JP6812570B2 - Aerosol generator and method and program to operate it - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generator that generates an aerosol to be sucked by the user, and a method and program for operating the aerosol generator.

In aerosol generators for generating aerosols that the user sucks, such as general electronic cigarettes, heat-not-burn tobacco, and nebulizers, when the user has a shortage of aerosol sources that become aerosols when atomized. When suction is performed, sufficient aerosol cannot be supplied to the user. In addition, in the case of electronic cigarettes and heat-not-burn tobacco, there is a problem that aerosols having an unintended flavor can be released.

As a solution to this problem, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for detecting the depletion of an aerosol source based on a change in the heater temperature when supplying electric power to a heater for heating the aerosol source. Other Patent Documents 2 to 11 also disclose various techniques for solving the above problems or which may contribute to the solution of the above problems.

However, these conventional techniques cannot specifically identify in which part of the aerosol generator the shortage of the aerosol source occurs. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in the configuration, operating method, and the like of the aerosol generator for executing appropriate control when the aerosol source is insufficient.

European Patent Application Publication No. 2654469 European Patent Application Publication No. 14142829 European Patent Application Publication No. 2471392 European Patent Application Publication No. 2257195 European Patent Application Publication No. 2493342 European Patent Application Publication No. 2895930 European Patent Application Publication No. 2797446 European Patent Application Publication No. 2654471 European Patent Application Publication No. 2870888 European Patent Application Publication No. 2654470 International Publication No. 2015/100361

The present disclosure has been made in view of the above points.

A first problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator that performs appropriate control when an aerosol source is in short supply, and a method and program for operating the aerosol generator.

A second problem to be solved by the present disclosure is an aerosol generator that suppresses a temporary shortage of an aerosol source in a holding portion that holds an aerosol source supplied from an aerosol source storage portion, a method for operating the aerosol generator, and a method for operating the aerosol generator. To provide a program.

In order to solve the first problem described above, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus is a load that receives power from the power source and the power source to generate heat and atomizes the aerosol source. And an element used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load, a circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, a storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and a storage unit supplied from the storage unit. The aerosol generator stores the aerosol source based on the holding unit that holds the aerosol source in a heatable state and the change in the value related to the temperature of the load after the circuit functions. Distinguish between the first state in which the aerosol source is deficient and the second state in which the reservoir is capable of supplying the aerosol source but the retainer is deficient in the aerosol source. Provided is an aerosol generator comprising a control unit configured in.

In one embodiment, since the aerosol source stored in the storage unit is insufficient in the first state, the storage unit can supply the aerosol source in the second state, but the holding unit holds the aerosol source. Due to the shortage of the aerosol source, the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which aerosol formation occurs due to evaporation of the aerosol source.

In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a first path and a second path connected in parallel to the power source and the load, the first path being used for atomizing the aerosol source, the second path. Is used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load, and the control unit is configured to alternately function the first path and the second path.

In one embodiment, the first path and the second path each have a switch and function by switching the switch from an off state to an on state, and the control unit switches the switch of the first path. A predetermined interval is provided from switching from the on state to the off state until the switch on the second path is switched from the off state to the on state.

In one embodiment, the first path has a resistance value smaller than that of the second path, and the control unit controls the control unit after the first path is functioning or while the second path is functioning. It is configured to distinguish between the first state and the second state based on changes in values associated with the temperature of the load.

In one embodiment, the control unit performs the first state and the first state based on the time required for the temperature-related value of the load to reach the threshold value after the first path or the second path functions. It is configured to distinguish it from the second state.

In one embodiment, the time when it is determined that the first state has occurred is shorter than the time when it is determined that the second state has occurred.

In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a first path and a second path connected in parallel to the power source and the load, the first path being used for atomizing the aerosol source, the second path. Is used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load, and the control unit is configured to function the second path after the operation of the first path is completed.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to function the second path after the operation of the first path is completed a plurality of times.

In one embodiment, the control unit functions the second path as the number of operations or the amount of operation of the load increases after the storage unit is replaced with a new one or the storage unit is replenished with the aerosol source. It is configured to reduce the number of times the first path is previously operated.

In one embodiment, the first path has a resistance value smaller than that of the second path.
The control unit distinguishes between the first state and the second state based on the change in the value related to the temperature of the load after the first path is functioning or while the second path is functioning. It is configured to do.

In one embodiment, the first path has a resistance value smaller than that of the second path, and the control unit controls the control unit after the operation of the first path is completed or while the second path is functioning. It is configured to distinguish between the first state and the second state based on changes in values associated with the temperature of the load.

In one embodiment, the first path has a resistance value smaller than that of the second path, and the control unit measures the time of a value related to the temperature of the load while the second path is functioning. It is configured to distinguish between the first state and the second state based on the differential value.

In one embodiment, the time derivative value when it is determined that the second state has occurred is smaller than the time derivative value when it is determined that the first state has occurred.

In one embodiment, the circuit is connected in series with the load and is fed to the load with a single path used to atomize the aerosol source and obtain values related to the temperature of the load. It includes an element for smoothing electric power.

In one embodiment, the circuit is connected in series with respect to the load and comprises a single path used for atomizing the aerosol source and obtaining the temperature of the load, the aerosol generator further comprising a low-pass filter. The temperature-related value of the load acquired by using the element passes through the low-pass filter, and the control unit is configured to be able to acquire a value related to the temperature that has passed through the low-pass filter. ..

In one embodiment, the control unit takes the first state and the second state based on the time it takes for the temperature-related value of the load to reach a threshold after the single path functions. It is configured to distinguish between.

In one embodiment, the time when it is determined that the first state has occurred is shorter than the time when it is determined that the second state has occurred.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to modify the conditions that distinguish the first state from the second state based on the thermal history of the load when the circuit functions.

In one embodiment, the control unit acquires the time-series changes in the requirements based on the requirements for aerosol production, and the conditions based on the thermal history of the load resulting from the time-series changes in the requirements. Is configured to be modified.

In one embodiment, the control unit is less likely to determine that the first state has occurred as the time interval between the end of the request and the start of the next request is shorter. It is configured to modify the above conditions.

In one embodiment, the control unit has an effect that an old thermal history included in the thermal history of the load has an effect on the modification of the condition, and an effect that a new thermal history included in the thermal history of the load has an effect on the modification of the condition. It is configured to be smaller than.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to modify the conditions based on the thermal history of the load derived from the temperature of the load when the circuit functions.

In one embodiment, the control unit modifies the condition so that the higher the temperature of the load when the circuit functions, the less likely it is that the first state has occurred. It is composed.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it is a method of operating an aerosol generator, in which a step of heating an aerosol to atomize an aerosol source and a change in a value related to the temperature of the load are used. Based on this, the aerosol generator is in a first state where the stored aerosol source is deficient, or the stored aerosol source is not deficient but the aerosol is maintained in a state where it can be heated by the load. A method is provided that includes a step of distinguishing whether the source is in a deficient second state.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator is related to a power source, a load that receives power from the power source to generate heat and atomize the aerosol source, and the temperature of the load. The load heats an element used to obtain a value, a circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, a storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit. The aerosol generator is capable of supplying the aerosol source to the reservoir, based on the holding unit holding it in a possible state and the change in values associated with the temperature of the load after the circuit has functioned. Provided is an aerosol generator comprising a control unit configured to determine whether the aerosol source held by the holding unit is in a deficient state.

In one embodiment, in the above state, the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the retainer is insufficient.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, in the method of operating the aerosol generator, the step of heating the load to atomize the aerosol source and the change of the value related to the temperature of the load. Based on this, the aerosol generator determines whether or not the aerosol source to be stored is not insufficient, but the aerosol source to be kept in a state where it can be heated by the load is insufficient. Methods are provided, including.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator is related to a power source, a load that receives power from the power source to generate heat and atomize the aerosol source, and the temperature of the load. The load heats an element used to obtain a value, a circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, a storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit. Because the aerosol generator lacks the aerosol source that the reservoir stores, based on changes in values related to the temperature of the load after the circuit is functioning and the holding unit that keeps it in a possible state. A control unit configured to distinguish between a first state and a second state in which the reservoir is capable of supplying the aerosol source but lacks the aerosol source held by the retainer. In the first state, the aerosol source stored in the storage unit is insufficient. Therefore, in the second state, the storage unit can supply the aerosol source, but the holding unit holds the aerosol source. Due to the shortage of the aerosol source, the temperature of the load differs from the first state and the second state to a predetermined temperature below the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which aerosol formation occurs due to the evaporation of the aerosol source. Aerosol generators are provided that reach faster than other conditions.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it is a method of operating an aerosol generator, in which a step of heating an aerosol to atomize an aerosol source and a change in a value related to the temperature of the load are used. Based on this, the aerosol generator is in a first state where the stored aerosol source is deficient, or the stored aerosol source is not deficient but is kept in a state where it can be heated by the load. The aerosol source stored in the second state is due to the lack of the aerosol source stored in the first state, including the step of distinguishing whether the source is in a deficient second state. The temperature of the load is lower than the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which aerosol formation occurs due to evaporation of the aerosol source because the aerosol source, which is not insufficient but is maintained in a state where it can be heated by the load, is insufficient. Provided is a method of reaching the predetermined temperature of the above-mentioned first state and earlier than other states different from the second state.

Also, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform any of the methods described above.

In order to solve the above-mentioned second problem, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature of the power source, the load that receives power from the power source to generate heat and atomize the aerosol source, and the temperature of the load The load is an element used to obtain a related value, a circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, a storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit. The temperature of the load determines the boiling point of the aerosol source because the holding portion that holds the aerosol source in a heatable state and the aerosol source held by the holding portion that can supply the aerosol source are insufficient. When the over-dried state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the holding portion holds at least one of the time when the power source starts supplying power to the load and the time when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Provided is an aerosol generator comprising a control unit configured to perform control to increase the retention of the aerosol source or control to increase the likelihood of the retention.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a notification unit that notifies the user so that the control unit functions the notification unit when it detects the dry state or a precursor of the dry state. It is composed.

In one embodiment, when the control unit detects the dry state or a precursor of the dry state, the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the start of next aerosol generation is longer than the previous interval. It is configured to perform control.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a notification unit that notifies the user, and the control unit activates the notification unit when it detects the dry state or a precursor of the dry state. When the notification unit is made to function once or a plurality of times and then the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the control is configured to make the next interval longer than the previous interval.

In one embodiment, the control unit modifies the length of the interval based on at least one of the viscosity of the aerosol source, the remaining amount of the aerosol source, the electrical resistance of the load, and the temperature of the power source. It is composed of.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a supply that allows the amount or rate of the aerosol source supplied from the reservoir to the retainer to be adjusted. When the control unit detects the dry state or a precursor of the dry state, the control unit controls the supply unit so as to increase at least one of the amount or the speed of the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit to the holding unit. It is configured to do.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the circuit so as to reduce the amount of aerosol produced when it detects the dry state or a precursor to the dry state.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a temperature control section that allows the temperature of the aerosol source to be adjusted. The control unit is configured to control the temperature control unit so as to heat the aerosol source when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the temperature control unit to heat the aerosol source while the aerosol is not being generated by the load.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to use the load as the temperature control unit.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a change that allows the ventilation resistance in the aerosol generator to be altered. The control unit is configured to control the change unit so as to increase the ventilation resistance when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a request unit that outputs a request for aerosol production. The control unit controls the circuit based on a correlation such that the larger the requirement is, the larger the amount of aerosol produced, and when the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the magnitude of the requirement is increased. It is configured to modify the correlation so that the corresponding aerosol production is reduced.

