JP7617145B2 - Suction device, control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a suction device, a control method, and a program.

Inhalation devices that generate a substance to be inhaled by a user, such as electronic cigarettes and nebulizers, are widely used. For example, the inhalation device generates an aerosol imparted with a flavor component using a substrate that includes an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavor source for imparting a flavor component to the generated aerosol. A user can taste the flavor by inhaling the aerosol imparted with the flavor component generated by the inhalation device.

Restrictions may be imposed on the operation of the suction device for various purposes. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technique for enabling the suction device to be used when a PIN is entered into a smartphone in order to ensure that the suction device is used only by the correct user.

Special Publication No. 2018-522649

However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires the user to use a smartphone every time the suction device is ready for use, leaving room for improvement in usability.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that can improve the usability of a suction device.

In order to solve the above problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an suction device comprising a communication unit that communicates with other devices, a heating unit that heats a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit, wherein the communication unit receives setting information from the other devices, the setting information including information indicating an operation pattern, and the control unit sets the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit and controls the operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern.

The suction device may include an operation unit that receives physical operations by a user, and the operation pattern may be a combination of operations on the operation unit.

The operation unit may include a button that accepts a press operation by a user, the operation pattern may include an operation of pressing the button, and the information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information may include information indicating a time series change in the state of the button.

The suction device further includes an opening into which the substrate can be inserted and a lid portion for opening and closing the opening, the operation portion includes the lid portion, the operation pattern includes an operation of opening and closing the opening using the lid portion, and the information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information may include information indicating a time series progression of the state of the lid portion.

The operation pattern may be a combination of an operation of pressing the button and an operation of opening and closing the opening with the lid portion.

The operation pattern is set in a first lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit depending on an operation by a user, and when the first lock function is enabled, the control unit may allow heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibit heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.

The setting information may include information indicating whether or not to enable the first lock function, and the control unit may set the first lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.

The communication state of the communication unit is used for a second lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit depending on the communication state of the communication unit, and when the second lock function is enabled, the control unit may allow heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is communicating with the other device, and prohibit heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is not communicating with the other device.

The setting information may include information indicating whether or not to enable the second lock function, and the control unit may set the second lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.

When the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit may allow heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.

When the first locking function and the second locking function are enabled, the control unit may allow heating by the heating unit when the lid unit opens the opening and an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first locking function is performed, or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.

The suction device may further include a memory unit for storing information, and the memory unit may store log information including information for identifying the time period from the start to the end of the process of generating an aerosol using the substrate, and information indicating the factor for which heating was permitted.

The information indicating the factor by which heating was permitted may include any one of information indicating that heating was permitted by the first lock function, information indicating that heating was permitted by the second lock function, or information indicating that the first lock function and the second lock function were disabled.

The information for identifying the time interval from the start to the end of the process of heating the substrate to generate an aerosol may be information indicating the time when the aerosol was first inhaled during that time interval.

The communication unit may transmit the log information stored in the storage unit.

The suction device may be set with a plurality of combinations of heating profiles, in which a time series progression of a target resistance value, which is a target value for the resistance value of the heating section, is specified, and the control section may control the operation of the heating section based on the heating profile combined with the operation pattern corresponding to an operation performed by a user.

The control unit may control other operations of the suction device in addition to the operation of the heating unit.

The control unit may set the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit, and control the other actions in accordance with the set operation pattern.

The operation pattern may be set in a first lock function that controls whether or not the other operation can be executed depending on an operation by a user, and when the first lock function is enabled, the control unit may permit the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibit the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.

In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control method executed by an suction device having a communication unit that communicates with other devices and a heating unit that heats a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the control method including setting the operation pattern indicated by setting information received from the other device by the communication unit, the setting information including information indicating an operation pattern, and controlling the operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern.

In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, a program is provided to cause a computer that controls an suction device having a communication unit that communicates with other devices and a heating unit that heats a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, to set an operation pattern indicated by setting information including information indicating an operation pattern received from the other device by the communication unit, and control the operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern.

As described above, according to the present invention, a mechanism capable of improving the usability of a suction device is provided.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a suction device. 1 is an overall perspective view of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state in which a stick-shaped substrate is held. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an overall processing flow regarding a heating session executed in the system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an overall process flow regarding charging executed in the system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a setting process executed in the system according to the present embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an unlocking process executed in the suction device according to the present embodiment.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

<<1. Configuration example of suction device>>
The inhalation device is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user. In the following description, the substance generated by the inhalation device is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas.

(1) Example of Internal Configuration Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a suction device. As shown in Fig. 1, a suction device 100 according to this example of configuration includes a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

The power supply unit 111 accumulates power. Then, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to each component of the suction device 100 based on the control of the control unit 116. The power supply unit 111 may be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

The sensor unit 112 acquires various information related to the suction device 100. As one example, the sensor unit 112 is configured with a pressure sensor such as a microphone capacitor, a flow rate sensor, a temperature sensor, or the like, and acquires values associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112 is configured with an input device that accepts information input from the user, such as a button or a switch.

The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 is configured by, for example, a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

The storage unit 114 stores various types of information for the operation of the suction device 100. The storage unit 114 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation of the suction device 100 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116 is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor.

The holding part 140 has an internal space 141, and holds the stick-type substrate 150 while accommodating a part of the stick-type substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The holding part 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with the outside, and holds the stick-type substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the holding part 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and the bottom part 143 as the bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. The holding part 140 also has the function of defining a flow path for air to be supplied to the stick-type substrate 150. An air inlet hole, which is an entrance of air to such a flow path, is arranged in the bottom part 143, for example. On the other hand, an air outlet hole, which is an exit of air from such a flow path, is the opening 142.

The stick-type substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a suction mouth portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. In this configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid, and may be a solid. When the stick-type substrate 150 is held by the holding portion 140, at least a part of the substrate portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the suction mouth portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user holds the suction mouth portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in his/her mouth and sucks, air flows into the internal space 141 from an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151.

The heating unit 121 generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the heating unit 121 is configured in a film shape and arranged to cover the outer periphery of the holding unit 140. When the heating unit 121 generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and/or that predetermined information has been input. When the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has stopped inhaling and/or that predetermined information has been input, power supply may be stopped.

The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

The above describes an example of the configuration of the suction device 100. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100 is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

As one example, the heating unit 121 may be configured in a blade shape and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In that case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121 is inserted into the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121 may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121 may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the holding unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140.

As another example, the holding unit 140 may include an opening/closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a part of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The holding unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to clamp the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121 may be provided at the clamping location in the holding unit 140, and may heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating.

(2) Exterior Configuration Example Fig. 2 is an overall perspective view of the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is an overall perspective view of the suction device 100 according to this embodiment in a state in which a stick-type substrate 150 is held.

2 and 3, the inhalation device 100 includes a top housing 11A, a bottom housing 11B, a cover 12, a switch 13, a lid portion 14, a vent 15, and a cap 16. The top housing 11A and the bottom housing 11B are connected to each other to form the outermost outer housing 11 of the inhalation device 100. The outer housing 11 is sized to fit in the user's hand. When the user uses the inhalation device 100, the user can hold the inhalation device 100 in his or her hand and inhale the flavor.

