JP6466618B2 - Non-burning flavor inhaler and aerosol delivery method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a non-combustion type flavor inhaler and an aerosol delivery method having an atomizing section for atomizing an aerosol source without combustion.

  Conventionally, a non-burning type flavor inhaler for sucking a flavor without burning is known. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler includes an atomizing unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion and a sensor that detects a user's puffing operation. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit in response to detection of the puff operation (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-089551

  A first feature is a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, comprising: an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion; and a control unit that controls a power output to the atomization unit, the control The gist of the present invention is to start supplying power output to the atomizing unit before the start of the user's puffing operation, and stop supplying power output to the atomizing unit during the user's puffing operation.

  A second feature is that, in the first feature, the non-combustion flavor inhaler includes an atomization switch that switches to a state in which the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped when a user puffs. The gist is to provide.

  A gist of a third feature is that, in the second feature, the atomization switch switches to a state in which supply of power output to the atomization unit is started when a user's puffing operation is not performed.

  According to a fourth feature, in the second feature or the third feature, the atomizing switch is interlocked with a suction sensor that detects a puff operation, and the control unit detects the puff operation by the suction sensor. The main point is to stop the supply of power output to the atomizing unit.

  A fifth feature is any one of the second feature to the fourth feature, wherein the atomizing switch is interlocked with a suction sensor that detects a puffing operation, and the control unit performs a puffing operation by the suction sensor. The gist of the invention is to start supplying power output to the atomizing section when the detection of the power is no longer detected.

  A sixth feature is the second feature or the third feature, wherein the atomizing switch is interlocked with a user operation on the operation interface, and the control unit no longer performs a user operation on the operation interface. Sometimes, the gist is to stop the supply of power output to the atomizing section.

  The seventh feature is any one of the second feature, the third feature, and the sixth feature, wherein the atomizing switch is linked to a user operation on the operation interface, and the control unit is configured to operate the operation interface. When the user operation is performed, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit is started.

  An eighth feature is the first feature, wherein the non-burning flavor inhaler switches to an ON state when a user operation is performed on the operation interface, and a user operation is not performed on the operation interface. A first switch that switches to an OFF state, and a second switch that switches to an ON state when a user's puff operation starts and switches to an OFF state when the user's puff operation ends, and the control unit includes: The supply of power output to the atomization unit is started when switched to the on state, and the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped when the second switch is switched to the on state. And

  A ninth feature is any one of the first feature to the eighth feature, wherein the control unit is configured to detect the fog when a first time has elapsed since the start of supply of power output to the atomization unit. The gist is to stop the supply of power output to the control unit.

  A tenth feature is the ninth feature, wherein the control unit is configured to perform the atomization when a second time elapses after the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped by the elapse of the first time. The gist is to resume the supply of power output to the unit.

  The eleventh feature is that in any one of the first feature to the tenth feature, the non-burning type flavor inhaler is capable of supplying a desired amount of aerosol during a period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The gist is to provide a notification unit for notification.

  A twelfth feature includes a notifying unit for notifying that a desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied in a period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied in any one of the first to eleventh features. Is the gist.

  The thirteenth feature is characterized in that, in the first feature to the twelfth feature, the wall surface exposed to the flow path of the aerosol generated by the atomizing portion is provided with an absorbing member that absorbs the condensed aerosol. To do.

  In a fourteenth feature according to any one of the first to thirteenth features, the non-combustion flavor inhaler includes a suction sensor that detects a puffing operation, and the control unit performs a puffing operation using the suction sensor. When the switching from the non-suction state in which no puff is detected to the suction state in which the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor and the switching from the suction state to the non-suction state are performed, The gist is to trigger processing.

  A fifteenth feature is an aerosol delivery method, in which the aerosol is generated in the suction path in a state where no fluid flow is generated in the suction path continuous from the inlet to the outlet; And a step B of moving the aerosol into the oral cavity of the user by the fluid flow in the suction path in a state where generation of the aerosol is stopped later.

  A sixteenth feature is the step according to the thirteenth feature, wherein the step A is a step of starting supply of power output to the atomization unit when a user operation is performed on the operation interface, and the step B is the step B The gist of the present invention is a step of stopping the supply of power output to the atomizing unit when no user operation is performed on the operation interface.

  In the above-described features, it should be noted that the user operation on the operation interface does not include the user's puffing operation. The operation interface is not particularly limited, but is an interface that is directly operated by a user's hand or the like, and user operations on the operation interface are, for example, button operations, lever operations, switch operations, and the like.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a flavor inhaler 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an atomization unit 111 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a control example of power output to the atomization unit 111R according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the first modification. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a control example of power output for the atomization unit 111R according to the first modification. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the second modification. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method according to the second modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and ratios of dimensions may be different from actual ones.

  Accordingly, specific dimensions and the like should be determined in consideration of the following description. Moreover, it is a matter of course that portions having different dimensional relationships and ratios are included between the drawings.

[Outline of Embodiment]
The non-burning type flavor inhaler described in the background art described above starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit in response to detection of the puff operation. However, since the temperature of the atomizing portion changes during the generation of the aerosol by the atomizing portion, the particle size distribution of the particles constituting the aerosol is widened. In other words, the particle size of the particles constituting the aerosol varies within one puff operation or between a plurality of puff operations.

  The non-combustion flavor inhaler according to the embodiment includes an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion, and a control unit that controls a power output to the atomization unit, and the control unit is a user The supply of power output to the atomizing unit is started before the start of the puffing operation, and the supply of power output to the atomizing unit is stopped during the user's puffing operation.