In one embodiment, the control unit controls the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the start of next aerosol generation to be longer than the previous interval, and the power supply is the load. At least one of the time when the power supply to the power supply to the load is started and the time when the power supply completes the power supply to the load, the control for increasing the holding amount or the possibility that the holding amount is increased without controlling the interval. It is possible to execute a second mode for performing improvement control, and when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected, the second mode is executed with priority over the first mode. Consists of.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to execute the first mode when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is further detected after the execution of the second mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to detect the dry state based on the temperature change of the load after the circuit is activated.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a request unit that outputs a request for aerosol production. The control unit is configured to detect the precursor of the dry state based on the time-series change of the request.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is no shortage of the step of heating the load to atomize the aerosol source and the stored aerosol source in the method of operating the aerosol generator. When a dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected due to a shortage of the aerosol source kept in a state where it can be heated by the load, the load is supplied. A step of executing a control for increasing the holding amount of the retained aerosol source or a control for improving the possibility of increasing the holding amount at least one of the time when the power supply is started and the time when the power supply to the load is completed. Methods are provided, including.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is used to acquire a power source, a load that generates heat by receiving power from the power source and atomizes the aerosol source, and a value related to the temperature of the load. The element, the circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, the storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and the holding that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated. At intervals corresponding to the period from the completion of the aerosol production to the supply of the aerosol source in an amount equal to or greater than the amount used for the aerosol production from the storage unit to the holding unit. Provided is an aerosol generating apparatus comprising a control unit configured to perform a control that suppresses the formation of an aerosol or a control that increases the possibility that the formation of an aerosol is suppressed.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a notification unit that notifies the user. The control unit controls the notification unit in the first mode while generating the aerosol, and controls the notification unit in a second mode different from the first mode during the interval. It is composed.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a request unit that outputs a request for aerosol production. The control unit is configured to control the notification unit in a third mode different from the second mode when the request is acquired during the interval.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the circuit so as to prohibit the production of aerosols during the interval.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises a request unit that outputs a request for aerosol production. The control unit is configured to modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the magnitude and change of the requirement.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is a method of operating an aerosol generator, in which a load is heated to atomize an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and after the aerosol generation is completed, The aerosol production is suppressed at intervals corresponding to the period until the load is maintained in a heatable state by the stored aerosol source in an amount equal to or larger than the amount used for producing the aerosol. Methods are provided that include controlling the control or performing control that increases the likelihood that aerosol production will be suppressed.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is used to acquire a power source, a load that generates heat by receiving power from the power source and atomizes the aerosol source, and a value related to the temperature of the load. The element, the circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, the storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and the holding that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated. When the unit and the storage unit can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit is insufficient, when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source supplies the load to the load. A control unit configured to execute a control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding part or a control for improving the possibility of increasing the holding amount at least when the power supply is completed. An aerosol generator is provided that comprises.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is no shortage of the step of heating the load to atomize the aerosol source and the stored aerosol source in the method of operating the aerosol generator. Is held in a state where it can be heated by the load. When the aerosol source is insufficient, the aerosol is held at least one time when the power supply to the load is started and when the power supply to the load is completed. A method is provided that comprises performing a control that increases the retention of the source or a control that increases the likelihood of the retention increasing.

Also, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform any of the above methods.

In order to solve the first problem described above, according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus is a load that receives power from the power source and the power source to generate heat and atomizes the aerosol source. And an element used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load, a circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load, a storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and a storage unit supplied from the storage unit. The aerosol generator is based on a holder that holds the aerosol source in a heatable state and changes in values related to the temperature of the load after or during the functioning of the circuit. Whether the reservoir is in the first state of lack of the aerosol source stored, or the reservoir is in the second state of being able to supply the aerosol source but lacking the aerosol source held by the retainer. ,, And when the first state is detected, the first control is executed, and when the second state is detected, a second control different from the first control is executed. An aerosol generator is provided that comprises.

In one embodiment, since the aerosol source stored in the storage unit is insufficient in the first state, the storage unit can supply the aerosol source in the second state, but the holding unit holds the aerosol source. The temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source due to the shortage of the aerosol source.

In one embodiment, the second control reduces the aerosol source stored by the reservoir more than the first control.

In one embodiment, the control performed by the control unit in the second control modifies a larger number of variables and / or a larger amount of algorithms than the control performed by the control unit in the first control. ..

In one embodiment, the number of tasks required of the user to allow the production of an aerosol in the second control is the number of tasks required of the user to permit the production of an aerosol in the first control. Less than a number.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to prohibit the production of aerosols in the first control and the second control for at least a predetermined period of time.

In one embodiment, the period during which aerosol production is prohibited in the second control is shorter than the period during which aerosol production is prohibited in the first control.

In one embodiment, the first control and the second control each have a return condition for transitioning from a state in which aerosol production is prohibited to a state in which aerosol production is permitted. The return condition in the first control is stricter than the return condition in the second control.

In one embodiment, the number of replacement operations of the components of the aerosol generator included in the return condition in the first control is the component of the aerosol generator included in the return condition in the second control. More than the number of replacement work.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises one or more notification units that notify the user. The number of the notification units functioning in the first control is larger than the number of the notification units functioning in the second control.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises one or more notification units that notify the user. The time during which the notification unit functions in the first control is longer than the time during which the notification unit functions in the second control.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generator comprises one or more notification units that notify the user. The amount of electric power supplied from the power source to the notification unit in the first control is larger than the amount of electric power supplied from the power source to the notification unit in the second control.

Further, according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, it is a method of operating an aerosol generator, in which a step of heating a load to atomize an aerosol source and after the aerosol source is atomized or said above. Based on changes in values related to the temperature of the load while the aerosol source is atomized, the aerosol generator is in a first state where the stored aerosol source is deficient or the stored aerosol. The step of distinguishing whether the aerosol source, which is not insufficient in the source but is maintained in a state where it can be heated by the load, is in the second state in which the aerosol source is insufficient, and the first state when the first state is detected. A method is provided that includes a step of executing the control and, if the second state is detected, executing a second control different from the first control.

In one embodiment, since the aerosol source stored in the storage unit is insufficient in the first state, the storage unit can supply the aerosol source in the second state, but the holding unit holds the aerosol source. The temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source due to the shortage of the aerosol source.

Also, according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, a program is provided that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform the above method.

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an aerosol generator that executes appropriate control when an aerosol source is insufficient, and a method and a program for operating the aerosol generator.

According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator that suppresses a temporary shortage of an aerosol source in a holding portion that holds an aerosol source supplied from an aerosol source storage portion, and a method and program for operating the aerosol generator. Can be provided.

According to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an aerosol generator that executes appropriate control when an aerosol source is insufficient, and a method and a program for operating the aerosol generator.

It is a schematic block diagram of the structure of the aerosol generation apparatus by one Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a schematic block diagram of the structure of the aerosol generation apparatus by one Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the exemplary circuit configuration with respect to a part of the aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows another exemplary circuit configuration with respect to a part of the aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for detecting an aerosol source deficiency according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. An example of the switching timing of the switches Q1 and Q2 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. It is a flowchart which shows the process which detects the shortage of an aerosol source in an aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a flowchart which shows the process which detects the shortage of an aerosol source in an aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the exemplary circuit configuration with respect to a part of the aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. The timing of atomization of the aerosol source and estimation of the remaining amount of the aerosol source using the switch Q1 in the aerosol generator provided with the circuit of FIG. 8 is shown. It is a flowchart which shows the process which detects the shortage of an aerosol source in an aerosol generation apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a graph which conceptually shows the time-series change of the resistance value of a load when a user performs normal suction using an aerosol generator. It is a graph which conceptually shows the time-series change of the resistance value of a load when the interval from the end of suction by a user to the start of the next suction is shorter than the normal interval. It is a flowchart which shows the process which modifies the condition for distinguishing a 1st state and a 2nd state when the suction by a user is performed at a short interval according to 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. It is a graph which conceptually shows the time-series change of the resistance value of a load when the time required for cooling a load becomes longer than the normal case due to a cause such as deterioration of a load. It is a flowchart which shows the process which modifies the condition for distinguishing a 1st state and a 2nd state in the case where the time required for cooling a load is longer than the normal case by 1st Embodiment of this disclosure. .. It is a flowchart which shows the process which suppresses the temporary shortage of the aerosol source of the holding part in the aerosol generation apparatus by the 2nd Embodiment of this disclosure. A specific example of calibration of the suction interval performed in the process of FIG. 14 is shown.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heat-not-burn tobacco and nebulizers. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include various aerosol generators for producing aerosols that the user sucks.

FIG. 1A is a schematic block diagram of the configuration of the aerosol generator 100A according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1A schematically and conceptually shows each component included in the aerosol generator 100A, and does not show the exact arrangement, shape, dimensions, positional relationship, etc. of each component and the aerosol generator 100A. Please note.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the aerosol generator 100A includes a first member 102 and a second member 104. As shown, as an example, the first member 102 may include an element 112 such as a control unit 106, a notification unit 108, a power supply 110, a sensor, and a memory 114. The first member 102 may also include a circuit 134 described below. As an example, the second member 104 may include a storage section 116, an atomizing section 118, an air intake flow path 120, an aerosol flow path 121, a mouthpiece 122, a holding section 130 and a load 132. A part of the components contained in the first member 102 may be contained in the second member 104. A part of the components contained in the second member 104 may be contained in the first member 102. The second member 104 may be configured to be detachable from the first member 102. Alternatively, all the components contained in the first member 102 and the second member 104 may be contained in the same housing instead of the first member 102 and the second member 104.

The storage unit 116 may be configured as a tank for storing the liquid. Aerosol sources are, for example, polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and liquids such as water. When the aerosol generator 100A is an electronic cigarette, the aerosol source in the reservoir 116 may include a tobacco raw material or an extract derived from the tobacco raw material that releases a flavor component by heating. The holding unit 130 holds the aerosol source. For example, the holding portion 130 is made of a fibrous or porous material, and holds an aerosol source as a liquid in the gaps between the fibers and the pores of the porous material. For the fibrous or porous material described above, for example, cotton, glass fiber, a tobacco raw material, or the like can be used. If the aerosol generator 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also contain a drug for the patient to inhale. As another example, the reservoir 116 may have a configuration capable of replenishing the consumed aerosol source. Alternatively, the reservoir 116 may be configured so that the reservoir 116 itself can be replaced when the aerosol source is consumed. Further, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid, and may be a solid. When the aerosol source is a solid, the reservoir 116 may be a hollow container.

The atomizing unit 118 is configured to atomize an aerosol source to produce an aerosol. When the suction operation is detected by the element 112, the atomizing unit 118 produces an aerosol. For example, the holding unit 130 is provided so as to connect the storage unit 116 and the atomizing unit 118. In this case, a part of the holding unit 130 leads to the inside of the storage unit 116 and comes into contact with the aerosol source. The other part of the holding portion 130 extends to the atomizing portion 118. The other part of the holding portion 130 extending to the atomizing portion 118 may be housed in the atomizing portion 118, or may be passed through the atomizing portion 118 and passed through the storage portion 116 again. .. The aerosol source is carried from the reservoir 116 to the atomizer 118 by the capillary effect of the retainer 130. As an example, the atomizing unit 118 includes a heater including a load 132 electrically connected to the power supply 110. The heater is arranged so as to be in contact with or close to the holding portion 130. When the suction operation is detected, the control unit 106 controls the heater of the atomizing unit 118 and atomizes the aerosol source by heating the aerosol source carried through the holding unit 130. Another example of the atomizing unit 118 may be an ultrasonic atomizer that atomizes an aerosol source by ultrasonic vibration. An air intake flow path 120 is connected to the atomization unit 118, and the air intake flow path 120 leads to the outside of the aerosol generator 100A. The aerosol produced in the atomizing section 118 is mixed with the air taken in through the air intake flow path 120. The mixed fluid of aerosol and air is pumped into the aerosol flow path 121, as indicated by arrow 124. The aerosol flow path 121 has a tubular structure for transporting a mixed fluid of aerosol and air generated in the atomizing portion 118 to the mouthpiece 122.

