JP7854504B2 - Aerosol generation system, control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system, a control method, and a program.

Inhalation devices that generate substances for the user to inhale, such as e-cigarettes and nebulizers, are widely used. For example, an inhalation device generates an aerosol with added flavorings using a base material that includes an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavoring source for adding flavorings to the generated aerosol. The user can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the aerosol with added flavorings generated by the inhalation device. The action of the user inhaling the aerosol will be referred to as puffing or puffing action below.

Various technological developments are being undertaken to further improve the quality of the user experience when using such suction devices. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technology that changes the temperature at which the substrate is heated by operating a single button provided on the suction device.

European Patent No. 2740507

The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 mentioned above is still relatively new and has room for improvement in various aspects.

Therefore, this disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned issues, and its purpose is to provide a mechanism that can further improve the quality of the user experience using a suction device.

To solve the above problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided comprising: a heating unit for heating an aerosol source contained in a substrate; a control unit for controlling the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source; a first operation unit that can receive user input; and a second operation unit different from the first operation unit that can receive user input, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit when the first operation unit is operated, and controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit when the second operation unit is operated.

The aerosol generation system comprises a first notification unit arranged in correspondence with the first operation unit and a second notification unit arranged in correspondence with the second operation unit, wherein the first notification unit notifies information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit, and the second notification unit notifies information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit.

The aerosol generation system further comprises a first power supply unit that stores power and supplies power to the heating unit, the first notification unit notifies information indicating the number of times heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit can be performed with the power stored in the first power supply unit, and the second notification unit notifies information indicating the number of times heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit can be performed with the power stored in the first power supply unit.

The aerosol generation system comprises a first component on which the heating unit and the control unit are arranged, and a second component detachably connected to the first component. The control unit may permit heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are connected, and prohibit heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are not connected.

The control unit may set at least one of the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit and the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit, based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.

The control unit may set a notification method by at least one of the first notification unit and the second notification unit based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.

The first component has a magnetic sensor for detecting a magnetic field, and the second component has a magnetic part for generating a magnetic field. The control unit may determine whether the first component and the second component are connected based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.

The control unit may identify the type of the second component connected to the first component based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.

The control unit may, if the second operation unit is operated while it is controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit, refer to the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit from that point onward to control the operation of the heating unit, and if the first operation unit is operated while it is controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit, refer to the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit from that point onward to control the operation of the heating unit.

The aerosol generation system comprises a first device and a second device, the first device having a heating unit, a control unit, and a first power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, the second device having a second power supply unit that supplies power to at least one of the heating unit and the first power supply unit when the first device and the second device are connected, and the first operation unit and the second operation unit may each be located in either the first device or the second device.

One of the first operating unit and the second operating unit may be located in the first device, and the other may be located in the second device.

The aerosol generation system may further include the substrate.

Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a control method is provided which is performed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system, wherein the aerosol generation system comprises a heating unit that heats an aerosol source contained in a substrate, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of parameters relating to the temperature of heating the aerosol source, a first operation unit that can accept user operations, and a second operation unit different from the first operation unit that can accept user operations, and the control method is provided which includes controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit when the first operation unit is operated, and controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit when the second operation unit is operated.

Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a program is provided which is executed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system, wherein the aerosol generation system comprises a heating unit that heats an aerosol source contained in a substrate, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of parameters relating to the temperature of heating the aerosol source, a first operation unit that can accept user operations, and a second operation unit different from the first operation unit that can accept user operations, and the program includes controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit when the first operation unit is operated, and controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit when the second operation unit is operated.

As explained above, this disclosure provides a mechanism that can further improve the quality of the user experience using a suction device.

This figure shows an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure shows an example of a state in which a stick-type substrate is inserted into the suction device according to this embodiment. This figure shows an example of a state in which the connection between the suction device and the charging device according to this embodiment has been disconnected. This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a suction device. This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a charging device. This figure illustrates an example of the airflow generated in conjunction with the puff in the suction device according to this embodiment. This figure shows an example of the configuration of the bottom of the storage compartment according to this embodiment. This figure shows an example of the configuration of the inner wall of the storage compartment according to this embodiment. This figure shows an example of the configuration of the inner wall of the storage section according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates another example of the airflow generated in conjunction with the puff in the suction device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates another example of the airflow generated in conjunction with the puff in the suction device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of the arrangement of proximity sensors in the suction device according to this embodiment. This graph schematically shows an example of a heating profile according to this embodiment. This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow performed by the aerosol generation system according to this embodiment. This graph schematically shows an example of a heating profile according to this embodiment. This graph schematically shows an example of switching heating profiles according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of information indicated by the LED of the charging device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of information indicated by the LED of the charging device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of information indicated by the LED of the charging device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of information indicated by the LED of the charging device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of information indicated by the LED of the charging device according to this embodiment. This figure illustrates a first example of a detachable mechanism for a suction device according to a first modified example. This diagram schematically shows an example of a cross-section of a suction device in the first example of a detachable mechanism, where the connection between the cap and the main body has been released. This diagram schematically shows an example of a cross-section of a suction device in the first example of a detachable mechanism, with the cap and body connected. This diagram schematically shows another example of a cross-section of a suction device in the state where the cap and the main body are connected, as in the first example of the attachment/detachment mechanism. This figure illustrates a second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism of a suction device according to the first modified example. This diagram schematically shows an example of a cross-section of a suction device in the second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism, with the connection between the cap and the main body detached. This diagram schematically shows an example of a cross-section of a suction device in a state where the cap and the main body are connected, as in the second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism. This diagram schematically shows another example of a cross-section of a suction device in a state where the cap and the main body are connected, as in the second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism. This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the aerosol generation system according to the second modified example. This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow performed by the suction device according to the modified example. This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a suction device according to the third modified example. This graph schematically shows an example of a heating profile related to the modified example. This graph schematically shows an example of a heating profile related to the modified example. This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a suction device according to the fourth modified example. This figure illustrates the outline of the aerosol generation system according to the fifth modified example.

Preferred embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, thus omitting redundant descriptions.

Furthermore, in this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished by adding a hyphen ("-") and a different number after the same reference numeral. For example, multiple elements having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished as heating section 121-1 and heating section 121-2 as needed. However, if there is no need to particularly distinguish each of multiple elements having substantially the same functional configuration, only the same reference numeral will be used. For example, if there is no need to particularly distinguish between heating section 121-1 and heating section 121-2, they will simply be referred to as heating section 121.

<1. Embodiments>
<1.1. System Configuration>
First, an overview of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

Figure 1 shows an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generation system 1 according to this embodiment includes a suction device 100 and a charging device 900. The suction device 100 is a device that generates a substance to be aspirated by the user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the suction device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device may be a gas. The charging device 900 is a device that supplies power to other devices. For example, the charging device 900 supplies power to the suction device 100 and charges the suction device 100.

Figure 2 shows an example of a state in which a stick-type substrate 150 is inserted into the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the stick-type substrate 150 can be inserted into the suction device 100 through an opening 142 provided on the top surface 100a of the suction device 100. The stick-type substrate 150 is an example of a substrate containing an aerosol source. The suction device 100 generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source contained in the stick-type substrate 150. The combination of the suction device 100, the charging device 900, and the stick-type substrate 150 may be considered as an aerosol generation system 1.

Figure 3 shows an example of the state in which the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 according to this embodiment is disconnected. As shown in Figure 3, the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 may be configured to be detachable. The stick-type substrate 150 may be heated and an aerosol generated while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. Alternatively, the stick-type substrate 150 may be heated and an aerosol generated while the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is disconnected.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the longitudinal direction of the suction device 100 is also referred to as the vertical direction. The downward direction corresponds to the insertion direction of the stick-type substrate 150. The upward direction corresponds to the removal direction of the stick-type substrate 150. Of the housing of the aerosol generation system 1, the upper surface is also referred to as the top surface, the lower surface as the bottom surface, and the surfaces perpendicular to the vertical direction are also referred to as the sides.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the suction device 100 includes a cap 20 and a main body 30. The main body 30 is an example of a first component having various components of the suction device 100, such as the heating unit 121 and the control unit 116, which will be described later. The cap 20 is an example of a second component that is detachably connected to the main body 30. The cap 20 may be an accessory configured to detach a part of the outer shell of the suction device 100. For example, the cap 20 is attached to the main body 30 so as to wrap around the upper end of the main body 30. For example, the user may have multiple caps 20 of different colors. The user can adjust the aesthetic appearance of the suction device 100 by changing the caps 20 according to their mood. Of course, the cap 20 and the main body 30 may be integrally configured.

As shown in Figure 3, the suction device 100 is configured in a cylindrical shape with a top surface 100a and a bottom surface 100b at both ends. A button 11 is provided on the side surface 100c of the suction device 100. The button 11 is an example of an operating part that can receive user input to the aerosol generation system 1. For example, when the button 11 is pressed, the suction device 100 may start heating the stick-shaped substrate 150.

As shown in Figure 3, an LED (light-emitting diode) 12 is provided on the side surface 100c of the suction device 100. The LED 12 is positioned in correspondence with the button 11. Specifically, the LED 12 is positioned so as to surround the button 11. The LED 12 is an example of a notification unit that outputs information to notify the user from the aerosol generation system 1. The LED 12 may notify information about a process that was executed as a trigger when the button 11 was pressed. For example, the LED 12 may output information indicating the progress of heating the stick-type substrate 150 by the suction device 100. With this configuration, it is possible to make the relationship between user operation and notification easier to understand.

As shown in Figure 3, a button 91 is provided on the top surface 900a of the charging device 900. The button 91 is an example of an operating unit that can receive user input for the aerosol generation system 1. For example, the charging device 900 may start/stop charging the suction device 100 when the button 91 is pressed.

As shown in Figure 3, an LED 92 is provided on the top surface 900a of the charging device 900. The LED 92 is positioned in correspondence with the button 91. Specifically, the LED 92 is positioned so as to surround the button 91. The LED 92 is an example of a notification unit that outputs information to notify the user from the aerosol generation system 1. The LED 92 may also notify information about a process that was executed triggered by the pressing of the button 91. As an example, the LED 92 may output information indicating the charging progress of the suction device 100. With this configuration, the relationship between user operation and notification can be made clearer.

As shown in Figure 3, a concave surface 900c is provided on the side surface of the charging device 900. The concave surface 900c is shaped to conform to the side surface 100c of the suction device 100. The suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected with the concave surface 900c in contact with the side surface 100c of the suction device 100. Magnetic parts 13-1 and 13-2 are provided on the side surface 100c of the suction device 100. On the other hand, magnetic parts 93-1 and 93-2 are provided on the concave surface 900c of the charging device 900. Magnetic parts 13-1, 13-2, 93-1, and 93-2 are objects that generate a magnetic field, for example, magnets. When the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are brought close together, magnetic parts 13-1 and 93-1 attract each other, and magnetic parts 13-2 and 93-2 attract each other, thereby connecting the suction device 100 and the charging device 900. For example, one of magnetic parts 13-1 and 93-1 may be a south pole magnet and the other a north pole magnet. Similarly, one of magnetic parts 13-2 and 93-2 may be a south pole magnet and the other a north pole magnet. With this configuration, the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be easily connected and detached.

As shown in Figure 3, an electrical contact 14 is provided on the side surface 100c of the suction device 100 between magnetic parts 13-1 and 13-2. The electrical contact 14 is a contact to the electrical circuit inside the suction device 100. On the other hand, an electrical contact 94 is provided on the concave surface 900c of the charging device 900 between magnetic parts 93-1 and 93-2. The electrical contact 94 is a contact to the electrical circuit inside the charging device 900. When the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the electrical contact 14 and the electrical contact 94 make contact. The charging device 900 then supplies electricity to the suction device 100 via the electrical contacts 14 and 94. This makes it possible to charge the suction device 100. Connecting the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 includes not only physical connection but also electrical connection.

Charging from the charging device 900 to the suction device 100 may be started/stopped triggered by the connection/disconnection of the suction device 100 and the charging device 900. The physical connection/disconnection of the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be detected by a magnetic sensor capable of detecting the magnetic field generated from the magnetic part 93 and/or magnetic part 13. An example of a magnetic sensor is a Hall sensor. The electrical connection/disconnection of the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be detected by whether or not current is flowing through the electrical contacts 14 and 94.

Typically, the user disconnects the suction device 100 from the charging device 900 before use. Unless otherwise specified, when the user uses the suction device 100, it means heating the stick-type substrate 150 with the suction device 100 to aspirate the aerosol. On the other hand, the user may use the suction device 100 while it is still connected to the charging device 900. In that case, the user can use the suction device 100 without worrying about the battery level of the suction device 100.

As shown in Figure 3, the button 11 is arranged in the same row as the magnetic parts 13-1, 13-2, and electrical contact 14. With this configuration, when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the button 11 is concealed by the recessed surface 900c of the charging device 900. This makes it possible to prevent accidental operation of the button 11.

Similarly, as shown in Figure 3, the LED 12 is arranged in the same row as the magnetic section 13-1, the magnetic section 13-2, and the electrical contact 14. With this configuration, when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the LED 12 is concealed by the concave surface 900c of the charging device 900. This makes it possible to concentrate the information notification source to the LED 92.