  In the embodiment, the control unit stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit during the user's puffing operation. During the generation of the aerosol by the atomizing unit, the temperature of the atomizing unit is not changed by the user's puffing operation. Therefore, the situation in which the particle diameter of the particles constituting the aerosol varies during one puff operation or between a plurality of puff operations is suppressed.

[Embodiment]
(Non-combustion flavor inhaler)
Hereinafter, the non-burning type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a non-burning type flavor inhaler 100 according to an embodiment. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 is an instrument for sucking flavor components without combustion, and has a shape extending along a predetermined direction A that is a direction from the non-suction end toward the suction end. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an atomization unit 111 according to the embodiment. In the following, it should be noted that the non-burning type flavor inhaler 100 is simply referred to as the flavor inhaler 100.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the flavor inhaler 100 includes an aspirator body 110 and a cartridge 130.

  The suction device main body 110 constitutes the main body of the flavor suction device 100 and has a shape to which the cartridge 130 can be connected. Specifically, the suction unit main body 110 has a suction unit housing 110X, and the cartridge 130 is connected to the suction end of the suction unit housing 110X. The inhaler body 110 includes an atomization unit 111 configured to atomize an aerosol source without combustion, and an electrical unit 112.

  In the embodiment, the atomization unit 111 includes a first cylinder 111X that constitutes a part of the aspirator housing 110X. As shown in FIG. 2, the atomization unit 111 includes a reservoir 111P, a wick 111Q, and an atomization unit 111R. The reservoir 111P, the wick 111Q, and the atomization unit 111R are accommodated in the first cylinder 111X. The first cylinder 111X has a cylindrical shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) extending along the predetermined direction A. The reservoir 111P holds an aerosol source. For example, the reservoir 111P is a porous body made of a material such as a resin web. The wick 111Q is an example of a liquid holding member that holds an aerosol source supplied from the reservoir 111P. For example, the wick 111Q is made of glass fiber. The atomizing unit 111R atomizes the aerosol source held by the wick 111Q. The atomization part 111R is comprised by the heating resistor (for example, heating wire) wound around the wick 111Q at a predetermined pitch, for example.

  The aerosol source is a liquid such as glycerin or propylene glycol. For example, as described above, the aerosol source is held by a porous body made of a material such as a resin web. The porous body may be made of a non-tobacco material or may be made of a tobacco material. The aerosol source may contain a flavor component (for example, a nicotine component). Alternatively, the aerosol source may not include a flavor component.

  In the embodiment, an absorption member 111S that absorbs the condensed aerosol is provided on the wall surface exposed to the flow path of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R. The wall surface exposed to the aerosol channel is, for example, the inner surface of the first cylinder 111X exposed to the aerosol channel, the outer surface of the reservoir 111P exposed to the aerosol channel, or the like. Here, when the absorbing member 111S is not in contact with the reservoir 111P, the aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S (condensed aerosol) is guided from the absorbing member 111S to the atomization unit 111R using the capillary phenomenon. It is preferable. On the other hand, when the absorbing member 111S is in contact with the reservoir 111P, the aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S (condensed aerosol) is preferably guided from the absorbing member 111S to the reservoir 111P. The absorbing member 111S may be a member having a function of absorbing condensed aerosol. For example, the absorbing member 111S may be made of the same material (resin web) as the reservoir 111P, or the same material (glass fiber) as the wick 111Q. It may be constituted by.

  The electrical unit 112 includes a second cylindrical body 112X that constitutes a part of the aspirator housing 110X. In the embodiment, the electrical unit 112 has an inlet 112A. As shown in FIG. 2, the air flowing from the inlet 112A is guided to the atomization unit 111 (the atomization unit 111R). Specifically, the electrical unit 112 includes a power source 10, a suction sensor 20, a push button 30, a light emitting element 40, and a control circuit 50. The power supply 10, the suction sensor 20, the push button 30, and the control circuit 50 are accommodated in the second cylinder 112X. The second cylinder 112X has a cylindrical shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) extending along the predetermined direction A.

  The power source 10 is, for example, a lithium ion battery. The power supply 10 stores electric power necessary for the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. For example, the power supply 10 accumulates power supplied to the suction sensor 20 and the control circuit 50. Moreover, the power supply 10 accumulate | stores the electric power supplied to the atomization unit 111 (atomization part 111R).

  The suction sensor 20 detects the fluid flow in the continuous suction path from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A. The suction sensor 20 detects suction (suction state) when the fluid flow from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The suction sensor 20 detects non-suction (non-suction state) when the fluid flow from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A is less than a predetermined threshold.

  The push button 30 is configured to be pushed inward from the outside of the flavor inhaler 100. In the embodiment, the push button 30 is provided at the non-suction end of the flavor suction device 100 and is configured to be pushed in a direction from the non-suction end toward the suction end (that is, the predetermined direction A). For example, the flavor inhaler 100 may be turned on when the push button 30 is continuously pressed in a predetermined number of times in a state where the flavor inhaler 100 is not turned on. On the other hand, in a state where the power of the flavor suction device 100 is turned on, the power of the flavor suction device 100 may be turned off when the push button 30 is continuously pushed in a predetermined number of times. Alternatively, the power of the flavor inhaler 100 may be turned off when a predetermined time elapses after the puff operation is performed without performing the puff operation.