The mouthpiece 122 is located at the end of the aerosol flow path 121, and is configured to open the aerosol flow path 121 to the outside of the aerosol generation device 100A. The user takes in air containing an aerosol into the oral cavity by sucking the mouthpiece 122 by holding it.

The notification unit 108 may include a light emitting element such as an LED, a display, a speaker, a vibrator, and the like. The notification unit 108 is configured to give some notification to the user by light emission, display, vocalization, vibration, or the like, if necessary.

The power supply 110 supplies power to each component of the aerosol generator 100A, such as the notification unit 108, the element 112, the memory 114, the load 132, and the circuit 134. The power supply 110 may be charged by connecting to an external power source via a predetermined port (not shown) of the aerosol generator 100A. Only the power supply 110 may be removed from the first member 102 or the aerosol generator 100A or may be replaced with a new power supply 110. Further, the power supply 110 may be replaced with a new power supply 110 by replacing the entire first member 102 with a new first member 102.

Element 112 is a component used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load 132. The element 112 may be configured so that it can be used to obtain a value necessary for obtaining a value of a current flowing through the load 132, a resistance value of the load 132, and the like.

The element 112 may also include a pressure sensor that detects pressure fluctuations in the air intake flow path 120 and / or the aerosol flow path 121 or a flow rate sensor that detects the flow rate. The element 112 may also include a weight sensor that detects the weight of a component such as the reservoir 116. Element 112 may also be configured to count the number of puffs by the user using the aerosol generator 100A. The element 112 may also be configured to integrate the energization time to the atomizing section 118. The element 112 may also be configured to detect the height of the liquid level in the reservoir 116. The element 112 may also be configured to obtain or detect the SOC (State of Charge, charging state), current integrated value, voltage, etc. of the power supply 110. The SOC may be determined by a current integration method (Coulomb counting method), an SOC-OCV (Open Circuit Voltage) method, or the like. The element 112 may also be a user-operable operation button or the like.

The control unit 106 may be an electronic circuit module configured as a microprocessor or a microcomputer. The control unit 106 may be configured to control the operation of the aerosol generator 100A according to a computer executable instruction stored in the memory 114. The memory 114 is a storage medium such as a ROM, RAM, or flash memory. In addition to the computer-executable instructions as described above, the memory 114 may store setting data and the like necessary for controlling the aerosol generator 100A. For example, the memory 114 stores various data such as a control method of the notification unit 108 (modes such as light emission, vocalization, vibration, etc.), a value acquired and / or detected by the element 112, and a heating history of the atomization unit 118. You may. The control unit 106 reads data from the memory 114 as needed and uses it for controlling the aerosol generator 100A, and stores the data in the memory 114 as needed.

FIG. 1B is a schematic block diagram of the configuration of the aerosol generator 100B according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown, the aerosol generator 100B includes a third member 126 in addition to the configuration of the aerosol generator 100A of FIG. 1A. The third member 126 may include a flavor source 128. As an example, when the aerosol generator 100B is an electronic cigarette or a heat-not-burn tobacco, the flavor source 128 may contain a flavor component contained in the cigarette. As shown, the aerosol flow path 121 extends over the second member 104 and the third member 126. The mouthpiece 122 is provided on the third member 126.

The flavor source 128 is a component for imparting flavor to the aerosol. The flavor source 128 is arranged in the middle of the aerosol flow path 121. The mixed fluid of aerosol and air generated by the atomizing section 118 (hereinafter, it should be noted that the mixed fluid may be simply referred to as aerosol) flows through the aerosol flow path 121 to the mouthpiece 122. As described above, the flavor source 128 is provided downstream of the atomizing portion 118 with respect to the flow of the aerosol. In other words, the flavor source 128 is located closer to the mouthpiece 122 in the aerosol flow path 121 than the atomizing portion 118. Therefore, the aerosol produced by the atomizing section 118 passes through the flavor source 128 before reaching the mouthpiece 122. When the aerosol passes through the flavor source 128, the flavor component contained in the flavor source 128 is imparted to the aerosol. As an example, when the aerosol generator 100B is an electronic cigarette or a heat-not-burn tobacco, the flavor source 128 is derived from tobacco, such as chopped tobacco or a processed product obtained by molding a tobacco raw material into granules, sheets or powders. You may. The flavor source 128 may also be of non-tobacco origin made from plants other than tobacco (eg, mint, herbs, etc.). As an example, flavor source 128 contains a nicotine component. The flavor source 128 may contain a perfume component such as menthol. In addition to the flavor source 128, the reservoir 116 may also have a substance containing a flavor component. For example, the aerosol generator 100B may be configured to hold a tobacco-derived flavoring substance in the flavor source 128 and contain a non-tobacco-derived flavoring substance in the reservoir 116.

The user can take in the air containing the flavored aerosol into the oral cavity by holding the mouthpiece 122 and sucking it.

The control unit 106 is configured to control the aerosol generators 100A and 100B (hereinafter collectively referred to as “aerosol generator 100”) according to the embodiment of the present disclosure by various methods.

In the aerosol generator, if the user performs suction when the aerosol source is insufficient, sufficient aerosol cannot be supplied to the user. In addition, in the case of electronic cigarettes and heat-not-burn tobacco, aerosols with unintended flavors can be released (hereinafter, such a phenomenon is also referred to as "unintended behavior"). The inventors of the present application not only when the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 is insufficient, but also when the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 is sufficiently remaining but the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is temporarily insufficient. We recognized that unintended behavior would occur even when we were there, as an important issue to be solved. In order to solve such a problem, the inventors of the present application operate an aerosol generator capable of identifying whether the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 or the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is insufficient, and an aerosol generation device thereof. Invented methods and programs to make them. The inventors of the present application have also invented an aerosol generator that suppresses a temporary shortage of an aerosol source in a holding portion that holds an aerosol source supplied from a storage portion of the aerosol source, and a method and a program for operating the aerosol generator. The inventors of the present application also have a state in which the aerosol generation device 100 is in a state where the aerosol source stored in the storage unit 116 is insufficient, or the aerosol source that the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source but the holding unit 130 holds is. We have invented an aerosol generator that can perform appropriate control when it is distinguished whether it is in another state that is lacking, and a method and program for operating it. Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail, mainly assuming that the aerosol generator has the configuration shown in FIG. 1A. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied even when the aerosol generator has various configurations such as the configuration shown in FIG. 1B.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an exemplary circuit configuration for a part of the aerosol generator 100A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

The circuit 200 shown in FIG. 2 includes a power supply 110, a control unit 106, an element 112, a load 132 (also referred to as a “heater resistor”), a first path 202, a second path 204, and a first field effect transistor (FET) 206. It includes a switch Q1, a constant voltage output circuit 208, a switch Q2 including a second FET 210, and a resistor 212 (also referred to as a “shunt resistor”). It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that not only FETs but also various elements such as iGBTs and contactors can be used as switches Q1 and Q2.

The circuit 134 shown in FIG. 1A may electrically connect the power supply 110 and the load 132 and include a first path 202 and a second path 204. The first path 202 and the second path 204 are connected in parallel to the power supply 110 (and the load 132). The first path 202 may include switch Q1. The second path 204 may include a switch Q2, a constant voltage output circuit 208, a resistor 212 and an element 112. The first path 202 may have a resistance value smaller than that of the second path 204. In this example, element 112 is a voltage sensor and is configured to detect voltage values across the resistor 212. However, the configuration of the element 112 is not limited to this. For example, the element 112 may be a current sensor or may detect the value of the current flowing through the resistor 212.

As shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 2, the control unit 106 can control the switch Q1, the switch Q2, and the like, and can acquire the value detected by the element 112. Even if the control unit 106 is configured to function the first path 202 by switching the switch Q1 from the off state to the on state, and to function the second path 204 by switching the switch Q2 from the off state to the on state. Good. The control unit 106 may be configured to alternately function the first path 202 and the second path 204 by alternately switching the switches Q1 and Q2. With this configuration, as will be described later, the aerosol generator 100 is in the first state (storage unit) regardless of whether the aerosol is generated (after suction by the user) or during aerosol generation (during suction by the user). Distinguish whether the 116 is in a state where the aerosol source to be stored is insufficient) or in a second state (a state in which the storage part 116 can supply the aerosol source but the holding part 130 is insufficient in the aerosol source). The shortage of aerosol source can be detected.

The control unit 106 is configured to provide a default interval after switching the switch Q1 of the first path 202 from the on state to the off state and then switching the switch Q2 of the second path 204 from the off state to the on state. May be good.

The first path 202 is used for atomizing the aerosol source. When the switch Q1 is switched to the ON state and the first path 202 functions, power is supplied to the heater (or the load 132 in the heater), and the load 132 is heated. By heating the load 132, the aerosol source held in the holding portion 130 in the atomizing portion 118 is atomized to generate an aerosol.

The second path 204 is used to obtain a value related to the temperature of the load 132. As an example, consider the case where the element 112 included in the second path 204 is a voltage sensor as shown in FIG. When switch Q2 is on and second path 204 is functioning, current flows through the constant voltage output circuit 208, switch Q2, resistor 212 and load 132. The value of the voltage applied to the resistor 212 acquired by the element 112 and the known resistance value R _shunt of the resistor 212 can be used to determine the value of the current flowing through the load 132. Since the total value of the resistance values of the resistor 212 and the load 132 can be obtained based on the output voltage V _out of the constant voltage output circuit 208 and the current value, the known resistance value R _shunt is subtracted from the total value. Therefore, the resistance value R _HTR of the load 132 can be obtained. When the load 132 has a positive or negative temperature coefficient characteristic in which the resistance value changes depending on the temperature, the relationship between the previously measured resistance value of the load 132 and the temperature of the load 132 and the above-mentioned relationship. The temperature of the load 132 can be estimated based on the resistance value R _HTR of the load 132 obtained in this way. The value related to the temperature of the load 132 in this example is the voltage applied to the resistor 212. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the temperature of the load 132 can be estimated using the value of the current flowing through the resistor 212. Therefore, the specific example of the element 112 is not limited to the voltage sensor, and may include other elements such as a current sensor (for example, a Hall element).

In FIG. 2, the constant voltage output circuit 208 is shown as a linear dropout (LDO) regulator and may include capacitors 214, FET 216, error amplifier 218, reference voltage sources 220, resistors 222 and 224, and capacitors 226. When the voltage of the reference voltage source 220 is V _REF and the resistance values of the resistors 222 and 224 are R1 and R2, respectively, the output voltage V _OUT of the constant voltage output circuit 208 is V _OUT = (R2 / (R1 + R2)). × V _REF . Those skilled in the art will understand that the configuration of the constant voltage output circuit 208 shown in FIG. 2 is only an example, and various configurations are possible.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing another exemplary circuit configuration for a portion of the aerosol generator 100A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Similar to the case of FIG. 2, the circuit 300 shown in FIG. 3 includes a power supply 110, a control unit 106, an element 112, a load 132, a first path 302, a second path 304, a switch Q1 including a first FET 306, and a switch including a second FET 310. It is equipped with Q2, a constant voltage output circuit 308, and a resistor 312. Unlike FIG. 2, the constant voltage output circuit 308 is arranged on the power supply side of the first path 302. In this example, the constant voltage output circuit 308 is a switching regulator and includes a capacitor 314, a FET 316, an inductor 318, a diode 320 and a capacitor 322. As in the case of FIG. 2, the circuit shown in FIG. 3 atomizes the aerosol source when the first path 302 functions and acquires the temperature-related value of the load 132 when the second path 304 functions. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that it works in this way. In the circuit shown in FIG. 3, the constant voltage output circuit 308 is a boost type switching regulator (so-called boost converter) that boosts the input voltage and outputs it, but instead of this, the input voltage is stepped down. It may be a step-down type switching regulator (so-called back converter) that outputs, or a buck-boost type switching regulator (back boost converter) that can both step up and down the input voltage.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for detecting an aerosol source deficiency according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, it is assumed that the control unit 106 executes all the steps. However, it should be noted that some steps may be performed by another component of the aerosol generator 100. In the present embodiment, the circuit 200 shown in FIG. 2 will be used as an example, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the circuit 300 shown in FIG. 3 and other circuits can be used.