The suction device 100 and the charging device 900 may transmit and receive information via electrical contacts 14 and 94. Information transmitted from the suction device 100 to the charging device 900 includes suction information acquired by the suction device 100 and biological information. On the other hand, information transmitted from the charging device 900 to the suction device 100 includes control information instructing the suction device 100 to perform a predetermined process. Suction information refers to information acquired when the user heats an aerosol using the suction device 100, such as the number of puffs, the number of heated stick-type substrates 150, and the heating frequency of the stick-type substrates 150. Biological information includes the user's blood pressure, pulse, and body temperature. The charging device 900 may output the information acquired from the suction device 100 via an output device built into the charging device 900, such as an LED 92 or a display (not shown), or it may transmit it to another device such as a smartphone. Of course, the suction device 100 may also output this information via an output device built into the suction device 100, such as an LED 12 or a display (not shown).

The suction device 100 typically operates based on user operation to the suction device 100. For example, the suction device 100 starts/stops heating of the stick-type substrate 150 based on the pressing of button 11. Alternatively, the suction device 100 may operate based on user operation to the charging device 900. For example, when connected to the charging device 900, the suction device 100 may start/stop heating of the stick-type substrate 150 based on the pressing of button 91. Considering that button 11 is concealed and difficult to press when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, this configuration can improve usability.

The above describes the outline of the aerosol generation system 1. The configuration of the aerosol generation system 1 is not limited to the example described above. Various modifications exemplified below may be applied.

For example, the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 may be configured to be inseparable. That is, the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 may be configured as a single unit.

As another example, the number of magnetic parts 13 provided on the suction device 100 is not limited to two; it may be one or three or more. Similarly, the number of electrical contacts 14 provided on the suction device 100 is not limited to one; it may be two or more. Furthermore, the position of the magnetic parts 13 provided on the suction device 100 is not limited to the side surface 100c of the suction device 100; it may also be the bottom surface 100b of the suction device 100. Similarly, the position of the electrical contacts 14 provided on the suction device 100 is not limited to the suction device 100; it may also be the bottom surface 100b of the suction device 100. The charging device 900 should be provided with magnetic parts 93 and electrical contacts 94 in a number and positions corresponding to the number and positions of the magnetic parts 13 and electrical contacts 14 provided on the suction device 100.

As another example, the electrical contact 14 may also function as a magnetic part 13. Similarly, the electrical contact 94 may also function as a magnetic part 93.

As another example, the charging device 900 may house the entire suction device 100. For example, a cylindrical space for housing the suction device 100 may be provided inside the charging device 900, and the suction device 100 may be housed in such a space. The space capable of housing the suction device 100 may be opened and closed by a lid provided at any position on the outer shell of the charging device 900.

As another example, the charging device 900 may wirelessly charge the suction device 100. In that case, the electrical contacts 14 and 94 may be omitted.

<1.2. Logical Structure>
(1) Example of the configuration of the suction device 100 Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the suction device 100. As shown in Figure 4, the suction device 100 according to this example 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 housing unit 140, and a heat insulation unit 144.

The power supply unit 111 stores power. Based on control by the control unit 116, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to each component of the suction device 100. The power supply unit 111 may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

The sensor unit 112 acquires various information related to the suction device 100. For example, the sensor unit 112 is composed of a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values associated with suction by the user. Another example is that the sensor unit 112 is composed of an input device, such as a button or switch, that accepts information input from the user.

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

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

The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include those using Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy®), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

The control unit 116 functions as both an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, controlling the overall operation of the suction device 100 according to various programs. The control unit 116 is implemented by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

The housing section 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-type substrate 150 while housing a portion of it in the internal space 141. The housing section 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 to the outside and accommodates the stick-type substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the housing section 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and bottom 143 as its base, defining a columnar internal space 141. An air passage is connected to the housing section 140 to supply air to the internal space 141. The air inlet, which is the air entrance to the air passage, is located, for example, on the side of the suction device 100. The air outlet, which is the air exit from the air passage to the internal space 141, is located, for example, on the bottom 143.

The stick-type base material 150 includes a base material portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The base material portion 151 includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also include a drug. The aerosol source may be a liquid such as glycerin and polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, and water, which include flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco, or it may be a solid containing flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. When the stick-type base material 150 is held in the housing portion 140, at least a part of the base material portion 151 is housed in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user puts the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air passage (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the base material portion 151.

The heating unit 121 generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source, thereby atomizing it. In the example shown in Figure 4, the heating unit 121 is configured in a film-like form and is positioned to cover the outer circumference of the containment unit 140. When the heating unit 121 generates heat, the base material portion 151 of the stick-type base material 150 is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. For 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. Power may be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has finished inhaling and/or that predetermined information has been input.

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 insulating material or an aerogel insulating material.

The above describes an example configuration of the suction device 100. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100 is not limited to the above, and various configurations can be taken, as illustrated below.

As an example, the heating section 121 may be configured in a blade shape and positioned to protrude from the bottom 143 of the housing section 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating section 121 is inserted into the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 and heats the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating section 121 may be positioned to cover the bottom 143 of the housing section 140. Furthermore, the heating section 121 may be configured as a combination of two or more of the following: a first heating section covering the outer circumference of the housing section 140, a blade-shaped second heating section, and a third heating section covering the bottom 143 of the housing section 140.

As another example, the housing section 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism, such as a hinge, that opens and closes a part of the outer shell forming the internal space 141. The housing section 140 may then house the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 while clamping it by opening and closing the outer shell. In that case, the heating section 121 may be provided at the clamping location in the housing section 140 and may heat the stick-shaped base material 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. In that case, the suction device 100 has at least an electromagnetic induction source, such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121. The susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100 or may be included in the stick-type substrate 150.

(2) Example of the configuration of the charging device 900 Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the charging device 900. As shown in Figure 5, the charging device 900 according to this example includes a power supply unit 911, a sensor unit 912, a notification unit 913, a storage unit 914, a communication unit 915, and a control unit 916.

The power supply unit 911 stores power. Based on control by the control unit 916, the power supply unit 911 supplies power to each component of the charging device 900. The power supply unit 911 also supplies power to the suction device 100 connected to the charging device 900. The power supply unit 911 may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

The sensor unit 912 acquires various information related to the charging device 900. For example, the sensor unit 912 detects the connection and disconnection of the suction device 100 and the charging device 900. For example, the sensor unit 912 is composed of an input device that accepts information input from the user, such as a button or switch.

The notification unit 913 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 913 is composed of, for example, a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that emits sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

The memory unit 914 stores various information for the operation of the charging device 900. The memory unit 914 is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory.

The communication unit 915 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include those using Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy®), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

The control unit 916 functions as both an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, controlling the overall operation of the charging device 900 according to various programs. The control unit 916 is implemented by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

(3) Supplementary Information The suction device 100 is an example of the first device. The heating unit 121 is an example of a heating unit that heats the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 set in the suction device 100. The substrate containing the aerosol source is not limited to the stick-shaped substrate 150, but can take various shapes such as card-shaped or capsule-shaped. In addition, the substrate containing the aerosol source may be set in the suction device 100 in a manner other than insertion, such as the entire substrate being housed in the suction device 100. The power supply unit 111 is an example of a first power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit 121.

The charging device 900 is an example of a second device. The power supply unit 911 of the charging device 900 is an example of a second power supply unit. The power supply unit 911 of the charging device 900 supplies power to the suction device 100 when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. The suction device 100 may use the power supplied from the charging device 900 to heat the stick-type substrate 150, or to charge the power supply unit 111, or to perform these actions simultaneously.

The following describes the correspondence between the components described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and the components described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Button 11 is an example of an input device included in the sensor unit 112. Button 91 is an example of an input device included in the sensor unit 912. LED 12 is an example of a notification unit 113. LED 92 is an example of a notification unit 913. Electrical contacts 14 and 94 are an example of an electrical circuit connecting the power supply unit 111 or heating unit 121 to the power supply unit 911. Electrical contacts 14 and 94 are an example of a communication path between the communication unit 115 and the communication unit 915. The sensor unit 912 may have a magnetic sensor that detects the magnetic field generated from magnetic parts 13-1 and 13-2.

The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 and the control unit 916 of the charging device 900 are examples of control devices that control the operation of the aerosol generation system 1. Various processes performed by the aerosol generation system 1 may be performed according to the control of the control unit 116 of the suction device 100, or according to the control of the control unit 916 of the charging device 900. That is, the suction device 100 may operate according to the control of the control unit 916 of the charging device 900. Also, the charging device 900 may operate according to the control of the control unit 116 of the suction device 100. Information for controlling various processes can be transmitted and received between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900. As an example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may control the processes performed by the suction device 100 or the charging device 900 based on information received from the charging device 900 via the communication unit 115. As another example, the control unit 916 of the charging device 900 may control the processing performed by the suction device 100 or the charging device 900 based on information received from the suction device 100 via the communication unit 915.

Furthermore, for convenience, the control unit 116 or the control unit 916 may be described as the primary control entity below, but the primary control entity may be either the control unit 116 or the control unit 916. That is, a process described as being controlled by the control unit 116 may also be controlled by the control unit 916. Similarly, a process described as being controlled by the control unit 916 may also be controlled by the control unit 116.

<1.3. Airflow>
The airflow generated in the suction device 100 according to this embodiment, in conjunction with the puffing process, will be described below with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the airflow generated in conjunction with puffing in the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 6 schematically shows an example of a cross-section obtained by cutting the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 along the vertical direction, passing through the center of the housing section 140. As shown in Figure 6, when the stick-shaped base material 150 is housed in the housing section 140, a gap exists between the bottom 143 and inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 and the stick-shaped base material 150. When a user puts the stick-shaped base material 150 in their mouth and sucks, air flows in from the opening 142, passes through the gap, flows into the interior of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the tip of the base material section 151, and flows out into the user's mouth from the rear end of the suction port 152. In other words, the air inhaled by the user flows in the order of airflow 190-1, airflow 190-2, and airflow 190-3, and is introduced into the user's oral cavity after being mixed with the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150. According to airflows 190-1, 190-2, and 190-3, air flows in from the opening 142 into the internal space 141 and air flows out from the opening 142. This type of intake and exhaust system, in which the intake and exhaust paths are the same, is also called a counterflow system.

Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the bottom 143 of the housing section 140 according to this embodiment. In Figure 7, an example of a cross-section obtained by cutting the housing section 140 along the vertical direction is schematically shown, with the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100. As shown in Figure 7, the bottom 143 of the housing section 140 may be provided with a protrusion 143a that projects toward the internal space 141 side. The portion of the bottom 143 other than the protrusion 143a is also referred to as the recess 143b. The protrusion 143a has, for example, a frustoconical shape with a flat top surface. The top surface of the protrusion 143a is configured to be smaller than at least the end face of the stick-shaped base material 150. As a result, as shown in Figure 7, the protrusion 143a can support the stick-shaped base material 150 with at least a part of the end face of the stick-shaped base material 150 separated from the recess 143b. As a result, it becomes possible to form a gap between the end face of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and the recess 143b through which the airflow 190-2 passes. Furthermore, it becomes possible to connect the airflow 190-2 and the airflow 190-3 without any problems.

Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 according to this embodiment. In Figure 8, an example of a view from above of the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 is schematically shown. As shown in Figure 8, the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 may have eight protrusions 145a that project toward the internal space 141 side, provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The portion of the inner wall 145 other than the protrusions 145a is also referred to as the recess 145b. The protrusions 145a are provided over the entire vertical area from the opening 142 to the bottom 143. The recess 145b are also provided over the entire vertical area from the opening 142 to the bottom 143. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the inner wall 145 in a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction is the same as the shape of the inner wall 145 as viewed from above in Figure 8. As a result, as shown in Figure 8, the stick-shaped substrate 150 can be supported with at least a portion of its side surface separated from the recess 145b. Consequently, a gap can be formed between the side surface of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and the recess 145b through which the airflow 190-1 passes. Furthermore, the recess 145b provided in the inner wall 145 is connected to the recess 143b provided in the bottom 143. As a result, the airflow 190-1 and the airflow 190-2 can be connected without any problems.

The protrusions 145a may press against the stick-shaped base material 150 to hold it in place. For example, the width between opposing protrusions 145a in planes perpendicular to the vertical direction may be set to be less than or equal to the width of the stick-shaped base material 150. With this configuration, the housing portion 140 can hold the inserted stick-shaped base material 150 from multiple directions while pressing it with the opposing protrusions 145a.

The airflow generated in the suction device 100 in conjunction with puffing has been described above. The configuration of the suction device 100 is not limited to the example described above. Various modifications illustrated below may be applied.

For example, the number of protrusions 143a provided on the bottom 143 of the housing section 140 is not limited to 1, but may be 2 or more. Similarly, the number of protrusions 145a provided on the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 is not limited to 8, but may be any number of 1 or more.

As another example, the shape of the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 is not limited to having irregularities in the circumferential direction. This point will be explained with reference to Figure 9.

Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 according to this embodiment. In Figure 9, an example of a view from above of the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 is schematically shown. As shown in Figure 9, the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 has a pair of opposing planes 145c. Furthermore, the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140 has a pair of opposing arc-shaped curved surfaces 145d that connect both ends of the planes 145c. The pair of planes 145c and the pair of curved surfaces 145d are provided over the entire area in the vertical direction from the opening 142 to the bottom 143. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the inner wall 145 in planes perpendicular to the vertical direction is the same as the shape of the inner wall 145 as viewed from above in Figure 9. As a result, as shown in Figure 9, the stick-shaped base material 150 can be supported with at least a part of the side surface of the stick-shaped base material 150 separated from the curved surface 145d. As a result, a gap is formed between the side surface and the curved surface 145d of the stick-shaped base material 150 through which the airflow 190-1 passes. Furthermore, the curved surface 145d provided on the inner wall 145 is connected to the recess 143b provided on the bottom 143. As a result, the airflow 190-1 and the airflow 190-2 can be connected without hindrance. Moreover, the width between the opposing planes 145c may be set to be less than or equal to the width of the stick-shaped base material 150. With this configuration, the housing section 140 can hold the inserted stick-shaped base material 150 by pressing it with the opposing planes 145c.