  The light emitting element 40 is a light source such as an LED or an electric lamp. The light emitting element 40 is provided on a side wall extending along a predetermined direction. The light emitting element 40 is preferably provided on the side wall near the non-suction end. Thereby, the user can easily visually recognize the light emission pattern of the light emitting element 40 during the puffing operation, as compared with the case where the light emitting element is provided only on the end surface of the non-suction end on the axis of the predetermined direction A. The light emission pattern of the light emitting element 40 is a pattern for notifying the user of the state of the flavor inhaler 100.

  In the embodiment, the light emitting element 40 may constitute a notification unit that notifies that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Here, the light emitting element 40 may continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Or the light emitting element 40 may comprise the alerting | reporting part which alert | reports that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. Here, the light emitting element 40 may continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied.

  The control circuit 50 controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. Specifically, the control circuit 50 controls the power output for the atomization unit 111 (the atomization unit 111R). In addition, the control circuit 50 controls the light emitting element 40.

  The cartridge 130 is configured to be connectable to the aspirator body 110 that constitutes the flavor inhaler 100. The cartridge 130 is provided downstream of the atomization unit 111 on the flow path of gas (hereinafter, air) sucked from the suction port. In other words, the cartridge 130 does not necessarily need to be physically provided on the suction side of the atomization unit 111 in terms of physical space. What is necessary is just to be provided downstream rather than.

  Specifically, the cartridge 130 includes a cartridge housing 131, a flavor source 132, a mesh 133A, and a filter 133B. Further, the cartridge 130 has an outlet 130A provided at the suction port.

  The cartridge housing 131 has a cylindrical shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) extending along the predetermined direction A. The cartridge housing 131 accommodates the flavor source 132. Here, the cartridge housing 131 is configured to be inserted along the predetermined direction A into the aspirator housing 110X.

  The flavor source 132 is provided on the outlet 130A (suction port) side of the atomization unit 111 on the continuous suction path from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A. The flavor source 132 imparts a flavor component to the aerosol generated from the aerosol source. In other words, the flavor component imparted to the aerosol by the flavor source 132 is carried to the outlet 130A (sucking mouth).

  In the embodiment, the flavor source 132 is constituted by a raw material piece that imparts a flavor component to the aerosol generated from the atomization unit 111. The size of the raw material piece is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less. Furthermore, the size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. Since the specific surface area increases as the size of the raw material piece constituting the flavor source 132 is smaller, the flavor component is easily released from the raw material piece constituting the flavor source 132. Therefore, the amount of the raw material pieces can be suppressed when applying the desired amount of flavor component to the aerosol. As a raw material piece which comprises the flavor source 132, the molded object which shape | molded the cut tobacco and the tobacco raw material in the granule can be used. However, the flavor source 132 may be a molded body obtained by molding a tobacco material into a sheet shape. Moreover, the raw material piece which comprises the flavor source 132 may be comprised by plants (for example, mint, an herb, etc.) other than tobacco. The flavor source 132 may be provided with a fragrance such as menthol.

  Here, the raw material piece which comprises the flavor source 132 is obtained by sieving based on JIS Z 8815 using, for example, a stainless steel screen based on JIS Z 8801. For example, using a stainless steel sieve having an opening of 0.71 mm, the raw material pieces are screened for 20 minutes by a dry and mechanical shaking method, and then passed through a stainless steel sieve having an opening of 0.71 mm. Get raw material pieces. Subsequently, using a stainless steel sieve having an opening of 0.212 mm, the raw material pieces are sieved for 20 minutes by a dry and mechanical shaking method, and then passed through a stainless steel sieve having an opening of 0.212 mm. Remove raw material pieces. That is, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 are raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh = 0.71 mm) that defines the upper limit and do not pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh = 0.212 mm) that defines the lower limit. is there. Therefore, in the embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 is defined by the opening of the stainless steel sieve that defines the lower limit. In addition, the upper limit of the size of the raw material piece which comprises the flavor source 132 is defined by the opening of the stainless steel sieve which prescribes | regulates an upper limit.

  In an embodiment, the flavor source 132 is a tobacco source having an alkaline pH. The pH of the tobacco source is preferably greater than 7, more preferably 8 or more. By making the pH greater than 7, the flavor component generated from the tobacco source can be efficiently extracted by aerosol. Thereby, in providing a desired amount of flavor components to the aerosol, the amount of tobacco source can be suppressed. On the other hand, the pH of the tobacco source is preferably 12 or less, and more preferably 10 or less. By setting the pH to 12 or less, damage (corrosion or the like) to the flavor suction device 100 (for example, the cartridge 130 or the suction device body 110) can be more effectively suppressed.

  It should be noted that the flavor component generated from the flavor source 132 is conveyed by aerosol, and it is not necessary to heat the flavor source 132 itself.

  The mesh 133A is provided so as to close the opening of the cartridge housing 131 upstream of the flavor source 132, and the filter 133B is provided so as to close the opening of the cartridge housing 131 downstream of the flavor source 132. The mesh 133A has such a roughness that the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 do not pass therethrough. The roughness of the mesh 133A has, for example, a mesh opening of 0.077 mm or more and 0.198 mm or less. The filter 133B is made of a material having air permeability. The filter 133B is preferably an acetate filter, for example. The filter 133B has such a roughness that the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 do not pass through.

(Block configuration)
Hereinafter, a block configuration of the non-burning type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit 50 includes a power switch 51, an atomization switch 52, and a control unit 53.