The top housing 11A has an opening (not shown), and the cover 12 is coupled to the top housing 11A so as to close the opening. As shown in FIG. 3, the cover 12 has an opening 142 into which the stick-shaped substrate 150 can be inserted. The lid 14 is configured to open and close the opening 142 of the cover 12. Specifically, the lid 14 is attached to the cover 12 and configured to be movable along the surface of the cover 12 between a first position for closing the opening 142 and a second position for opening the opening 142. This allows the lid 14 to permit or restrict access of the stick-shaped substrate 150 to the inside of the suction device 100 (the internal space 141 shown in FIG. 1). The state in which the lid 14 is in the second position and the lid 14 opens the opening 142 is also referred to as an open state below. The state in which the lid 14 is in the first position and the lid 14 closes the opening 142 is also referred to as a closed state below.

The switch 13 is used to switch the operation of the inhalation device 100 on and off. For example, a user can operate the switch 13 while inserting the stick-type substrate 150 into the internal space 141 from the opening 142 as shown in FIG. 3, whereby power is supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121, and the stick-type substrate 150 can be heated without burning. When the stick-type substrate 150 is heated, an aerosol is generated from the aerosol source contained in the stick-type substrate 150, and the flavor of the flavor source is taken into the aerosol. The user can inhale the aerosol containing the flavor by inhaling the part of the stick-type substrate 150 protruding from the inhalation device 100 (the part shown in FIG. 3, i.e., the mouthpiece portion 152).

The vent 15 is a vent for introducing air into the internal space 141. The air taken into the inside of the suction device 100 from the vent 15 is introduced into the internal space 141 from, for example, an air inlet hole formed in the bottom 143 of the holding part 140. The cap 16 is configured to be detachable from the bottom housing 11B. The cap 16 is attached to the bottom housing 11B to form the vent 15 between the bottom housing 11B and the cap 16. The cap 16 may have, for example, a through hole or a notch not shown. In this specification, the longitudinal direction of the suction device 100 refers to the direction in which the stick-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the opening 142. In addition, in the suction device 100 of this specification, the side into which a fluid such as air flows in (for example, the vent 15 side) is the upstream side, and the side into which a fluid flows out (for example, the opening 142 side) is the downstream side.

＜＜2. Technical features＞＞
(1) System Configuration Example Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the system 1 includes a suction device 100 and a terminal device 200.

-Configuration of inhalation device 100 The configuration of inhalation device 100 is as described above. Hereinafter, the inhalation of the aerosol generated by the inhalation device 100 by the user will be simply referred to as "inhalation" or "puffing." In addition, the action of the user inhaling will be hereinafter also referred to as a puffing action.

The inhalation device 100 according to the present embodiment generates an aerosol to be inhaled by a user using a substrate containing an aerosol source. The heating unit 121 heats the substrate containing the aerosol source to generate an aerosol. The stick-shaped substrate 150 is an example of the substrate in the present embodiment.

-Configuration of Terminal Device 200 The terminal device 200 is a device used by a user of the suction device 100. For example, the terminal device 200 is configured by any information processing device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable device. As shown in Fig. 4, the terminal device 200 includes an input unit 210, an output unit 220, a communication unit 230, a storage unit 240, and a control unit 250.

The input unit 210 has a function of accepting input of various information. The input unit 210 may include an input device that accepts input of information from a user. Examples of the input device include a button, a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone. In addition, the input unit 210 may include various sensors such as an image sensor.

The output unit 220 has a function of outputting information. The output unit 220 may include an output device that outputs information to a user. Examples of the output device include a display device that displays information, a light-emitting device that emits light, a vibration device that vibrates, and a sound output device that outputs sound. An example of a display device is a display. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibration device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a speaker. The output unit 220 notifies the user of the information by outputting the information input from the control unit 250.

The communication unit 230 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the terminal device 200 and other devices. The communication unit 230 performs communication in compliance with any wired or wireless communication standard. As such a communication standard, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like may be adopted.

The storage unit 240 stores various types of information for the operation of the terminal device 200. The storage unit 240 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

The control unit 250 functions as an arithmetic processing device or control device, and controls the overall operation of the terminal device 200 according to various programs. The control unit 250 is realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. In addition, the control unit 250 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores the programs and arithmetic parameters to be used, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate. The terminal device 200 executes various processes based on the control by the control unit 250. The processing of information input by the input unit 210, the output of information by the output unit 220, the transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 230, and the storage and reading of information by the storage unit 240 are examples of processes controlled by the control unit 250. Other processes executed by the terminal device 200, such as the input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 250.

The functions of the control unit 250 may be realized using an application. The application may be pre-installed or may be downloaded. The functions of the control unit 250 may be realized by Progressive Web Apps (PWA).

-Inter-Device Communication The suction device 100 is capable of communicating with other devices. The communication link used for communication between the suction device 100 and other devices may be wireless or wired. In this specification, the communication link will be described as being wireless.

In particular, the suction device 100 establishes a connection with another paired device and transmits and receives information. Pairing is a process in which two devices exchange and store information with each other. Examples of the information exchanged include identification information of the other party, such as a service set identifier (SSID), and information regarding an encryption key used to encrypt the information to be transmitted and received.

The suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 first perform pairing, and then transmit and receive information. It is preferable that the wireless communication standard used for wireless communication between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 is a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth. In this case, when the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 are located within a range where short-range wireless communication is possible, they can establish a connection and communicate with each other. In the following, it is assumed that the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 perform communication in accordance with BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)).

The connection between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 may be established when a predetermined condition is satisfied. One example of the predetermined condition is that the state of the lid portion 14 has changed to an open state. Another example of the predetermined condition is that charging of the power supply unit 111 has started. When the suction device 100 is connected to an external power source, for example, via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or the like, the suction device 100 starts charging the power supply unit 111. When any of these predetermined conditions is satisfied, the suction device 100 starts transmitting an advertisement, establishes a connection with the terminal device 200 that has received the advertisement, and starts transmitting and receiving information.

The connection between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 may be cut off when a predetermined condition is satisfied. One example of the predetermined condition is when the state of the lid portion 14 has changed to the closed state. Another example of the predetermined condition is when charging of the power supply unit 111 has ended. The suction device 100 ends charging of the power supply unit 111 when, for example, the connection to the external power source is released. The suction device 100 cuts off the connection with the terminal device 200 when, for example, any of these predetermined conditions is satisfied, no operation by the user is detected for a predetermined period of time or more, and no information is being transmitted or received.

(2) Setting Information The terminal device 200 can set the operation of the suction device 100. For example, the terminal device 200 displays a setting screen for setting the operation of the suction device 100. The setting screen displays the current settings of the suction device 100 and accepts input of information for changing the settings. The terminal device 200 generates setting information based on the information input by the user and transmits it to the suction device 100.

The setting information is information for making settings related to the operation of the suction device 100. The suction device 100 receives the setting information from the terminal device 200. The suction device 100 then makes settings based on the received setting information and operates according to the settings. Typically, the setting information is information for changing the settings of the suction device 100, and the suction device 100 changes the settings based on the received setting information. With this configuration, the user can make desired settings for the suction device 100 via the terminal device 200.

During the transmission of the setting information, the terminal device 200 may display information indicating the progress of the transmission. For example, the terminal device 200 may display a progress bar in which the progress increases from 0 percent to 100 percent according to the amount of data already transmitted from the start to the completion of the transmission of the setting information. With this configuration, the user can grasp the progress of the transmission of the setting information.

When the setting based on the setting information is completed, the suction device 100 transmits a setting completion notification indicating that the setting is completed to the terminal device 200. When the terminal device 200 receives the setting completion notification, the terminal device 200 may display a screen indicating that the setting of the suction device 100 is completed. With this configuration, the user can know that the suction device 100 has completed the setting based on the setting information.