As another example, the form of airflow generated in the suction device 100 in conjunction with puffing is not limited to counterflow. This point will be explained with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

Figures 10 and 11 illustrate another example of the airflow generated in conjunction with puffing in the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. Figures 10 and 11 schematically show an example of a cross-section obtained by cutting the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 along the vertical direction, passing through the center of the housing section 140. As shown in Figure 10, the suction device 100 may be provided with an air passage 146 having an opening at the side surface 100c of the suction device 100 and the bottom 143 of the housing section 140. Then, in conjunction with puffing, an airflow 190 may be generated passing through the air passage 146. Also, as shown in Figure 11, the suction device 100 may be provided with an air passage 146 having an opening at the bottom surface 100b of the suction device 100 and the bottom 143 of the housing section 140. Then, in conjunction with puffing, an airflow 190 may be generated passing through the air passage 146. In addition to being provided at the bottom 143 of the housing 140, the opening of the air passage 146 may also be provided at the inner wall 145 of the housing 140.

<1.4. Trigger for starting heating>
The suction device 100 starts heating the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on a predetermined trigger.

The suction device 100 may start heating when the button 11 is pressed in a predetermined pressing pattern. The pressing pattern is defined by the number of times the button is pressed, the duration of the press, and the rhythm of the press. For example, the suction device 100 may start heating when the button 11 is pressed twice in succession, or when the button 11 is pressed for one second.

The suction device 100 may start heating when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted. The insertion and removal of the stick-type substrate 150 can be detected by any method. For example, the insertion and removal of the stick-type substrate 150 may be detected by a proximity sensor. A proximity sensor is a sensor that detects the approach of an object. Various methods can be used as proximity sensors, such as a method that emits waves such as ultrasonic waves or infrared rays and detects the approach of an object based on the detection result of the reflected waves, and a method that detects the approach of an object based on a change in capacitance. An example of the arrangement of the proximity sensor will be described with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram for illustrating an example of the arrangement of the proximity sensor in the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 12, the proximity sensor 50 may be arranged near the opening 142 in the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140. When the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted into the housing section 140, the proximity sensor 50 detects that an object is approaching. On the other hand, when the stick-shaped substrate 150 is removed from the housing 140, the proximity sensor 50 detects that no object is approaching. In this way, the proximity sensor 50 can detect the insertion or removal of the stick-shaped substrate 150 by detecting the presence or absence of an approaching object.

The sensor for detecting the insertion and removal of the stick-type substrate 150 is not limited to the proximity sensor 50. A pressure sensor may be provided together with or instead of the proximity sensor 50. The pressure sensor may be placed at a location that contacts the inserted stick-type substrate 150, such as a protrusion 143a provided on the bottom 143 of the housing 140, a protrusion 145a provided on the inner wall 145 of the housing 140, or a flat surface 145c provided on the inner wall 145 of the housing 140. The pressure sensor may then detect the insertion and removal of the stick-type substrate 150 based on the presence or absence of pressure.

The suction device 100 may start heating when the charging device 900 is connected. Alternatively, the suction device 100 may start heating when charging by the charging device 900 begins.

The suction device 100 may start heating when its connection to the charging device 900 is disconnected. Alternatively, the suction device 100 may start heating when charging by the charging device 900 is completed. Furthermore, the suction device 100 may start heating when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 as a result of charging by the charging device 900 exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, a switching threshold described below).

Furthermore, the triggers that are enabled and disabled as triggers for starting heating may be configurable. The triggers for starting heating may be set, for example, by operation on the suction device 100, operation on the charging device 900, or remote operation via an external terminal such as a smartphone.

Furthermore, regardless of which trigger is activated, it is desirable that heating be initiated only if the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted into the suction device 100. This is to prevent so-called dry heating, where the heating unit 121 heats up even though the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted into the suction device 100.

<1.5. Heating based on heating profile>
The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. The control of the operation of the heating unit 121 is achieved by controlling the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121. The heating unit 121 heats the stick-type substrate 150 using the power supplied from the power supply unit 111.

A heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated. The heating profile defines parameters related to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. An example of the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated is the temperature of the heating unit 121. An example of a parameter related to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated is the target temperature of the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as the target temperature). The temperature of the heating unit 121 may be controlled to change according to the elapsed time since the start of heating. In that case, the heating profile includes information defining the time-series change of the target temperature. As another example, the heating profile may include parameters defining the method of supplying power to the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as power supply parameters). Power supply parameters include, for example, the voltage applied to the heating unit 121, the ON/OFF status of the power supply to the heating unit 121, or the method of feedback control to be adopted.

The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 so that its temperature (hereinafter also referred to as the actual temperature) progresses in a manner similar to the target temperature defined in the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor the user experiences when inhaling the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the flavor the user experiences can be optimized.

The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be achieved, for example, by known feedback control. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller). The control unit 116 may supply power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses obtained 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 cycle or frequency of the power pulse in the feedback control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple on/off control in the feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 may perform heating by the heating unit 121 until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, interrupt heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and resume heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature falls below the target temperature.

The temperature of the heating section 121 can be quantified, for example, by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance of the heating section 121 (more precisely, the heat-generating resistor constituting the heating section 121). This is because the electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor changes with temperature. The electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor. The voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heat-generating resistor. In another example, the temperature of the heating section 121 can be measured by a temperature sensor such as a thermistor installed near the heating section 121.

The period from the start to the end of the process of generating aerosols using the stick-type substrate 150 will hereafter be referred to as the heating session. In other words, the heating session is the period during which the operation of the heating unit 121, i.e., the power supply to the heating unit 121, is controlled based on the heating profile. The start of the heating session is the timing when heating based on the heating profile begins. The end of the heating session is the timing when a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. The heating session includes a preheating period in the first half and a puffing period in the second half. The puffing period is the period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated. The preheating period is the period from the start of heating until the start of the puffing period. The heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

The notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicating when preheating is complete. For example, the notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicating the end of preheating before it is completed, or notify the user of information indicating the end of preheating when it is completed. Notification to the user may be made, for example, by lighting an LED or vibration. The user can then perform puffing immediately after preheating is complete by referring to such notification.

Similarly, the notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicating when the puffable period is ending. For example, the notification unit 113 may notify the user of information that is giving notice of the end of the puffable period before it ends, or notify the user of information indicating that the puffable period has ended when it has ended. Notification to the user may be made, for example, by the lighting or vibration of an LED. The user can then use such a notification as a reference to continue puffing until the puffable period ends.

An example of a heating profile will be explained with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a schematic graph showing an example of a heating profile according to this embodiment. The horizontal axis of Graph 70 is time. The vertical axis of Graph 70 is temperature. Line 71 shows the time series change of the target temperature. As shown in Figure 13, the heating session may sequentially include an initial heating period, an intermediate cooling period, and a reheating period.

The initial heating period is the first period of the heating session during which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises from the initial temperature. The initial temperature is the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start of heating. During the initial heating period, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises rapidly and is maintained at a high temperature.

The intermediate cooling period is the period following the initial heating period during which the temperature of the heating unit 121 decreases. The suction device 100 may interrupt the power supply to the heating unit 121 during the intermediate cooling period.

The reheating period is the period following the intermediate cooling period during which the temperature of the heating section 121 rises again. Typically, the rate of temperature rise of the heating section 121 during the reheating period is set to be slower than the rate of temperature rise of the heating section 121 during the initial heating period.

In the example shown in Figure 13, the target temperature rapidly rises to around 300°C during the initial heating period, then decreases to about 230°C during the intermediate cooling period, and then gradually rises to around 260°C during the reheating period. Also, in the example shown in Figure 13, the preheating period is from the start of heating until partway through the initial heating period, and the puffing period is from partway through the initial heating period until the end of the reheating period.

<1.6. Power supply from charging device 900 to suction device 100>
If the suction device 100 starts heating the stick-shaped substrate 150 when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is low, it may be difficult to continue heating until the end of the heating session. If heating stops in the middle of the heating session, the quality of the user experience will be significantly degraded. Therefore, the aerosol generation system 1 performs the process described below to prevent such degradation of the user experience.

The charging device 900 may charge the suction device 100 while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. That is, the power supply unit 911 may supply power to the power supply unit 111 and charge the power supply unit 111 while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected.

The charging device 900 may supply power to the suction device 100 for heating when the suction device 100 is performing heating while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. That is, the power supply unit 911 may supply power to the heating unit 121 while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. The heating unit 121 may then use the power supplied from the power supply unit 911 to heat the stick-type substrate 150.

When the suction device 100 is connected to the charging device 900 and the suction device 100 is performing heating, the charging device 900 may stop charging the suction device 100 and then supply power to the suction device 100 for heating. Alternatively, when the suction device 100 is connected to the charging device 900 and the suction device 100 is performing heating, the charging device 900 may supply power to the suction device 100 for heating while charging the suction device 100. In other words, when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the power supply unit 911 can supply power to at least one of the power supply unit 111 and the heating unit 121.

However, when the heating unit 121 performs heating while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the control unit 116 selects a power supply source from the power supply unit 111 or power supply unit 911 to the heating unit 121 based on the power stored in the suction device 100. For example, the control unit 116 may select the power supply unit 911 as the power supply source to the heating unit 121 when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is less than a threshold (hereinafter also referred to as the switching threshold). As another example, the control unit 116 may select the power supply unit 111 as the power supply source to the heating unit 121 when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is equal to or greater than the switching threshold. The switching threshold corresponds to the power required to continue heating until the end of the heating session. With this configuration, if it is difficult for the suction device 100 to continue heating until the end of the heating session with only the power stored in the power supply unit 111, it can receive power from the power supply unit 911 and continue heating until the end of the heating session. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the user experience.

When the power supply unit 911 is selected as a power source for the heating unit 121, it may supply power only to the heating unit 121. That is, the charging device 900 may cause the suction device 100 to perform heating. Alternatively, when the power supply unit 911 is selected as a power source for the heating unit 121, it may supply power to both the heating unit 121 and the power supply unit 111. That is, the charging device 900 may charge the suction device 100 while causing the suction device 100 to perform heating.

The control unit 116 may dynamically set the switching threshold. Specifically, the control unit 116 may set different switching thresholds before and during heating. Furthermore, the control unit 116 may change the switching threshold during heating according to the progress of heating. As an example, before heating based on the heating profile is performed, the control unit 116 sets the switching threshold to a value that allows heating to continue from the beginning to the end of the heating session. As another example, during heating based on the heating profile, the control unit 116 sets the switching threshold to a value that allows heating to continue until the end of the remaining period of the heating session. In this case, the control unit 116 decreases the switching threshold as heating progresses, i.e., as the remaining time of the heating session decreases. With this configuration, the switching threshold can be dynamically set depending on whether heating is performed or not, and further, according to the progress of heating during heating. As a result, it becomes possible to more accurately determine whether it is possible to continue heating until the end of the heating session using only the power stored in the power supply unit 111.

The control unit 116 may select the power supply unit 911 as the power supply source to the heating unit 121 for at least a portion of the heating session if the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is below a switching threshold. This configuration makes it possible to prevent a decrease in the power stored in the power supply unit 111 for at least a portion of the heating session.

At least a portion of the heating session described above may include a period of relatively high power consumption (hereinafter also referred to as the high-load period). That is, when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is below a switching threshold, the suction device 100 may select the power supply unit 911 as the power source to the heating unit 121 during the high-load period. An example of a high-load period is the initial temperature rise period, including the period during which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises, excluding the period during which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is maintained. Another example of a high-load period is the initial temperature rise period. Another example of a high-load period is the preheating period. With this configuration, by using the power supply unit 911 as the power source to the heating unit 121 during the high-load period, it is possible to effectively prevent a decrease in the power stored in the power supply unit 111.

The control unit 116 may, during periods other than high-load periods, select the power supply unit 111 as the power source for the heating unit 121 if predetermined conditions are met. The control unit 116 may also select the power supply unit 911 as the power source for the heating unit 121 if the predetermined conditions are not met. That is, after the high-load period ends, the control unit 116 may continue to select the power supply unit 911 as the power source for the heating unit 121 until predetermined conditions are met, and then switch the power supply source for the heating unit 121 to the power supply unit 111 when the predetermined conditions are met. With this configuration, it is possible to continue heating until the end of the heating session by switching the power supply source for the heating unit 121 from the power supply unit 911 to the power supply unit 111 at an appropriate timing.

The above-mentioned predetermined conditions may include the disconnection of the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900. That is, the suction device 100 may use the power supply unit 911 as the power source for the heating unit 121 until the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is disconnected, and then switch to the power supply unit 111 thereafter. With this configuration, heating can be continued even after the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is disconnected.

The above predetermined conditions may include the power stored in the power supply unit 111 exceeding a switching threshold. That is, the suction device 100 may use the power supply unit 911 as the power source for the heating unit 121 until the power stored in the power supply unit 111 exceeds a switching threshold, and then switch back to the power supply unit 111 after the power has exceeded the switching threshold. With this configuration, heating based on power supply from the power supply unit 911 can be continued until the power stored in the power supply unit 111 exceeds a switching threshold.