  The power switch 51 is turned on when the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on, and is turned off when the flavor inhaler 100 is turned off. For example, the power switch 51 is connected to the push button 30 and is turned on when the push button 30 is continuously pushed a predetermined number of times in a state where the flavor inhaler 100 is not turned on. It may be switched. On the other hand, the power switch 51 may be switched to an off state when the push button 30 is continuously pressed a predetermined number of times in a state where the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on. Alternatively, the power switch 51 may have a timer that starts in response to the end of the puff operation, and may be switched to an off state in response to the expiration of the timer (elapse of a predetermined time).

  When the user's puffing operation is performed, the atomization switch 52 switches to a state (off state) in which the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped, and when the user's puffing operation is not performed, the atomizing unit 52 The state is switched to a state (on state) where supply of power output to 111R is started. In the embodiment, the atomization switch 52 is interlocked with a suction sensor that detects a puff operation. The atomization switch 52 is switched to an off state when a puff operation is detected by the suction sensor 20. On the other hand, the atomization switch 52 is switched to the ON state when the puff operation is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20.

  Here, a state in which the puffing operation is not detected by the suction sensor 20 may be referred to as a non-suctioning state, and a state in which the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20 may be referred to as a suctioning state. Therefore, the atomization switch 52 is switched to the off state by switching from the non-suction state to the suction state, and is switched to the on state by switching from the suction state to the non-suction state.

  The control unit 53 controls the flavor inhaler 100 in a state where the power of the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on.

  1stly, the control part 53 controls the power supply output with respect to the atomization part 111R. In the embodiment, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R before starting the user's puffing operation, and stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R during the user's puffing operation. In the embodiment, when the atomization switch 52 is turned off, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. On the other hand, the control part 53 starts supply of the power output with respect to the atomization part 111R, when the atomization switch 52 will be in an ON state. In other words, the control unit 53 stops the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R when the puff operation is detected by the suction sensor 20. On the other hand, the control part 53 starts supply of the power output with respect to the atomization part 111R, when a puff operation | movement is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20. FIG.

  Here, the magnitude of the power output is defined by the value of the voltage applied to the atomizing unit 111R in the case where a voltage is continuously applied to the atomizing unit 111R. On the other hand, in the case where the voltage is intermittently applied to the atomizing unit 111R (pulse control), the magnitude of the power output is the value of the voltage applied to the atomizing unit 111R, the pulse width, and the like. It is defined by at least one parameter of the pulse interval.

  In the embodiment, the control unit 53 may stop supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R when the first time has elapsed since the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. Here, the first time is a time for keeping the supply amount of the aerosol within a desired amount without depending on the time length of the non-suction state. In other words, the first time is a time set in order to prevent the supply amount of the aerosol from exceeding the upper limit of the range of the desired amount.

  For example, the upper limit of the first time is preferably 5 seconds. More preferably, the upper limit of the first time is 4 seconds, and even more preferably, the upper limit of the first time is 3 seconds. For example, the lower limit of the first time is preferably 0.5 seconds. More preferably, the lower limit of the first time is 1 second, and even more preferably, the lower limit of the first time is 1.5 seconds. For example, the first time is preferably not less than 0.5 seconds and not more than 5 seconds. More preferably, the first time is preferably not less than 1 second and not more than 4 seconds. Even more preferably, the first time is 1.5 seconds or more and 3 seconds or less.

  In the embodiment, the control unit 53 resumes the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R when the second time has elapsed since the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped by the lapse of the first time. May be. Here, the second time is a time determined in order to prevent the supply amount of the aerosol from falling below the lower limit of the desired amount range due to the condensation of the aerosol on the wall surface exposed to the aerosol flow path. The condensed aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S may be re-atomized by restarting the supply of power output.

  As described above, when the absorbing member 111S is not in contact with the reservoir 111P, the aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S (condensed aerosol) is transferred from the absorbing member 111S to the atomizing portion 111R using the capillary phenomenon. Preferably, it is guided. On the other hand, when the absorbing member 111S is in contact with the reservoir 111P, the aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S (condensed aerosol) is preferably guided from the absorbing member 111S to the reservoir 111P.

  Secondly, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40. In the embodiment, the control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 so as to continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Good. For example, the start timing of the period during which a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied is the timing at which a certain time shorter than the first time elapses after the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. The certain time is, for example, the time from the start of supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R until the aerosol supply amount reaches the lower limit of the desired amount range.

  In addition, the control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 so as to continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. Good. The start timing of the period during which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied is, for example, the timing when the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. Note that the end timing of the period during which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied is the same as the start timing of the period during which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied.

  Thirdly, the control unit 53 may trigger the energization process for the atomizing unit 111R when switching from the non-suction state to the suction state and switching from the suction state to the non-suction state are performed. In other words, the first puffing operation is performed to trigger the energization process for the atomizing unit 111R without generating aerosol. The energization process for the atomizing unit 111R is a process for generating aerosol by supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R.

  For example, the first puff operation may be used to authenticate whether or not the user is a regular user. For example, when the response value of the suction sensor 20 associated with the first puff operation satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, a condition where the gradient of the flow velocity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value), the user is authenticated as a regular user. The first puff operation may be the first puff operation after the power source of the flavor inhaler 100 is introduced, and is the first puff operation after a predetermined time has elapsed without performing the puff operation. Also good. Here, for the first puff operation, the control unit 53 performs the energization process for the atomization unit 111R if switching from the non-suction state to the suction state and switching from the suction state to the non-suction state are not performed within the trigger time. Does not have to be triggered. For such an authentication operation, the entire contents of International Application No. PCT / JP2015 / 63036 (filed on April 30, 2015) are incorporated by reference.