When the setting completion notification is received, the terminal device 200 outputs information indicating the changed settings. For example, the terminal device 200 displays a screen indicating that the setting of the suction device 100 has been completed, and then displays a setting screen reflecting the changed settings. With this configuration, the user can grasp the changed settings.

(3) Setting the Communication Function The setting information may include information indicating whether or not to enable the communication function of the suction device 100. In other words, the setting information may include information indicating whether or not to permit communication by the communication unit 115. The suction device 100 enables or disables the communication function based on the received setting information. When the communication function is enabled, the communication unit 115 can communicate with the terminal device 200. When the communication function is disabled, the communication unit 115 does not communicate with the terminal device 200. With this configuration, the user can switch between enabling and disabling the communication function of the suction device 100.

When the communication function is disabled, the suction device 100 may enable the communication function when a predetermined condition is satisfied. An example of the predetermined condition is that an operation corresponding to a predetermined operation pattern is performed. The operation pattern will be described in detail later. When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the suction device 100 starts transmitting an advertisement, establishes a connection with the terminal device 200 that has received the advertisement, and starts transmitting and receiving information.

(4) Heating Profile The inhalation device 100 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. The heating profile is information indicating the time series transition of the target value of the parameter related to the operation of the heating unit 121. An example of the parameter is the temperature of the heating unit 121. In this case, the heating profile is information in which the time series transition of the target temperature, which is the target value of the temperature of the heating unit 121, is specified. The inhalation device 100 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 so that the time series transition of the actual temperature (hereinafter also referred to as the actual temperature) of the heating unit 121 is similar to the time series transition of the target temperature specified in the heating profile. As a result, the aerosol is generated as planned by the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed so that the flavor tasted by the user when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150 is optimized. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the flavor tasted by the user can be optimized.

The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the target temperature defined in the heating profile and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121. More specifically, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the target temperature corresponding to the elapsed time from the start of the control of the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile and the actual temperature. The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Specifically, the control unit 116 causes the power from the power supply unit 111 to be supplied to the heating unit 121 in the form of a pulse by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulse.

In the feedback control, the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121, for example, the above-mentioned duty ratio, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature, etc. The feedback control may be, for example, a proportional-integral-differential controller (PID) control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple ON-OFF control. For example, the control unit 116 may perform heating by the heating unit 121 until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and perform heating by the heating unit 121 again when the actual temperature becomes lower than the target temperature.

The temperature of the heating unit 121 can be quantified, for example, by measuring or estimating the resistance value (more precisely, the electrical resistance value) of the heating unit 121 (more precisely, the heating resistor constituting the heating unit 121). This is because the resistance value of the heating resistor changes depending on the temperature. The resistance value of the heating resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the amount of voltage drop in the heating resistor. The amount of voltage drop in the heating resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. In another example, the temperature of the heating unit 121 can be measured by a temperature sensor installed near the heating unit 121.

As described above, when the resistance value of the heating unit 121 changes according to the temperature of the heating unit 121, it can be said that the temperature of the heating unit 121 is synonymous with the resistance value of the heating unit 121. Therefore, the target temperature of the heating unit 121 can also be indicated by the resistance value of the heating unit 121. That is, another example of a parameter in the heating profile is the resistance value of the heating unit 121 corresponding to the target temperature. In that case, the heating profile is information in which a time series transition of a target resistance value, which is a target value of the resistance value of the heating unit 121, is specified. The suction device 100 controls the resistance value of the heating unit 121 so that the time series transition of the actual resistance value of the heating unit 121 is similar to the time series transition of the target resistance value specified in the heating profile. The control of the resistance value of the heating unit 121 can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Specifically, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can adjust the duty ratio of the power pulse to control the resistance value of the heating unit 121. With this configuration, it is possible to change the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 in the same way as in the case where the heating profile specifies the time series change of the target temperature.

Note that the temperature of the heating unit 121 corresponds to the resistance value of the heating unit 121, but the resistance value corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121 depends on the characteristics of the heating unit 121 and the environmental temperature. Therefore, if the characteristics or environmental temperature of the heating unit 121 are different, the target resistance value corresponding to the target temperature will be different even if the target temperature is the same.

The time period from the start to the end of the process of generating an aerosol using the stick-shaped substrate 150, more specifically, the time period during which the heating unit 121 operates based on the heating profile, is also referred to as a heating session below. The start of a heating session is the timing when heating based on the heating profile starts. The end of a heating session is the timing when a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. A heating session consists of a pre-heating period in the first half and a puffable period in the second half. The puffable period is a period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated. The pre-heating period is a period from the start of heating to the start of the puffable period. Heating performed in the pre-heating period is also referred to as pre-heating.

The heating session may include a period during which power is not supplied to the heating unit 121. As an example, the heating profile may include a section during which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is temporarily lowered, and power supply to the heating unit 121 may be stopped during such a section. As another example, power supply to the heating unit 121 may be stopped a predetermined time before the end of the puffable period, that is, a predetermined time before the end of the heating session. Even during these periods during which power is not supplied to the heating unit 121, a sufficient amount of aerosol is generated by the residual heat of the heating unit 121 and the stick-shaped substrate 150.

The user may be notified of the start and end timings of the puffable period. Furthermore, the user may be notified of the timing a predetermined time before the end of the puffable period (for example, the timing when power supply to the heating unit 121 is stopped). In this case, the user can puff during the puffable period by referring to such notification.

It is envisaged that one or more puffs may be performed during a heating session, or more specifically, during a puffable period.

The inhalation device 100 may stop heating when the number of puffs performed by the user after the start of heating of the stick-type substrate 150 reaches a predetermined upper limit. That is, the heating session may be interrupted when the number of puffs detected during the heating session (more specifically, during the puffable period) reaches a predetermined upper limit. The predetermined upper limit is set to a value corresponding to the number of puffs at which the aerosol source is assumed to be exhausted. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which heating based on the heating profile is continued even if the aerosol source is exhausted early due to a large number of puffs, resulting in the delivery of an inferior flavor to the user.

The setting information may include information indicating a heating profile. In this case, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile indicated by the received information. With this configuration, the user can set a desired heating profile for the suction device 100.

The setting information may include information indicating a predetermined upper limit for the number of puffs during a heating session, as described above. In this case, when the number of puffs detected during a heating session reaches the upper limit indicated by the received information, the control unit 116 stops heating by the heating unit 121. With this configuration, the user can set a desired upper limit for the inhalation device 100.

(5) Operation Pattern The suction device 100 includes an operation unit that accepts physical operations by a user. The operation unit is an example of a sensor unit 112, and detects various operations performed by the user. A combination of operations on the operation unit is also referred to as an operation pattern below. The setting information may include information indicating the operation pattern. With this configuration, the user can set a desired operation pattern for the suction device 100.

The control unit 116 sets an operation pattern indicated by the received setting information, and controls the operation of the heating unit 121 according to the set operation pattern. As an example, the control unit 116 starts heating by the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the set operation pattern is performed. A plurality of combinations of operation patterns and processes to be executed when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern is performed may be set. In this case, the control unit 116 executes a process combined with an operation pattern corresponding to an operation performed on the suction device 100, among the plurality of set operation patterns. With this configuration, the user can control the operation of the heating unit 121 according to a desired operation pattern.