The process starts at step 402. In step 402, the control unit 106 determines whether or not suction by the user is detected based on the information obtained from the pressure sensor, the flow rate sensor, and the like. For example, the control unit 106 may determine that suction by the user has been detected when the output values of these sensors change continuously. Alternatively, the control unit 106 may determine that suction by the user has been detected, based on the fact that a button for starting aerosol generation is pressed or the like.

If it is determined that suction has been detected (“Yes” in step 402), the process proceeds to step 404. In step 404, the control unit 106 turns on the switch Q1 to operate the first path 202.

The process proceeds to step 406, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not the suction is completed. When it is determined that the suction is completed (“Yes” in step 406), the process proceeds to step 408.

In step 408, the control unit 106 turns off the switch Q1. In step 410, the control unit 106 turns on the switch Q2 to operate the second path 204.

The process proceeds to step 412, and the control unit 106 detects the current value of the second path 204, for example, as described above. In steps 414 and 416, for example, the control unit 106 derives the resistance value and temperature of the load 132, respectively, by the method described above.

The process proceeds to step 418, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not the temperature of the load 132 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. If it is determined that the load temperature exceeds the threshold value (“Yes” in step 418), the process proceeds to step 420, and the control unit 106 determines that the aerosol source in the aerosol generator 100A is insufficient. On the other hand, when it is determined that the load temperature does not exceed the threshold value (“No” in step 418), it is not determined that the aerosol source is insufficient.

The process shown in FIG. 4 merely shows a general flow for determining whether or not the aerosol source in the aerosol generator 100A is insufficient, and is unique to the embodiment of the present disclosure in the reservoir 116. It should be noted that the process of distinguishing between the shortage of the aerosol source and the shortage of the aerosol source in the holding portion 130 is not shown.

In the present disclosure, the shortage of the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 includes a state in which the aerosol source is completely depleted in the storage unit 116 and a state in which the aerosol source cannot be sufficiently supplied to the holding unit 130. In the present disclosure, the shortage of the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 includes a state in which the aerosol source is completely depleted over the entire holding unit 130 and a state in which the aerosol source is depleted in a part of the holding unit 130.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the switching timing of the switches Q1 and Q2 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5A, even if the control unit 106 switches between the switch Q1 and the switch Q2 while the aerosol source is atomized (suction is performed by the user). Good. As shown in FIG. 5B, the control unit 106 may turn off the switch Q1 and turn on the switch Q2 after the atomization of the aerosol source is completed (the suction by the user is completed).

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a process of detecting a shortage of an aerosol source in the aerosol generator 100A according to the present embodiment. In this example, as shown in FIG. 5A, it is assumed that switching is performed between the switch Q1 and the switch Q2 while the suction by the user is being performed. Further, it will be described assuming that the control unit 106 executes all the steps. However, it should be noted that some steps may be performed by another component of the aerosol generator 100.

The process of step 602 is the same as the process of step 402 of FIG. 4, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 106 determines that the suction by the user has been started.

The process proceeds to step 604, and the control unit 106 turns on the switch Q1 to make the first path 202 function. Therefore, electric power is supplied to the heater (or the load 132 in the heater), and the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is heated to generate an aerosol. Further, in step 605, the control unit 106 activates a timer (not shown). As another example, the timer may be started not when the switch Q1 is turned on, but when the switch Q2 is turned on in step 606, which will be described later.

The process proceeds to step 606, and the control unit 106 turns the switch Q1 into the off state and turns the switch Q2 into the on state. Note that in the example of FIG. 6, this process is performed while the user is aspirating. The process of step 606 causes the second path 204 to function, and the element 112 obtains values related to the temperature of the load 132 (eg, the voltage value applied to the resistor 212, the current value flowing through the resistor 212 and the load 132, etc.). Will be done. As described above, the temperature of the load 132 is derived based on the acquired value.

If the remaining amount of the aerosol source is sufficient, the heat applied to the load 132 in step 604 is used to generate the aerosol by atomizing the aerosol source. Therefore, the temperature of the load 132 does not significantly exceed the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which aerosol formation occurs due to evaporation of the aerosol source (eg, 200 ° C.). On the other hand, when the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 and / or the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is insufficient, the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is completely or partially depleted by heating the load 132. , The temperature of the load 132 rises.

The process proceeds to step 608, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not the temperature ( _THTR ) of the load 132 exceeds a predetermined temperature (for example, 350 ° C.). In this example, the temperature of the load 132 is compared to the temperature threshold. In another embodiment, the resistance or current value of the load 132 may be compared to the resistance value threshold or the current value threshold. In this case, the resistance value threshold value, the current value threshold value, and the like are set to appropriate values so that it can be sufficiently determined that the aerosol source is insufficient.

If the temperature of the load 132 does not exceed the predetermined temperature (“No” in step 608), the process proceeds to step 610. In step 610, the control unit 106 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed based on the time indicated by the timer. When the predetermined time has elapsed (“Yes” in step 610), the process proceeds to step 612. In step 612, the control unit 106 determines that the remaining amount of the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 and the holding unit 130 is sufficient, and the process ends. If the predetermined time has not elapsed (“No” in step 610), the process returns to before step 608.

If the temperature of the load 132 exceeds a predetermined temperature (“Yes” in step 608), the process proceeds to step 614. In step 614, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the time from the timer activation to the present is less than a predetermined threshold value Δt _thr (for example, 0.5 seconds).

When the timer is started when the switch Q1 is turned on as shown in step 605, the predetermined threshold value _Δtthre sets the first predetermined fixed value (for example, the predetermined switch Q1 to the on state). It may be the sum of the time to keep) and the second predetermined fixed value (for example, the time to keep the predetermined step Q2 on or less). Alternatively, the predetermined threshold value _Δtthre may be the _sum of the actually measured time during which the switch Q1 was turned on and the second predetermined fixed value described above.

When the timer is started when the switch Q2 is turned on, the predetermined threshold value _Δtthre may be the second predetermined fixed value described above.

Comparing the case where the aerosol source of the storage unit 116 is insufficient and the case where the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient, the former case is used. However, the time required for the temperature of the load 132 to reach an unacceptably high temperature is short. This is because, in the former case, the aerosol source is not supplied to the holding unit 130, so the electric power supplied to the load 132 is used to raise the temperature of the load 132, whereas in the latter case, the storage unit 116 This is because the aerosol source can be supplied to the holding unit 130, so that the electric power supplied to the load 132 can also be used for atomizing the aerosol source.

If the time from the timer start to the present is less than a predetermined threshold value (“Yes” in step 614), the process proceeds to step 616. In step 616, the control unit 106 determines that the aerosol generator 100 is in the first state. In the first state, since the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116 is insufficient, the temperature of the load 132 exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which the aerosol source is generated due to the evaporation of the aerosol source. On the other hand, when the time from the timer start to the present is less than a predetermined threshold value (“No” in step 614), the process proceeds to step 624. In step 624, the control unit 106 determines that the aerosol generator 100 is in the second state. In the second state, the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source, but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient, so that the temperature of the load 132 is the boiling point of the aerosol source or the evaporation of the aerosol source to generate the aerosol source. Exceeds the temperature at which In this way, the control unit 106 takes the first state and the second state based on the time required from the function of the first path 202 or the second path 204 until the value related to the temperature of the load 132 reaches the threshold value. It can be configured to distinguish it from the state.

In the present disclosure, the shortage of the aerosol source in the first state means a state in which the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 is completely depleted, or an aerosol with respect to the holding unit 130 because the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 is small. It means a state in which the source cannot be sufficiently supplied. Further, in the present disclosure, the shortage of the aerosol source in the second state means that the reservoir 116 can supply the aerosol source, but the aerosol source is completely depleted over the entire holding portion 130, or the holding portion 130. It means that the aerosol source is depleted in a part of. Sufficient aerosol cannot be produced in either the first state or the second state.

After step 616, the process proceeds to step 618, where the control unit 106 uses the notification unit 108 or the like to replace the aerosol generator 100 in the first state and replace the aerosol source in the reservoir 116 (or the aerosol source in the reservoir 116). Make the user aware that the replenishment) should be performed. The process proceeds to step 620, and the control unit 106 shifts to the removal inspection mode. The process proceeds to step 622, where the control unit 106 determines whether removal of the reservoir 116 (or replenishment of the aerosol source) has been detected. When the removal of the storage unit 116 is detected (“Yes” in step 622), the process ends. If not (“No” in step 622), processing returns before step 618.

After step 624, the process proceeds to step 626, where the control unit 106 warns the user that the aerosol generator 100 is in the second state, such as by using the notification unit 108. After that, the process ends.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the aerosol generator 100A lacks the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116 based on the change in the temperature-related value of the load 132 after the circuit 134 has functioned. It is possible to distinguish whether it is in the first state or in the second state where the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient. Therefore, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the aerosol source is completely depleted.

Further, as described above, the timer may be started when the switch Q1 is turned off, or may be started when the switch Q2 is turned on. The control unit 106 distinguishes between the first state and the second state based on the change in the temperature-related value of the load 132 after the first path 202 is functioning or while the second path 204 is functioning. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between the first state and the second state in the configuration in which the first path 202 for generating the aerosol and the second path 204 for detecting the shortage of the aerosol source are alternately turned on. it can.

In the modified example of the embodiment of FIG. 6, in the first state, the temperature of the load 132 is the temperature at which the aerosol is generated due to the boiling point of the aerosol source or the evaporation of the aerosol source because the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116 is insufficient. It may be defined as a state in which a predetermined temperature of less than is reached earlier than other states different from the first and second states. Further, in the second state, the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source, but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient, so that the temperature of the load 132 becomes the boiling point of the aerosol source or the evaporation of the aerosol source. It may be defined as a state in which a predetermined temperature below the temperature at which the formation occurs is reached earlier than other states different from the first and second states. In these cases, the accuracy of detecting the shortage of the aerosol source is inferior to that of the embodiment of FIG. 6 described above, but faster detection is possible.

As described above, in the embodiment of FIG. 6, the control (steps 618 to 622) executed in the first state where the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116 is insufficient, and the aerosol source can be supplied by the reservoir 116. However, it is different from the control (step 626) executed in the second state in which the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing another process for detecting the shortage of the aerosol source in the aerosol generator 100A according to the present embodiment. In this example, as shown in FIG. 5B, it is assumed that the switch Q1 is turned off and the switch Q2 is turned on after the suction by the user is completed.

The process of step 702 is the same as the process of step 602 of FIG.

The process proceeds to step 704, and the control unit 106 turns on the switch Q1 to make the first path 202 function. Therefore, electric power is supplied to the heater (load 132), and the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is heated to generate an aerosol.

The process proceeds to step 706, and the control unit 106 turns the switch Q1 into the off state and turns the switch Q2 into the on state. Note that in the example of FIG. 7, this process is performed after the suction by the user is finished. The process of step 706 functions the second path 204, the element 112 acquires a value related to the temperature of the load 132, and the temperature of the load 132 is derived based on the acquired value.

The process proceeds to step 708, and the control unit 106 activates the timer.

The process proceeds to step 710. The process of step 710 is the same as the process of step 608.

If the temperature of the load 132 does not exceed the predetermined temperature (“No” in step 710), the process proceeds to step 712. The processing of steps 712 and 714 is the same as the processing of steps 610 and 612.

If the temperature of the load 132 exceeds a predetermined temperature (“Yes” in step 710), the process proceeds to step 716. In step 716, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the time derivative value of the temperature of the load 132 is larger than a predetermined threshold value (for example, a value smaller than 0).