(Control example)
Below, the example of control of the power supply output with respect to the atomization part 111R which concerns on embodiment is demonstrated. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a control example of power output to the atomization unit 111R according to the embodiment.

  As described above, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomization unit 111R when the atomization switch 52 is turned on (that is, the non-suction state). The control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R when the atomization switch 52 is turned off (that is, the suction state).

  In such a case, as shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111 </ b> R and then maintains the atomization switch 52 in the on state (that is, the non-suction state). When one hour has passed, the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is stopped. The first time is a time determined in order to prevent the supply amount of the aerosol from exceeding the upper limit of the range of the desired amount. Note that the first time is variable depending on the amount of aerosol retained in the aerosol flow path.

  Further, the control unit 53 stops supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R with the passage of the first time, and then the second time has elapsed with the atomization switch 52 being in the on state (that is, the non-suction state). In this case, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is resumed. The second time is a time determined in order to prevent the aerosol supply amount from falling below the lower limit of the desired amount range. In the control example according to the embodiment, the supply amount of the aerosol is increased or decreased within the range of the desired amount by repeatedly stopping and restarting the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Here, the range of the desired amount may be determined by an upper limit and a lower limit, and the lower limit is preferably 0.1 mg or more, and more preferably 1.0 mg or more. On the other hand, the upper limit of the desired amount is preferably 10.0 mg or less, and more preferably 5.0 mg or less. It may be 0.1 mg or more and 10.0 mg or less, and may be 1.0 mg or more and 5.0 mg or less. Further, the range of the desired amount may be determined based on the target value of the desired amount, for example, a range of ± 50% or less with respect to the target value of the desired amount (for example, the target value of the desired amount is 2.0 mg). In this case, the range of the desired amount is preferably 1.0 mg or more and 3.0 mg or less, and within a range of ± 25% or less (for example, when the target value of the desired amount is 2.0 mg, the desired amount The range of the amount is more preferably 1.5 mg or more and 2.5 mg or less.

  Here, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Further, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. In the control example according to the embodiment, it is notified that the aerosol of the desired amount cannot be supplied until the supply amount of the aerosol reaches the lower limit of the range of the desired amount after the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. . When the supply amount of the aerosol exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount after the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started, it is notified that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The start timing of the period during which a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied is the timing at which a certain time shorter than the first time elapses after the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is started. The certain time is, for example, the time from the start of supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R until the aerosol supply amount reaches the lower limit of the desired amount range.

(Aerosol delivery method)
Hereinafter, the aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment will be described. 5 to 7 are flowcharts showing an aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment. 5-7, operation | movement of the flavor suction device 100 (control part 53) is mainly demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in step S10, the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on. For example, when the push button 30 is continuously pressed a predetermined number of times, the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on.

  In step S <b> 20, the control unit 53 controls the power output associated with the puffing operation. Details of step S20 will be described later (see FIGS. 6 and 7).

  In step S30, the flavor inhaler 100 is turned off. For example, when the push button 30 is continuously pressed in a predetermined number of times, the flavor suction device 100 is turned off. Alternatively, the power of the flavor inhaler 100 may be turned off when a predetermined time elapses after the puff operation is performed without performing the puff operation.

  Next, details of step S20 described above will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method in the first puff operation. As shown in FIG. 6, in step S <b> 201, the flavor inhaler 100 is in a non-suction state in which the puff operation is not detected by the suction sensor 20.

  In step S202, the control unit 53 determines whether switching from the non-suction state to the suction state has been performed. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been switched from the on state to the off state. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S203. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S201.

  In step S203, the control unit 53 determines whether switching from the suction state to the non-suction state has been performed. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been switched from the off state to the on state. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S204. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 waits as it is.

  In step S204, the control unit 53 determines whether switching from the non-suction state to the suction state and switching from the suction state to the non-suction state are performed within the trigger time. That is, the control unit 53 determines whether the time from the timing when the switching to the suction state is performed to the timing when the switching to the non-suction state is performed is within the trigger time. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S205. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S201. However, the process of step S204 may be omitted.

  In step S205, the control part 53 triggers the energization process with respect to the atomization part 111R. That is, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R after the first puff operation detected in step S202 and step S203 is performed. The first puff operation may be used to authenticate whether or not the user is a regular user. The first puff operation may be the first puff operation after the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on, and is the first puff operation after a predetermined time has elapsed without performing the puff operation. Also good. The predetermined time is longer than at least the first time and the second time.

  Here, the control unit 53 notifies that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied until the supply amount of the aerosol reaches the lower limit of the desired amount range after the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. In addition, the light emitting element 40 may be controlled. On the other hand, when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomization unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. May be controlled. The light emitting element 40 may continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied.

  In addition, the control part 53 moves to the process of step S211 shown in FIG. 7 after the process of step S205. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method in a puff operation after authentication (for example, the second and subsequent puff operations).

  As shown in FIG. 7, in step S211, the control unit 53 determines whether switching from the non-suction state to the suction state has been performed. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been switched from the on state to the off state. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S212. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S216.

  In step S212, the flavor inhaler 100 is in the suction state in which the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20.

  In step S213, the control unit 53 stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R.

  In step S214, it is determined whether switching from the suction state to the non-suction state has been performed. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been switched from the off state to the on state. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S215. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 waits until the suction state ends.

  In step S215, the control unit 53 resumes the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Here, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied until the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range. You may control. The control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 to notify that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range. May be. In addition, the control part 53 returns to the process of step S211 after step S215.