The operation unit may include a button that accepts a pressing operation by a user. An example of such a button is the switch 13. In this case, the operation pattern includes an operation of pressing the switch 13. The operation of pressing the switch 13 may be classified into a short press in which the switch 13 is pressed and then released in a short time, and a long press in which the switch 13 is pressed and then released after a long time has elapsed. An example of an operation pattern is an operation of pressing the switch 13 once and then pressing it once. The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the switch 13. The time series transition of the state of the switch 13 is a time series transition of whether the switch 13 is in a pressed state or a non-pressed state. Therefore, the number and timing (i.e., order and interval) of short presses and long presses, as well as the time of long presses, etc. are set as an operation pattern by the setting information. According to this configuration, the user can set a desired operation pattern related to the switch 13 to the suction device 100.

An example of the operation unit is the lid 14. In this case, the operation pattern includes an operation of opening and closing the opening 142 by the lid 14. An example of the operation pattern is an operation of opening and closing the opening 142 by the lid 14. The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating the time series transition of the state of the lid 14. The time series transition of the state of the lid 14 is the time series transition of whether the state of the lid 14 is in an open state or a closed state. Therefore, the number and timing (i.e., the order and interval) of the operation of opening the lid 14 and the operation of closing the lid 14 are set as the operation pattern by the setting information. With this configuration, the user can set a desired operation pattern related to the lid 14 to the suction device 100.

The operation pattern may be a combination of an operation of pressing the switch 13 and an operation of opening and closing the opening 142 with the lid 14. An example of the operation pattern is an operation of opening the opening 142 with the lid 14, and then pressing the switch 13 twice for a short time and then pressing it once for a long time. The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating the time series transition of the states of the switch 13 and the lid 14. With this configuration, the user can set a desired operation pattern regarding the switch 13 and the lid 14 to the suction device 100. Note that the operation pattern is not limited to the operation of pressing the switch 13 and the operation of opening and closing the opening 142 with the lid 14, but may also include an operation of attaching and detaching a front panel (not shown) that is detachably attached to the suction device 100, or an operation of starting charging the power supply unit 111, which is a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

(6) Lock Function The suction device 100 has a lock function. The lock function is a function for controlling whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit 121. Prohibition of heating by the heating unit 121 is also referred to as locking. Hereinafter, permission of heating by the heating unit 121 is also referred to as unlocking.

When the user operates to start heating while the device is unlocked, the suction device 100 starts heating by the heating unit 121. One example of an operation to start heating is pressing the switch 13. On the other hand, when the user operates to start heating while the device is locked, the suction device 100 does not start heating by the heating unit 121. With this configuration, when the device is locked, heating by the heating unit 121 does not start even if the switch 13 is pressed accidentally inside a bag, for example. This makes it possible to improve the safety of using the suction device 100.

- First lock function The operation pattern may be set in a first lock function that controls whether or not heating by the heating unit 121 is performed depending on an operation by a user. When the first lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 permits heating by the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed. On the other hand, when the first lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 prohibits heating by the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed. The user can release the lock by the first lock function by performing an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function. When the lock is released, for example, when the switch 13 is pressed, heating by the heating unit 121 is started.

According to this configuration, the lock is not released unless an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, so that misuse by persons other than the user, for example, children, can be prevented, and the safety of using the suction device 100 can be improved.

After the locking by the first locking function is released, the locking may be performed again if a predetermined condition is satisfied. One example of the predetermined condition is that the stick-shaped substrate 150 is pulled out and the state of the lid part 14 changes to the closed state after heating by the heating part 121 is terminated. Another example of the predetermined condition is that an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first locking function is performed again.

The setting information may include information indicating whether or not to enable the first lock function. In that case, the control unit 116 sets the first lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information. For example, when the setting information includes information indicating that the first lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 enables the first lock function. In that case, the lock is not released unless an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed. On the other hand, when the setting information includes information indicating that the first lock function is disabled, the control unit 116 disables the first lock function. In that case, since the lock is not applied by the first lock function, the user can start heating by the heating unit 121 simply by pressing the switch 13.

According to this configuration, safety can be improved by enabling the first lock function only when misuse by children is expected, such as when the user is at home, whereas when misuse by children is not expected, such as when the user is at work, the first lock function can be disabled, reducing the effort required to perform unlocking operations and improving usability.

- Second lock function The communication state of the communication unit 115 may be used for a second lock function that controls whether or not heating by the heating unit 121 is performed depending on the communication state of the communication unit 115. When the second lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 permits heating by the heating unit 121 when the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200. On the other hand, when the second lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 prohibits heating by the heating unit 121 when the communication unit 115 is not communicating with the terminal device 200. Here, an example of the communication unit 115 communicating with the terminal device 200 is that a connection based on a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth is established between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200. The user can release the lock by the second lock function by establishing a connection based on a short-range wireless communication standard between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200. When the lock is released and, for example, the switch 13 is pressed, heating by the heating unit 121 is started.

According to this configuration, the lock is released only when the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 are located within a range where short-distance wireless communication is possible and are communicating, and the lock is not released otherwise. Therefore, when a user goes out carrying the terminal device 200, it is possible to prevent the suction device 100 left at home from being misused by, for example, a child. This makes it possible to improve the safety of the use of the suction device 100. On the other hand, when a user uses the suction device 100 while carrying the terminal device 200, the lock is automatically released, which reduces the effort required to perform an unlocking operation and improves usability.

The setting information may include information indicating whether or not to enable the second lock function. In that case, the control unit 116 sets the second lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information. For example, when the setting information includes information indicating that the second lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 enables the second lock function. In that case, the lock is not released unless communication is performed between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200. On the other hand, when the setting information includes information indicating that the second lock function is disabled, the control unit 116 disables the second lock function. In that case, since the lock is not applied by the second lock function, regardless of whether communication is performed between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200, the user can start heating by the heating unit 121 simply by pressing the switch 13.

According to this configuration, the second lock function can be arbitrarily switched between being enabled and being disabled, thereby improving usability.

-Third lock function The state of the lid part 14 is used for the third lock function that controls whether or not heating by the heating part 121 is performed depending on the state of the lid part 14. When the third lock function is enabled, the control part 116 permits heating by the heating part 121 when the lid part 14 is in the open state. On the other hand, when the third lock function is enabled, the control part 116 prohibits heating by the heating part 121 when the lid part 14 is in the closed state. When the lid part 14 is in the closed state, at least the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the suction device 100. Therefore, when heating is performed when the lid part 14 is in the closed state, heating occurs even though the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted, which is called empty heating. In this regard, the third lock function makes it possible to prevent empty heating.

From the viewpoint of preventing dry-burning, it is desirable that the third lock function is always enabled. Of course, information indicating whether or not to enable the third lock function may be included in the setting information, and whether or not to enable the third lock function may be switched based on the setting information.

- Use of Multiple Lock Functions in Combination Multiple lock functions may be used in combination. For example, the first lock function, the second lock function, and the third lock function described above may be used in combination.

The conditions for unlocking defined in the first lock function and the second lock function may constitute an OR condition (i.e., a logical sum). That is, the lock may be released when either the condition for unlocking defined in the first lock function or the second lock function is satisfied. And, the lock may not be released when neither the condition for unlocking defined in the first lock function or the second lock function is satisfied. Specifically, when the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit 116 permits heating by the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200. On the other hand, the control unit 116 prohibits heating by the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed and the communication unit 115 is not communicating with the terminal device 200. According to such a configuration, since the lock can be released by either the first lock function or the second lock function, it is possible to improve usability.