When the aerosol source of the holding unit 130 is insufficient during the suction of the user, the aerosol source of the storage unit 116 is insufficient, and the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source but the holding unit 130 holds the aerosol source. Comparing with the case where the aerosol source is insufficient, the time derivative value of the temperature of the load 132 after the end of suction by the user is larger in the former case. This is because, in the former case, the temperature of the load 132 continues to rise, stagnate, or gradually decrease because the aerosol source is not supplied to the holding unit 130 after the user's suction is completed, whereas in the latter case, the user This is because the aerosol source can be supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 after the suction is completed, so that the temperature of the load 132 can be lowered.

If the time derivative of the temperature of the load 132 is greater than the threshold (“Yes” in step 716), the process proceeds to step 718. In step 718, the control unit 106 determines that the aerosol generation device 100A is in the first state in which the aerosol source stored in the storage unit 116 is insufficient. On the other hand, when the time derivative value of the temperature of the load 132 is equal to or less than the threshold value (“No” in step 716), the process proceeds to step 726. In step 726, the control unit 106 determines that the aerosol generator 100A is in a second state in which the reservoir 116 can supply the aerosol source but the holding unit 130 lacks the aerosol source.

The process of steps 720 to 724 is the same as the process of steps 618 to 622. The process of step 728 is the same as the process of step 626.

In the example of FIG. 7, the control unit 106 activates the second path 204 after the operation of the first path 202 is completed. Therefore, it is possible to accurately distinguish whether the aerosol generator 100 is in the first state or the second state in the static state in which the aerosol is not generated.

Further, according to the example of FIG. 7, the control unit 106 is based on the change in the value related to the temperature of the load 132 after the operation of the first path 202 is completed or while the second path 204 is functioning. , The first state and the second state can be distinguished. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between the first state and the second state in the configuration in which the first path 202 for generating the aerosol and the second path 204 for detecting the shortage of the aerosol source are sequentially turned on. it can.

In the example of FIG. 7, the control unit 106 may make the second path 204 function after the operation of the first path 202 is completed a plurality of times. For example, the switch Q2 may be turned on after the switch Q1 has been turned on / off five times (suction by the user has been completed five times). In this case, the control unit 106 before the second path 204 functions as the number of operations of the load 132 or the accumulated operation amount increases after the storage unit 116 is replaced with a new one or after the storage unit 116 is replenished with an aerosol source. The number of times the first path 202 is operated may be reduced.

Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the control executed in the first state (steps 720 to 724) and the control executed in the second state (step 728) are different.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an exemplary circuit configuration for a part of the aerosol generator 100A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

The circuit 800 shown in FIG. 8 includes a power supply 110, a control unit 106, an element 112, a load 132, a single path 802, a switch Q1 including an FET 806, a constant voltage output circuit 808, and a resistor 812.

The circuit 134 may be configured to include a single path 802 as shown in FIG. The path 802 is connected in series with the load 132. Path 802 may include switch Q1 and resistor 812. In this example, the circuit 134 may further include an element (not shown) that smoothes the power supplied to the load 132. As a result, the influence of noise at the time of transition (switch turn-on and turn-off) and noise due to surge current can be reduced, and the first state and the second state can be distinguished with high accuracy.

As shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 8, the control unit 106 can control the switch Q1 and can acquire the value detected by the element 112.

The control unit 106 makes the path 802 function by switching the switch Q1 from the off state to the on state.

Path 802 is used to atomize the aerosol source. When the switch Q1 is switched on and the path 802 functions, the load 132 is powered and the load 132 is heated. By heating the load 132, the aerosol source held in the holding portion 130 in the atomizing portion 118 is atomized to generate an aerosol.

Path 802 is also used to obtain values related to the temperature of the load 132. When switch Q1 is on and path 802 is functioning, current flows through the constant voltage output circuit 808, switch Q1, resistor 812 and load 132. As already mentioned in connection with FIG. 2, when the element 112 is a voltage sensor, the temperature of the load 132 can be estimated using the voltage value applied to the resistor 812 as a value related to the temperature of the load 132. .. Similar to the example of FIG. 2, the specific example of the element 112 is not limited to the voltage sensor, and may include other elements such as a current sensor (for example, a Hall element).

The aerosol generator 100A having the configuration shown in FIG. 8 may further include a low-pass filter (not shown). Values related to the temperature of the load 132 acquired using the element 112 (current value, voltage value, etc.) may pass through the low-pass filter. In this case, the control unit 106 may acquire a value related to the temperature that has passed through the low-pass filter and use it to derive the temperature of the load 132.

As in the case of FIG. 2, the constant voltage output circuit 808 is shown as an LDO regulator and may include capacitors 814, FET 816, error amplifier 818, reference voltage sources 820, resistors 822 and 824, and capacitors 828. The configuration of the constant voltage output circuit 808 is only an example, and various configurations are possible.

FIG. 9 shows the timing of atomizing the aerosol source and estimating the remaining amount of the aerosol source using the switch Q1 in the aerosol generator 100A provided with the circuit 800 of FIG. Since the circuit of FIG. 8 has only a single path 802, the control unit 106 determines whether the aerosol source is deficient while the aerosol source is atomized (while the user is aspirating). It also detects.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process of detecting a shortage of an aerosol source in the aerosol generator 100A according to the present embodiment. In this example, it is assumed that the aerosol generator 100A includes the circuit 800 shown in FIG.

The process of step 1002 is the same as the process of step 602 of FIG. 6, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 106 determines that the suction by the user has been started.

The process proceeds to step 1004, and the control unit 106 turns on the switch Q1 to make the path 802 function. Therefore, electric power is supplied to the heater (load 132), and the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 is heated to generate an aerosol. The control unit 106 also acquires a value related to the temperature of the load 132 (for example, a voltage value applied to the resistor 812, a current value flowing through the load 132, etc.) by the element 112. As described above, the temperature of the load 132 is derived based on the acquired value.

In step 1005, the control unit 106 activates a timer (not shown).

The process of steps 1006 to 1024 is the same as the process of steps 608 to 626.

Similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 6 and 7, in the embodiment of FIG. 10, the control executed in the first state (steps 1016 to 1020) and the control executed in the second state (step 1024) are different.

FIG. 11 is a graph conceptually showing a time-series change in the resistance value of the load 132 when the user performs normal suction using the aerosol generator 100A.

When suction by the user is detected, power is supplied to the load 132 to heat the load 132. The temperature of the load 132 rises from room temperature (eg, 25 ° C.) to the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which aerosol formation occurs due to evaporation of the aerosol source (eg, 200 ° C.). When a sufficient aerosol source is present in the holding portion 130, the heat applied to the load 132 is used for atomizing the aerosol source, so that the temperature of the load 132 stabilizes near the above temperature as shown in FIG. When the suction by the user is completed, the power supply to the load 132 is stopped, and the temperature of the load 132 drops toward room temperature.

If the interval between the end of suction by the user and the start of the next suction is sufficiently long, the load 132 is cooled and its temperature returns to room temperature, as shown in FIG. Assuming that a sufficient amount of aerosol source is stored in the storage unit 116, a sufficient amount of aerosol source is supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 by the start of the next suction. Here, such suction and interval are referred to as "normal" suction and "normal" interval, respectively.

The resistance value of the load 132 changes depending on the temperature of the load 132. In the example of FIG. 11, while the temperature of the load 132 rises from room temperature (25 ° C.) to the boiling point of the aerosol source (200 ° C.), the resistance value of the load 132 _changes from R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.) to R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.). _TBP = 200 ° C.). When the temperature of the load 132 reaches the boiling point of the aerosol source and atomization of the aerosol source begins, the temperature of the load 132 stabilizes, so that the resistance value of the load 132 also stabilizes. While the aerosol source atomization is complete and the temperature of the load 132 drops to room temperature, the resistance of the load 132 also drops. As described above, since normal suction is performed in the example of FIG. 11, the resistance value of the load 132 returns to R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.) at the start of the next suction.

In the present disclosure, the effect of a change in the resistance value of the load 132 due to heating on the load 132 during the previous suction on the resistance value of the load 132 during the next suction is referred to as a "heat history" of the load. To do. In the case of the example of FIG. 11, since such an influence does not occur, no thermal history remains with respect to the resistance value of the load 132.

FIG. 12A is a graph conceptually showing a time-series change in the resistance value of the load 132 when the interval from the end of suction by the user to the start of the next suction is shorter than the normal interval. ..

If the interval is short, the next suction starts before the temperature of the load 132 returns to room temperature, and the load 132 is heated again. FIG. 12A (a) is a graph showing such a case. In FIG. 12A (a), the situation from the start to the end of the first suction is the same as in the case of the normal suction in FIG. When the first suction is completed, the temperature of the load 132 decreases, and the resistance value of the load 132 decreases accordingly. However, since the interval from the end of the first suction to the start of the second suction is short, at the start of the second suction, the temperature of the load 132 is higher than room temperature, so the resistance value of the load 132 is also the resistance at room temperature. It is larger than the value R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.). That is, unlike the example of FIG. 11, in the example of FIG. 12A, the heat history remains in the load 132 at the start of the second suction. Therefore, when the load 132 is heated for the second suction, the aerosol source in the storage unit 116 and the holding unit 130 becomes insufficient, and the resistance value of the load 132 becomes R ( _TBP = 200 ° C.). It can happen to rise above.

FIG. 12A (b) shows a time-series change in the resistance value of the load 132 when suction is repeated under the situation shown in FIG. 12A (a). Since the interval from the end of the first suction to the start of the second suction is short, the resistance value of the load 132 at the start of the second suction is larger than the resistance value R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.) at room temperature. large. Further, since this interval is short, the aerosol source is not sufficiently supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130. Therefore, at the start of the second suction, the aerosol source in the holding portion 130 may be reduced as compared with the case where an interval having a sufficient length is provided. Since the thermal history of the load 132 remains and the aerosol source in the holding portion 130 is small in this way, the temperature of the load 132 is a state in which the load 132 is heated during the second suction to stably generate an aerosol. After reaching, the aerosol source in the retainer 130 may be deficient and exceed the boiling point of the aerosol source as shown. Therefore, the resistance value of the load 132 can also reach a value larger than R ( _TBP = 200 ° C.). By repeating such behavior, the temperature of the load 132 can reach the threshold value (eg, 350 ° C.) shown in the embodiments described in connection with FIGS. 6, 7, and 10.

The inventors of the present application use a threshold value (for example, Δt _thre in step 614) used to distinguish between the first state and the second state in the embodiments as described in connection with FIGS. 6, 7, and 10. ) And the like, we have invented a technique that can more appropriately control the aerosol generator 100A when the aerosol source is insufficient by modifying the conditions such as) based on the thermal history of the load 132. The technique will be described below.

FIG. 12B is a flowchart showing a process of modifying the condition for distinguishing between the first state and the second state when the suction by the user is performed at short intervals according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

The process starts in step 1202, and the control unit 106 sets the counter n to 0.

The process proceeds to step 1204, and the control unit 106 measures the suction interval (interval _meas ) from the end time of the previous suction to the start time of the current suction.

The process proceeds to step 1206, and the control unit 106 increments the value of the counter n.

The process proceeds to step 1208, the control unit 106 calculates a preset interval of values _{(interval preset)} measured in step 1204 from the interval _meas the subtracted value (Δinterval (n)). The value of the interval _presset may be the time it takes for the temperature of the load 132 to return from the boiling point of the aerosol source to room temperature (eg, 1 second) in the case of normal suction, or a sufficient amount after the end of the previous suction. It may be the time until the aerosol source of the above is supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130.

The process proceeds to step 1210, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not Δinterval (n) calculated in step 1208 is greater than 0.