  In step S216, the control unit 53 determines whether the first time has elapsed since the start of the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R. As described above, the first time is a time determined so that the supply amount of the aerosol does not exceed the upper limit of the range of the desired amount. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S217. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S211.

  In step S217, the control unit 53 stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Here, when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomization unit 111R falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. May be controlled. The light emitting element 40 may continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied.

  However, as in the control example shown in FIG. 4, when the aerosol supply amount increases or decreases within the desired range after the aerosol supply amount exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range, the aerosol supply amount is the desired amount. Note that the condition above the lower limit of the range is maintained. Therefore, it is not necessary to notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied in step S217.

  In step S218, the control unit 53 determines whether or not the second time has elapsed since the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R was stopped as the first time passed. As described above, the second time is a time determined so that the supply amount of the aerosol does not fall below the lower limit of the desired amount range. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S219. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S220.

  In step S219, the control unit 53 determines whether an end condition is satisfied. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 ends the series of processes. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S221. The end condition may be that a predetermined time elapses without performing the puffing operation, or may be that a predetermined number of puffing operations have been performed.

  In step S220, the control unit 53 determines whether switching from the non-suction state to the suction state has been performed. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been switched from the on state to the off state. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S212. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S218.

  In step S221, the control unit 53 resumes the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Here, as in step S205, the control unit 53 notifies that the aerosol of the desired amount can be supplied when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount. Thus, the light emitting element 40 may be controlled. The light emitting element 40 may continuously notify that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied.

  However, as in the control example shown in FIG. 4, when the aerosol supply amount increases or decreases within the desired range after the aerosol supply amount exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range, the aerosol supply amount is the desired amount. Note that the condition above the lower limit of the range is maintained. Therefore, when it is notified only once that the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied, the desired in step S215 There is no need to report that an amount of aerosol can be supplied. In addition, the control part 53 returns to the process of step S211 after step S221.

  As described above, the aerosol delivery method includes various steps, but embodiments are not limited thereto. In the aerosol delivery method, step A (ie, step S205, step S215, step S221) for generating an aerosol in the suction route, and the flow of the aerosol in the suction route in a state where the generation of the aerosol is stopped after step A Step B (i.e., Step S213) to be moved into the user's mouth can be included at least.

(Function and effect)
In the embodiment, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R during the user's puffing operation. While the aerosol is generated by the atomizing unit 111R, the temperature of the atomizing unit 111R does not change due to the user's puffing operation. Therefore, the situation in which the particle diameter of the particles constituting the aerosol varies during one puff operation or between a plurality of puff operations is suppressed.

  In the embodiment, the control unit 53 stops the supply of the power output to the atomization unit 111R when the first time has elapsed since the start of the supply of the power output to the atomization unit 111R. Therefore, the supply amount of the aerosol can be kept within a desired amount without depending on the interval of the puff operation.

  In the embodiment, the control unit 53 resumes the supply of the power output to the atomization unit 111R when the second time has elapsed since the supply of the power output to the atomization unit 111R is stopped by the lapse of the first time. . Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the supply amount of the aerosol from falling below the lower limit of the desired amount range due to the condensation of the aerosol on the wall surface exposed to the aerosol flow path.

  In the embodiment, the light emitting element 40 notifies that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied in a period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Accordingly, the user can promote the start of the puff operation at an appropriate timing.

  In the embodiment, the light emitting element 40 notifies that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied in a period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. Thereby, the start of the puffing operation at an inappropriate timing can be suppressed.

  In the embodiment, the absorbing member 111S that absorbs the condensed aerosol is provided on the wall surface exposed to the flow path of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R. Thereby, waste of the aerosol source can be suppressed by re-atomization of the aerosol absorbed by the absorbing member 111S.

  In the embodiment, the control unit 53 triggers the energization process for the atomizing unit 111R when switching from the non-suction state to the suction state and switching from the suction state to the non-suction state are performed. Thereby, the energization process with respect to the atomization part 111R can be triggered appropriately. Furthermore, the first puff operation can be used for user authentication.

[Modification 1]
Hereinafter, Modification Example 1 of the embodiment will be described. In the following, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  Specifically, in the embodiment, the atomization switch 52 is interlocked with the suction sensor 20. In contrast, in the first modification, the atomization switch 52 is connected to the operation interface 80 as shown in FIG. The operation interface 80 may be the push button 30 described above, or may be an interface provided separately from the push button 30 described above.

  The operation interface 80 is an interface configured to be operated before the start of the puff operation. That is, the user operates the operation interface 80 during a period when the puff operation is not performed, and does not operate the operation interface 80 during a period when the puff operation is performed. Therefore, the atomization switch 52 is switched to the off state when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is no longer performed. On the other hand, the atomization switch 52 is switched to an on state when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. That is, a state where a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80 is a non-suction state, and a state where a user operation is not performed on the operation interface 80 is a suction state.

  In the first modification, the control unit 53 starts supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80, and the fog is generated when the user operation is not performed on the operation interface 80. The supply of power output to the conversion unit 111R is stopped.

  Here, in the case where the control of the embodiment is applied to the first modification example, “when a puff operation is detected by the suction sensor 20” is read as “when no user operation is performed on the operation interface 80”, and “When a puff motion is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20” may be read as “when a user operation on the operation interface 80 is performed”.

  In the first modification, in Step A (Step S205, Step 213, Step 219 described above) in which aerosol is generated in the suction path in the first modification, a user operation on the operation interface 80 is performed. Sometimes the step of starting the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R, the step B of moving the aerosol into the user's oral cavity by the fluid flow in the suction path in a state where the generation of the aerosol is stopped after step A This is a step of stopping the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is no longer performed.