Furthermore, the above-mentioned OR conditions related to the first lock function and the second lock function and the condition for unlocking defined in the third lock function may constitute an AND condition (i.e., logical product). That is, the lock may be released when the condition for unlocking by the third lock function is satisfied and either the condition for unlocking defined in the first lock function or the second lock function is satisfied. And, the lock may not be released when the condition for unlocking by the third lock function is not satisfied or when none of the conditions for unlocking defined in the first lock function and the second lock function is satisfied. Specifically, when the first lock function, the second lock function, and the third lock function are enabled, the control unit 116 permits heating by the heating unit 121 when the state of the cover unit 14 is in the open state and an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, or when the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200. On the other hand, the control unit 116 prohibits heating by the heating unit 121 when the lid unit 14 is in the closed state, or when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function has not been performed, and the communication unit 115 is not communicating with the terminal device 200. With this configuration, it is possible to release the lock using either the first lock function or the second lock function while preventing dry-burning, so that it is possible to ensure safety and improve usability at the same time.

(7) Battery Information The suction device 100 transmits battery information, which is information indicating the state of the power supply unit 111 that accumulates and supplies power for the operation of the suction device 100. With this configuration, the terminal device 200 can grasp the state of the power supply unit 111 based on the battery information.

The battery information may include information indicating the remaining power of the power supply unit 111. As an example, the information indicating the remaining power of the power supply unit 111 is information indicating the percentage of the remaining power based on the maximum value of the power that can be stored in the power supply unit 111. With this configuration, the terminal device 200 can grasp the decrease in the remaining power and urge the user to charge the power supply unit 111.

The battery information may include information indicating the deterioration of the power supply unit 111. As an example, whether the power supply unit 111 has deteriorated may be determined by SOH (State of Health). In that case, the control unit 116 determines that the power supply unit 111 has deteriorated when the ratio of the current full charge capacity to the initial full charge capacity of 100% falls below a predetermined threshold. As another example, whether the power supply unit 111 has deteriorated may be determined by cycle count. In that case, the control unit 116 counts one cycle each time the cumulative value of the charging current reaches the full charge capacity, and determines that the power supply unit 111 has deteriorated when the count exceeds a predetermined threshold. Then, when it is determined that the power supply unit 111 has deteriorated, battery information including information indicating the deterioration of the power supply unit 111 is transmitted. With this configuration, the terminal device 200 can grasp the deterioration of the power supply unit 111 and urge the user to take measures against the deterioration of the power supply unit 111.

The battery information may be transmitted at the timing when a connection between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 is established. As an example, a connection may be established and the battery information may be transmitted at the timing when, for example, the state of the lid unit 14 is changed from a closed state to an open state before heating by the heating unit 121 is started. With such a configuration, it is possible to notify the user of the state of the power supply unit 111 before heating the stick-shaped substrate 150. As another example, a connection may be established and the battery information may be transmitted at the timing when charging of the power supply unit 111 is started. With such a configuration, it is possible to notify the user of the state of the power supply unit 111 before charging.

The battery information may be transmitted at a timing before the connection between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 is disconnected. As an example, the battery information may be transmitted at a timing after heating by the heating unit 121 is completed, for example, when the state of the lid unit 14 is changed from an open state to a closed state. With this configuration, it is possible to notify the user of the state of the power supply unit 111 after heating the stick-type substrate 150. As another example, the battery information may be transmitted at a timing when charging of the power supply unit 111 is completed. With this configuration, it is possible to notify the user of the state of the power supply unit 111 after charging.

The suction device 100 may notify the user of the battery information via the notification unit 113. According to this configuration, the suction device 100 alone can notify the user of the state of the power supply unit 111.

(8) Log Information The suction device 100 stores log information in the storage unit 114. The log information is information acquired in response to the use of the suction device 100 by a user and stored in the storage unit 114. The suction device 100 transmits the log information stored in the storage unit 114 to the terminal device 200. It is assumed that the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 are not always connected to each other. Therefore, the suction device 100 accumulates log information while not connected to the terminal device 200, and transmits the accumulated log information when the suction device 100 is connected to the terminal device 200.

The terminal device 200 transfers the log information received from the suction device 100 to another device. An example of the other device is a server that provides services related to the suction device 100. The server collects and analyzes the log information and uses it for services such as updating the firmware of the suction device 100.

- Information Acquired During a Heating Session The log information may include information acquired during a heating session, i.e., in one heating session. When heating is performed by the heating unit 121, the storage unit 114 stores the information acquired during the heating session as log information. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the situation during the heating session later.

The information acquired during the heating session may include information for identifying the heating session. One example of the information for identifying the heating session is inhalation start time information indicating the time when the first puff was performed in the heating session, i.e., the time when the first puff was performed after the start of heating. With this configuration, it is possible to later grasp the interval between heating sessions and the number of heating sessions per day.

The information acquired during the heating session may include information indicating a factor for which heating by the heating unit 121 was permitted. The information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted includes any one of information indicating that heating was permitted by the first lock function, information indicating that heating was permitted by the second lock function, and information indicating that the first lock function and the second lock function were disabled. When the first lock function is enabled and an operation corresponding to an operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed to release the lock and perform heating, the information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted includes information indicating that heating was permitted by the first lock function. When the second lock function is enabled and the lock is released and heating is performed based on communication between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200, the information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted includes information indicating that heating was permitted by the second lock function. When heating is performed in a state in which both the first lock function and the second lock function are disabled, the information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted includes information indicating that the first lock function and the second lock function were disabled. With this configuration, it is possible to analyze the use of the first lock function and the second lock function.

The information acquired during the heating session may include the duration of the heating session, which allows the duration of the heating session to be ascertained later.

The information acquired during the heating session may include information indicating the number of puffs performed during the heating session, making it possible to later ascertain the number of puffs performed during the heating session.

The information acquired during the heating session may include information indicating the time at which a puff was performed during the heating session. Multiple puffs may be performed during the heating session, in which case the information acquired during the heating session includes information indicating the time at which each of the one or more puffs performed during the heating session was performed. With this configuration, it is possible to later determine the timing of the puffs performed during the heating session.

The information acquired during the heating session may include information indicating the deterioration state of the power supply unit 111 during the heating session. The information indicating the deterioration state of the power supply unit 111 may be, for example, a percentage of the current full charge capacity when the initial full charge capacity is set to 100%, or may be the number of times that the cumulative value of the charging current has reached the full charge capacity. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the transition of the deterioration state later.

- Information Indicating Operation History The log information may include information indicating the operation history of the suction device 100. With this configuration, it becomes possible to later grasp the history of operations that have been performed by the suction device 100.

The information indicating the operation history may include a cumulative total time during which the heating unit 121 has performed heating since the suction device 100 was initially started. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the length of time during which heating has been performed by the heating unit 121 throughout the entire life cycle of the suction device 100.

The information indicating the operation history may include the time that has elapsed since the first activation of the suction device 100. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the length of time of the entire life cycle of the suction device 100.

The information indicating the operation history may include the cumulative number of times that the heating unit 121 has performed heating since the suction device 100 was initially started. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the number of times that heating has been performed over the entire life cycle of the suction device 100.

The information indicating the operation history may include a history of errors that have occurred since the first startup of the suction device 100. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp errors that have occurred throughout the entire life cycle of the suction device 100.

- Information indicating remaining power The log information may include information indicating the remaining power of the power supply unit 111. The storage unit 114 stores, as log information, information indicating the remaining power from among the battery information acquired for transmission to the terminal device 200. With this configuration, it becomes possible to grasp the transition of the remaining power of the power supply unit 111 at a later time.

