppressed.

The flavor source may be in the form of a block, sheet, particles, or paste.

In this case, the flavor source may be in any form, such as a block, sheet, granule, or paste.

The flavor generating article may have a plurality of the air outlets and a plurality of the first air flow paths between the plurality of the air outlets and the flavor source.

In this case, the contact area between the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source and the wall surface of the container that defines the multiple first air flow paths can be increased, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the vapor or aerosol.

The thickness of the container in the portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located may be greater than the thickness of the container in the portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, and the second air flow path are not located.

In this case, the thickness of the container in the portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, and the second air flow path are not located can be made relatively small, so that the overall size of the container can be made compact.

The container may have a first member and a second member that is directly or indirectly joined to the first member.

In this case, the flavor source can be easily contained in the container by sandwiching it between the first and second members.

The container may have a joint surface between the first member and the second member, and the first member or the second member at a portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located may protrude toward the first member or the second member beyond the joint surface.

In this case, the first member or the second member has a recess in the joining surface, and this recess can function as a space in which the flavor source is placed or as an air flow path.

The first member and the second member may be joined to each other via a spacer. The container may have a substantially uniform thickness overall.

In this case, the entire container of the flavor-generating article has a substantially uniform thickness, which makes it easier to handle the flavor-generating article.

The length of the container may be greater than or equal to the width of the container.

In this case, the flavor generating article can have a shape different from the conventional cylindrical tobacco stick.

According to a second aspect, a flavor generating article is provided. The flavor generating article includes a flavor source and a container that contains the flavor source. The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container. The container includes a first member, a second member that is joined to the first member, a first end and a second end that face each other in a first direction, and a third end and a fourth end that face each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first member and the second member face each other such that the flavor source is located therebetween. At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member are joined to each other at the first end to form a first flange portion.

In this case, since the width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container, the flavor generating article can have a shape that is nearly flat overall. In this way, even if the flavor generating article has a special shape, the user can grasp the first flange portion, making it easy to handle the flavor generating article. In particular, when the flavor generating article is partially hot, such as when removing the flavor generating article from the flavor inhaler after use, the user can handle the flavor generating article more safely. Furthermore, when the flavor generating article is placed in the recess of the flavor inhaler, the first flange portion can come into contact with the wall portion that defines the recess of the flavor inhaler. At this time, the first flange portion bends, and the flavor generating article is urged from the wall portion, so that the flavor generating article can be positioned. The first member and the second member may be integrally formed at one end. That is, for example, a single member may be folded to form a portion corresponding to the first member and a portion corresponding to the second member facing it.

At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member may be joined to each other at the second end to form a second flange portion.

In this case, the user can grasp the second flange portion, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating product.

At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member may be joined to each other at the third end to form a third flange portion.

In this case, the user can grasp the third flange portion, making it even easier to handle the flavor-generating product.

At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member may be joined to each other at the fourth end to form a fourth flange portion.

In this case, the user can grasp the fourth flange portion, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating article.

The first flange portion may protrude in a direction away from the flavor source.

In this case, the first flange portion protrudes toward the outside of the flavor-generating article, allowing the user to easily grasp the first flange portion.

The first flange portion may extend over the entire length of the container in the second direction.

In this case, the area of the first flange portion that the user can grasp is increased, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating product.

A flavor-generating article in which the ratio of the length of the joint between the first member and the second member in the first direction to the length of the container excluding the joint in the first direction is 0.1 or more and 0.3 or less.

If the above ratio is less than 0.1, the length of the joint relative to the overall length of the container will be short, making it difficult for the user to grasp the joint. On the other hand, if the above ratio is greater than 0.3, the length of the joint relative to the overall length of the container will be long, making the overall size of the container larger. Therefore, in the above case, it is possible to make it easier for the user to grasp the joint and prevent the overall size of the container from becoming larger.

At least one of the first member and the second member may be concave.

In this case, at least one of the first and second members can have the flavor source placed in the concave portion, making it easy to position the flavor source relative to the container.

The first member and the second member may be made of different materials.

In this case, appropriate materials can be used for the first and second components, allowing freedom in the design of the container for the flavor-generating product.

The first member and the second member may be formed of paper.

In this case, the container can be manufactured cheaply and easily.

The first member and the second member may be formed from air-impermeable paper.

In this case, it is possible to prevent vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor source from escaping from unintended parts of the container.

At least one of the first member and the second member may have a water-resistant coating on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces.

In this case, it is possible to prevent moisture from penetrating into the flavor source inside the container.

The flavor source may be in the form of a block, sheet, particles, or paste.

In this case, the flavor source may be in any form, such as a block, sheet, granule, or paste.

The flavor generating article may have a susceptor housed in the container.

In this case, the flavor source can be heated by inductively heating the susceptor of the flavor generating article using an induction coil provided in the flavor inhaler.

The container may have an air inlet and an air outlet, the air inlet and the air outlet being defined by the first member and the second member.

In this case, when joining the first and second members, an air inlet and an air outlet can be formed by forming a non-jointed portion.

According to a third aspect, there is provided a method for manufacturing a flavor-generating article comprising a flavor source and a container having a first end and a second end opposed to each other in a first direction and a third end and a fourth end opposed to each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the container containing the flavor source, the width and length of the container being at least twice the maximum thickness of the container. This manufacturing method includes arranging the flavor source on the first member, arranging the second member such that the flavor source is located between the first member and the second member, and joining at least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member to each other at the first end.

In this case, a flange portion that can be grasped by a user can be formed at the first end of the container. This makes it possible to manufacture a flavor-generating article that is easy to handle.

According to a fourth aspect, a flavor generating article is provided. The flavor generating article includes a flavor source and a container that contains the flavor source. The container has an air inlet and an air outlet. The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container. The length of a first air flow path between the air outlet and the flavor source is shorter than the length of a second air flow path between the air inlet and the flavor source.

In this case, compared to when the length of the first air flow path is longer than the length of the second air flow path, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the second air flow path can be suppressed when the flavor source is heated while the user is not smoking.

The flavor source may have an air inlet and an air outlet, and the second air flow path may pass over a surface of the flavor source other than the air inlet and the air outlet and communicate with the air inlet.

In this case, an air layer is formed on the surface of the flavor source, which prevents the heat of the flavor source from being transferred to the outside of the container.

The flavor source may have a major surface, and the second air flow passage may pass over the major surface of the flavor source and communicate with the air inlet.

In this case, an air layer is formed on the main surface of the flavor source, so that a large area of the air layer can be secured, and the transfer of heat from the flavor source to the outside of the container can be further suppressed. Note that in this specification, the main surface of the flavor source refers to the flat surface of the flavor source that has the largest area.

The container may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the air outlet may be provided at the first end, and the air inlet may be provided closer to the first end than the air inlet of the flavor source.

In this case, air flowing in from the air inlet of the container flows toward the second end, enters the air inlet of the flavor source, and then flows to the air outlet provided at the first end. In other words, air flowing in from the air inlet flows from the first end side toward the second end, and then flows back toward the first end, so this flavor generating article has a so-called counterflow type air flow path. Therefore, in this case, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the second air flow path and the air inlet can be further suppressed.

The container may have two of the air inlets and two of the second air flow paths between the two air inlets and the flavor source.