(Control example)
Hereinafter, a control example of the power output for the atomization unit 111R according to the modification example 1 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a control example of power output for the atomization unit 111R according to the first modification.

  As described above, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomization unit 111R when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. The control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is not performed.

  In such a case, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomization unit 111R and then the atomization switch 52 remains in the on state (that is, the non-suction state). When one hour has passed, the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is stopped. That is, the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is stopped even when the user operation on the operation interface 80 continues. The first time is a time determined in order to prevent the supply amount of the aerosol from exceeding the upper limit of the range of the desired amount. However, in the control example according to the modification example 1, the control for maintaining the supply amount of the aerosol so as to exceed the lower limit of the range of the desired amount using the second time described above is not performed.

  Here, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Further, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40 so as to notify that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. In the control example according to the modification example 1, when the supply amount of the aerosol is below the lower limit of the desired amount range, it is notified that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. When the supply amount of the aerosol exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range, it is notified that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied.

(Function and effect)
In the first modification, even if the operation interface 80 is used instead of the suction sensor 20, the same effect as that of the embodiment can be obtained. In addition, since the control for maintaining the supply amount of the aerosol so as to exceed the lower limit of the desired amount range using the second time described above is omitted, the power consumption and the processing load are reduced as compared with the embodiment. .

[Modification 2]
Hereinafter, a second modification of the embodiment will be described. In the following, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the embodiment, an atomization switch 52 that is linked to the suction sensor 20 is provided. On the other hand, in the second modification, as shown in FIG. 10, a first switch 57 linked to the operation interface 80 and a second switch 58 linked to the suction sensor 20 are provided. The operation interface 80 may be the push button 30 described above, or may be an interface provided separately from the push button 30 described above.

  In the second modification, the first switch 57 is switched to an on state when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80, and is switched to an off state when no user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. On the other hand, the second switch 58 switches to the on state when the puff operation is detected by the suction sensor 20, and switches to the off state when the puff operation is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20. That is, the second switch 58 is turned on when the user's puffing operation is started, and is turned off when the user's puffing operation is finished.

  In the second modification, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R when the first switch 57 is switched to the on state, and when the second switch 58 is switched to the on state. Supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped. In other words, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80, and is in a state where the user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. When the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped.

  Thus, in the second modification, the trigger for starting the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is that the user operation is performed on the operation interface 80 (the first switch 57 is switched to the on state), and the suction is performed. It should be noted that the puffing is not detected by the sensor 20 (the second switch 58 is switched off).

  In the second modification, the operation interface 80 is used as an interface for starting supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Therefore, the control unit 53 may not stop supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is not performed. However, the modified example 2 is not limited to this. Specifically, the control unit 53 may stop supplying the power output to the atomization unit 111R when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is not performed. Specifically, on the assumption that a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80 (that is, the first switch 57 is in an on state), it is considered that supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is allowed. Also good.

  In the second modification, it should be noted that, as in the first modification, the control illustrated in FIG. 9 is performed as the power output control for the atomizing unit 111R. That is, the control for maintaining the supply amount of the aerosol so as to exceed the lower limit of the desired amount range using the second time described above is not performed.

  In the second modification, from the viewpoint of stopping the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R, the second switch 58 that is linked to the suction sensor 20 may be considered as an atomizing switch. From the viewpoint of starting supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R, the first switch 57 that is linked to the operation interface 80 may be considered as an atomization switch.

(Aerosol delivery method)
Hereinafter, the aerosol delivery method according to the modified example 2 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an aerosol delivery method according to the second modification. In FIG. 11, operation | movement of the flavor suction device 100 (control part 53) is mainly demonstrated. 11, details of step S20 shown in FIG. 5 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in step S311, the first switch 57 is off. That is, no user operation is performed on the operation interface 80.

  In step S312, the control unit 53 determines whether an end condition is satisfied. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 ends the series of processes. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S313. The end condition may be that a predetermined time elapses without performing the puffing operation, or may be that a predetermined number of puffing operations have been performed.

  In step S313, the control unit 53 determines whether the first switch 57 has been switched from the off state to the on state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether a user operation on the operation interface 80 has been performed. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S314. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S311.

  In step S314, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Here, when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomization unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the desired amount range, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. May be controlled.

  In step S315, the control unit 53 determines whether the second switch 58 has been switched from the off state to the on state. In other words, the control unit 53 detects whether the puff operation is detected by the suction sensor 20. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S316. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S318.

  In step S316, the control unit 53 stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R.

  In step S317, the control unit 53 determines whether the second switch 58 has been switched from the on state to the off state. In other words, the control unit 53 detects whether the puff operation is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S311. In the flow shown in FIG. 11, when returning to the process of step S <b> 311, the first switch 57 is switched from the on state to the off state even if the user operation on the operation interface 80 is continued. On the other hand, the control part 53 waits as it is, when a determination result is NO. In other words, when the second switch 58 is in the on state due to the detection of the user's puffing operation, the next step is not processed. Therefore, even if the first switch 57 is turned on by the user operation on the operation interface 80, It should be noted that power output to the atomization unit 111R does not start.

  In step S318, it is determined whether the first switch 57 has been switched from the on state to the off state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether a user operation on the operation interface 80 is no longer performed. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S319. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S320.

  In step S319, the control unit 53 stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Here, when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomization unit 111R falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. May be controlled. In addition, the control part 53 returns to the process of step S311 after step S319.