In Figure 12B, Δinterval (n) is 0 or less (interval _meas is _{interval preset} higher) if ( "No" in step 1208), the process is supposed to proceed to step 1216. However, the process may return before step 1204 and steps 1204 to 1210 may be repeated a predetermined number of times.

Greater Derutainterval (n) is 0 (interval _meas is _{interval preset} less) If ( "Yes" in step 1210), the process proceeds to step 1212. In step 1212, the control unit 106 obtains a value Σ obtained by integrating the Δinterval (n) calculated so far. The formula shown in step 1210 is just an example. In the process of step 1212, the influence of the old heat history included in the heat history of the load 132 on the above conditions (conditions for distinguishing the first state from the second state) is included in the heat history of the load 132. It can be performed so that the thermal history has less effect on the condition. As a result, even when a plurality of heat histories are accumulated, the first state and the second state can be accurately distinguished. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various calculations can be performed in step 1212.

The process proceeds to step 1214, and the control unit 106 obtains the above condition (for example, Δt _thre ) based on the integrated value Σ obtained in step 1212 and a predetermined function. In FIG. 12B, an example of the predetermined function F (Σ) is shown next to step 1214. As described above, in step 1214, the larger the integrated value Σ (the smaller the suction interval), the smaller the Δt _thre may be set in advance. Therefore, the shorter the time interval between the end of a request for aerosol generation (user suction, pressing a predetermined button, etc.) and the start of the next request, the more likely it is that the first state has occurred. The above condition is modified so that

On the other hand, Derutainterval (n) is 0 or less (interval _meas is _{interval preset} higher) if ( "No" in step 1208), the process proceeds to step 1216. In step 1216, the control unit 106 resets the counter n. Further, the process proceeds to step 1218, and _Δtthre is set to a predetermined value. That is, if the suction interval is large enough, the conditions used to distinguish between the first and second states are not modified.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the control unit 106 modifies the condition for distinguishing between the first state and the second state based on the thermal history of the load 132 when the circuit 134 functions. Works on. Therefore, even when the thermal history of the load 132 remains, the first state and the second state can be accurately distinguished.

According to the present embodiment, the control unit 106 acquires the time-series change of the request based on the request for the generation of the aerosol, and based on the thermal history of the load 132 derived from the time-series change of the request. It operates to modify the conditions for distinguishing between the first state and the second state. Therefore, even when abnormal suction is performed, the first state and the second state can be accurately distinguished.

Even when the suction time by the user is long, the suction time is long, and the interval is a normal length, the same problem as in the examples of FIGS. 12A and 12B may occur. Can be solved. That is, even if the time-series change in the requirement for aerosol production is due to aspiration that takes place over a longer period of time than usual, the first state is based on the thermal history of the load 132 resulting from that change. The conditions for distinguishing from the second state can be modified.

FIG. 13A is a graph conceptually showing a time-series change in the resistance value of the load 132 when the time required for cooling the load 132 becomes longer than in the normal case due to deterioration of the load 132 or the like. Is.

If the time required for cooling the load 132 becomes long, the next suction may start before the temperature of the load 132 returns to room temperature, even if the suction interval is normal. The graph of FIG. 13A shows such a situation. In FIG. 13A, the situation from the start to the end of the first suction is the same as in the case of the normal suction in FIG. When the first suction is completed, the temperature of the load 132 decreases, and the resistance value of the load 132 decreases accordingly. However, since the rate at which the temperature of the load 132 decreases is slow, the temperature of the load 132 is higher than room temperature at the start of the second suction. Therefore, the resistance value of the load 132 is also larger than the resistance value R ( _TRT = 25 ° C.) at room temperature. That is, unlike the example of FIG. 11, in the example of FIG. 13A, the heat history remains in the load 132 at the start of the second suction. Therefore, when the load 132 is heated for a second suction, the resistance value of the load 132 is _{R (T} B.P. = 200 ℃) Heyori arrives earlier, more aerosol source is heated This can produce more aerosols. Therefore, the aerosol source in the holding portion 130 tends to be insufficient. By repeating such behavior, the temperature of the load 132 can reach the threshold value (eg, 350 ° C.) shown in the embodiments described in connection with FIGS. 6, 7, and 10.

Even in such a case, the inventors of the present application use a threshold value for distinguishing between the first state and the second state in the embodiments as described in connection with FIGS. 6, 7, and 10. For example, by _modifying conditions such as Δt _threshold ) in step 614 based on the thermal history of the load 132, we have invented a technique capable of more appropriately controlling the aerosol generator 100 when the aerosol source is insufficient. Hereinafter, the technique will be described.

FIG. 13B is a flowchart showing a process of modifying the condition for distinguishing between the first state and the second state when the time required for cooling the load 132 is longer than that in the normal case according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Is.

The process is started in step 1302, and the control unit 106 acquires the initial temperature _Tini of the load 132 when the suction by the user is started and the circuit 134 of the aerosol generator 100A functions.

The process proceeds to step 1304, the control unit 106, based on the initial temperature _{T ini} and the predetermined function to get the above mentioned conditions (e.g., Delta] t _thre). In FIG. 13B, an example of a predetermined function F ( _{Ti ni} ) is shown next to step 1304. As described above, in step 1304, the process may be performed so that the higher the temperature of the load 132 when the circuit 134 of the aerosol generation device 100 functions, the smaller the _Δtthre . Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the control unit 106 sets the above conditions so that the higher the temperature of the load 132 when the circuit 134 functions, the less likely it is that the first state has occurred. It works to fix.

In the above description, the first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a method of operating an aerosol generator and an aerosol generator. However, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure may be implemented as a program that causes the processor to perform the method when executed by the processor, or as a computer-readable storage medium containing the program.

<Second embodiment>
For the aerosol generator 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, a shorter interval (for example, the time required to supply a sufficient amount of aerosol from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130) as compared with the case of normal suction. When suction is performed at short intervals), a temporary shortage of the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 may occur even if the storage unit 116 stores a sufficient amount of the aerosol source. A similar problem can occur when the suction capacity in one suction is larger than that in the case of normal suction. A similar problem can occur when the suction time in one suction is longer than that in the case of normal suction. These are just examples of suction where the problems mentioned above can occur. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that similar problems can arise due to unexpected suction patterns with various characteristics. The second embodiment of the present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems.

The basic configuration of the aerosol generator 100 according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the aerosol generator 100 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

The aerosol generator 100 according to the present embodiment may include a supply unit that allows adjustment of at least one of the amount or speed of the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130. The supply unit may be controlled by the control unit 106. The supply unit can be realized by various configurations such as a pump arranged between the storage unit 116 and the holding unit 130, a mechanism configured to control the opening of the storage unit 116 with respect to the atomizing unit 118, and the like. ..

The aerosol generator 100 according to this embodiment may include a temperature control unit that makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the aerosol source. The temperature control unit may be controlled by the control unit 106. The temperature control unit can be realized by various configurations and arrangements.

The aerosol generator 100 according to the present embodiment may include a change portion that makes it possible to change the ventilation resistance in the aerosol generator 100. The changing unit may be controlled by the control unit 106. The changed part can be realized by various configurations and arrangements.

The aerosol generation device 100 according to the present embodiment may include a request unit that outputs a request for aerosol generation. The requesting unit may be controlled by the control unit 106. The request unit can be realized by various configurations and arrangements.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process of suppressing a temporary shortage of the aerosol source of the holding unit 130 in the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

The process starts in step 1402. When the process starts, the control unit 106 sets the counter n _err to 0. The value of the counter _nerr may indicate the number of times unexpected suction was detected.

The process proceeds to step 1404, and the control unit 106 measures the suction interval, the suction capacity, the length of the suction time, and the like. These are just examples of the parameters that can be measured in step 1404. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the present embodiment can be realized by measuring various parameters in step 1404 that help detect unexpected suction.

The process proceeds to step 1406, where the control unit 106 compares the parameters measured in step 1404 with the corresponding parameters in normal suction to see if the current suction is a suction with unexpected characteristics. Is determined. For example, the control unit 106 may determine that the current suction is an unexpected suction when the measured suction interval is shorter than a predetermined threshold value. In another example, the control unit 106 may determine that the current suction is an unexpected suction when the measured suction capacity exceeds a predetermined threshold. In another example, the control unit 106 may determine that the current suction is an unexpected suction when the measured suction time is longer than a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, the control unit 106 uses the techniques described in connection with FIGS. 6, 7, 10, 12B and 13B for the first embodiment, with the current suction and the reservoir 116 being the aerosol source. It may be determined whether or not a state in which the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient (for example, the second state in the first embodiment) can be generated. For example, as described with respect to the first embodiment, the control unit 106 may make a determination in step 1406 based on the temperature change of the load 132 after the circuit 134 is activated. Alternatively, as described with respect to the first embodiment, the control unit 106 may make a determination in step 1406 based on a time-series change in the request from the request unit.

If the current suction is not an unexpected suction (“No” in step 1406), the process returns before step 1404. Alternatively, the process may be terminated.

If the current suction is an unexpected suction (“Yes” in step 1406), the reservoir 116 can supply the aerosol source but the holding 130 may run out of aerosol source (more specifically). This means that a dry state in which the temperature of the load 132 exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state) has been detected due to the shortage of the aerosol source in the holding portion 130. The process proceeds to step 1408, and the control unit 106 increments the value of the counter n _err .

The process proceeds to step 1410, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not the value of the counter n _err exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

If the value of the counter n _err exceeds a predetermined threshold (“Yes” in step 1410), the process proceeds to step 1414. In step 1414, the control unit 106 executes control for suppressing a temporary shortage of the aerosol source in the holding unit 130.

In step 1414, the control unit 106 holds the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 at least one time when the power supply 110 starts supplying power to the load 132 and when the power supply 110 completes supplying power to the load 132. Controls may be performed to increase or increase the likelihood that the holding amount will increase. Thereby, the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be suppressed.

As an example, in step 1414, the control unit 106 may execute a control in which the interval from the completion of the aerosol generation to the start of the next aerosol generation is made longer than the previous interval. As a result, the generation of aerosol is prohibited during the extended interval, and the time for supplying the aerosol source from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 can be secured. Therefore, the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be suppressed. In this example, the control unit 106 may modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the viscosity of the aerosol source, the remaining amount of the aerosol source, the electrical resistance of the load 132, and the temperature of the power supply 110. As a result, it is possible to prevent the interval from becoming excessively long, and it is possible to prevent the user experience from being deteriorated.

As an example, in step 1414, the control unit 106 may control the supply unit described above so as to increase at least one of the amount or rate of the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 without causing the user to feel inconvenience.

As an example, in step 1414, the control unit 106 may control the circuit to reduce the amount of aerosol produced.

As an example, in step 1414, the control unit 106 may control the temperature control unit described above so as to heat the aerosol source. A general liquid aerosol source has the property that its viscosity decreases as its temperature rises. That is, if the aerosol source is heated at a temperature at which no aerosol formation occurs, the amount or velocity of the aerosol source supplied from the storage portion 116 to the holding portion 130 by the capillary effect can be increased at least one of them. The control unit 106 may also control the temperature control unit to heat the aerosol source while the load 132 is not producing the aerosol. As a result, the aerosol source is supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 mainly when suction is not performed, so that the effect of heating can be easily obtained. The control unit 106 may also use the load 132 as a temperature control unit. As a result, it is not necessary to provide a separate heater for heating, and the configuration can be simplified and the cost can be reduced.

As an example, in step 1414, the control unit 106 may control the above-mentioned change unit so as to increase the ventilation resistance in the aerosol generator 100.

As an example, the control unit 106 controls the circuit 134 based on a correlation such that the larger the request from the above-mentioned request unit (for example, the larger the pressure change detected with respect to suction), the larger the amount of aerosol produced. You may. In step 1414, the control unit 106 may modify the correlation so that the amount of aerosol produced corresponding to the required magnitude is reduced.