The above-mentioned predetermined conditions may include the end of the high-load period. That is, when the high-load period ends, the suction device 100 may automatically switch the power supply source to the heating unit 121 from the power supply unit 911 to the power supply unit 111.

The specified conditions only need to include at least one of the conditions exemplified above.

The notification unit 113 or notification unit 913 may notify the user that the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be disconnected when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 exceeds a switching threshold. The user can then disconnect the suction device 100 from the charging device 900 and use the suction device 100 independently, based on such notification. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the quality of the user experience.

Furthermore, the aerosol generation system 1 may operate in such a way that, once the high-load period has ended, power exceeding a threshold value is stored in the power supply unit 111.

As an example, when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected and the heating unit 121 is performing heating, the power supply unit 911 may increase the voltage applied to the power supply unit 111 compared to when the heating unit 121 is not performing heating. With this configuration, the power supply unit 111 can be rapidly charged until the end of the high-load period. As a result, it becomes possible to store power in the power supply unit 111 that exceeds the switching threshold when the high-load period ends.

As another example, the control unit 116 may prohibit heating while the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, until the power supply unit 111 is charged with power exceeding a switching threshold. Then, the control unit 116 may permit heating when the power supply unit 111 is charged with power exceeding the switching threshold. With this configuration, the suction device 100 can start heating only when the power supply unit 111 has power exceeding the switching threshold.

When the aerosol generation system 1 operates as described above, the notification unit 113 or notification unit 913 may notify the user that the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be disconnected, triggered by the end of the high-load period. The user can then disconnect the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 based on such notification and use the suction device 100 independently. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the quality of the user experience.

The above describes an example in which the aerosol generation system 1 operates so that power exceeding a switching threshold is stored in the power supply unit 111 when the high-load period ends. Further supplementary information is provided below.

The power supply unit 911 may start supplying power to the heating unit 121 when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected and the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted into the suction device 100. Similarly, the power supply unit 911 may start supplying power to the heating unit 121 when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected and the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted into the suction device 100. In other words, the power supply unit 911 may start supplying power to the heating unit 121 as a trigger when two conditions are met: the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900, and the insertion of the stick-type substrate 150 into the suction device 100. With this configuration, the user can start heating without pressing a button 91 or the like.

When the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, as described above, the power supply unit 911 may supply power to the power supply unit 111, or to the heating unit 121, or to both the power supply unit 111 and the heating unit 121. The control unit 916 may, when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, set whether the power supply unit 911 supplies power to the power supply unit 111, to the heating unit 121, or to both the power supply unit 111 and the heating unit 121, based on user operation to the charging device 900. For example, the charging device 900 may switch these settings when button 91 is pressed in a predetermined pressing pattern. This configuration makes it possible to achieve power supply as intended by the user.

When the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the notification unit 913 of the charging device 900 may notify the power stored in the power supply unit 111 (i.e., the progress of charging) and/or the progress of heating by the heating unit 121. On the other hand, when the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is disconnected, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 may notify the power stored in the power supply unit 111 and/or the progress of heating by the heating unit 121.

Below, an example of the processing flow described above will be explained with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by the aerosol generation system 1 according to this embodiment.

As shown in Figure 14, first, the control unit 116 detects the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 (step S102). For example, the control unit 116 detects the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 based on the magnetic field of the magnetic part 93 detected by the Hall sensor, and/or the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the electrical contact 14 and the electrical contact 94.

Next, the control unit 116 starts charging the power supply unit 111 using the power supplied from the charging device 900 (step S104). That is, the power supply unit 911 supplies power to the power supply unit 111 and charges the power supply unit 111.

Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not it has detected a user operation to instruct the start of heating (step S106). One example of a user operation to instruct the start of heating is pressing button 91. Another example of a user operation to instruct the start of heating is inserting the stick-type substrate 150 into the suction device 100. The control unit 116 waits until a user operation to instruct the start of heating is detected (step S106: NO).

If a user operation instructing the start of heating is detected (step S106: YES), the control unit 116 starts heating based on the heating profile using the power supplied from the charging device 900 (step S108). That is, the power supply unit 911 supplies power to the heating unit 121. Then, the heating unit 121 starts heating based on the heating profile using the power supplied from the power supply unit 911.

Next, the control unit 116 determines whether the power stored in the power supply unit 111 has reached or exceeded the switching threshold (step S110). The control unit 116 waits until the power stored in the power supply unit 111 reaches or exceeds the switching threshold (step S110: NO).

If it is determined that the power stored in the power supply unit 111 has exceeded a switching threshold (step S110: YES), the notification unit 913 notifies that the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 can be disconnected (step S112). For example, the LED 92 emits light in a predetermined light emission pattern.

Next, the control unit 116 determines whether the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 has been released (step S114). The control unit 116 waits until the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is released (step S114: NO).

If it is determined that the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 has been disconnected (step S114: YES), the control unit 116 switches the power supply source to the heating unit 121 from the power supply unit 911 to the power supply unit 111 (step S116). That is, the power supply unit 111 starts supplying power to the heating unit 121. The heating unit 121 then uses the power supplied from the power supply unit 111 to continue heating based on the heating profile.

Next, the control unit 116 determines whether the termination condition has been met (step S118). One example of a termination condition is that heating has been performed until the end of the heating session. Another example of a termination condition is that the number of puffs has reached a predetermined number. The control unit 116 waits until the termination condition is met (step S118: NO).

If it is determined that the termination condition has been met (step S118: YES), the control unit 116 terminates the heating (step S120).

<1.7. Switching Heating Profiles>
The suction device 100 may switch the heating profile used when heating the stick-shaped substrate 150. Below, as an example, an example in which the suction device 100 selects a heating profile from two available heating profiles will be described. Of course, the suction device 100 may also select a heating profile from three or more available heating profiles.

The control unit 116 can select the heating profile to be used from either the first heating profile or the second heating profile. An example of the first heating profile is the heating profile shown in Figure 13. An example of the second heating profile will be explained with reference to Figure 15.

Figure 15 is a schematic graph showing an example of a heating profile according to this embodiment. The horizontal axis of graph 72 is time. The vertical axis of graph 72 is temperature. Line 73 shows the time series change of the target temperature. As shown in Figure 15, the heating session may sequentially include an initial heating period, an intermediate cooling period, and a reheating period. In the example shown in Figure 15, the target temperature rapidly rises to around 250°C during the initial heating period, then decreases to around 180°C during the intermediate cooling period, and then gradually rises to around 220°C during the reheating period. Also, in the example shown in Figure 15, the preheating period is from the start of heating to the middle of the initial heating period, and the puffing period is from the middle of the initial heating period to the end of the reheating period.

Comparing the first heating profile shown in Figure 13 with the second heating profile shown in Figure 15, it can be said that the first heating profile is a high-temperature heating profile, and the second heating profile is a low-temperature heating profile. By being able to switch between high-temperature and low-temperature heating profiles in this way, users can enjoy a smoking experience that suits their mood.

The control unit 116 may select the heating profile to be used based on user operation of the suction device 100. For example, a button press pattern of the button 11 may be associated with each of the first and second heating profiles. The control unit 116 may then select the heating profile corresponding to the press pattern when the button 11 is pressed as the heating profile to be used. For example, the control unit 116 may select the first heating profile as the heating profile to be used when the button 11 is pressed once or when the button 11 is pressed for a short time. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may select the second heating profile as the heating profile to be used when the button 11 is pressed twice or when the button 11 is pressed for a long time. As another example, the control unit 116 may switch the heating profile to be used from the first heating profile to the second heating profile, or from the second heating profile to the first heating profile, when the button 11 is pressed in a predetermined press pattern.

The control unit 116 may select the heating profile to be used based on user operation of the charging device 900. For example, a button press pattern of the button 91 may be associated with each of the first and second heating profiles. The control unit 116 may then select the heating profile corresponding to the press pattern when the button 91 is pressed as the heating profile to be used. For example, the control unit 116 may select the first heating profile as the heating profile to be used when the button 91 is pressed once or when the button 91 is pressed for a short time. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may select the second heating profile as the heating profile to be used when the button 91 is pressed twice or when the button 91 is pressed for a long time. As another example, the control unit 116 may switch the heating profile to be used from the first heating profile to the second heating profile, or from the second heating profile to the first heating profile, when the button 91 is pressed in a predetermined press pattern.

Furthermore, if the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are not connected, the control unit 116 may select the heating profile to be used based on user operation to the suction device 100. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, the control unit 116 may select the heating profile to be used based on user operation to the charging device 900.

The suction device 100 sets the heating profile to be used and then starts heating based on the set heating profile based on an arbitrary trigger. The trigger for starting heating is as described above. Alternatively, the suction device 100 may start heating when the heating profile has been set as the trigger.

The control unit 116 may set two heating profiles: one for use when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, and another for use when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are not connected. For example, the control unit 116 may use the first heating profile when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, and use the second heating profile when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are not connected.

Furthermore, the control unit 116 may switch the heating profile to be used based on the trigger for starting heating. For example, the control unit 116 may use the first heating profile when starting heating based on user operation on the suction device 100, and use the second heating profile when starting heating based on user operation on the charging device 900. As another example, the control unit 116 may use the first heating profile when starting heating triggered by pressing the button 11, and use the second heating profile when starting heating triggered by inserting the stick-type substrate 150.

Here, the control unit 116 may switch the heating profile being used while heating based on the heating profile is being performed. The control unit 116 may also switch the heating profile being used if the user operation described above is performed on the suction device 100 or the charging device 900 while heating based on the heating profile is being performed. For example, the control unit 116 may switch the heating profile being used to the second heating profile while heating based on the first heating profile is being performed. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

However, when the control unit 116 switches the heating profile to be used, it inherits the heating time before the switch and controls the operation of the heating unit 121 by referring to the heating profile after the switch from the middle of the process. For example, if the control unit 116 switches the heating profile 120 seconds after the start of heating, it controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the time-series progression of the target temperature from 120 seconds after the start of heating in the heating profile after the switch. With this configuration, it becomes possible to smoothly switch heating profiles in the middle of a heating session. As an example, an example in which the heating profile to be used is switched to the first heating profile while heating based on the second heating profile is being performed will be explained with reference to Figure 16.

Figure 16 is a schematic graph showing an example of switching heating profiles according to this embodiment. The horizontal axis of Graph 74 is time. The vertical axis of Graph 74 is temperature. Line 71 shows the time series change of the target temperature defined in the first heating profile. Line 73 shows the time series change of the target temperature defined in the second heating profile. Line 75 shows the time series change of the target temperature when the heating profile used is switched to the first heating profile 120 seconds after the start of heating based on the second heating profile. As shown in line 75, the target temperature changes as defined in the second heating profile until 120 seconds have elapsed from the start of heating. After that, the target temperature changes as defined in the first heating profile, after a transition period that smoothly bridges the difference in target temperatures between the second heating profile and the first heating profile.

<1.8. Information Notice>
The charging device 900 (for example, the notification unit 913) may notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100. In particular, the notification unit 913 of the charging device 900 may notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100 when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected. As an example, the LED 92 may notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100. Considering that the LED 12 is concealed when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, this configuration can improve usability.

The LED 92 emits light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the state of the suction device 100, thereby notifying information indicating the state of the suction device 100. The light emission pattern is defined by at least one of the following: the number, position, shape, color, number of flashes, duration of flashing, and flashing rhythm of the light-emitting areas.

(1) Information indicating the progress of heating The notification unit 913 may notify information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100 (more specifically, the heating unit 121). In particular, the LED 92 may notify information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100. When heating is started triggered by pressing the button 91, the LED 92, which is positioned to surround the pressed button 91, notifies information indicating the progress of heating, making it possible to intuitively notify the user of the progress of heating. An example of information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, notified by the LED 92, will be explained with reference to Figures 17 and 18.

Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of information notified by the LED 92 of the charging device 900 according to this embodiment. Figure 17 shows a top view of the button 91 and the LED 92. As shown in Figure 17, the LED 92 may be configured in an annular shape so as to surround the button 91, which has a circular top surface. The LED 92 has a plurality of light-emitting regions 921 (921-1 to 921-8). Light-emitting regions 921-1 to 921-4 are arc-shaped regions obtained by dividing the inner region of the annularly configured LED 92 into four 90-degree sections in the circumferential direction. Each of the light-emitting regions 921-5 to 921-8 is an arc-shaped region located outside each of the light-emitting regions 921-1 to 921-4. When light-emitting regions 921-1 to 921-4 emit light, the entire area of light-emitting regions 921-1 to 921-4 emits light. On the other hand, when the light-emitting regions 921-5 to 921-8 emit light, multiple lines radiating outwards from the button 91 emit light.

Figure 17 illustrates the light emission patterns 60a to 60e. Light emission pattern 60a is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 and 921-5 emit light. Light emission pattern 60b is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1, 921-2, and 921-6 emit light. Light emission pattern 60c is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-3 and 921-7 emit light. Light emission pattern 60d is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-4 and 921-8 emit light. Light emission pattern 60e is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-4 emit light.