In this case, even if one of the air inlets or the second air flow path is blocked, air can be supplied to the flavor source from the other air inlet or the second air flow path.

The container may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and the first air flow path and the second air flow path may overlap in a first direction connecting the first end and the second end.

If the first air flow path and the second air flow path do not overlap in the first direction, the length of the container in the first direction may be longer. Therefore, in this case, the length of the container in the first direction can be shortened while ensuring the lengths of the first air flow path and the second air flow path, compared to when the first air flow path and the second air flow path do not overlap in the first direction.

The container and the flavor source may be configured to separate the first air flow path from the second air flow path so that the first air flow path and the second air flow path are not in direct communication with each other.

In this case, it is possible to prevent air flowing in from the air inlet and passing through the second air flow path from passing through the first air flow path without passing through the flavor source and reaching the air outlet. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source can be delivered more reliably to the air outlet.

The flavor source may be sealed by the container except for a portion that communicates with the first air flow path and the second air flow path.

In this case, it is possible to prevent the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from leaking from parts of the flavor source other than the parts communicating with the first air flow path and the second air flow path.

A portion of the second air flow path may be located to the side of the flavor source, and the space between the second air flow path and the flavor source may be sealed by the container.

In this case, a portion of the second air flow path passes beside the flavor source before flowing into the flavor source, so the length of the second air flow path can be secured.

The flavor source may be attached to the container.

In this case, the flavor source can be easily positioned and fixed relative to the container.

The container has a first member and a second member that is joined to the first member, and at least one of the first member and the second member may have a recess that defines at least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path before being joined to each other.

In this case, since the recess is formed in advance, there is no need to form the first air flow path or the second air flow path when joining the first and second members. This makes it possible to improve the precision of the first air flow path or the second air flow path compared to when the first air flow path or the second air flow path is formed when joining the first and second members.

At least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path may be at least partially defined by the container and the flavor source.

In this case, since the flavor source is used to partially define at least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path, the container material can be reduced compared to when at least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path is defined by the container alone.

1 is a schematic side view of a flavor inhaler for heating a flavor generating article according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a flavor inhaler. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flavor source. FIG. 2 is a side view of a flavor source. 1 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic side view of a flavor generating article according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a flavor generating article according to another embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article according to another embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article according to another embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article according to another embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article according to another embodiment.

Below, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding components will be given the same reference numerals and duplicated explanations will be omitted. In this specification, the "longitudinal direction" refers to the direction in which air passes through the flavor source of the flavor-generating product or the long axis direction of the flavor-generating product. In addition, in this specification, the "short direction" or "width direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

1 is a schematic side view of a flavor inhaler for heating a flavor generating article according to the present embodiment. The flavor inhaler 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to generate vapor or aerosol by heating a flavor source contained in the flavor generating article. As shown, the flavor inhaler 100 has a first housing 110, a second housing 120, and a mouthpiece 130. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be configured to be detachable from each other. The mouthpiece 130 may be detachably connected to one end of the second housing 120, or may be formed integrally with the second housing 120.

2 is a schematic diagram of an example of a flavor inhaler 100. As shown in the figure, the flavor inhaler 100 has a battery 140, a heating unit 150, and a control circuit 170 arranged inside a first housing 110, and a cooling unit 160 arranged inside a second housing 120. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are rotatably connected to each other, for example, by a hinge. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be connected to each other by snap fitting, screwing, or the like so as to be completely separable. By completely separating the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 from each other in this way, the cooling unit 160, the mouthpiece 130, and the heating unit 150 can be easily cleaned.

The battery 140 is configured to supply power to the heating unit 150, the control circuit 170, and the like. For example, the battery 140 is a lithium ion battery. The battery 140 may be rechargeable by an external power source. The cooling unit 160 is configured to cool the aerosol generated from the flavor generating article 10. The cooling unit 160 may be, for example, a space in which the aerosol passing through is naturally cooled. Alternatively, the cooling unit 160 may be arranged or filled with one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, cellulose acetate, and aluminum foil. By arranging or filling the cooling unit 160 with these materials, the aerosol can be cooled more efficiently.

In the illustrated example, the heating unit 150 has a storage unit that stores the flavor generating article 10, and an induction coil 150b for inductively heating a susceptor included in the flavor generating article 10 stored in the storage unit. The flavor inhaler 100 shown in FIG. 2 may have an electromagnetic shield (not shown) between the heating unit 150 and the control circuit 170 that prevents the electromagnetic waves generated by the induction coil 150b from reaching the control circuit 170. The heating unit 150 is configured to heat the flavor generating article 10 to, for example, 200° C. or higher and 350° C. or lower. Not limited to this, the heating unit 150 may have a resistance heating element that heats the flavor generating article 10 from the outside. In this case, the flavor generating article 10 does not need to have a susceptor.

The control circuit 170 is composed of a CPU, a memory, etc., and controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the control circuit 170 starts heating the flavor generating article 10 in response to a user operation on an input device such as a push button or a slide switch (not shown), and stops heating the flavor generating article 10 after a certain period of time has elapsed. If the number of puffing actions by the user exceeds a certain value, the control circuit 170 may stop heating the flavor generating article 10 even before the certain period of time has elapsed since the start of heating the flavor generating article 10. For example, the puffing action is detected by a sensor (not shown).

Alternatively, the control circuit 170 may start heating the flavor-generating article 10 in response to the start of the puffing action, and end heating the flavor-generating article 10 in response to the end of the puffing action. The control circuit 170 may end heating the flavor-generating article 10 even before the end of the puffing action, if a certain time has elapsed since the start of the puffing action. In the illustrated example, the control circuit 170 is disposed between the battery 140 and the heating unit 150, and suppresses heat transfer from the heating unit 150 to the battery 140.

The flavor generating article 10 generates vapor or aerosol of a flavor source by being heated by the heating section 150. The vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor generating article 10 is cooled by passing through the cooling section 160 and reaches the user's mouth through the mouthpiece 130. In this embodiment, the flavor generating article 10 is in the form of a sheet, plate, or card.

In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the suction port 130 and the cooling unit 160 are provided in the flavor inhaler 100, but at least one of the suction port and the cooling unit may be provided in the flavor generating article 10. In that case, the suction port 130 or the cooling unit 160 may be omitted in the flavor inhaler 100.

Next, the flavor source included in the flavor generating article 10 will be described in detail. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the flavor source 50. FIG. 4 is a side view of the flavor source 50. As shown in FIG. 3, the flavor source 50 may be formed in a flat sheet shape as a whole. The flavor source 50 has a main surface 54, which is a flat surface having the largest area. The flavor generating article 10 may have a susceptor contained in a container 20 (see FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, etc.) described later. In this case, the flavor source 50 can be heated by inductively heating the susceptor of the flavor generating article 10 by an induction coil provided in the flavor inhaler 100. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, for example, the flavor source 50 has a corrugated first susceptor-containing sheet 53 containing a susceptor material, and flat first and second sheets 51 and 52 arranged to sandwich the first susceptor-containing sheet 53. At least one of the first susceptor-containing sheet 53, the first sheet 51, and the second sheet 52 contains tobacco and generates vapor or aerosol when heated. In this embodiment, the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 has a sinusoidal cross section. However, the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 is not limited to this, and may have a wavy cross section of any shape, such as a rectangular wave, a triangular wave, or a sawtooth wave.