- Information Acquired During Charging The log information may include information acquired during charging of the power supply unit 111. When charging of the power supply unit 111 is performed, the storage unit 114 stores the information acquired during charging of the power supply unit 111 as log information.

One example of the information acquired during charging is information indicating the time when charging started and information indicating the remaining power at the time when charging started. Another example of the information acquired during charging is information indicating the time when charging ended and information indicating the remaining power at the time when charging ended. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the charging history by the user.

Timing of Transmission of Log Information The timing at which the suction device 100 transmits the log information may be controlled by the terminal device 200. In detail, the terminal device 200 transmits a log request to the suction device 100, which requests the suction device 100 to perform processing for transmitting the log information. The suction device 100 performs the processing requested in the received log request. For example, the terminal device 200 transmits a log request to the suction device 100, which requests the suction device 100 to transmit log information, and the suction device 100 that receives the log request transmits the log information. With this configuration, the suction device 100 can transmit log information at an appropriate timing under the control of the terminal device 200.

(9) Status Information The suction device 100 transmits status information indicating the status of the suction device 100 to the terminal device 200. According to this configuration, the terminal device 200 can grasp the status of the suction device 100 in real time based on the received status information.

- Information Indicating the Status of Heating Unit 121 The status information may include information indicating the status of heating unit 121. In particular, the status information may include information indicating the progress of heating by heating unit 121. During a heating session, suction device 100 transmits status information indicating the progress of heating by heating unit 121. With this configuration, terminal device 200 can grasp the status of heating unit 121 during a heating session in real time based on the status information.

As an example, the status information may include information indicating that heating has started by the heating unit 121. The suction device 100 transmits the status information at the timing when heating based on the heating profile has started.

As another example, the status information may include information indicating that pre-heating has ended, i.e., that the puffable period has started. The inhalation device 100 transmits such status information, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of heating based on the heating profile.

As another example, the status information may include information indicating that the timing is a predetermined time before the end of the puffable period. The inhalation device 100 transmits such status information, for example, at the timing when the supply of power to the heating unit 121 ends.

As another example, the status information may include information indicating that the puffable period has ended. The inhalation device 100 transmits the status information, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the supply of power to the heating unit 121 ended.

- Information indicating the state of the lid portion 14 The state information may include information indicating the state of the lid portion 14. As an example, the state information may include information indicating that the state of the lid portion 14 is an open state or a closed state. When the state of the lid portion 14 changes, the suction device 100 transmits state information indicating the state of the lid portion 14 after the change. With this configuration, the terminal device 200 can grasp the state of the lid portion 14 in real time based on the state information.

- Information indicating the charging state of power supply unit 111 The status information may include information indicating the charging state of power supply unit 111. As an example, the status information may include information indicating the ratio of the current charging amount to the full charge capacity of power supply unit 111. During charging, suction device 100 may transmit status information including information indicating the charging state of power supply unit 111. With this configuration, terminal device 200 can grasp the charging state of power supply unit 111 in real time based on the status information.

5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an overall process flow for a heating session executed in the system 1 according to this embodiment. This sequence involves the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200.

As shown in FIG. 5, first, the suction device 100 receives an operation to open the cover portion 14 (step S102).

Next, the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 establish a connection (step S104). For example, the suction device 100 transmits an advertisement, and the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 that has received the advertisement perform a procedure for establishing a connection.

Next, the suction device 100 transmits the battery information to the terminal device 200 (step S106).

Next, the suction device 100 releases the lock (step S108). For example, the suction device 100 releases the lock based on the fact that the cover unit 14 is in the open state and that the suction device 100 is in communication with the terminal device 200 regarding the second lock function.

Next, the suction device 100 receives an instruction to start heating (step S110).

Next, the suction device 100 starts heating based on the heating profile (step S112).

Next, the suction device 100 transmits state information including information indicating the state of the heating unit 121 to the terminal device 200 (step S114).

Next, the inhalation device 100 determines whether the heating session has ended (step S116). For example, the inhalation device 100 determines that the heating session has ended when the time elapsed since the start of heating based on the heating profile exceeds a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, the inhalation device 100 determines that the heating session has ended when the number of puffs performed during the heating session reaches a predetermined upper limit. If it is determined that the heating session has not ended (step S116: NO), the process returns to step S114 again.

When it is determined that the heating session has ended (step S116: YES), the suction device 100 determines whether or not an operation to close the lid portion 14 has been performed (step S118). When it is determined that an operation to close the lid portion 14 has not been performed (step S118: NO), the suction device 100 waits until an operation to close the lid portion 14 is performed.

If it is determined that an operation has been performed to change the state of the cover portion 14 to a closed state (step S118: YES), the suction device 100 transmits status information including information indicating that the state of the cover portion 14 has changed to a closed state, and battery information to the terminal device 200 (step S120).

Next, the terminal device 200 transmits the setting information to the suction device 100 (step S122). Next, upon receiving the setting information, the suction device 100 performs setting based on the received setting information (step S124). Then, the suction device 100 transmits a setting completion notification to the terminal device 200 (step S126). Note that the processes related to steps S122 to S126 are omitted if no user input for changing the setting of the suction device 100 is performed on the terminal device 200.

Next, the terminal device 200 transmits a log request to the suction device 100 to request the transmission of log information (step S128).

Next, when the suction device 100 receives the log request, the suction device 100 transmits the requested log information to the terminal device 200 (step S130). For example, the suction device 100 transmits information acquired during the heating session in steps S112 to S116 as the log information.

Thereafter, the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 disconnect from each other (step S132). For example, the suction device 100 disconnects from the terminal device 200 when no operation by the user is detected for a predetermined period of time or more and a log request is not received.

6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the overall process related to charging executed in the system 1 according to this embodiment. The suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 are involved in this sequence.

6, first, the suction device 100 starts charging (step S202) When the suction device 100 is connected to an external power source, the suction device 100 starts charging.

Next, the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 establish a connection (step S204). For example, the suction device 100 transmits an advertisement, and the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 that has received the advertisement perform a procedure for establishing a connection.

Next, the suction device 100 transmits the battery information to the terminal device 200 (step S206).

Next, the suction device 100 transmits state information including information indicating the charging state of the power supply unit 111 to the terminal device 200 (step S208).

Next, the suction device 100 determines whether charging is completed (step S210). The suction device 100 ends charging when the connection to the external power source is released. If it is determined that charging is not completed (step S210: NO), the process returns to step S208.

If it is determined that charging has ended (step S210: YES), the suction device 100 transmits status information including information indicating the charging status of the power supply unit 111 and battery information to the terminal device 200 (step S212).

Next, the terminal device 200 transmits the setting information to the suction device 100 (step S214). Next, upon receiving the setting information, the suction device 100 performs setting based on the received setting information (step S216). Then, the suction device 100 transmits a setting completion notification to the terminal device 200 (step S218). Note that the processing related to steps S214 to S218 is omitted if no user input for changing the setting of the suction device 100 is performed on the terminal device 200.

Next, the terminal device 200 transmits a log request to the suction device 100 to request the transmission of log information (step S220).

Next, when the suction device 100 receives the log request, the suction device 100 transmits the requested log information to the terminal device 200 (step S222). For example, the suction device 100 transmits information acquired during the charging performed in steps S202 to S210 as log information.

Thereafter, the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 disconnect from each other (step S224). For example, the suction device 100 disconnects from the terminal device 200 when no operation by the user is detected for a predetermined period of time or more and a log request is not received.

7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of a setting process executed in the system 1 according to this embodiment. The suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 are involved in this sequence.