As an example, the control unit 106 controls the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the next start of aerosol generation to be longer than the previous interval, and the power supply 110 to the load 132. At least one of the time when the power supply is started and the time when the power supply 110 completes the power supply to the load 132, the control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source in the holding unit 130 or the holding amount is increased without controlling the interval. It may be configured to be able to execute a second mode that controls to improve the possibility. In step 1414, the control unit 106 may execute the second mode in preference to the first mode. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 without causing the user to feel inconvenience.

The control unit 106 may also execute the first mode when the holding unit 130 further detects a dry state or a sign of the dry state after the execution of the second mode. As a result, the interval control is performed only when the temporary drying of the holding unit 130 cannot be suppressed by means other than the interval control which may impair the convenience of the user, so that the convenience of the user is ensured. And the suppression of the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be achieved at the same time.

When the process 1400 shown in FIG. 14 is performed a plurality of times, the control unit 106 may select the process to be executed in step 1414 from the various processes as described above. For example, among the processes that can be executed in step 1414, the process that imposes a small burden on the user may be preferentially executed. If the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding unit 130 cannot be suppressed even if the processing is executed, a processing that imposes a greater burden on the user may be executed.

If the value of the counter n _err does not exceed a predetermined threshold (“No” in step 1410), the process proceeds to step 1412. In step 1412, the control unit 106 warns the user. It is desirable that the warning be such that the user can easily understand that the influence of the current suction may prevent the production of a sufficient aerosol. For example, the control unit 106 may make the notification unit 108 function based on the above-mentioned dry state or the detection of the precursor of the dry state. When the notification unit 108 is a light emitting element such as an LED, a display, a speaker, a vibrator, or the like, the control unit 106 may cause the notification unit 108 to perform operations such as light emission, display, vocalization, and vibration. .. As a result, the user can refrain from sucking, and as a result, the time for supplying the aerosol source from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 can be secured. Therefore, temporary drying of the holding portion 130, recurrence of drying, and the like can be suppressed.

As an example, in step 1412, when the control unit 106 functions the notification unit 108 once or a plurality of times and then detects a dry state or a sign of a dry state, the next interval is made longer than the previous interval. Control may be performed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding unit 130 without inconvenience the user from the beginning. In this example, the control unit 106 may modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the viscosity of the aerosol source, the remaining amount of the aerosol source, the electrical resistance of the load 132, and the temperature of the power supply 110.

In one embodiment, the control unit 106 is the period from the completion of aerosol production until an aerosol source in an amount equal to or larger than the amount used for producing the aerosol is supplied from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130. At the interval corresponding to, control to suppress the formation of aerosol or control to improve the possibility of suppressing the formation of aerosol may be executed. As a result, the occurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be effectively suppressed. In this example, the control unit 106 controls the notification unit 108 in the first mode while generating the aerosol, and controls the notification unit 108 in the second mode different from the first mode during the above interval. You may. As a result, the user can refrain from sucking, and as a result, the time for supplying the aerosol source from the storage unit 116 to the holding unit 130 can be secured. Therefore, temporary drying of the holding portion 130, recurrence of drying, and the like can be suppressed. The control unit 106 may also control the notification unit 108 in a third mode different from the second mode when a request from the request unit is acquired during the above interval. The control unit 106 may also control the circuit 134 to prohibit the production of aerosols during the interval. This makes it difficult for the amount of aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 to decrease during the interval. As a result, the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be suppressed. The control unit 106 may also modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the magnitude and change of the request from the request unit. As a result, the length of the interval is corrected according to the suction pattern, so that the occurrence or recurrence of temporary drying of the holding portion 130 can be suppressed by an appropriate suction interval.

FIG. 15 shows a specific example of calibration of the suction interval performed in the process 1400 of FIG. The control unit 106 can calibrate the current suction interval A using the correction coefficients obtained by various methods.

The control unit 106 may include a suction capacity lead-out unit 1510, a suction interval lead-out unit 1512, a liquid viscosity lead-out unit 1514, and a holding unit contact amount lead-out unit 1518, or may be configured to function as these components. The aerosol generator 100 may include at least one of a flow rate or flow velocity sensor 1502, a temperature sensor 1506, a current sensor 1508, and a voltage sensor 1510. The aerosol generator 100 may also include means for detecting the liquid physical properties 1504 of the aerosol source.

As shown in FIG. 15, the suction capacity deriving unit 1510 derives the suction capacity based on the flow rate or flow velocity value detected by the flow rate or flow velocity sensor 1502. The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α1 from the derived suction capacity based on the predetermined relationship 1522 between the suction capacity and the correction coefficient α1.

The suction interval derivation unit 1512 derives the suction interval based on the flow rate or flow velocity value detected by the flow rate or flow velocity sensor 1502. The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α2 from the derived suction capacitance based on the predetermined relationship 1524 between the suction interval and the correction coefficient α2.

The liquid viscosity deriving unit 1514 derives the liquid viscosity based on the liquid physical properties of the aerosol source and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 1506. The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α3 from the derived liquid viscosity based on the predetermined relationship 1526 between the liquid viscosity and the correction coefficient α3.

The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α4 from the detected outside air temperature based on the predetermined relationship 1528 between the outside air temperature 1516 detected by the temperature sensor 1506 and the correction coefficient α4.

The holding unit contact amount deriving unit 1518 derives the holding unit contact amount based on the current value detected by the current sensor 1508 and the voltage value detected by the voltage sensor 1510. The amount of contact with the holding portion is an amount indicating how much the holding portion 130 contacts the aerosol source stored in the storage portion 116. The amount of the aerosol source supplied from the storage portion 116 to the holding portion 130 varies depending on the contact amount of the holding portion due to the capillary effect. As a result of fluctuations in the amount of aerosol source supplied to the holding portion 130, the temperature of the load 132 also fluctuates. Therefore, the holding portion is based on the resistance value of the load 132 derived using the current sensor 1508 and the voltage sensor 1510. The contact amount can be derived. The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α5 from the derived holding unit contact amount based on the predetermined relationship 1530 between the holding unit contact amount and the correction coefficient α5.

The control unit 106 obtains the correction coefficient α6 based on the predetermined relationship 1532 between the heater resistance value 1520 derived from the detected current value and voltage value and the correction coefficient α6.

The control unit 106 can apply the correction coefficients α1 to α6 obtained as described above to the current suction interval A by various methods. For example, the control unit 106 may obtain the configured suction interval A'by using the value obtained by multiplying A by the value obtained by adding the correction coefficients α1 to α6 as the total correction coefficient.

These are only examples of methods for deriving the correction coefficient, and various methods can be applied. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the aerosol generator 100 can be variously configured to specifically implement the process conceptually shown in FIG.

In the above description, the second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a method of operating an aerosol generator and an aerosol generator. However, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure may be implemented as a program that causes the processor to perform the method when executed by the processor, or as a computer-readable storage medium containing the program.

<Third embodiment>
As described with respect to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol source stored in the reservoir is in the first state shortage, or the aerosol source that the reservoir can supply but the retainer holds is It is feasible to have an aerosol generator that can distinguish whether it is in the deficient second state. A third embodiment of the present disclosure described below makes it possible to appropriately control an aerosol generator having such characteristics.

Configuration (eg, configuration described in relation to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, 3, 8, etc.) and operating method (eg, eg) of the aerosol generator described with respect to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 10, FIG. 12B, FIG. 13B, etc., and an operating method of the aerosol generator described with respect to the second embodiment of the present disclosure (eg, FIG. 14, FIG. The process described in relation to FIG. 15 and the like) can be used as an example of the present embodiment.

In one example, the aerosol generator 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure obtains a power source 110, a load 132 that generates heat by receiving power from the power source 110 and atomizes the aerosol source, and a value related to the temperature of the load 132. The load 132 can heat the element 112 used for the above, the circuit 134 that electrically connects the power supply 110 and the load 132, the storage unit 116 that stores the aerosol source, and the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit 116. A holding unit 130 for holding and a control unit 106 are provided. The control unit 106 is the first, in which the aerosol generator 100 lacks the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116, based on changes in values related to the temperature of the load 132 after or while the circuit 134 is functioning. It distinguishes whether it is in a state or in a second state in which the storage unit 116 can supply an aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient, and if the first state is detected, the first state. The control may be executed, and when the second state is detected, the second control different from the first control may be executed. As a result, the control when the shortage of the aerosol source of the storage unit 116 is detected and the control when the shortage of the aerosol source of the holding unit 130 is detected are different. Therefore, it is appropriate according to the event occurring in the aerosol generation device 100. Control can be performed.

In one example, in the first state, the temperature of the load 132 exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or the temperature at which the aerosol source is generated due to the evaporation of the aerosol source due to the shortage of the aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116. In the second state, the reservoir 116 can supply the aerosol source, but the holding unit 130 lacks the aerosol source, so that the temperature of the load 132 becomes the boiling point of the aerosol source or the evaporation of the aerosol source of the aerosol source. Exceeds the temperature at which the formation occurs.

In one example, the above-mentioned second control reduces the amount of aerosol source stored in the reservoir 116 more than the above-mentioned first control. As a result, the remaining amount of aerosol in the storage unit 116 and the remaining amount of aerosol in the holding unit 130 can be maintained at appropriate values according to the event.

In one example, the control performed by the control unit 106 in the second control modifies a larger number of variables and / or a larger amount of algorithms than the control performed by the control unit 106 in the first control. The first control is executed when the first state (a state in which the aerosol source stored in the storage unit 116 is insufficient) is detected. Therefore, the first control may only include instructing the user to replace the reservoir 116 or replenish the aerosol. On the other hand, the second control is executed when the second state (a state in which the storage unit 116 can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 is insufficient) is detected. Thus, the second control may include, for example, various controls that may be included in the process of step 1414 of FIG. 14 described in connection with the second embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the second control increases the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit 130 at least when the power supply 110 starts supplying power to the load 132 and when the power supply 110 completes supplying power to the load 132. Controls may be included or controls that increase the likelihood that the retained amount will increase. The second control may also include a control that makes the interval from the completion of aerosol production to the start of next aerosol production longer than the previous interval. The length of the interval may be modified based on at least one of the viscosity of the aerosol source, the remaining amount of the aerosol source, the electrical resistance of the load 132, and the temperature of the power supply 110. The second control may also include a control that increases at least one of the amount or rate of the aerosol source supplied from the reservoir 116 to the retainer 130. The second control may also include controlling the circuit 134 to reduce the amount of aerosol produced. The second control may also include controlling the temperature control section to heat the aerosol source. The second control may also include controlling the temperature control section to heat the aerosol source while the load 132 is not producing the aerosol. The second control may also include controlling the above-mentioned change to increase the ventilation resistance in the aerosol generator 100. The second control may also include controlling the circuit 134 based on a correlation such that the greater the request from the requesting unit, the greater the amount of aerosol produced. The second control may also include modifying the correlation so that the amount of aerosol produced corresponding to the required magnitude is reduced. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, a large number of variables and / or a large amount of algorithms need to be modified in order to perform the second control as compared to the first control.

In one example, the number of tasks required of the user to allow the production of aerosols in the second control is less than the number of tasks required of the user to permit the production of aerosols in the first control. For example, in the case of the first control, the user must perform the work of replacing the storage unit 116, the work of replenishing the storage unit 116 with an aerosol source, and the like. On the other hand, the second control may include various controls as described above, which are automatically performed by components of the aerosol generator 100, such as the control unit 106, without requiring the user to perform any work. It is possible. From at least these things, in the present embodiment, the number of operations required of the user to allow the aerosol to be produced in the second control is required to the user to allow the aerosol to be produced in the first control. It will be understood that it can be less than the number of tasks done.

In one example, the control unit 106 may prohibit the production of aerosols in the first control and the second control for at least a predetermined period of time. As a result, the aerosol generator 100 can be disabled in both the first state and the second state, so that the temperature of the load 132 can be prevented from further rising. Disabling means that even if the user operates the aerosol generator 100, the load 132 is not supplied with power.