Specific examples of tobacco include shredded dried tobacco leaves, ground leaf tobacco, and tobacco extracts (extracts made from water, organic solvents, or a mixture of these). Ground leaf tobacco is a particle obtained by grinding tobacco leaves. The ground leaf tobacco can have an average particle size of, for example, 30 to 120 μm. Grinding can be performed using a known grinder, and can be either dry grinding or wet grinding. Thus, ground leaf tobacco is also called leaf tobacco particles. In this embodiment, the average particle size is determined by a laser diffraction/scattering method, and specifically, is measured using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measuring device (for example, Horiba LA-950). The type of tobacco is not limited, and flue-cured, Burley, Orient, native, and other Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana rustica varieties can be used. The amount of tobacco contained in the first susceptor-containing sheet 53, the first sheet 51, or the second sheet 52 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1 to 80% by weight, and more preferably 10 to 50% by weight.

When at least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 contains tobacco, the tobacco may be supported on a sheet made of non-tobacco fibers such as pulp fibers or nonwoven fabric. Alternatively, at least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may be formed of a tobacco sheet. The tobacco sheet may be a paper-formed tobacco leaf sheet, a cast tobacco leaf sheet, a rolled tobacco leaf sheet, or the like. The tobacco sheet may further contain an aerosol source. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and various extracts from natural products and/or their constituent components may be selected depending on the application. The aerosol source is preferably a polyhydric alcohol, and may be, for example, glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, or a mixture thereof.

According to the flavor source 50 shown in Figs. 3 and 4, gaps S1 and S2 through which the vapor or aerosol generated from the tobacco passes can be formed between the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 and the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52, respectively. This allows the vapor or aerosol generated from the tobacco to be efficiently delivered downstream. In addition, since the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 contains a susceptor material, the tobacco can be heated without contacting the flavor generating product 10 containing the flavor source 50 with a heat source. Therefore, the gaps S1 and S2 are not crushed by the heater or the like coming into contact with the flavor generating product 10, and the vapor or aerosol can be delivered stably. In addition, at least one of the first susceptor-containing sheet 53, the first sheet 51, and the second sheet 52 may contain an aerosol source. In this case, the amount of aerosol delivered to the user can be increased.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 has projections and depressions extending along the longitudinal direction d1, and has a corrugated cross section. The first susceptor-containing sheet 53 can also be described as a ridged sheet as a whole.

At least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may be a non-tobacco sheet formed of a material other than tobacco. In this case, specifically, for example, at least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 preferably includes paper or pulp mold. This allows the flavor source 50 to be formed to be lightweight, inexpensive, and sturdy. At least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may include tobacco. In this case, by inductively heating the first susceptor-containing sheet 53, the tobacco contained in at least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may be heated, and vapor or aerosol may be generated.

The first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may contain tobacco. In this way, the tobacco contained in the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may be heated by induction heating of the first susceptor-containing sheet 53, and steam or aerosol may be generated, thereby increasing the amount of flavor or aerosol. In this case, the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may differ from each other in at least one of flavor, thickness, aerosol source content, and surface shape.

In this case, the thickness of each of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 is preferably 0.25 mm or more and 4.0 mm or less. If the thickness of each of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 is less than 0.25 mm, the amount of steam or aerosol generated per unit area of the sheet may be small. If the thickness of each of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 is more than 4.0 mm, the size of the flavor source 50 becomes too large. In this case, it takes time to heat the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52, so that it may take time to achieve the initial puff or the amount of delivery of the initial puff may be insufficient. Therefore, if the thickness of each of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 is within the above numerical range, it is possible to generate sufficient steam or aerosol and to suppress the size of the flavor source 50.

The height h1 of the wave portion of the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less. If the height h1 of the wave portion (see FIG. 4) is less than 0.2 mm, the gaps S1 and S2 between the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 and the first and second sheets 51 and 52 become too small, so that the flavor or aerosol generated from the tobacco may not be efficiently delivered downstream. In this case, the insulation properties of the gaps S1 and S2 between the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 and the first and second sheets 51 and 52 may be reduced. If the height h1 of the wave portion exceeds 2.0 mm, the size of the flavor source 50 becomes too large. Therefore, if the height h1 of the wave portion is within the above numerical range, the flavor or aerosol can be efficiently delivered and the size of the flavor source 50 can be suppressed.

The width of the wave portion of the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 (i.e., the length between the crests of the waves) is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less. If this width is less than 0.2 mm, there is a risk of an undesired increase in suction resistance when an aerosol is passed between the waves and inhaled. If this width exceeds 2.0 mm, there is a risk of the strength of the flavor-generating article 10 being weakened. Therefore, if this width is within the above numerical range, the strength of the flavor-generating article 10 can be maintained while suppressing an undesired increase in suction resistance.

At least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52 may contain a fragrance. In this case, the fragrance can be supplied to the user in addition to the flavor or aerosol. The type of fragrance is not particularly limited, and from the viewpoint of imparting a good fragrance sensation, the following fragrances may be used: acetanisole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, amyl alcohol, amyl butyrate, trans-anethole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resinoid, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, β-carotene, carrot juice, L-carnitine, glyceryl stearate ... Rubone, β-caryophyllene, cassia bark oil, cedarwood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronella oil, DL-citronellol, clary sage extract, cocoa, coffee, konjac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, davana oil, δ-decalactone, γ-decalactone, decanoic acid, dill herb oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethyl Pyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl levulinate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek absolute, genea Absolute, Gentian Root Infusion, Geraniol, Geranyl Acetate, Grape Juice, Guaiacol, Guava Extract, Gamma-Heptalactone, Gamma-Hexalactone, Hexanoic Acid, Cis-3-Hexene-1-ol, Hexyl Acetate, Hexyl Alcohol, Phenylhexyl Acetate, Honey, 4-Hydroxy-3-Pentenoic Acid Lactone, 4-Hydroxy-4-(3-Hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-Cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(Para-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-Butanone, Sodium 4-Hydroxyundecanoate, Immortelle Absolute, Beta-Ionone, Isoamyl Acetate , Isoamyl butyrate, Isoamyl phenylacetate, Isobutyl acetate, Isobutyl phenylacetate, Jasmine absolute, Cola nut tincture, Labdanum oil, Lemon terpeneless oil, Licorice extract, Linalool, Linalyl acetate, Lovage root oil, Maltol, Maple syrup, Menthol, Menthone, L-menthyl acetate, Paramethoxybenzaldehyde, Methyl 2-pyrrolyl ketone, Methyl anthranilate, Methyl phenylacetate, Methyl salicylate, 4'-Methylacetophenone, Methylcyclopentenolone, 3-Methylvaleric acid, Mimosa absolute, Honey fruit, Myristic acid, Nerol, Nero Lidol, γ-nonalactone, nutmeg oil, δ-octalactone, octanal, octanoic acid, orange flower oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, ω-pentadecalactone, peppermint oil, petitgrain Paraguay oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl phenylacetate, phenylacetic acid, piperonal, plum extract, propenyl guaethol, propyl acetate, 3-propylidenephthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, α- Terpineol, terpinyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxacyclo(8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tridecanone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexene-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecalactone, γ-valerolactone At least one of the following may be selected: vanilla extract, vanillin, veratraldehyde, violet leaf absolute, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carboxamide) acetate (WS-5), sugar (sucrose, fructose, etc.), cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, rose pip powder, chamomile flower powder, lemon verbena powder, peppermint powder, leaf powder, spearmint powder, black tea powder, natural plant flavors (e.g., jasmine oil, lemon oil, vetiver oil, lovage oil), and esters.