The LED 92 may, during the period immediately following the start of heating, switch between light emission patterns sequentially from light emission pattern 60a to light emission pattern 60e, in accordance with the progress of heating by the suction device 100. For example, let's assume the preheating period is 20 seconds. In this case, the LED 92 may emit light using light emission pattern 60a for the first 5 seconds after the start of heating, then light emission pattern 60b for the next 5 seconds, then light emission pattern 60c for the next 5 seconds, and then light emission pattern 60d for the next 5 seconds. After the 20-second preheating period has elapsed, the LED 92 may emit light using light emission pattern 60e. By referring to these transitions in light emission patterns, the user can easily understand the remaining time in the preheating period.

Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of information indicated by the LED 92 of the charging device 900 according to this embodiment. Figure 18 shows the button 91 and LED 92 as viewed from above. The configuration of the button 91 and LED 92 shown in Figure 18 is as described above with reference to Figure 17.

Figure 18 shows the light emission patterns 61a to 61e. Light emission pattern 61a is the same as light emission pattern 60e. Light emission pattern 61b is the same as light emission pattern 60d. Light emission pattern 61c is the same as light emission pattern 60c. Light emission pattern 61d is the same as light emission pattern 60b. Light emission pattern 61e is the same as light emission pattern 60a.

The LED 92 may, during the period immediately preceding the end of heating, illuminate in a sequence from illumination pattern 61a to illumination pattern 61e, depending on the progress of heating by the suction device 100. For example, the LED 92 may illuminate in illumination pattern 61a from the end of the preheating period until 20 seconds before the end of heating. The LED 92 may illuminate in illumination pattern 61b for 5 seconds from 20 seconds before the end of heating, then in illumination pattern 61c for the following 5 seconds, then in illumination pattern 61d for the following 5 seconds, and then in illumination pattern 61e for the following 5 seconds. By referring to such transitions in illumination patterns, the user can easily grasp the remaining time until the end of heating.

The above describes an example of information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, as notified by the LED 92, with reference to Figures 17 and 18. Next, another example of information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, as notified by the LED 92, will be described with reference to Figure 19.

Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of information indicated by the LED 92 of the charging device 900 according to this embodiment. Figure 19 shows the button 91 and LED 92 as viewed from above. The configuration of the button 91 and LED 92 shown in Figure 19 is as described above with reference to Figure 17.

Figure 19 illustrates the light emission patterns 62a to 62e. Light emission pattern 62a is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-3 and 921-7 emit light. Light emission pattern 62b is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-2 to 921-4 and 921-8 emit light. Light emission pattern 62c is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1, 921-3, 921-4 and 921-5 emit light. Light emission pattern 62d is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1, 921-2, 921-4 and 921-6 emit light. Light emission pattern 62e is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-4 emit light.

During the preheating period, LED 92 may emit light sequentially and repeatedly, switching between light emission patterns 62a to 62d. After the preheating period ends, LED 92 may emit light using light emission pattern 62e. By referring to these transitions in light emission patterns, the user can easily determine whether the preheating period is still ongoing or has ended.

The above describes another example of information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, as notified by the LED 92, with reference to Figure 19.

Of course, information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100 may be indicated by means other than the position of the light-emitting region 921 of the LED 92. Alternatively, the LED 92 may indicate the progress of heating by the suction device 100 by the color of the LED 92's light emission. For example, in the period immediately after the start of heating, the LED 92 may sequentially switch its light emission color from red, yellow, and then blue according to the progress of heating by the suction device 100. Then, in the period immediately before the end of heating, the LED 92 may sequentially switch its light emission color from blue, yellow, and then red according to the progress of heating by the suction device 100.

As described above, the suction device 100 can switch the heating profile used when heating the stick-type substrate 150. Therefore, the LED 92 may emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the heating profile used by the suction device 100. For example, the LED 92 may have different light emission colors and/or positions of the light-emitting region 921 depending on whether the suction device 100 is using the first heating profile or the second heating profile. As an example, when the suction device 100 is using the first heating profile, the LED 92 may notify information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, as described above with reference to Figures 17 and 18. On the other hand, when the suction device 100 is using the second heating profile, the LED 92 may notify information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100, as described above with reference to Figure 19. By referring to such notifications, the user can easily understand which heating profile is being used.

(2) Information indicating the charging status The notification unit 913 may also notify information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100 (more specifically, the power supply unit 111). That is, the notification unit 913 may also notify information indicating the power stored in the power supply unit 111. In particular, the LED 92 may notify information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100. An example of information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100 notified by the LED 92 will be explained with reference to Figure 20.

Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of information indicated by the LED 92 of the charging device 900 according to this embodiment. Figure 20 shows a top view of the button 91 and the LED 92. The configuration of the button 91 and the LED 92 shown in Figure 20 is as described above with reference to Figure 17.

Figure 20 illustrates the light emission patterns 63a to 63e. Light emission pattern 63a is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-4 emit light. Light emission pattern 63b is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 to 921-3 emit light. Light emission pattern 63c is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 and 921-2 emit light. Light emission pattern 63d is a light emission pattern in which light emission region 921-1 emits light. Light emission pattern 63e is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1 and 921-5 emit light.

The LED 92 illuminates using one of the light-emitting patterns 63a to 63e, depending on the power stored in the power supply unit 111. For example, the LED 92 may illuminate using light-emitting pattern 63a when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is 80-100% of the fully charged state, using light-emitting pattern 63b when it is 60-80%, and using light-emitting pattern 63c when it is 40-60%. Alternatively, the LED 92 may illuminate using light-emitting pattern 63d when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is 20-40% of the fully charged state, and using light-emitting pattern 63e when it is 0-20%. In this case, as the power stored in the power supply unit 111 decreases, the LED 92 will illuminate while switching between light-emitting patterns 63a to 63e in sequence. On the other hand, as the power stored in the power supply unit 111 increases due to charging, the LED 92 will illuminate while switching between light-emitting patterns 63e to 63a in sequence. By referring to such notifications, users can easily understand whether or not charging is needed, or the progress of charging.

Of course, information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100 may be indicated by means other than the position of the light-emitting region 921 of the LED 92. Alternatively, the LED 92 may indicate the charging status of the suction device 100 by the color of its light emission. For example, the LED 92 may emit blue light when the power stored in the power supply unit 111 is at 50-100% of the full charge state, yellow light when it is at 20-50%, and red light when it is at 0-20%.

The LED 92 may also indicate the number of times heating based on the heating profile can be performed using the power stored in the power supply unit 111 (hereinafter also referred to as the remaining number of heating cycles) as information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100. For example, the LED 92 may light up with light emission pattern 63a when the remaining number of heating cycles is 20 or more, with light emission pattern 63b when it is 15 to 19 cycles, and with light emission pattern 63c when it is 10 to 14 cycles. In addition, the LED 92 may light up with light emission pattern 63d when the remaining number of heating cycles is 5 to 9 cycles, and with light emission pattern 63e when it is 4 cycles or less.

Furthermore, the charging device 900 may notify information indicating the charging status of the charging device 900. That is, the charging device 900 may notify information indicating the power stored in the power supply unit 911. The information indicating the charging status of the charging device 900 may be notified in the same manner as the information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100.

(3) Error Notification Unit 913 may notify the suction device 100 of information indicating an error that has occurred. In particular, the LED 92 may notify the suction device 100 of information indicating an error that has occurred. An example of information indicating an error that has occurred in the suction device 100, notified by the LED 92, will be explained with reference to Figure 21.

Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of information indicated by the LED 92 of the charging device 900 according to this embodiment. Figure 21 shows a top view of the button 91 and the LED 92. The configuration of the button 91 and the LED 92 shown in Figure 21 is as described above with reference to Figure 17.

Figure 21 illustrates the light emission patterns 64a to 64d. Light emission pattern 64a is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1, 921-4, 921-5, and 921-8 emit light. Light emission pattern 64b is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-2, 921-3, 921-6, and 921-7 emit light. Light emission pattern 64c is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-1, 921-2, 921-5, and 921-6 emit light. Light emission pattern 64d is a light emission pattern in which light emission regions 921-3, 921-4, 921-7, and 921-8 emit light.

The LED 92 may emit light in the suction device 100 in the following order: in the suction device 100, in the suction pattern 64a when a first error occurs; in the suction pattern 64b when a second error occurs; in the suction pattern 64c when a third error occurs; and in the suction pattern 64d when a fourth error occurs. An example of the first error is that the temperature of the power supply unit 111 is extremely low. An example of the second error is that the temperature of the power supply unit 111 is extremely high. An example of the third error is that the temperature of the heating unit 121 is extremely low. An example of the fourth error is that the temperature of the heating unit 121 is extremely high.

Of course, information indicating an error in the suction device 100 may be notified by means other than the position of the light-emitting region 921 of the LED 92. Alternatively, the LED 92 may also notify information indicating an error in the suction device 100 by the color of its illumination. For example, the LED 92 may illuminate in a color corresponding to the error in the suction device 100.

Furthermore, the charging device 900 may notify the user of information indicating an error that has occurred in the charging device 900. Information indicating an error that has occurred in the charging device 900 may be notified in the same manner as information indicating an error that has occurred in the suction device 100.

(4) Notification timing There are various possible triggers for the notification of information indicating the status of the suction device 100.

For example, information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100 may be notified while heating is being performed by the suction device 100. Also, information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100 may be notified while the suction device 100 is being charged. Furthermore, if the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected while an error has occurred in the suction device 100, information indicating the error that occurred in the suction device 100 may be notified.

As another example, pressing button 91 may trigger the notification of information indicating the status of the suction device 100. However, different information may be notified depending on the button 91 pressing pattern. Specifically, when button 91 is pressed in a first pressing pattern, information indicating the progress of heating by the suction device 100 may be notified. When button 91 is pressed in a second pressing pattern, information indicating the charging status of the suction device 100 may be notified. And when button 91 is pressed in a third pressing pattern, information indicating an error that occurred in the suction device 100 may be notified. The first, second, and third pressing patterns are all different. However, the first pressing pattern may be the same as the pressing pattern that instructs the start of heating.

As another example, information indicating the status of the suction device 100 may be notified as a trigger when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are connected, or when the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 is disconnected. Alternatively, information indicating the status of the suction device 100 may be notified as a trigger when the power of the suction device 100 is turned OFF, ON, put into sleep mode, or wakes up from sleep mode.

(5) Supplement Information indicating the status of the suction device 100 may be notified by the suction device 100 instead of the charging device 900, or together with the charging device 900. In particular, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 may notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100 when the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 are not connected. As an example, the LED 12 may notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100. The LED 12 can notify information indicating the status of the suction device 100 in the same manner as the method described above in which the LED 92 notifies information indicating the status of the suction device 100.

Furthermore, the suction device 100 may also notify information indicating the status of the charging device 900. In particular, the suction device 100 may notify information indicating the status of the charging device 900 when it is connected to the charging device 900. For example, the LED 12 may notify information indicating the status of the charging device 900. Information indicating the status of the charging device 900 that is notified by the suction device 100 includes information indicating the charging status of the charging device 900 and information indicating an error that has occurred in the charging device 900.

<2. Variations>
The above describes one embodiment of the present disclosure. Various modifications of the present disclosure will be described below.

<2.1. First variation>
As described above, the cap 20 and the main body 30 may be configured to be detachable. Various attachment/detachment mechanisms for the cap 20 and the main body 30 are conceivable. Below, an example of an attachment/detachment mechanism for the cap 20 and the main body 30 will be described with reference to Figures 22 to 29.

(1) First Example Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating a first example of the attachment/detachment mechanism of the suction device 100 according to this modified example. Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in the first example of the attachment/detachment mechanism, with the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30 released. Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in the first example of the attachment/detachment mechanism, with the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30. In Figures 23 and 24, an example of a cross-section obtained by cutting the suction device 100 along the vertical direction, passing through the center of the housing portion 140, is schematically shown.

As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected such that the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 and the top surface 30a of the main body 30 overlap. The top surface 20a of the cap 20 constitutes the top surface 100a of the suction device 100. The bottom surface 30b of the main body 30 constitutes the bottom surface 100b of the suction device 100. With the cap 20 and the main body 30 connected, the side surface 20c of the cap 20 and the side surface 30c of the main body 30 constitute the side surface 100c of the suction device 100.

As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the cap 20 is configured as an annular body having a through hole 22 with openings 142 and 23 at both ends. A screw groove 21 is provided on the lower side of the inner wall 22a of the through hole 22 of the cap 20, which can be screwed into the screw threads 31 provided on the main body 30. The main body 30 is configured as a bottomed cylindrical body having a bottomed hole 33 with openings 34 and bottom 143 at both ends. In the center of the top surface 30a of the main body 30, there is a cylindrical projection 32 that has an opening 34 on the top surface, screw threads 31 on the outer circumference, and extends along the bottomed hole 33. By rotating the cap 20 and the main body 30 with the screw threads 31 engaged in the screw groove 21, the cap 20 and the main body 30 can be connected or disconnected. In the suction device 100 with the cap 20 and the main body 30 connected, a gap 40 may be provided between the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 and the top surface 30a of the main body 30.

As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the upper part of the inner wall 22a of the through hole 22 of the cap 20 (the part without the screw groove 21) constitutes a part of the upper inner wall 145 of the housing section 140. On the other hand, the inner wall 33a of the bottomed hole 33 of the main body 30 constitutes a part of the lower inner wall 145 of the housing section 140. When the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, the through hole 22 and the bottomed hole 33 are connected, forming the housing section 140. In particular, the upper part of the inner wall 22a of the through hole 22 of the cap 20 and the inner wall 33a of the bottomed hole 33 of the main body 30 are connected flush, forming the inner wall 145 of the housing section 140.