The period during which the aerosol production is prohibited in the second control may be shorter than the period during which the aerosol production is prohibited in the first control. In order to return from the first state to the state where normal control is possible, work such as replacing the storage unit 116 is required, but in order to return from the second state to the state where normal control is possible, such work is required. No work is required. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the disabling control from being executed for an unnecessarily long time.

In one example, the first control and the second control each have a return condition for shifting from a state in which aerosol production is prohibited to a state in which aerosol production is permitted. Restoration means returning to a state in which the user can operate the aerosol generator 100 to supply power to the load 132. The return condition in the first control may be set to be stricter than the return condition in the second control. For example, the return condition in the first control includes a larger number of conditions to be satisfied than the return condition in the second control. In another example, the return condition in the first control requires more man-hours for the user than the return condition in the second control. In another example, the return condition in the first control takes longer to execute than the return condition in the second control. In another example, the return condition in the first control is not completed only by the control by the control unit 106 and requires manual work by the user, while the return condition in the second control is completed only by the control by the control unit 106. .. In another example, even if the return condition in the second control is satisfied, the return condition in the first control is not satisfied. The number of replacement operations of the components of the aerosol generator 100 included in the return condition in the first control may be larger than the number of replacement operations of the components of the aerosol generator 100 included in the return condition in the second control. Good.

In one example, the aerosol generator 100 may include one or more notification units 108. The number of notification units 108 functioning in the first control may be larger than the number of notification units 108 functioning in the second control. This makes it easier for the user to recognize the lack of an aerosol source when the user's work is required to return to the normal state. As a result, an early return is possible. In another example, the time during which the notification unit 108 functions in the first control may be longer than the time during which the notification unit 108 functions in the second control. In another example, the amount of power supplied from the power supply 110 to the notification unit 2 in the first control may be larger than the amount of power supplied from the power supply 110 to the notification unit 2 in the second control.

In the above description, the third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a method of operating an aerosol generator and an aerosol generator. However, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure may be implemented as a program that causes the processor to perform the method when executed by the processor, or as a computer-readable storage medium containing the program.

Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that modifications, additions, improvements, etc. of embodiments can be made as appropriate without departing from the gist and scope of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the embodiments described above, but should be defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

100A, 100B ... Aerosol generator, 102 ... 1st member, 104 ... 2nd member, 106 ... Control unit, 108 ... Notification unit, 110 ... Power supply, 112 ... Element, 114 ... Memory, 116 ... Storage unit, 118 ... Atomized part, 120 ... Air intake flow path, 121 ... Aerosol flow path, 122 ... Mouthpiece part, 126 ... Third member, 128 ... Flavor source, 130 ... Holding part, 132 ... Load, 134 ... Circuit, 202 , 302 ... 1st path, 204, 304 ... 2nd path, 206, 210 ... Switch, 208, 308, 808 ... Constant voltage output circuit, 212, 222, 312, 812, 822 ... Resistance, 214, 226, 314, 322, 814, 826 ... Capacitors, 218, 818 ... Error amplifiers, 220, 820 ... Reference voltage sources, 318 ... inductors, 320 ... Diodes, 802 ... Single path, 1502 ... Voltage sensors, 1504 ... Liquid properties, 1506 ... Temperature sensor, 1508 ... Current sensor, 1510 ... Suction capacity extraction unit, 1512 ... Suction interval extraction unit, 1514 ... Liquid viscosity extraction unit, 1516 ... Outside temperature, 1518 ... Holding unit contact amount extraction unit, 1520 ... Heater resistance value

Claims (25)

Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A notification unit that notifies the user and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holder is insufficient. If
Control to increase the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit or the holding amount at least when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Performs controls that increase the likelihood that
Control is performed to make the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the start of next aerosol production longer than the previous interval.
Make the notification unit function
When the notification unit is activated once or a plurality of times and then the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the control unit is configured to control the next interval to be longer than the previous interval. When,
To prepare
Aerosol generator. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A request section that outputs a request for aerosol generation, and
Based on the thermal history of the load resulting from the time-series changes in the requirements, the temperature of the load due to the reservoir being able to supply the aerosol source but lacking the aerosol source held by the retainer. Modify the conditions for detecting a dry state above the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor to the dry state.
When the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected, the holding portion holds the power supply at least one time when the power supply starts supplying power to the load and when the power supply completes supplying power to the load. A control unit configured to execute a control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source or a control for improving the possibility of increasing the holding amount.
To prepare
Aerosol generator. Equipped with a notification unit that notifies the user
The control unit is configured to function the notification unit when it detects the dry state or a precursor of the dry state.
The aerosol generator according to claim 2. When the control unit detects the dry state or the precursor of the dry state, the control unit controls to make the interval from the completion of the aerosol generation to the start of the next aerosol generation longer than the previous interval. Consists of
The aerosol generator according to claim 2. Equipped with a notification unit that notifies the user
The control unit
When the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the notification unit is made to function.
When the notification unit is made to function once or a plurality of times and then the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the control is configured to make the next interval longer than the previous interval.
The aerosol generator according to claim 4. The control unit is configured to modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the viscosity of the aerosol source, the remaining amount of the aerosol source, the electrical resistance of the load, and the temperature of the power supply.
The aerosol generator according to claim 1 . Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A supply unit that allows adjustment of at least one of the amount or rate of the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit to the holding unit.
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holder is insufficient. If
Control to increase the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit or the holding amount at least when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Performs controls that increase the likelihood that
A control unit configured to control the supply unit so as to increase at least one of the amount or rate of the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit to the holding unit.
An aerosol generator. The control unit is configured to control the circuit so as to reduce the amount of aerosol produced when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected.
The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A temperature control section that makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the aerosol source,
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the storage unit can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holding unit is insufficient. If
Control to increase the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit or the holding amount at least when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Performs controls that increase the likelihood that
A control unit configured to control the temperature control unit so as to heat the aerosol source.
An aerosol generator. The control unit is configured to control the temperature control unit to heat the aerosol source while the aerosol is not generated by the load.
The aerosol generator according to claim 9. The control unit is configured to use the load as the temperature control unit.
The aerosol generator according to claim 9 or 10. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A change part that makes it possible to change the ventilation resistance in the aerosol generator,
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holder is insufficient. If
Control to increase the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit or the holding amount at least when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Performs controls that increase the likelihood that
A control unit configured to control the change unit so as to increase the ventilation resistance, and a control unit.
To prepare
Aerosol generator. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A request section that outputs a request for aerosol generation, and
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holder is insufficient. In the case, control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding portion or at least one of the times when the power supply starts supplying power to the load and when the power supply completes supplying power to the load. Perform controls that increase the likelihood of increased retention,
The circuit is controlled based on a correlation such that the larger the requirement is, the larger the amount of aerosol produced.
When the dry state or the precursor of the dry state is detected, the control unit is configured to correct the correlation so that the amount of aerosol produced corresponding to the required magnitude is reduced.
An aerosol generator. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
A dry state in which the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source or a precursor of the dry state is detected because the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the holder is insufficient. In the case, control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding portion or at least one of the times when the power supply starts supplying power to the load and when the power supply completes supplying power to the load. Perform controls that increase the likelihood of increased retention,
The first mode, which controls the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the start of next aerosol generation to be longer than the previous interval, and when the power source starts supplying power to the load and the power source. A second mode in which, at least one of the times when the feeding to the load is completed, a control for increasing the holding amount or a control for improving the possibility of increasing the holding amount is performed without controlling the interval. Is possible and
A control unit configured to execute the second mode in preference to the first mode when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is detected.
An aerosol generator. The control unit is configured to execute the first mode when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is further detected after the execution of the second mode.
The aerosol generator according to claim 14. The control unit is configured to detect the dry state based on the temperature change of the load after the circuit is operated.
The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 15. A method of operating an aerosol generator,
The step of heating the load to atomize the aerosol source,
The stored aerosol source is not insufficient, but the aerosol source is maintained in a state where it can be heated by the load. Due to the shortage of the aerosol source, the temperature of the load exceeds the boiling point of the aerosol source. When the precursor of the above is detected, the control for increasing the holding amount of the aerosol source to be held or the holding amount is increased at least one of the time when the power supply to the load is started and the time when the power supply to the load is completed. Steps to perform controls that increase the likelihood of
When the dry state or a sign of the dry state is detected,
A step to execute control to make the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the next start of aerosol generation longer than the previous interval, and
Steps to notify the user and
A method including a step of controlling the next interval to be longer than the previous interval when the dry state or a precursor of the dry state is further detected after the notification is given once or a plurality of times. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source, and a holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated.
A request section that outputs a request for aerosol generation, and
After the completion of aerosol formation, at intervals corresponding to the period from which the aerosol source is supplied from the reservoir to the retainer in an amount equal to or greater than the amount used to generate the aerosol, the aerosol is generated. Control to suppress the formation of aerosols or control to increase the likelihood that aerosol formation is suppressed,
A control unit configured to modify the length of the interval based on at least one of the magnitude and change of the requirement.
To prepare
Aerosol generator. Equipped with a notification unit that notifies the user
The control unit
While the aerosol is being generated, the notification unit is controlled in the first mode.
During the interval, the notification unit is configured to be controlled in a second mode different from the first mode.
The aerosol generator according to claim 18. The control unit is configured to control the notification unit in a third mode different from the second mode when the request is acquired during the interval.
The aerosol generator according to claim 19. The control unit is configured to control the circuit to prohibit the production of aerosols during the interval.
The aerosol generator according to claim 18. A method of operating an aerosol generator,
Steps to heat the load to atomize the aerosol source and produce an aerosol,
After the completion of aerosol production, at intervals corresponding to the period until the load is maintained in a heatable state by the stored aerosol source in an amount equal to or larger than the amount used for producing the aerosol. Steps to perform control to suppress aerosol production or control to increase the likelihood that aerosol production will be suppressed.
A method comprising the step of modifying the length of the interval based on at least one of the magnitude and variation of the requirement for aerosol production. Power supply and
A load that receives power from the power source, generates heat, and atomizes the aerosol source.
The elements used to obtain the values related to the temperature of the load,
A circuit that electrically connects the power supply and the load,
A storage unit that stores the aerosol source and
A notification unit that notifies the user and
A holding unit that holds the aerosol source supplied from the storage unit in a state in which the load can be heated, and a holding unit.
When the reservoir can supply the aerosol source but the aerosol source held by the retainer is insufficient.
Control to increase the holding amount of the aerosol source held by the holding unit or the holding amount at least when the power source starts supplying power to the load and when the power source completes supplying power to the load. Performs controls that increase the likelihood that
The notification unit is made to function to control the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the start of next aerosol generation to be longer than the previous interval.
After the notification unit is made to function once or a plurality of times, when the storage unit further detects a state in which the aerosol source can be supplied but the aerosol source held by the holding unit is insufficient, the next interval is set. A control unit configured to control the interval longer than the previous interval,
To prepare
Aerosol generator. A method of operating an aerosol generator,
The step of heating the load to atomize the aerosol source,
When the aerosol source to be stored is not insufficient, but the aerosol source to be kept in a state where it can be heated by the load is insufficient.
Control to increase the holding amount of the retained aerosol source or control to improve the possibility of increasing the holding amount at least one of the time when the power supply to the load is started and the time when the power supply to the load is completed. And the steps to perform
A step to execute control to make the interval from the completion of aerosol generation to the next start of aerosol generation longer than the previous interval, and
Steps to notify the user and
After the notification is given once or a plurality of times, when it is detected that the aerosol source to be stored is not insufficient but the aerosol source to be kept in a state where it can be heated by the load is insufficient. A method comprising controlling the next said interval to be longer than the previous interval. A program that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 17, 22 and 24.