The first susceptor-containing sheet 53 may also extend only partially in the longitudinal direction d1 or width direction d2 of the flavor source 50. In this case, the first susceptor-containing sheet 53 has a length or width that is shorter than the overall length or width of the flavor source 50. Therefore, since the flavor source 50 does not need to have a first susceptor-containing sheet 53 that has a size similar to its overall size, only the required amount of first susceptor-containing sheet 53 is provided for the flavor source 50, and the susceptor material can be reduced.

The flavor source 50 shown in Figures 3 and 4 may omit at least one of the first sheet 51 and the second sheet 52. For example, the flavor source 50 may be composed of only the first susceptor-containing sheet 53. Furthermore, the flavor source 50 shown in Figures 3 and 4 is generally in a sheet shape. However, the flavor source 50 may have any shape, such as a block shape, a sheet shape, a particle shape, or a paste shape. In this case, the flavor source 50 may be a porous body.

5A is a schematic plan view of the flavor generating article 10 according to this embodiment. FIG. 5B is a schematic side view of the flavor generating article 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the flavor generating article 10 has a flavor source 50 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, and a container 20 that contains the flavor source 50. The container 20 has an air inlet 21 and an air outlet 22. The air inlet 21 communicates with the vent of the flavor inhaler 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and is configured to take in air from the vent. The air outlet 22 communicates with the mouth 130 of the flavor inhaler 100, and releases the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 50 to the mouth 130. The container 20 has a flavor source storage section 25, and the flavor source 50 is stored in the flavor source storage section 25.

In this embodiment, the width W1 and length L1 of the container 20 are at least twice the maximum thickness T1 of the container 20. The container 20 of this embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B has an overall flat shape. Here, the length L1 refers to the length along the longitudinal direction of the container 20. The length L1 of the container 20 may be at least the width W1 of the container 20. In this case, the flavor-generating article 10 can have a shape different from that of a conventional cylindrical tobacco stick.

The container 20 of the flavor generating article 10 may be flexible. The width W1 of the container 20 of the flavor generating article 10 may be greater than the width of the storage section of the flavor inhaler 100. In this case, when the flavor generating article 10 is stored in the storage section of the flavor inhaler 100, the flavor generating article 10 may be compressed in the width direction by the storage section. The air inlet 21 and air outlet 22 of the flavor generating article 10 may be closed in advance, or the flavor generating article 10 may be configured so that the air inlet 21 and air outlet 22 are opened when the flavor generating article 10 is stored in the storage section and compressed in the width direction.

As shown, the flavor generating article 10 has a first air flow path 24 extending between the air outlet 22 and the flavor source 50, and a second air flow path 23 extending between the air inlet 21 and the flavor source 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first air flow path 24 between the air outlet 22 and the flavor source 50 is equal to or greater than the length of the second air flow path 23 between the air inlet 21 and the flavor source 50, and the length of the second air flow path 23 is greater than 0. In this case, compared to when the length of the first air flow path 24 is shorter than the length of the second air flow path 23, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 from the first air flow path 24 during heating of the flavor source 50 while the user is not smoking can be suppressed. In addition, compared to when the length of the first air flow path 24 is shorter than the length of the second air flow path 23, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 can be cooled more in the first air flow path 24. The flavor source 50 has an air inlet 50a communicating with the second air flow path 23 and an air outlet 50b communicating with the first air flow path 24. The first air flow path 24 and the air outlet 22 may function as a cooling section and a mouthpiece of the flavor-generating article 10, respectively. In that case, the cooling section 160 or the mouthpiece 130 may be omitted in the flavor inhaler 100 shown in FIG. 2.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the flow area of the flavor source 50 is preferably larger than the flow area of the first air flow path 24. In this case, since the flow area of the first air flow path 24 is relatively small, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 can be prevented from leaking from the first air flow path 24 when the flavor source 50 is heated while the user is not smoking. In addition, the flavor source 50 can be prevented from falling off the flavor-generating article through the first air flow path. The flow area of the flavor source 50 refers to, for example, a cross-sectional area perpendicular to a straight line connecting the shortest distance between the air inflow point and the air outflow point of the flavor source 50. In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the flow area of the flavor source 50 refers to the cross-sectional area of the flavor source 50 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The flow area of the first air flow path 24 refers to a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the air flow direction of the first air flow path 24. The length of the flavor source 50 along the longitudinal direction (length L1 direction) may be greater than or less than the length along the width direction (width W1 direction).

As shown in FIG. 5A, the flow path area of the flavor source 50 is preferably larger than the flow path area of the second air flow path 23. In this case, since the flow path area of the second air flow path 23 is relatively small, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 from the second air flow path 23 can be suppressed when the flavor source 50 is heated while the user is not smoking. In addition, the flavor source 50 can be prevented from falling off the flavor-generating article 10 through the second air flow path 23.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the first air flow path 24 preferably has a first flow path section 24a having a substantially constant width, and a second flow path section 24b that connects the flavor source 50 and the first flow path section 24a and narrows in width toward the downstream. In this case, the second flow path section 24b that narrows in width toward the downstream is provided between the flavor source 50 and the first flow path section 24a, so that the vapor or aerosol from the flavor source 50 can be smoothly delivered to the first flow path section 24a. In addition, since the second flow path section 24b is provided, the flow path width can be narrowed toward the downstream, so that the flow path width of the first air flow path 24 can be made small even if the width of the flavor source 50 is relatively large. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 can be prevented from leaking from the first air flow path 24.

The first air flow path 24 may have a known filter, such as a paper filter or acetate filter, or may be a hollow flow path. The first air flow path 24 may also be connected to an opening that takes in air from the outside. The first air flow path 24 may be filled or have one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, cellulose acetate, and aluminum foil, in order to promote cooling.

The width of the upstream end of the second flow path section 24b may be substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the flavor source 50. Also, the width of the downstream end of the second flow path section 24b may be substantially equal to the width of the first flow path section 24a. In this case, since there is substantially no difference in width between the second flow path section 24b and the first flow path section 24a, pressure loss at the boundary between the second flow path section 24b and the first flow path section 24a can be suppressed. Also, when the width of the upstream end of the second flow path section 24b is substantially equal to the width of the flavor source 50, pressure loss at the boundary between the flavor source 50 and the second flow path section 24b can be suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 5A, it is preferable that the second air flow path 23 becomes wider as it moves downstream. In this case, the air from the air inlet 21 passes through the second air flow path 23, and the air can be diffused in the width direction, so that air can be supplied to a wider area of the flavor source 50.