Here, it is desirable that the convex portion 145a and concave portion 145b described above with reference to Figures 6 to 8 be provided on both the upper side of the inner wall 22a of the through hole 22 of the cap 20 and the inner wall 33a of the bottomed hole 33 of the main body 30. Similarly, it is desirable that the flat surface 145c and curved surface 145d described above with reference to Figure 9 be provided on both the upper side of the inner wall 22a of the through hole 22 of the cap 20 and the inner wall 33a of the bottomed hole 33 of the main body 30.

As shown in Figures 22 to 24, multiple anti-slip surfaces 35 are provided around the protruding portion 32 on the top surface 30a of the main body 30. In the suction device 100 with the cap 20 and the main body 30 connected, the anti-slip surfaces 35 contact the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 to prevent the cap 20 from rotating. This configuration makes it difficult for the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30 to be unintentionally released. The composition of the anti-slip surfaces 35 is not particularly limited, but may be made of an elastic material such as rubber. The anti-slip surfaces 35 may be provided together with the top surface 30a of the main body 30, or alternatively, on the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20.

As described above with reference to Figures 10 and 11, the suction device 100 may be provided with an air passage 146. This point will be explained with reference to Figure 25.

Figure 25 schematically shows another example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in the state where the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, in the first example of the attachment/detachment mechanism. As shown in Figure 25, a through hole 36 may be provided at the base of the protruding portion 32 of the main body 30. In that case, when the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, the gap 40 created between the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 and the top surface 30a of the main body 30, and the through hole 36, constitute an air passage 146. In that case, an airflow 190 is generated as the puffing occurs, passing through the air passage 146.

(2) Second Example Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism of the suction device 100 according to this modified example. Figure 27 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in the second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism, with the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30 released. Figure 28 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in the second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism, with the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30. In Figures 27 and 28, an example of a cross-section obtained by cutting the suction device 100 along the vertical direction, passing through the center of the housing portion 140, is schematically shown.

As shown in Figures 26 to 28, the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected such that the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 and the top surface 30a of the main body 30 overlap. The top surface 20a of the cap 20 constitutes the top surface 100a of the suction device 100. The bottom surface 30b of the main body 30 constitutes the bottom surface 100b of the suction device 100. With the cap 20 and the main body 30 connected, the side surface 20c of the cap 20 and the side surface 30c of the main body 30 constitute the side surface 100c of the suction device 100.

As shown in Figures 26 to 28, the cap 20 is a bottomed cylindrical body having a housing section 140. The cap 20 has a head 24 that forms the upper part of the cap 20, and a protruding section 25 that is thinner than the head 24 and protrudes downward from the head 24. The body 30 has a bottomed hole 37 that can accommodate the protruding section 25 of the cap 20. As shown in Figures 27 and 28, the cap 20 and the body 30 can be connected by inserting the protruding section 25 of the cap 20 into the bottomed hole 37 of the body 30. The connection between the cap 20 and the body 30 can be released by removing the protruding section 25 of the cap 20 from the bottomed hole 37 of the body 30. Since the housing section 140 can be removed from the body 30 which houses electronic components such as the power supply section 111, the housing section 140 can be easily washed with water, improving maintainability. In the suction device 100 with the cap 20 and the main body 30 connected, a gap 40 may be provided between the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 (more specifically, the head 24 of the cap 20) and the top surface 30a of the main body 30.

As shown in Figures 27 and 28, it is desirable that the inner diameter of the bottomed hole 37 be the same as or approximately the same as the outer diameter of the protruding portion 25 of the cap 20. In this case, when the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, the protruding portion 25 of the cap 20 and the bottomed hole 37 of the main body 30 can be tightly fitted together without any gaps, making it possible to firmly connect the cap 20 and the main body 30. Also, as shown in Figures 27 and 28, it is desirable that the outer diameter of the head 24 of the cap 20 be the same as the outer diameter of the main body 30. In this case, when the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, the unevenness between the side surface 20c of the cap 20 and the side surface 30c of the main body 30 can be reduced, making it possible to form a smooth side surface 100c of the suction device 100.

As described above with reference to Figures 10 and 11, the suction device 100 may be provided with an air passage 146. This point will be explained with reference to Figure 29.

Figure 29 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a cross-section of the suction device 100 in a state where the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, in a second example of the attachment/detachment mechanism. As shown in Figure 29, a through hole 26 may be provided at the base of the protruding portion 25 of the cap 20. In that case, when the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected, the gap 40 created between the bottom surface 20b of the cap 20 and the top surface 30a of the main body 30, and the through hole 26, can constitute an air passage 146. In that case, an airflow 190 is generated as the puffing occurs, passing through the air passage 146.

(3) Control in accordance with attachment and detachment of cap 20 and body 30 The connection and disconnection of cap 20 and body 30 can be determined by any method. For example, cap 20 may have a magnetic part that generates a magnetic field. Body 30 may have a magnetic sensor that detects a magnetic field. An example of a magnetic part is a magnet, and an example of a magnetic sensor is a Hall sensor. The control unit 116 then determines whether or not cap 20 and body 30 are connected based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor. For example, if the strength of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic sensor is above a threshold, the control unit 116 determines that cap 20 and body 30 are connected, and if not, it determines that the connection between cap 20 and body 30 is disconnected. With this configuration, it is possible to easily determine the connection and disconnection of cap 20 and body 30.

The suction device 100 may be configured based on whether the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected. For example, the control unit 116 may set whether heating by the heating unit 121 is permitted based on whether the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected. That is, the control unit 116 may permit heating by the heating unit 121 when the cap 20 and the main body 30 are connected. When heating is permitted and a user operation is performed to instruct the start of heating, the control unit 116 starts supplying power to the heating unit 121. On the other hand, the control unit 116 may prohibit heating by the heating unit 121 when the connection between the cap 20 and the main body 30 is disconnected. When heating is prohibited and a user operation is performed to instruct the start of heating, the control unit 116 does not start supplying power to the heating unit 121. When the cap 20 is removed from the main body 30, the heat insulation performance of the suction device 100 may decrease. In this respect, this configuration makes it possible to improve safety.

The type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30 can be identified by any method. For example, the control unit 116 may determine the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30 based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor. As an example, the cap 20 may have a magnetic part that generates a different magnetic field for each type of cap 20. Specifically, the cap 20 may have a magnetic part that generates a magnetic field of different strengths for each type of cap 20. In that case, the control unit 116 may determine that a first type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30 if the strength of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic sensor is greater than or equal to a first threshold and less than a second threshold. On the other hand, the control unit 116 may determine that a second type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30 if the strength of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic sensor is greater than or equal to a second threshold and less than a third threshold. With this configuration, it becomes possible to easily determine the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30.

The suction device 100 may be configured based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. For example, the control unit 116 may set a heating profile to be used for heating the stick-type substrate 150 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. More specifically, the control unit 116 may be configured to use a first heating profile when a first type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30. The control unit 116 may also be configured to use a second heating profile when a second type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30. The first heating profile is a different heating profile from the second heating profile. As another example, the control unit 116 may set a notification method by the notification unit 113 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. More specifically, the control unit 116 may set a first light emission pattern as the light emission pattern for LED 12 and/or LED 92 when a first type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30. Furthermore, the control unit 116 may set a second light emission pattern as the light emission pattern for LED 12 and/or LED 92 when a second type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30. The second light emission pattern is different from the first light emission pattern. With this configuration, it becomes possible to easily customize the user experience of the suction device 100.

In addition, the cap 20 may have a storage medium for storing setting information for the suction device 100. An example of setting information is a heating profile. Another example of setting information is a notification method by the notification unit 113. On the other hand, the main body 30 may have a reading unit for reading information from the storage medium of the cap 20 attached to the main body 30. An example of a storage medium is an RFID (radio frequency identifier) RF tag, and an example of a reading unit is a wireless reader. The control unit 116 may then perform settings based on the setting information read from the storage medium of the cap 20 connected to the main body 30.

<2.2. Second variation>
Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the aerosol generation system 1 according to this modified example. In particular, Figure 30 shows an example of the state in which the connection between the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 according to this modified example is disconnected.

(1) Regarding Button 11 and LED 12 As shown in Figure 30, the suction device 100 is equipped with buttons 11-1 and 11-2. Button 11-1 is an example of a first operation unit that can receive user input to the aerosol generation system 1. Button 11-2 is an example of a second operation unit different from the first operation unit that can receive user input to the aerosol generation system 1.

The control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 when button 11-1 is pressed. For example, the storage unit 114 stores a first heating profile as the heating profile to be used when button 11-1 is pressed. In that case, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the first heating profile when button 11-1 is pressed. On the other hand, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 when button 11-2 is pressed. For example, the storage unit 114 stores a second heating profile as the heating profile to be used when button 11-2 is pressed. In that case, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the second heating profile when button 11-2 is pressed. With this configuration, the user can use their preferred heating profile by pressing either button 11-1 or button 11-2.

Here, the suction device 100 may switch the heating profile to be used while heating based on the heating profile is being performed. However, when the control unit 116 switches the heating profile to be used, it inherits the heating time before the switch and controls the operation of the heating unit 121 by referring to the heating profile after the switch from the middle of the process. Specifically, if button 11-2 is pressed while the control unit 116 is controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1, it controls the operation of the heating unit 121 by referring to the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 from the middle of the process. For example, suppose that button 11-2 is pressed 120 seconds after heating based on the first heating profile is started triggered by the pressing of button 11-1. In that case, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the time series change of the target temperature from 120 seconds after the start of heating in the second heating profile. Similarly, if button 11-1 is pressed while the control unit 116 is controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2, the control unit 116 will refer to the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 from that point onward and control the operation of the heating unit 121. For example, suppose button 11-1 is pressed 120 seconds after heating based on the second heating profile has started, triggered by the pressing of button 11-2. In that case, the control unit 116 will control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the time-series progression of the target temperature in the first heating profile from 120 seconds after the start of heating. With this configuration, it becomes possible to smoothly switch heating profiles in the middle of a heating session.

As shown in Figure 30, LEDs 12-1 and 12-2 are arranged on the suction device 100. LEDs 12-1 and 12-2 are examples of notification units that output information to be notified to the user from the aerosol generation system 1. In particular, LED 12-1 is an example of a first notification unit arranged in correspondence with button 11-1. Specifically, LED 12-1 is arranged so as to surround button 11-1. LED 12-2 is an example of a second notification unit arranged in correspondence with button 11-2. Specifically, LED 12-2 is arranged so as to surround button 11-2.

LED 12-1 may notify information about a process executed as a trigger when button 11-1 is pressed. For example, LED 12-1 may notify information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1. Specifically, when button 11-1 is pressed, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the first heating profile and notify LED 12-1 of information indicating the progress of heating based on the first heating profile. Similarly, LED 12-2 may notify information about a process executed as a trigger when button 11-2 is pressed. For example, LED 12-2 may notify information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2. Specifically, when button 11-2 is pressed, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the second heating profile and notify LED 12-2 of information indicating the progress of heating based on the second heating profile. With such a configuration, it becomes possible to make the relationship between user operation and notification easier to understand.

LEDs 12-1 and 12-2 may indicate information showing the charging status of the suction device 100. In particular, LED 12-1 may indicate information showing the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1. For example, if the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 is the first heating profile, the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 is the number of times heating based on the first heating profile can be performed with the power stored in the power supply unit 111. On the other hand, LED 12-2 may indicate information showing the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2. For example, if the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 is the second heating profile, the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 is the number of times heating based on the second heating profile can be performed with the power stored in the power supply unit 111. The power consumed during heating may differ between the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 and the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2. For example, a high-temperature heating profile, such as the first heating profile shown in Figure 13, consumes more power during heating compared to a low-temperature heating profile, such as the second heating profile shown in Figure 15. Therefore, the number of remaining heating cycles when using the first heating profile may be less than the number of remaining heating cycles when using the second heating profile. With this configuration, the number of remaining heating cycles, which differs depending on the heating profile used, can be notified for each heating profile. Thus, it becomes possible to improve the usability of selecting the heating profile to use, such as selecting the heating profile with more remaining heating cycles.

Furthermore, the notification of the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 and the notification of the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 may be performed at different times. For example, LED 12-1 may notify the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1 when button 11-1 is pressed. Similarly, LED 12-2 may notify the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2 when button 11-2 is pressed.

Of course, notifications of the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-1, and notifications of the remaining number of heating cycles when using the heating profile corresponding to button 11-2, may be performed simultaneously. For example, these notifications may be performed simultaneously triggered by the power OFF, power ON, sleep, or wake-up of the suction device 100.

As described in the first modified example above, the cap 20 and the main body 30 may also be configured to be detachable in this modified example. The suction device 100 may also be configured based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30.

As an example, the suction device 100 may set a heating profile for heating the stick-type substrate 150 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. More specifically, the control unit 116 may set at least one of the heating profiles corresponding to button 11-1 and button 11-2 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. For example, when a first type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30, the control unit 116 may associate a first heating profile with button 11-1 and a second heating profile with button 11-2. Alternatively, when a second type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30, the control unit 116 may associate a second heating profile with button 11-1 and a first heating profile with button 11-2. With such a configuration, the user experience of the suction device 100 can be easily customized.