7, the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200 establish a connection (step S302). For example, the suction device 100 transmits an advertisement, and the terminal device 200 that receives the advertisement performs a procedure for establishing a connection with the suction device 100.

Next, the terminal device 200 accepts a user input for setting the suction device 100 (step S304). For example, the terminal device 200 accepts a user input regarding at least one of a setting for enabling or disabling the first lock function, a setting for an operation pattern to be set for the first lock function, and a setting for enabling or disabling the second lock function.

Next, the terminal device 200 transmits setting information indicating the setting contents in step S304 (step S306). The setting information includes at least one of information indicating whether to enable the first lock function, information indicating an operation pattern to be set for the first lock function, and information indicating whether to enable the second lock function.

Then, when the suction device 100 receives the setting information, it performs settings based on the received setting information (step S308). For example, the suction device 100 sets the first lock function to be enabled or disabled, sets an operation pattern to be used for the first lock function, and sets the second lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information. After that, the suction device 100 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on these settings.

Thereafter, the suction device 100 transmits a setting completion notification to the terminal device 200 (step S310).

- Unlocking Process FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of an unlocking process executed in the suction device 100 according to this embodiment.

8, first, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the first lock function is enabled (step S402). If it is determined that the first lock function is disabled (step S402: NO), the process proceeds to step S408.

When it is determined that the first lock function is enabled (step S402: YES), the control unit 116 determines whether or not an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function has been performed (step S404).When it is determined that an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function has not been performed (step S404: NO), the control unit 116 waits until an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed.

On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function has been performed (step S404: YES), the control unit 116 releases the lock by the first lock function (step S406). After that, the process proceeds to step S408.

In step S408, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the second lock function is enabled. If it is determined that the second lock function is disabled (step S408: NO), the process proceeds to step S414.

When it is determined that the second lock function is enabled (step S408: YES), the control unit 116 determines whether or not the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200 (step S410). When it is determined that the communication unit 115 is not communicating with the terminal device 200 (step S410: NO), the control unit 116 waits until communication with the terminal device 200 is established.

If it is determined that the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200 (step S410: YES), the control unit 116 releases the lock provided by the second lock function (step S412), and the process then proceeds to step S414.

In step S414, control unit 116 determines whether or not lid unit 14 has opening 142 open and an operation to instruct the start of heating has been performed (step S414). One example of an operation to instruct the start of heating is pressing switch 13. If it is determined that lid unit 14 does not have opening 142 open or an operation to instruct the start of heating has not been performed (step S414: NO), control unit 116 waits until an operation to instruct the start of heating is performed.

If it is determined that the lid portion 14 has the opening 142 open and an operation to start heating has been performed (step S414: YES), the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to perform heating based on the heating profile (step S416).

Next, the storage unit 114 stores log information related to the heating in step S416 (step S418). The log information includes, for example, information indicating the time when the heating in step S416 was started and information indicating the cause of the heating in step S416 being permitted.

Next, the communication unit 115 transmits the log information stored in the storage unit 114 to the terminal device 200 (step S420).

<<3. Supplementary Information>>
Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to such an example. It is clear that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can conceive of various modified or altered examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, an example in which an operation pattern is used for the first lock function has been described as an example of controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 according to an operation pattern, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. As an example, the operation pattern may be used to select a heating profile to be used for control. In detail, a plurality of combinations of heating profiles and operation patterns are set in the suction device 100. Then, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on a heating profile combined with an operation pattern corresponding to an operation performed by a user. As an example, when an operation corresponding to a first operation pattern is performed, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on a first heating profile. As another example, when an operation corresponding to a second operation pattern is performed, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on a second heating profile. According to such a configuration, the user can switch the heating profile to be used by switching the operation pattern. Therefore, the effort is reduced compared to the case of setting to switch the heating profile via the terminal device 200, for example, and usability can be improved.

Also, for example, in the above embodiment, the lock function has been described as a function for controlling whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit 121, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. The lock function may be a function for controlling other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the heating operation by the heating unit 121. The other operations of the suction device 100 include, for example, an operation of supplying power to each component of the suction device 100 by the power supply unit 111, an operation of acquiring various information related to the suction device 100 by the sensor unit 112, an operation of notifying information by the notification unit 113, an operation of storing various information for the operation of the suction device 100 by the memory unit 114, and an operation of performing communication by the notification unit 115 in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard.

The control unit 116 sets an operation pattern indicated by the received setting information, and according to the set operation pattern, controls other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121. As an example, when an operation corresponding to the set operation pattern is performed, the control unit 116 starts other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121.

- First lock function The operation pattern may be set in a first lock function that controls whether or not other operations of the suction device 100 can be performed in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121, depending on an operation by a user. When the first lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 permits other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed. On the other hand, when the first lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 prohibits other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121 when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed. The user can release the lock caused by the first lock function by performing an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function.

- Second lock function The communication state of the communication unit 115 may be used for a second lock function that controls whether or not other operations of the suction device 100 can be performed in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121, depending on the communication state of the communication unit 115. When the second lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 permits other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121 when the communication unit 115 is communicating with the terminal device 200. On the other hand, when the second lock function is enabled, the control unit 116 prohibits other operations of the suction device 100 in addition to the operation of the heating unit 121 when the communication unit 115 is not communicating with the terminal device 200. Here, an example of the communication unit 115 communicating with the terminal device 200 is that a connection based on a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth has been established between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200. The user can release the lock based on the second lock function by establishing a connection based on a short-range wireless communication standard between the suction device 100 and the terminal device 200.

In addition, the series of processes by each device described in this specification may be realized using any of software, hardware, and a combination of software and hardware. The programs constituting the software are stored in advance, for example, in a recording medium (non-transitory medium) provided inside or outside each device. Then, each program is loaded into a RAM when executed by a computer, for example, and executed by a processor such as a CPU. The recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a flash memory, etc. In addition, the computer program may be distributed, for example, via a network, without using a recording medium.

In addition, the processes described in this specification using flowcharts and sequence diagrams do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown in the drawings. Some processing steps may be performed in parallel. In addition, additional processing steps may be employed, and some processing steps may be omitted.