The width of the upstream end of the second air flow path 23 may be substantially equal to the width of the air inlet 21. Also, the width of the downstream end of the second air flow path 23 may be substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the flavor source 50. In this case, since there is substantially no difference in width between the air inlet 21 and the second air flow path 23, pressure loss at the boundary between the air inlet 21 and the second air flow path 23 can be suppressed. Also, when the width of the downstream end of the second air flow path 23 is substantially equal to the width of the flavor source 50, pressure loss at the boundary between the second air flow path 23 and the flavor source 50 can be suppressed.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5A, it is preferable that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 are located on substantially the same axis. In other words, it is preferable that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 do not deviate from substantially the same axis over their entire length. In this case, the air flow path including the second air flow path 23 and the first air flow path 24 is prevented from curving, so that an increase in suction resistance or pressure loss can be suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the container 20 may have a first member 20a and a second member 20b. The second member 20b is directly or indirectly joined to the first member 20a. In this case, the flavor source 50 can be easily accommodated in the container by sandwiching the flavor source 50 between the first member 20a and the second member 20b. Specifically, the first member 20a and the second member 20b face each other so that the flavor source 50 is located between them. The container 20 has a joint portion 27a (shaded portion in the figure) where the first member 20a and the second member 20b are joined, and a non-joint portion 27b where the first member 20a and the second member 20b are not joined. The first member 20a and the second member 20b can be joined to each other by a known method such as adhesive, heat sealing, welding, etc. The joint portion 27a is configured to prevent air and the like from passing through. The non-jointed portion 27b forms a space between the first member 20a and the second member 20b. Therefore, the second air flow path 23, the first air flow path 24, and the flavor source storage portion 25 are each part of the space between the first member 20a and the second member 20b formed by the non-jointed portion 27b.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the thicknesses T1, T2 of the container 20 in the portion where the flavor source 50, the first air flow path 24, or the second air flow path 23 are located may be greater than the thickness T3 of the container 20 in the portion where the flavor source 50, the first air flow path 24, and the second air flow path 23 are not located. In this case, the thickness T3 of the container 20 in the portion where the flavor source 50, the first air flow path 24, and the second air flow path 23 are not located can be relatively small, so that the overall size of the container 20 can be made compact.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the container 20 has a joint surface 27c between the first member 20a and the second member 20b. The first member 20a or the second member 20b in the portion (i.e., non-jointed portion 27b) where the flavor source 50, the first air flow path 24, or the second air flow path 23 is located may protrude toward the first member 20a side or the second member 20b side from the joint surface 27c. In this case, the first member 20a or the second member 20b has a recess in the joint surface 27c, and this recess can function as a space (flavor source storage portion 25) in which the flavor source 50 is arranged, or as an air flow path. In the example shown in FIG. 5B, both the first member 20a and the second member 20b protrude toward the first member 20a side and the second member 20b side, respectively, from the joint surface 27c. In the illustrated example, the height of the first air flow path 24, the second air flow path 23, or the flavor source 50 protruding toward the first member 20a is the same as the height of the first air flow path 24, the second air flow path 23, or the flavor source 50 protruding toward the second member 20b. That is, the first member 20a and the second member 20b are symmetrical with respect to the joint surface 27c. However, the height of the first air flow path 24, the second air flow path 23, or the flavor source 50 protruding toward the first member 20a may be lower or higher than the height of the first air flow path 24, the second air flow path 23, or the flavor source 50 protruding toward the second member 20b.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the container 20 has a first end 30a and a second end 30b that face each other in a first direction, and a third end 30c and a fourth end 30d that face each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. At least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b are joined to each other at the first end 30a to form a first flange portion 31a. In this embodiment, the first direction corresponds to the longitudinal direction, and the second direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. However, this is not limited to this, and the first direction can be any direction.

As described above, in this embodiment, the width W1 and length L1 of the container 20 are more than twice the maximum thickness T1 of the container 20, so that the flavor generating article 10 can have a shape that is nearly flat overall. In this way, even if the flavor generating article 10 has a special shape, the user can grasp the first flange portion 31a, so that the flavor generating article 10 can be easily handled. In particular, when the flavor generating article 10 is partially heated, such as when removing the flavor generating article 10 from the flavor inhaler 100 after use, the user can handle the flavor generating article 10 more safely. In addition, when the flavor generating article 10 is placed in the recess of the flavor inhaler 100, the first flange portion 31a may come into contact with the wall portion that defines the recess of the flavor inhaler 100. At this time, the first flange portion 31a is bent, and the flavor generating article 10 is urged from the wall portion, so that the flavor generating article 10 can be positioned. The first member 20a and the second member 20b may be integrally formed at one end. That is, for example, a single member may be folded to form a portion corresponding to the first member 20a and a portion corresponding to the second member 20b that faces the first member 20a.

Also, as shown in FIG. 5A, at least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b may be joined to each other at the second end 30b to form a second flange portion 31b. In this case, the user can grasp the second flange portion 31b, making it even easier to handle the flavor-generating article 10.

As shown in FIG. 5A, at least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b may be joined to each other at a third end 30c to form a third flange portion 31c. In this case, the user can grasp the third flange portion 31c, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating article 10.

As shown in FIG. 5A, at least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b may be joined to each other at a fourth end 30d to form a fourth flange portion 31d. In this case, the user can grasp the fourth flange portion 31d, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating article.

It is preferable that the first flange portion 31a protrudes in a direction away from the flavor source 50. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5A, it is preferable that the first flange portion 31a protrudes along the longitudinal direction so as to be away from the flavor source 50. In this case, since the first flange portion 31a protrudes toward the outside of the flavor-generating article 10, the user can easily grasp the first flange portion 31a. Similarly, it is preferable that at least one of the second flange portion 31b, the third flange portion 31c, and the fourth flange portion 31d protrudes in a direction away from the flavor source 50.

The first flange portion 31a preferably extends over the entire length of the container 20 in the second direction (in this embodiment, the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction). In this case, the range of the first flange portion 31a that the user can grasp is increased, making it easier to handle the flavor-generating article 10. However, in this case, it becomes difficult to form the air outlet 22 at the first end 30a as in this embodiment, so it is preferable to form the air outlet 22 at a portion other than the first end 30a. Similarly, the second flange portion 31b preferably extends over the entire length of the container 20 in the second direction. In this case, it becomes difficult to form the air inlet 21 at the second end 30b as in this embodiment, so it is preferable to form the air inlet 21 at a portion other than the second end 30b. At least one of the third flange portion 31c and the fourth flange portion 31d preferably extends over the entire length of the container 20 in the first direction (in this embodiment, the longitudinal direction).

The ratio of the length of the joint 27a of the first member 20a and the second member 20b in the first direction to the length of the container 20 excluding the joint 27a in the first direction is preferably 0.1 or more and 0.3 or less. The "first direction" here may be any direction in which the joint 27a (flange portion) extends. That is, in any direction, the ratio of the length of the joint 27a to the length of the container 20 excluding the joint 27a in that direction (i.e., the non-jointed portion 27b) is preferably 0.1 or more and 0.3 or less. If the ratio is less than 0.1, the length of the joint 27a relative to the overall length of the container 20 becomes short, making it difficult for the user to grasp the joint 27a. On the other hand, if the ratio is more than 0.3, the length of the joint 27a relative to the overall length of the container 20 becomes long, making the overall size of the container 20 large. Therefore, in the above case, it is possible to easily grasp the joint 27a and to prevent the overall size of the container 20 from becoming large.