As another example, the suction device 100 may set a notification method by the notification unit 113 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. More specifically, the control unit 116 may set a notification method using at least one of LED 12-1 and LED 12-2 based on the type of cap 20 connected to the main body 30. For example, when a first type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30, the control unit 116 may set a first light emission pattern as the light emission pattern of LED 12-1 and a second light emission pattern as the light emission pattern of LED 12-2. Also, when a second type of cap 20 is connected to the main body 30, the control unit 116 may set a second light emission pattern as the light emission pattern of LED 12-1 and a first light emission pattern as the light emission pattern of LED 12-2. With such a configuration, it becomes possible to easily customize the usability of the suction device 100.

Next, with reference to Figure 31, an example of the processing flow performed in this modified example will be described. Figure 31 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by the suction device 100 according to this modified example. In the following, it will be assumed that the first heating profile is associated with button 11-1 and the second heating profile is associated with button 11-2.

As shown in Figure 31, first, the sensor unit 112 detects the pressing of button 11-1 corresponding to the first heating profile or button 11-2 corresponding to the second heating profile (step S202).

Next, the control unit 116 starts heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the pressed button 11 (step S204). As an example, when button 11-1 is pressed, the control unit 116 starts controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the first heating profile. As another example, when button 11-2 is pressed, the control unit 116 starts controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the second heating profile.

Next, the control unit 116 uses an LED 12, which is positioned in association with the button 11 corresponding to the heating profile currently in use, to notify the user of information indicating the progress of heating (step S206). For example, if the first heating profile is in use, the LED 12-1, which is positioned in association with the button 11-1 corresponding to the first heating profile, notifies the user of information indicating the progress of heating based on the first heating profile. As another example, if the second heating profile is in use, the LED 12-2, which is positioned in association with the button 11-2 corresponding to the second heating profile, notifies the user of information indicating the progress of heating based on the second heating profile.

Next, the control unit 116 determines whether a button 11 corresponding to a heating profile different from the heating profile currently in use has been pressed (step S208). As an example, the control unit 116 determines whether button 11-2 has been pressed during heating based on the first heating profile. As another example, the control unit 116 determines whether button 11-1 has been pressed during heating based on the second heating profile.

If it is determined that a button 11 corresponding to a heating profile different from the heating profile currently in use has been pressed (step S208: YES), the control unit 116 switches the heating profile to be used and continues heating (step S210). For example, if the control unit 116 switches the heating profile 120 seconds after heating has started, it controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the time-series progression of the target temperature after 120 seconds from the start of heating in the switched heating profile. The process then proceeds to step S212. If it is determined that a button 11 corresponding to a heating profile different from the heating profile currently in use has not been pressed (step S208: NO), the process also proceeds to step S212.

In step S212, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the termination condition has been met (step S212). One example of a termination condition is that heating has been performed until the end of the heating session. Another example of a termination condition is that the number of puffs has reached a predetermined number. If it is determined that the termination condition has not been met (step S212: NO), the process returns to step S206.

If it is determined that the termination condition has been met (step S212: YES), the control unit 116 terminates the heating (step S214).

(2) Regarding Button 91 and LED 92 Referring again to Figure 30, the charging device 900 is equipped with Button 91-1 and Button 91-2. Button 91-1 is an example of a first operation unit that can receive user input to the aerosol generation system 1. Button 91-2 is an example of a second operation unit different from the first operation unit that can receive user input to the aerosol generation system 1.

Referring again to Figure 30, the charging device 900 is equipped with LEDs 92-1 and 92-2. LEDs 92-1 and 92-2 are examples of notification units that output information to be notified to the user from the aerosol generation system 1. In particular, LED 92-1 is an example of a first notification unit arranged in correspondence with button 91-1. Specifically, LED 92-1 is arranged so as to surround button 91-1. LED 92-2 is an example of a second notification unit arranged in correspondence with button 91-2. Specifically, LED 92-2 is arranged so as to surround button 91-2.

The features described above for buttons 11-1 and 11-2 may also be similarly provided for buttons 91-1 and 91-2. Similarly, the features described above for LEDs 12-1 and 12-2 may also be similarly provided for LEDs 92-1 and 92-2. In other words, in the above descriptions concerning buttons 11-1, 11-2, 12-1, and 12-2, button 11-1 can be replaced with button 91-1, button 11-2 with button 91-2, LED 12-1 with LED 92-1, and LED 12-2 with LED 92-2.

(3) Supplement The first operating unit and the second operating unit may each be located in either the suction device 100 or the charging device 900. In the examples described above, examples were given in which both the first operating unit and the second operating unit are located in the suction device 100 and in which they are located in the charging device 900, but the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

One of the first and second operating units may be located on the suction device 100, and the other on the charging device 900. For example, the suction device 100 may have a button 11 as the first operating unit. The suction device 100 may also have an LED 12 as the first notification unit. The charging device 900 may have a button 91 as the second operating unit. The charging device 900 may also have an LED 92 as the second notification unit. In this case, when button 11 is pressed, the suction device 100 heats the stick-type substrate 150 based on the first heating profile and notifies information indicating the heating progress using the LED 12. On the other hand, when button 91 is pressed, the suction device 100 heats the stick-type substrate 150 based on the second heating profile and notifies information indicating the heating progress using the LED 92.

Furthermore, although the above describes an example in which two buttons 11 and two LEDs 12 are arranged on the suction device 100, this disclosure is not limited to this example. Three or more buttons 11 and LEDs 12 may be arranged. The same applies to the buttons 91 and LEDs 92 arranged on the charging device 900.

<2.3. Third variation>
Figure 32 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the suction device 100 according to this modified example. As shown in Figure 32, the suction device 100 according to this modified example may have two heating units 121, namely heating unit 121-1 and heating unit 121-2. The side of the housing unit 140 closer to the bottom 143 is also referred to as the upstream side, and the side closer to the opening 142 is also referred to as the downstream side. This is because an airflow is generated from upstream to downstream when puffing is performed. As shown in Figure 32, heating unit 121-1 is located on the upstream side. Heating unit 121-2 is located on the downstream side. The control unit 116 may control the operation of heating unit 121-1 and heating unit 121-2 based on different heating profiles. An example of a heating profile used to control the operation of heating unit 121-1 and heating unit 121-2 will be explained with reference to Figure 33.

Figure 33 is a schematic graph showing an example of a heating profile related to this modified example. The horizontal axis of graph 80 is time. The vertical axis of graph 80 is temperature. Line 81 shows the time series change of the target temperature as defined in the heating profile used to control the operation of heating unit 121-1. The heating profile shown by line 81 is also referred to as the third heating profile. Line 82 shows the time series change of the target temperature as defined in the heating profile used to control the operation of heating unit 121-2. The heating profile shown by line 82 is also referred to as the fourth heating profile. The control unit 116 may control the operation of heating unit 121-1 based on the third heating profile and control the operation of heating unit 121-2 based on the fourth heating profile.

As shown by lines 81 and 82, the heating unit 121-2 located downstream becomes hot first, followed later by the heating unit 121-1 located upstream. With this configuration, the aerosol source is heated sequentially from the downstream to the upstream portion of the base material 151, generating aerosols. If the upstream portion of the base material 151 is heated before the downstream portion, the aerosol generated upstream may cool and condense as it passes through the downstream portion. In that case, the downstream portion of the base material 151, which has not yet been heated, may become damp, potentially degrading the flavor the user experiences when the downstream portion of the base material 151 is heated. With this configuration, however, the generated aerosols do not pass through the unheated portion of the base material 151. Therefore, since the unheated portion of the base material 151 is prevented from becoming damp, it is possible to prevent the degradation of the flavor the user experiences.

As described in the above embodiment, the suction device 100 may switch the heating profile used when heating the stick-type substrate 150. For example, the suction device 100 may select the heating profile used to control the operation of the heating unit 121-1 from the third heating profile or the fifth heating profile. The suction device 100 may also select the heating profile used to control the operation of the heating unit 121-2 from the fourth heating profile or the sixth heating profile. Examples of the fifth and sixth heating profiles will be described with reference to Figure 34.

Figure 34 is a schematic graph showing an example of a heating profile according to this modified example. The horizontal axis of graph 83 represents time. The vertical axis of graph 83 represents temperature. Line 84 shows the time series change of the target temperature as defined in a fifth heating profile that can be used to control the operation of heating unit 121-1. Line 85 shows the time series change of the target temperature as defined in a sixth heating profile that can be used to control the operation of heating unit 121-2. The control unit 116 may control the operation of heating unit 121-1 based on the fifth heating profile and control the operation of heating unit 121-2 based on the sixth heating profile.

Referring to Figures 33 and 34, when using the fifth and sixth heating profiles, just as when using the third and fourth heating profiles, the heating unit 121-2 located downstream becomes hot first, followed later by the heating unit 121-1 located upstream. This configuration makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the flavor that the user tastes.

Furthermore, referring to Figures 33 and 34, it can be said that the third and fourth heating profiles are high-temperature heating profiles, while the fifth and sixth heating profiles are low-temperature heating profiles. For example, the target temperature reaches a maximum of 265°C in the third heating profile, while in the fifth heating profile, the target temperature reaches a maximum of 255°C. Also, in the fourth heating profile, the target temperature reaches 260°C 10 seconds after the start of heating, while in the sixth heating profile, the target temperature reaches 250°C 20 seconds after the start of heating. In this way, by being able to switch between high-temperature and low-temperature heating profiles, users can enjoy a smoking experience that suits their mood.

As described in the above embodiment, the suction device 100 may switch the heating profile used during heating based on the heating profile. For example, the suction device 100 may switch the heating profile used to the fifth and sixth heating profiles during heating based on the third and fourth heating profiles. Of course, the reverse is also possible. Also, as described in the above embodiment, when the control unit 116 switches the heating profile used, it inherits the heating time before the switch and controls the operation of the heating unit 121-1 and heating unit 121-2 by referring to the heating profile after the switch from the middle.

<2.4. Fourth variation>
As mentioned with reference to Figure 4, 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. An example of the configuration of the induction heating suction device 100 will be described with reference to Figure 35.

Figure 35 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a suction device according to this modified example. As shown in Figure 35, the suction device 100 according to this configuration example 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 housing unit 140, and an electromagnetic induction source 162.

The configurations of the power supply unit 111, sensor unit 112, notification unit 113, storage unit 114, communication unit 115, and control unit 116 are substantially the same as those described above with reference to Figure 4. However, the power supply unit 111 may supply DC current to the other components. Alternatively, the power supply unit 111 may supply AC current converted by an inverter circuit to the other components.

The stick-type substrate 150 includes a base portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152, as described above with reference to Figure 4. Furthermore, the stick-type substrate 150 includes a susceptor 161. The susceptor 161 generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor 161 is made of a conductive material such as metal. Furthermore, it is desirable that the susceptor 161 is magnetic. As an example, the susceptor 161 may be made of a metal plate or a metal rod. The susceptor 161 is placed in thermal proximity to the aerosol source. That is, the susceptor 161 is placed in a position where the heat generated in the susceptor 161 is transferred to the aerosol source. In the example shown in Figure 35, the susceptor 161 is included in the base portion 151 of the stick-type substrate 150. Note that the susceptor 161 may not be accessible from the outside of the stick-type substrate 150. For example, the susceptors 161 may be distributed in the central part of the stick-shaped substrate 150, but not necessarily near the outer edge.

The electromagnetic induction source 162 induces heating of the susceptor 161. When an alternating current is applied to the electromagnetic induction source 162, it generates a fluctuating magnetic field (more specifically, an alternating magnetic field). The electromagnetic induction source 162 is positioned so that the generated fluctuating magnetic field is superimposed on the internal space of the housing section 140, more specifically, on the susceptor 161 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 housed in the housing section 140. For example, the electromagnetic induction source 162 is made of a coiled conductor and is positioned so as to be wrapped around the outer circumference of the housing section 140. Therefore, when a fluctuating magnetic field is generated while the stick-shaped substrate 150 is housed in the housing section 140, the fluctuating magnetic field generated from the electromagnetic induction source 162 penetrates the susceptor 161 located in the internal space 141 of the housing section 140, inducing heating of the susceptor 161. More specifically, eddy current losses occur in the susceptor 161, and if the susceptor 161 is magnetic, magnetic hysteresis losses also occur in the susceptor 161, causing the temperature of the susceptor 161 to rise. Then, the aerosol source contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is heated and atomized by the induction-heated susceptor 161, and an aerosol is generated. For example, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started suctioning and/or that predetermined information has been input, power may be supplied to the electromagnetic induction source 162. Then, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has finished suctioning and/or that predetermined information has been input, power may be stopped to the electromagnetic induction source 162.

The above describes an example configuration of the suction device 100. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100 is not limited to the above, and various configurations can be taken, as illustrated below.

The susceptor 161 may be provided in the suction device 100 instead of being included in the stick-type base material 150. For example, the suction device 100 may have a susceptor 161 located outside the internal space 141. Specifically, the housing portion 140 may be made of a conductive and magnetic material and function as the susceptor 161. The housing portion 140 as the susceptor 161 is in contact with the outer circumference of the base material portion 151, so that it can be thermally close to the aerosol source contained in the base material portion 151. As another example, the suction device 100 may have a susceptor 161 located inside the internal space 141. Specifically, a blade-shaped susceptor 161 may be arranged so as to protrude from the bottom portion 143 of the housing portion 140 into the internal space 141. When the stick-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the internal space 141 of the housing 140, the blade-shaped susceptor 161 is inserted into the interior of the stick-shaped substrate 150 so as to pierce the substrate portion 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150. As a result, the blade-shaped susceptor 161 can come into thermally close proximity with the aerosol source contained in the substrate portion 151.