  In step S320, the control unit 53 determines whether the first time has elapsed since the start of the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R. As described above, the first time is a time determined so that the supply amount of the aerosol does not exceed the upper limit of the range of the desired amount. When the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S321. When the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S315.

  In step S321, the control unit 53 stops supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R. Here, when the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomization unit 111R falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the control unit 53 notifies the light emitting element 40 that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. May be controlled. In addition, the control part 53 returns to the process of step S311 after step S321. In the flow shown in FIG. 11, when returning to the process of step S <b> 311, the first switch 57 is switched from the on state to the off state even if the user operation on the operation interface 80 is continued.

(Function and effect)
In the second modification, the same effect as in the embodiment can be obtained by using the first switch 57 and the second switch 58 instead of the atomization switch 52. In addition, since the control for maintaining the supply amount of the aerosol so as to exceed the lower limit of the desired amount range using the second time described above is omitted, the power consumption and the processing load are reduced as compared with the embodiment. .

[Other Embodiments]
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above-described embodiments, it should not be understood that the descriptions and drawings constituting a part of this disclosure limit the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  In the embodiment, the cartridge 130 does not include the atomization unit 111, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the cartridge 130 may constitute one unit together with the atomization unit 111.

  In the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 includes the cartridge 130, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The flavor suction device 100 may not have the cartridge 130. In such cases, the aerosol source preferably includes a flavor component.

  In the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 includes the power switch 51, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other words, the energization of the suction sensor 20 may always be performed.

  The push button 30 is provided at the non-suction end of the flavor suction device 100, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the push button 30 may be provided on the outer periphery of the aspirator housing 110X.

  In the modification example 1 and the modification example 2, as shown in FIG. 9, the control using the second time, that is, the control for maintaining the supply amount of the aerosol so as to exceed the lower limit of the desired amount range is not performed. The form is not limited to this. Also in the modification example 1 and the modification example 2, as shown in FIG. 4, control using the second time may be performed. Specifically, the control unit 53 according to the first modification stops supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R with the passage of the first time, and then the atomization switch 52 remains on (that is, the operation interface 80). When the second time has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R may be resumed. The control unit 53 according to the modified example 2 stops supplying the power output to the atomizing unit 111R with the passage of the first time, and then the first switch 57 is in the on state and the second switch 58 is in the off state. When the second time has elapsed while the user operation on the operation interface 80 is continuing and the puff operation is not detected by the suction sensor 20, the power output is supplied to the atomizing unit 111 </ b> R. You may resume.

  Although not particularly mentioned in the embodiment, the atomization unit 111 is provided as a separate body from the electrical unit 112, and may be configured to be connectable to the electrical unit 112.

  According to the embodiment, it is possible to provide a non-burning type flavor inhaler and an aerosol delivery method capable of suppressing variation in the particle diameter of particles constituting the aerosol.

Claims (9)

A control unit that controls the power output to the atomization unit that atomizes the aerosol source without combustion,
The control unit repeatedly stops and restarts the power output to the atomization unit over a period in which the aerosol of the desired amount can be supplied so that the amount of aerosol supply falls within the range of the desired amount,
In response to the user's puffing operation during the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is resumed,
A control circuit for a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, wherein the period extends between a plurality of the puff operations. The control unit starts supplying power output to the atomization unit triggered by a user's button operation,
The non-combustion type flavor suction according to claim 1, wherein after the start of supply of the power output, the notification unit is notified when the supply amount of the aerosol falls within the range of the desired amount. Control circuit. The control unit starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit before the start of the user's puffing operation,
The non-restriction according to claim 1 or 2, wherein after the start of the supply of the power output, the notification unit is notified when the supply amount of the aerosol falls within the range of the desired amount. Control circuit for combustion flavor inhaler.   The said control part controls the power supply output with respect to the atomization part which atomizes the aerosol source containing a flavor component without burning, The non-combustion type flavor suction of Claim 2 or Claim 3 characterized by the above-mentioned. Control circuit.   The control circuit for a non-burning type flavor inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit does not detect a user's puffing operation when starting to supply power output to the atomizing unit.   The said control part repeats the stop and restart of the power output with respect to the said atomization part so that the change of the temperature of the said atomization part may be suppressed, The Claim 1 thru | or 5 characterized by the above-mentioned. Non-combustion type flavor sucker control circuit.   A non-combustion type flavor inhaler comprising the control circuit according to claim 1. A control unit that controls the power output to the atomization unit that atomizes the aerosol source without combustion,
The controller is
Starting supply of power output to the atomization unit triggered by the user's button operation,
Stopping and resuming power output to the atomization unit over a period during which the aerosol of the desired amount can be supplied so that the amount of aerosol supply falls within the range of the desired amount and the change in temperature of the atomization unit is suppressed. Repeat
In response to the user's puffing operation during the period in which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is resumed,
A control circuit for a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, wherein the period extends between a plurality of the puff operations. Controls the power output to the atomizing unit that atomizes the aerosol source without combustion, starts the power output to the atomizing unit triggered by the user's button operation, and the aerosol supply amount is in the desired amount range In order to suppress the change in the temperature of the atomizing unit and the temperature of the atomizing unit is suppressed, the power output to the atomizing unit is repeatedly stopped and restarted over a period in which the aerosol can be supplied. An atomization unit used in a non-combustion type flavor inhaler provided with a control unit that resumes supply of power output to the atomization unit, triggered by a user's puffing operation during the supply period,
The period spans a plurality of the puff operations,
An atomization unit comprising a reservoir for holding the aerosol source and the atomization section.

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