At least one of the first member 20a and the second member 20b is preferably concave. In this case, the flavor source 50 can be placed in the concave portion of at least one of the first member 20a and the second member 20b, making it easy to position the flavor source 50 relative to the container 20. As shown in FIG. 5B, in this embodiment, a portion of each of the first member 20a and the second member 20b is formed concave, and the first member 20a and the second member 20b define the flavor source storage section 25. For example, by forming one of the first member 20a and the second member 20b concave and the other flat, a container 20 consisting of a concave member and a flat member can be formed.

The first member 20a and the second member 20b may be formed from different materials. In this case, appropriate materials can be used for the first member 20a and the second member 20b, allowing freedom in the design of the container 20 of the flavor-generating article 10.

The container 20 may also be made of paper. Specifically, the first member 20a and the second member 20b may be made of paper. In this case, the container 20 can be manufactured inexpensively and easily. More specifically, the container 20 may be made of a pulp mold. The container 20 may also be made of an air-impermeable material. Here, an air-impermeable material refers to a material having an air permeability of 0 CU when measured according to ISO2965-1997. More specifically, the container 20 may be made of air-impermeable paper. More specifically, the first member 20a and the second member 20b may be made of air-impermeable paper. In this case, it is possible to prevent the vapor or aerosol generated from the flavor source 50 from leaking from unintended parts of the container 20.

The container 20 may have a water-resistant coating on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces. Specifically, at least one of the first member 20a and the second member 20b may have a water-resistant coating on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces. In this case, it is possible to prevent moisture from penetrating the flavor source 50 in the container 20.

The air inlet 21 and the air outlet 22 may be defined by the first member 20a and the second member 20b. In this case, when joining the first member 20a and the second member 20b, the air inlet 21 and the air outlet 22 can be formed by forming a non-jointed portion (non-jointed portion 27b) to form the air inlet 21 and the air outlet 22. Not limited to this, the air inlet 21 or the air outlet 22 may be formed by forming a through hole in the first member 20a or the second member 20b.

The flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 5A has a single air outlet 22 and a single first air flow path 24. However, the flavor generating article 10 may have multiple air outlets 22 and multiple first air flow paths 24 between the multiple air outlets 22 and the flavor source 50. In this case, the contact area between the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 50 and the wall surface of the container 20 that defines the multiple first air flow paths 24 can be increased, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the vapor or aerosol.

In the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 5B, the first member 20a and the second member 20b are directly joined at the joining surface 27c. However, the first member 20a and the second member 20b may be joined to each other via a spacer. In this case, the container 20 may have a substantially uniform thickness as a whole. Specifically, by preparing the first member 20a and the second member 20b that are generally flat, and arranging a spacer corresponding to the thickness of the flavor source storage section 25, the second air flow path 23, and the first air flow path 24 between the first member 20a and the second member 20b at the joining portion 27a, the container 20 will have a substantially uniform thickness as a whole. This makes it possible to easily handle the flavor generating article 10.

The flavor source 50 may be glued to the container 20. In this case, the flavor source 50 can be easily positioned and fixed to the container 20. Also, if the flavor source 50 is in a paste form, the flavor source 50 may be applied to the container 20.

At least one of the first member 20a and the second member 20b may have a recess that defines at least one of the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 before they are joined together. In this case, since the recess is formed in advance, it is not necessary to form the first air flow path 24 or the second air flow path 23 when joining the first member 20a and the second member 20b. Therefore, the precision of the first air flow path 24 or the second air flow path 23 can be improved compared to when the first air flow path 24 or the second air flow path 23 is formed when joining the first member 20a and the second member 20b.

5A and 5B, a method for manufacturing the flavor-generating article 10 will be described. As described above, the flavor-generating article 10 has a flavor source 50, a first end 30a and a second end 30b that face each other in a first direction, and a third end 30c and a fourth end 30d that face each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a container 20 that contains the flavor source 50, and the width and length of the container 20 are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container 20. This manufacturing method includes first arranging the flavor source 50 on the first member 20a. Next, the second member is arranged so that the flavor source 50 is located between the first member 20a and the second member 20b, and at least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b are joined to each other at the first end 30a. In this case, a first flange portion 31a that can be grasped by a user can be formed on the first end 30a of the container 20. This allows the manufacture of an easy-to-handle flavor-generating article 10. Similarly, at least one end of the first member 20a and at least one end of the second member 20b may be joined to each other at at least one of the second end 30b, the third end 30c, and the fourth end 30d.

After the first member 20a and the second member 20b are joined, a portion of the joint 27a may be removed. This allows the container 20 to be formed into the desired shape.

Other embodiments of the flavor generating article 10 will now be described. Fig. 6A is a schematic perspective view of the flavor generating article 10 according to another embodiment. Fig. 6B is a schematic plan view of the flavor generating article 10 according to another embodiment. In the flavor generating article 10 shown in Figs. 6A and 6B, a first flange portion 31a is formed at the first end 30a, a second end portion 30b is formed at the second end 30b, an air inlet 21 is formed at the third end 30c, and an air outlet 22 is formed at the fourth end 30d.

As shown, substantially no second air flow path 23 is formed between the air inlet 21 and the flavor source 50. On the other hand, a first air flow path 24 having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the cross-sectional shape of the flavor source 50 is provided between the air outlet 22 and the flavor source 50. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, no flange portion is formed at the third end 30c and the fourth end 30d, and the air inlet 21 and the air outlet 22 are formed over substantially the entirety of each end. That is, the flavor generating article 10 shown in Figures 5A and 5B has a four-sided seal, whereas the flavor generating article 10 shown in Figures 6A and 6B has a two-sided seal.

Furthermore, in the flavor-generating article 10 shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the thickness of the portion of the container 20 that corresponds to the flavor source storage portion 25 and the thickness of the portion that corresponds to the first air flow path 24 are formed to be substantially the same. In other words, the thickness of the non-jointed portion 27b is formed to be approximately uniform overall. In contrast, the thickness of the joint portion 27a, which includes the first flange portion 31a and the second flange portion 31b, is thinner than the thickness of the non-jointed portion 27b.

7 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7 is different from the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B in that the second air flow path 23 is longer. That is, in the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7, the length of the first air flow path 24 between the air outlet 22 and the flavor source 50 is shorter than the length of the second air flow path 23 between the air inlet 21 and the flavor source 50. In this case, compared to the case where the length of the first air flow path 24 is longer than the length of the second air flow path 23, leakage of vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source from the second air flow path 23 when the flavor source 50 is heated while the user is not smoking can be suppressed.

In the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7, the second air flow path 23 preferably has a third flow path section 23a having a substantially constant width, and a fourth flow path section 23b that connects the air inlet 50a of the flavor source 50 and the third flow path section 23a and narrows in width toward the upstream. In this case, since the fourth flow path section 23b that narrows in width toward the upstream is provided between the flavor source 50 and the third flow path section 23a, the flow path width of the second air flow path 23 can be made small even when the width of the flavor source 50 is relatively large. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 can be prevented from leaking from the second air flow path 23. In the illustrated example, the second air flow path 23 extends along the longitudinal direction, and the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 are positioned on substantially the same axis. However, the second air flow path 23 can have any flow path shape that is longer than the first air flow path 24.