If the stick-type substrate 150 has an electromagnetic induction source 162, the insertion of the stick-type substrate 150 may be detected based on the change in the characteristics of the circuit in the suction device 100 that occurs when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted. An example of a change in the characteristics of the circuit in the suction device 100 is a change in the inductance that occurs in the electromagnetic induction source 162.

In this modified example, it is desirable that the cap 20 be made of a material that is neither conductive nor magnetic. Examples of such materials include glass, rubber, and plastic. With this configuration, the cap 20 is less susceptible to induction heating, thereby ensuring user safety.

The electromagnetic induction source 162 in this modified example corresponds to the heating unit 121 described in the above embodiment. The temperature at which the aerosol source is heated in this modified example corresponds to the temperature of the susceptor 161. The temperature of the susceptor 161 can be estimated based on the electrical resistance value of the electromagnetic induction source. In this modified example, the parameter relating to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated, as defined in the heating profile, is the target value (i.e., target temperature) of the temperature of the susceptor 161. The control unit 116 controls the operation of the electromagnetic induction source 162 so that the temperature of the susceptor 161 progresses in a manner similar to the target temperature defined in the heating profile.

<2.5. Fifth Variation>
Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the aerosol generation system 1 according to this modified example. As shown in Figure 36, the aerosol generation system 1 according to this modified example has the same external configuration as the embodiment described above with reference to Figure 1. However, in this modified example, the cap 20 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, and the shutter 147 operates in accordance with the rotation of the cap 20. As shown on the left side of Figure 36, when the cap 20 is rotated counterclockwise, the shutter 147 closes the opening 142, as shown on the right side of Figure 36. On the other hand, when the cap 20 is rotated clockwise, the shutter 147 opens the opening 142. In this way, the shutter 147 may open and close the opening 142 in accordance with the rotation of the cap 20.

The control unit 116 may control the operation of the suction device 100 according to the state of the shutter 147. For example, the control unit 116 may prohibit heating by the heating unit 121 when the shutter 147 is closing the opening 142. On the other hand, the control unit 116 may allow heating by the heating unit 121 when the shutter 147 is opening the opening 142. Considering that the stick-type substrate 150 can be inserted when the shutter 147 is opening the opening 142, this configuration makes it possible to prevent so-called dry heating.

In this modified example, the cap 20 and the main body 30 may be detachable or integrally constructed. Furthermore, the suction device 100 and the charging device 900 may be detachable or integrally constructed.

<3. Supplementary Information>
While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the attached drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to any person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that various modifications or alterations may be conceived within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and these will naturally be understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

In the above, an example was described in which the parameter relating to the temperature for heating the aerosol source, as defined in the heating profile, is the target temperature of the heating unit 121 or the susceptor 161. However, this disclosure is not limited to such an example. Parameters relating to the temperature for heating the aerosol source include the temperature of the heating unit 121 itself, as well as the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121. Parameters relating to the temperature for heating the aerosol source include the temperature of the susceptor 161 itself, as well as the electrical resistance value of the electromagnetic induction source 162.

The above describes an example in which the connection and disconnection of the suction device 100 and the charging device 900, or the cap 20 and the main body 30, are detected by a magnetic sensor. However, this disclosure is not limited to such examples. The connection and disconnection of devices may be detected by any means, such as the presence or absence of power, capacitance, or reading of the RF tag of an RFID device.

The series of processes performed by each device described herein may be implemented using software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The software programs are pre-stored, for example, on a recording medium (more specifically, a non-temporary storage medium readable by a computer) located inside or outside each device. Each program is then loaded into RAM during execution by a computer controlling each device described herein, and executed by a processing circuit such as a CPU. Examples of recording media include magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, and flash memory. Furthermore, the computer programs may be distributed, for example, via a network, without using a recording medium. The computer may be an application-specific integrated circuit such as an ASIC, a general-purpose processor that performs functions by loading software programs, or a computer on a server used in cloud computing. Additionally, the series of processes performed by each device described herein may be distributed and processed by multiple computers.

Furthermore, the processes described herein using flowcharts and sequence diagrams do not necessarily have to be executed in the order shown. Some processing steps may be executed in parallel. Additional processing steps may be adopted, and some processing steps may be omitted.

Furthermore, the following configurations also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.
(1)
A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
Equipped with,
The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated.
Aerosol generation system.
(2)
The aerosol generation system is
A first notification unit is arranged in correspondence with the first operating unit,
A second notification unit is arranged in correspondence with the second operating unit,
Equipped with,
The first notification unit notifies the first operation unit of information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile,
The second notification unit notifies the second operation unit of information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile,
The aerosol generation system described in (1) above.
(3)
The aerosol generation system further comprises a first power supply unit that stores electricity and supplies it to the heating unit,
The first notification unit notifies the first operation unit of information indicating the number of times heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit can be performed with the power stored in the first power supply unit.
The second notification unit notifies the second operation unit of information indicating the number of times heating based on the corresponding heating profile can be performed using the power stored in the first power supply unit.
The aerosol generation system described in (2) above.
(4)
The aerosol generation system is
The first component comprises the heating unit and the control unit, and the second component is detachably connected to the first component.
The control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are connected, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are not connected.
An aerosol generation system according to any one of the above items (1) to (3).
(5)
The control unit sets at least one of the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit and the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.
The aerosol generation system described in (4) above.
(6)
The control unit sets a notification method by at least one of the first notification unit and the second notification unit based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.
The aerosol generation system described in (4) or (5) above, with reference to (2) above.
(7)
The first component has a magnetic sensor for detecting a magnetic field,
The second component has a magnetic part that generates a magnetic field,
The control unit determines whether the first component and the second component are connected based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.
The aerosol generation system described in any one of the above items (4) to (6).
(8)
The control unit identifies the type of the second component connected to the first component based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.
The aerosol generation system described in (7) above.
(9)
The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit, and if the second operation unit is operated while the control unit is controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit, it refers to the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit from that point onward to control the operation of the heating unit.
The aerosol generation system described in any one of the above items (1) to (8).
(10)
The aerosol generation system is
The system comprises a first device and a second device.
The first device comprises the heating unit, the control unit, and the first power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit.
The second device has a second power supply unit that supplies power to at least one of the heating unit and the first power supply unit while the first device and the second device are connected.
Each of the first and second operating units is located in either the first or second device.
The aerosol generation system described in any one of the above items (1) to (9).
(11)
One of the first operating unit and the second operating unit is located in the first device, and the other is located in the second device.
The aerosol generation system described in (10) above.
(12)
The aerosol generation system further comprises the substrate,
The aerosol generation system according to any one of the above items (1) to (11).
(13)
A control method performed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system,
The aerosol generation system is
A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
Equipped with,
The control method includes controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated.
Control method.
(14)
A program executed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system,
The aerosol generation system is
A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
Equipped with,
The program includes controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated.
program.

1. Aerosol generation system 100. Suction device (100a: top surface, 100b: bottom surface, 100c: side surface)
111 Power supply unit 112 Sensor unit 113 Notification unit 114 Storage unit 115 Communication unit 116 Control unit 121 Heating unit 140 Housing unit 141 Internal space 142 Opening 143 Bottom (143a: protrusion, 143b: recess)
144 Insulation section 145 Inner wall (145a: protruding section, 145b: recessed section, 145c: flat surface, 145d: curved surface)
146 Airflow channel 147 Shutter 150 Stick-type substrate 151 Substrate section 152 Inlet section 161 Susceptor 162 Electromagnetic induction source 190 Airflow 200 Charging device 211 Power supply section 212 Sensor section 213 Notification section 214 Memory section 215 Communication section 216 Control section 900 Charging device (900a: Top surface, 900c: Concave surface)
911 Power supply unit 912 Sensor unit 913 Notification unit 914 Memory unit 915 Communication unit 916 Control unit 11 Button 12 LED
13 Magnetic part 14 Electrical contacts 20 Cap (20a: top surface, 20b: bottom surface, 20c: side surface)
21 Screw groove 22 Through hole (22a: inner wall)
23 Opening 24 Head 25 Projection 26 Through hole 30 Main body (30a: top surface, 30b: bottom surface, 30c: side surface)
31 Screw thread 32 Projection 33 Bottomed hole (33a: inner wall)
34 Opening 35 Anti-slip surface 36 Through hole 37 Bottomed hole 40 Gap 50 Proximity sensor 91 Button 92 LED
921 Light-emitting area 93 Magnetic part 94 Electrical contact

Claims (18)

A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
A notification unit having multiple light-emitting regions,
Equipped with,
The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated .
The control unit,
When the notification unit is to notify information indicating the progress of heating,
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the notification unit is controlled to switch between multiple light emission patterns in which the combination of light-emitting regions that emit light from among the multiple light-emitting regions are different from each other, and to emit light according to the switched light emission pattern.
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the multiple light emission patterns are switched in a different order during the preheating period and the period after the preheating period has ended.
Aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system is
A first notification unit is arranged in correspondence with the first operating unit,
A second notification unit is arranged in correspondence with the second operating unit,
The notification unit is provided as follows :
The first notification unit notifies the first operation unit of information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile,
The second notification unit notifies the second operation unit of information indicating the progress of heating based on the heating profile,
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. The aerosol generation system further comprises a first power supply unit that stores electricity and supplies it to the heating unit,
The first notification unit notifies the first operation unit of information indicating the number of times heating based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit can be performed with the power stored in the first power supply unit.
The second notification unit notifies the second operation unit of information indicating the number of times heating based on the corresponding heating profile can be performed using the power stored in the first power supply unit.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 2. The aerosol generation system is
The system comprises a first component on which the heating unit and the control unit are arranged, and a second component detachably connected to the first component.
The control unit permits heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are connected, and prohibits heating by the heating unit when the first component and the second component are not connected.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 2 or 3. The control unit sets at least one of the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit and the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 4. The control unit sets a notification method by at least one of the first notification unit and the second notification unit based on the type of the second component connected to the first component.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 4. The first component has a magnetic sensor for detecting a magnetic field,
The second component has a magnetic part that generates a magnetic field,
The control unit determines whether the first component and the second component are connected based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 4. The control unit identifies the type of the second component connected to the first component based on the detection result from the magnetic sensor.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 7. The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit, and if the second operation unit is operated while the control unit is controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operation unit, it refers to the heating profile corresponding to the first operation unit from that point onward to control the operation of the heating unit.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. The aerosol generation system is
The system comprises a first device and a second device.
The first device comprises the heating unit, the control unit, and the first power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit.
The second device has a second power supply unit that supplies power to at least one of the heating unit and the first power supply unit while the first device and the second device are connected.
Each of the first and second operating units is located in either the first or second device.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. One of the first operating unit and the second operating unit is located in the first device, and the other is located in the second device.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 10. The aerosol generation system further comprises the substrate,
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. The control unit switches the plurality of light emission patterns in such an order that, as time elapses during the preheating period, new light-emitting regions are added along the first direction, and the number of light-emitting regions increases.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. The control unit, during the period after the preheating period has ended, switches the plurality of light emission patterns in such an order that, as time elapses, new light emission regions are added along the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, and the number of light emission regions decreases.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 13. The aerosol generation system further comprises a first power supply unit that stores electricity and supplies it to the heating unit,
The control unit,
When the notification unit is to notify the charging status of the first power supply unit,
The notification unit controls the notification unit to emit light according to the light emission pattern corresponding to the power stored in the first power supply unit, among the plurality of light emission patterns.
As the power stored in the first power supply unit increases, new light-emitting regions are added along the first direction, and the plurality of light-emitting patterns are switched in an order that increases the number of light-emitting regions.
As the power stored in the first power supply unit decreases, additional light-emitting regions are added along the second direction to be turned off, and the number of light-emitting regions decreases in the order in which the multiple light-emitting patterns are switched.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 14. The control unit, triggered by a user operation instructing the start of heating, initiates the following: controlling the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile and notifying the notification unit of information indicating the progress of the heating.
The aerosol generation system according to claim 1. A control method performed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system,
The aerosol generation system is
A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
A notification unit having multiple light-emitting regions,
Equipped with,
The control method controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated.
When the notification unit is to notify information indicating the progress of heating,
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the notification unit is controlled to switch between multiple light emission patterns in which the combination of light-emitting regions that emit light from among the multiple light-emitting regions are different from each other, and to emit light according to the switched light emission pattern.
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the multiple light emission patterns are switched in a different order during the preheating period and the period after the preheating period has ended.
including,
Control method. A program executed by a computer that controls an aerosol generation system,
The aerosol generation system is
A heating section for heating the aerosol source contained in the substrate,
A control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series changes of parameters related to the temperature for heating the aerosol source,
A first operating unit capable of receiving user input,
A second operating unit, different from the first operating unit, which is capable of receiving user input,
A notification unit having multiple light-emitting regions,
Equipped with,
The program controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the first operating unit when the first operating unit is operated, and controls the operation of the heating unit based on the heating profile corresponding to the second operating unit when the second operating unit is operated .
When the notification unit is to notify information indicating the progress of heating,
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the notification unit is controlled to switch between multiple light emission patterns in which the combination of light-emitting regions that emit light from among the multiple light-emitting regions are different from each other, and to emit light according to the switched light emission pattern.
During the period in which the operation of the heating unit is controlled based on the heating profile, the multiple light emission patterns are switched in a different order during the preheating period and the period after the preheating period has ended.
including,
program.