The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.
(1)
A communication unit for communicating with other devices;
a heating section for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol;
A control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit;
Equipped with
The communication unit receives setting information including information indicating an operation pattern from the other device,
The control unit sets the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit, and controls the operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern.
Suction device.
(2)
The suction device includes an operation unit that accepts physical operations by a user,
The operation pattern is a combination of operations on the operation unit.
The suction device described in (1) above.
(3)
the operation unit includes a button that is pressed by a user,
the operation pattern includes an operation of pressing the button,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the button.
The suction device described in (2) above.
(4)
The suction device comprises:
An opening into which the base material can be inserted;
A lid portion that opens and closes the opening;
Further equipped with
The operation unit includes the cover unit,
the operation pattern includes an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid portion,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the cover portion.
The suction device according to (2) or (3).
(5)
the operation pattern is a combination of an operation of pressing the button and an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid portion,
The suction device according to (4) above, which cites (3) above.
(6)
The operation pattern is set to a first lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit in response to an operation by a user,
When a first lock function is enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.
The suction device according to any one of (1) to (5).
(7)
the setting information includes information indicating whether the first lock function is enabled,
The control unit sets the first lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.
The suction device described in (6) above.
(8)
The communication state of the communication unit is used for a second lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit depending on the communication state of the communication unit,
When the second lock function is enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is communicating with the other device, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is not communicating with the other device.
The suction device according to any one of (1) to (7).
(9)
the setting information includes information indicating whether the second lock function is enabled,
The control unit sets the second lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.
The suction device described in (8) above.
(10)
When the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.
The suction device according to (8) or (9) above, which cites (6) above.
(11)
When the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the lid unit opens the opening and an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.
The suction device according to (8) or (9) citing (4) and (6).
(12)
The suction device further includes a memory unit that stores information,
The inhalation device according to any one of (6) to (11), wherein the memory unit stores log information including information for identifying a time period from the start to the end of a process for generating an aerosol using the base material, and information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted.
(13)
The information indicating the cause of permission of the heating includes any one of information indicating that the heating is permitted by the first lock function, information indicating that the heating is permitted by the second lock function, and information indicating that the first lock function and the second lock function are disabled.
The suction device according to (12) above, which cites (6) and (8).
(14)
The information for identifying a time interval from the start to the end of the process of generating an aerosol by heating the substrate is information indicating a time when the aerosol is first inhaled in the time interval.
The suction device according to (12) or (13) above.
(15)
The communication unit transmits the log information stored in the storage unit.
The suction device according to any one of (12) to (14).
(16)
A plurality of combinations of a heating profile, in which a time series transition of a target resistance value, which is a target value of a resistance value of the heating unit, is defined, and an operation pattern are set in the suction device,
The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile combined with the operation pattern corresponding to the operation performed by a user.
The suction device according to any one of (1) to (15).
(17)
The control unit controls other operations of the suction device in addition to the operation of the heating unit.
The suction device according to any one of (1) to (16).
(18)
The control unit sets the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit, and controls the other operation in accordance with the set operation pattern.
The suction device described in (17) above.
(19)
the operation pattern is set to a first lock function that controls whether or not the other operation can be performed in response to an operation by a user;
the control unit, when a first lock function is enabled, permits the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibits the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.
The suction device described in (18) above.
(20)
A control method performed by an aspirator having a communication unit for communicating with another device and a heating unit for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, comprising:
setting the operation pattern indicated by setting information including information indicating an operation pattern received from the other device by the communication unit, and controlling an operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern;
A control method comprising:
(21)
A computer controls a suction device having a communication unit for communicating with other devices and a heating unit for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol.
setting the operation pattern indicated by setting information including information indicating an operation pattern received from the other device by the communication unit, and controlling an operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern;
A program for executing the above.

1 System 100 Suction device 111 Power supply unit 112 Sensor unit 113 Notification unit 114 Memory unit 115 Communication unit 116 Control unit 140 Holding unit 141 Internal space 142 Opening 143 Bottom unit 144 Heat insulating unit 150 Stick-shaped substrate 151 Substrate unit 152 Suction port unit 11 Outer housing 11A Top housing 11B Bottom housing 12 Cover 13 Switch 14 Lid unit 15 Vent 16 Cap 200 Terminal device 210 Input unit 220 Output unit 230 Communication unit 240 Memory unit 250 Control unit

Claims (20)

A communication unit for communicating with other devices;
a heating section for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol;
an operation unit that accepts physical operations by a user;
An opening into which the base material can be inserted;
A lid portion that opens and closes the opening;
A control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit;
Equipped with
The communication unit receives setting information including information indicating an operation pattern from the other device,
the control unit sets the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit, and controls an operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern ;
The operation unit includes the cover unit,
the operation pattern is a combination of operations on the operation unit, and includes an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid unit,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the cover portion.
Suction device. the operation unit includes a button that is pressed by a user,
the operation pattern includes an operation of pressing the button,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the button.
2. The suction device of claim 1 . the operation pattern is a combination of an operation of pressing the button and an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid portion,
3. The suction device according to claim 2 . The operation pattern is set to a first lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit in response to an operation by a user,
the control unit, when the first lock function is enabled, permits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . the setting information includes information indicating whether the first lock function is enabled,
The control unit sets the first lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.
5. The suction device according to claim 4 . the control unit, when the first lock function is enabled, prohibits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed after heating by the heating unit is terminated and the lid unit closes the opening.
6. A suction device according to claim 4 or 5. The communication state of the communication unit is used for a second lock function that controls whether or not heating is performed by the heating unit depending on the communication state of the communication unit,
When the second lock function is enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is communicating with the other device, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when the communication unit is not communicating with the other device.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . the setting information includes information indicating whether the second lock function is enabled,
The control unit sets the second lock function to be enabled or disabled based on the setting information.
8. The suction device according to claim 7 . When the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.
9. A suction device according to claim 7 or 8, which recites claim 4 . When the first lock function and the second lock function are enabled, the control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the lid unit opens the opening and an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed or when the communication unit is communicating with the other device.
9. A suction device according to claim 7 or 8, which recites claim 4 . The suction device further includes a memory unit that stores information,
The inhalation device according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the memory unit stores log information including information for identifying a time period from the start to the end of a process for generating an aerosol using the base material, and information indicating a factor for which heating was permitted. The information indicating the cause of permission of the heating includes any one of information indicating that the heating is permitted by the first lock function, information indicating that the heating is permitted by the second lock function, and information indicating that the first lock function and the second lock function are disabled.
A suction device according to claim 11, which relies on claims 4 and 7 . The information for identifying a time interval from the start to the end of the process of generating an aerosol by heating the substrate is information indicating a time when the aerosol is first inhaled in the time interval.
13. A suction device according to claim 11 or 12 . The communication unit transmits the log information stored in the storage unit.
A suction device according to any one of claims 11 to 13 . A plurality of combinations of a heating profile, in which a time series transition of a target resistance value, which is a target value of a resistance value of the heating unit, is defined, and an operation pattern are set in the suction device,
The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile combined with the operation pattern corresponding to the operation performed by a user.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 14 . The control unit controls other operations of the suction device in addition to the operation of the heating unit.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 . The control unit sets the operation pattern indicated by the setting information received by the communication unit, and controls the other operation in accordance with the set operation pattern.
17. The suction device of claim 16 . the operation pattern is set to a first lock function that controls whether or not the other operation can be performed in response to an operation by a user;
the control unit, when the first lock function is enabled, permits the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is performed, and prohibits the other operation when an operation corresponding to the operation pattern set in the first lock function is not performed.
18. A suction device according to claim 17 . 1. A control method performed by a suction device, comprising:
The suction device is
A communication unit for communicating with other devices;
a heating section for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol;
an operation unit that accepts physical operations by a user;
An opening into which the base material can be inserted;
A lid portion that opens and closes the opening;
having
The control method includes:
setting the operation pattern indicated by setting information including information indicating an operation pattern received from the other device by the communication unit, and controlling an operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern;
Including,
The operation unit includes the cover unit,
the operation pattern is a combination of operations on the operation unit, and includes an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid unit,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the cover portion.
Control methods. A program executed by a computer to control a suction device,
The suction device is
A communication unit for communicating with other devices;
a heating section for heating a substrate containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol;
an operation unit that accepts physical operations by a user;
An opening into which the base material can be inserted;
A lid portion that opens and closes the opening;
having
The program causes the computer to
setting the operation pattern indicated by setting information including information indicating an operation pattern received from the other device by the communication unit, and controlling an operation of the heating unit in accordance with the set operation pattern;
Run the command ,
The operation unit includes the cover unit,
the operation pattern is a combination of operations on the operation unit, and includes an operation of opening and closing the opening by the lid unit,
The information indicating the operation pattern included in the setting information includes information indicating a time series transition of the state of the cover portion.
program.

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