8 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 8 is different from the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7 in the shape of the second air flow path 23 and the position of the air inlet 21. Specifically, in the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 8, the air outlet 22 is provided at the first end 30a, and the air inlet 21 is provided on the first end 30a side of the air inlet 50a of the flavor source 50. In this case, the air flowing in from the air inlet 21 of the container 20 flows toward the second end 30b and flows into the air inlet 50a of the flavor source 50, and then flows into the air outlet 22 provided at the first end 30a. That is, the air flowing in from the air inlet 21 flows from the first end 30a side toward the second end 30b, and then flows toward the first end 30a again, so that this flavor generating article 10 has a so-called counterflow type air flow path. Therefore, in this case, leakage of the vapor or aerosol generated by the flavor source 50 from the second air flow path 23 and the air inlet 21 can be further suppressed.

As shown, the container 20 may have two air inlets 21 and two second air flow paths 23 between the two air inlets 21 and the flavor source 50. In this case, even if one of the air inlets 21 or second air flow paths 23 is blocked, air can be supplied to the flavor source 50 from the other air inlet 21 or second air flow path 23.

Furthermore, as shown in the figure, it is preferable that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 overlap in the first direction (the longitudinal direction in the illustrated example) connecting the first end 30a and the second end 30b. In other words, it is preferable that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 overlap in position in the first direction. When the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 do not overlap in the first direction, as in the flavor-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7, the length of the container 20 in the first direction may be long. Therefore, the flavor-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 8 can shorten the length of the container 20 in the first direction while ensuring the lengths of the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23, compared to when the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 do not overlap in the first direction.

Furthermore, as shown in the figure, when the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 overlap in the first direction, it is preferable that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 are not short-circuited. For this reason, it is preferable that the container 20 and the flavor source 50 are configured to partition the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 so that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 do not directly communicate with each other. In other words, it is preferable that the container 20 and the flavor source 50 seal the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 so that the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 do not directly communicate with each other. In this case, it is possible to prevent air flowing in from the air inlet 21 and passing through the second air flow path 23 from passing through the first air flow path 24 without passing through the flavor source 50 and reaching the air outlet 22. As a result, the vapor or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 can be delivered to the air outlet 22 more reliably.

It is preferable that the flavor source 50 is sealed by the container 20 except for the portion communicating with the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23. Specifically, the flavor source 50 may be sealed by the container 20 so that air does not flow in or out of the portion of the flavor source 50 except for the air inlet 50a and the air outlet 50b. In this case, it is possible to prevent the steam or aerosol generated in the flavor source 50 from leaking out from the portion of the flavor source 50 other than the portion communicating with the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23. Not limited to this, the portion of the flavor source 50 except for the air inlet 50a and the air outlet 50b may be sealed by a member other than the container 20.

As shown in FIG. 8, a portion of the second air flow path 23 may be located to the side of the flavor source 50. In other words, a portion of the second air flow path 23 may be adjacent to the flavor source 50 in the width direction. In this case, it is preferable that the space between the second air flow path 23 and the flavor source 50 is sealed by the container 20. This allows a portion of the second air flow path 23 to pass by the side of the flavor source 50 before flowing into the flavor source 50, thereby ensuring the length of the second air flow path 23.

At least one of the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 may be at least partially defined by the container 20 and the flavor source 50. In the example shown in FIG. 8, a portion of the second air flow path 23 is defined by the container 20 and the flavor source 50. In this case, since the flavor source 50 is used to partially define at least one of the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23, the material of the container 20 can be reduced compared to when at least one of the first air flow path 24 and the second air flow path 23 is defined by the container 20 alone.

9 is a schematic plan view of a flavor generating article 10 according to another embodiment. The flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 9 is different from the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 7 in the shape of the second air flow path 23 and the position of the air inlet 21. Specifically, in the flavor generating article 10 shown in FIG. 8, the air outlet 22 is provided at the first end 30a, and the air inlet 21 is provided closer to the first end 30a than the air inlet 50a of the flavor source 50. Furthermore, the second air flow path 23 passes over the surface of the flavor source 50 other than the air inlet 50a and the air outlet 50b, and communicates with the air inlet 50a. In this case, an air layer is formed on the surface of the flavor source 50, so that the heat of the flavor source 50 can be prevented from being transferred to the outside of the container 20.

Specifically, it is preferable that the second air flow path 23 passes over the main surface 54 of the flavor source 50 (see FIG. 3) and communicates with the air inlet 50a. In this case, an air layer is formed on the main surface 54 of the flavor source 50, so that the area of the air layer can be secured to be large, and the transfer of heat from the flavor source 50 to the outside of the container 20 can be further suppressed. In the illustrated example, the second air flow path 23 surrounds the flavor source 50 in a substantially spiral shape and communicates with the air inlet 50a of the flavor source 50. However, the second air flow path 23 may pass over only one of the main surfaces 54 of the flavor source 50, for example.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical ideas described in the specification and drawings. Any shape or material not directly described in the specification and drawings is within the scope of the technical ideas of the present invention as long as it provides the functions and effects of the present invention. For example, the above-mentioned second air flow path 23 may be provided with a member such as a filter through which air can pass and which can filter aerosols.

Some aspects disclosed in the present specification are described below.
(1)
A flavor source;
a container for containing the flavor source;
the container having an air inlet and an air outlet;
The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container;
a length of a first air flow path between the air outlet and the flavor source is greater than or equal to a length of a second air flow path between the air inlet and the flavor source;
The flavor generating article, wherein the length of the second air flow path is greater than zero.
(2)
In the flavor generating article according to (1),
A flavor generating article, wherein a flow area of the flavor source is greater than a flow area of the first air flow path.
(3)
In the flavor generating article according to (1) or (2),
A flavor generating article, wherein the flow area of the flavor source is greater than the flow area of the second air flow path.
(4)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (3),
The flavor generating article has a first flow path portion having a substantially constant width, and a second flow path portion that connects the flavor source to the first flow path portion and whose width narrows downstream.
(5)
In the flavor generating article according to (4),
A flavor generating article, wherein the width of the upstream end of the second flow path portion is substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the flavor source, and the width of the downstream end of the second flow path portion is substantially equal to the width of the first flow path portion.
(6)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (5),
The flavor generating article, wherein the second air flow passage widens in a downstream direction.
(7)
In the flavor generating article according to (6),
A flavor generating article, wherein a width at an upstream end of said second air flow passage is substantially equal to a width of said air inlet, and a width at a downstream end of said second air flow passage is substantially equal to or less than a width of said flavor source.
(8)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (7),
The flavor generating article, wherein the first air flow path and the second air flow path are positioned on substantially the same axis.
(9)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (8),
The flavor generating article, wherein the flavor source is in the form of a block, a sheet, a particle, or a paste.
(10)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (9),
A plurality of said air outlets;
A flavor generating article having a plurality of said first air flow paths between a plurality of said air outlets and said flavor source.
(11)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (10),
A flavor generating article, wherein the thickness of the container in a portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located is greater than the thickness of the container in a portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, and the second air flow path are not located.
(12)
In the flavor generating article according to (11),
The container is a flavor generating article having a first member and a second member directly or indirectly joined to the first member.
(13)
In the flavor generating article according to (12),
The container has a joint surface between the first member and the second member,
A flavor generating article, wherein the first member or the second member at the portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located protrudes toward the first member side or the second member side beyond the joining surface.
(14)
In the flavor generating article according to (12),
The first member and the second member are joined to each other via a spacer,
The flavor generating article, wherein said container has a substantially uniform thickness throughout.
(15)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (1) to (14),
A flavor generating article, wherein the length of the container is equal to or greater than the width of the container.
(16)
A flavor source;
a container for containing the flavor source;
The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container;
The container has a first member, a second member joined to the first member, a first end and a second end opposed to each other in a first direction, and a third end and a fourth end opposed to each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction,
the first member and the second member face each other with the flavor source positioned therebetween;
At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member are joined to each other at the first end to form a first flange portion.
(17)
In the flavor generating article according to (16),
At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member are joined to each other at the second end to form a second flange portion.
(18)
In the flavor generating article according to (16) or (17),
At least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member are joined to each other at the third end to form a third flange portion.
(19)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (18),
At least one of the ends of the first member and at least one of the ends of the second member are joined to each other at the fourth end to form a fourth flange portion.
(20)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (19),
The first flange portion protrudes in a direction away from the flavor source.
(21)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (20),
The first flange portion extends along the entire length of the container in the second direction.
(22)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (21),
A flavor-generating article, wherein the ratio of the length of the joint between the first member and the second member in the first direction to the length of the container excluding the joint in the first direction is 0.1 or more and 0.3 or less.
(23)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (22),
At least one of the first member and the second member is concave.
(24)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (23),
The flavor generating article, wherein the first member and the second member are formed of different materials.
(25)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (24),
The flavor generating article, wherein the first member and the second member are formed of paper.
(26)
In the flavor generating article according to (25),
The flavor generating article, wherein the first member and the second member are formed of air-impermeable paper.
(27)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (26),
At least one of the first and second members has a water resistant coating on at least one of an interior and exterior surface.
(28)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (27),
The flavor generating article, wherein the flavor source is in the form of a block, a sheet, a particle, or a paste.
(29)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (28),
A flavor generating article having a susceptor housed in the container.
(30)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (16) to (29),
the container having an air inlet and an air outlet;
The flavor generating article, wherein the air inlet and the air outlet are defined by the first member and the second member.
(31)
A flavor source;
A method for producing a flavor-generating article comprising: a container having a first end and a second end facing each other in a first direction, and a third end and a fourth end facing each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the container containing the flavor source, the width and length of the container being at least twice the maximum thickness of the container,
disposing the flavor source on the first member;
Positioning the second member such that the flavor source is located between the first member and the second member;
and joining at least one end of the first member and at least one end of the second member to one another at the first ends.
(32)
A flavor source;
a container for containing the flavor source;
the container having an air inlet and an air outlet;
The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container;
A flavor generating article, wherein a length of a first air flow path between said air outlet and said flavor source is less than a length of a second air flow path between said air inlet and said flavor source.
(33)
In the flavor generating article according to (32),
the flavor source having an air flow inlet and an air flow outlet;
The second air flow path passes over a surface of the flavor source other than the air flow inlet and the air flow outlet and communicates with the air flow inlet.
(34)
In the flavor generating article according to (33),
The flavor source has a major surface,
The second air flow passage passes over a major surface of the flavor source and communicates with the air inlet.
(35)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (34),
the container has a first end and a second end opposite the first end;
The air outlet is provided at the first end,
The flavor generating article, wherein the air inlet is provided closer to the first end than the air flow inlet of the flavor source.
(36)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (35),
The container has two of the air inlets and two of the second air flow paths between the two air inlets and the flavor source.
(37)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (36),
the container has a first end and a second end opposite the first end;
A flavor-generating article, wherein the first air flow path and the second air flow path overlap in a first direction connecting the first end and the second end.
(38)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (37),
A flavor generating article, wherein the container and the flavor source are configured to partition the first air flow path and the second air flow path such that the first air flow path and the second air flow path are not in direct communication with each other.
(39)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (38),
The flavor generating article, wherein the flavor source is sealed by the container except for a portion communicating with the first air flow path and the second air flow path.
(40)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (39),
A portion of the second air flow path is located to the side of the flavor source,
A flavor generating article, wherein the container seals between the second air flow path and the flavor source.
(41)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (40),
The flavor generating article, wherein the flavor source is adhered to the container.
(42)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (41),
The container has a first member and a second member joined to the first member,
A flavor generating article, wherein at least one of the first member and the second member already has a recess that defines at least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path before being joined together.
(43)
In the flavor generating article according to any one of (32) to (42),
At least one of the first air flow path and the second air flow path is at least partially defined by the container and the flavor source.

10: Flavor-generating product 20: Container 20a: First member 20b: Second member 21: Air inlet 22: Air outlet 23: Second air flow path 24: First air flow path 24a: First flow path section 24b: Second flow path section 27a: Joint section 27c: Joint surface 30a: First end 30b: Second end 30c: Third end 30d: Fourth end 31a: First flange section 31b: Second flange section 31c: Third flange section 31d: Fourth flange section 50: Flavor source 50a: Air inlet 50b: Air outlet 54: Main surface T1: Maximum thickness T2, T3: Thickness W1: Width d1: Longitudinal direction d2: Width direction

Claims (15)

A flavor source;
a container for containing the flavor source;
the container having an air inlet and an air outlet;
The width and length of the container are at least twice the maximum thickness of the container;
a length of a first air flow path between the air outlet and the flavor source is greater than or equal to a length of a second air flow path between the air inlet and the flavor source;
The flavor generating article, wherein the length of the second air flow path is greater than zero. The flavor generating article according to claim 1,
A flavor generating article, wherein a flow area of the flavor source is greater than a flow area of the first air flow path. The flavor generating article according to claim 1 or 2,
A flavor generating article, wherein the flow area of the flavor source is greater than the flow area of the second air flow path. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The flavor generating article has a first flow path portion having a substantially constant width, and a second flow path portion that connects the flavor source to the first flow path portion and whose width narrows downstream. The flavor generating article according to claim 4,
A flavor generating article, wherein the width of the upstream end of the second flow path portion is substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the flavor source, and the width of the downstream end of the second flow path portion is substantially equal to the width of the first flow path portion. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The flavor generating article, wherein the second air flow passage widens in a downstream direction. The flavor generating article according to claim 6,
A flavor generating article, wherein a width at an upstream end of said second air flow passage is substantially equal to a width of said air inlet, and a width at a downstream end of said second air flow passage is substantially equal to or less than a width of said flavor source. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The flavor generating article, wherein the first air flow path and the second air flow path are positioned on substantially the same axis. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The flavor generating article, wherein the flavor source is in the form of a block, a sheet, a particle, or a paste. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A plurality of said air outlets;
A flavor generating article having a plurality of said first air flow paths between a plurality of said air outlets and said flavor source. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
A flavor generating article, wherein the thickness of the container in a portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located is greater than the thickness of the container in a portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, and the second air flow path are not located. The flavor generating article according to claim 11,
The container is a flavor generating article having a first member and a second member directly or indirectly joined to the first member. 13. The flavor generating article according to claim 12,
The container has a joint surface between the first member and the second member,
A flavor generating article, wherein the first member or the second member at the portion where the flavor source, the first air flow path, or the second air flow path is located protrudes toward the first member side or the second member side beyond the joining surface. 13. The flavor generating article according to claim 12,
The first member and the second member are joined to each other via a spacer,
The flavor generating article, wherein said container has a substantially uniform thickness throughout. The flavor generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
A flavor generating article, wherein the length of the container is equal to or greater than the width of the container.