TW201826951A - Inhaling device, and method and program for running the same - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is an inhaling device capable of easily managing residual amount of an element required for inhaling of aerosol or aerosol added with fragrance. An inhaling device 100B includes a first element 126 and a second element 104 contributing to generation of aerosol or aerosol added with fragrance, a notification unit 108 performing notification to an inhaler of the aerosol, and a controller 106 rendering the notification unit 108 to work with a first mode when a first amount detected or estimated for the first element 126 is lower than a first threshold value and a second amount detected or estimated for the second element 104 is equal to or higher than a second threshold value, and rendering the notification unit 108 to work with a second mode different from the first mode when the first amount is lower than the first threshold value and the second amount is lower than the second threshold value. Regarding a frequency of performing an operation for bringing back a state having an amount required for continuously generating aerosol, the frequency of the first element 126 is higher than that of the second element 104.

Description

 Suction device and method and program for making it  

The present disclosure relates to a suction device for generating an aerosol or a flavored aerosol for a user to take, and a method and program for operating such a suction device.

In a general electronic cigarette, a nebulizer or the like, which is used to generate an aerosol for the user to absorb, if the aerosol source is not replaced after each specific number of breaths, The unit used to add fragrance to the source of the fragrance in the mist does not provide sufficient experience for the user to absorb.

As a solution to this problem, a known technique uses a light emitting diode (LED) or the like to notify a user to cause a user to replace a unit. However, even if the timing of the need to replace the source of the aerosol or the source of the fragrance is notified, the user does not necessarily notice the LED at that point in time, so the notification by the LED is used while the user is taking the aerosol. In the case of the situation, it is easy to be seen.

As another solution to this problem, Patent Document 1 discloses an electronic vapor supply device that enters a sleep mode when the accumulated time of suction exceeds a predetermined threshold. However, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not visually notify the user, and therefore it is not always necessary to prompt the user to replace the unit at an appropriate timing.

Moreover, in order to satisfy the suction using a general electronic cigarette or a sprayer, it is necessary to manage not only the remaining amount of the battery that supplies electric power to the atomization unit but also the remaining amount of the aerosol source for generating the aerosol, and The remaining amount of flavor source used to add flavor to the aerosol. However, most of the units necessary for the suction of the aerosol vary greatly in the point or frequency at which the capacity is restored due to the individual characteristics and the mounting capacity. Therefore, it is not a simple matter for the user to restore the capacity of the plurality of units at appropriate points.

As a solution to this problem, Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for interlocking a point of replacement of a first liquid cartridge having an aerosol source and a replacement timing of a second liquid helium having a fragrance source. However, there is still an improvement in how to make it easier for the user to know the necessity of the reply of the plurality of units necessary for the absorption when the user has a large difference in the time or frequency of the reply capacity. room.

In addition, a suction device such as an electronic cigarette and a sprayer for providing an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavor source for flavoring into the aerosol is provided, and the aerosol source is not properly managed. And the remaining amount of the fragrance source, it is impossible to provide a sufficient suction experience for the user. However, the source of the aerosol and the source of the fragrance have a large difference in the point or frequency at which the capacity is recovered. Therefore, it is not a simple matter to properly manage the remaining amounts of the two units separately.

As a solution to this problem, Patent Document 2 discloses that the replacement time point of the first liquid helium having the gas mist source and the replacement time point of the second liquid helium having the flavor source are linked, thereby reducing the remaining amount of managing the two liquid cells. The technology of the burden. Further, Patent Document 2 also discloses a technique for reducing the burden of managing the remaining amount of the two units by notifying the timing of replacement of the first liquid helium and the second liquid helium. However, it is difficult to discriminate whether the replacement of the second liquid helium at the time of replacement of the units or the point at which the first liquid helium is replaced is still possible, and there is still room for improvement. In addition, there is still room for improvement as to the manner in which the point of replacement of such units should be notified to prompt the user to return the capacity of the plurality of units to be able to continue pumping.

 [Previous Technical Literature]    [Patent Literature]  

Patent Document 1: WO2015/052513

Patent Document 2: WO2016/076178

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

The first problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to provide a point in time for the user to easily know the replacement, filling, charging, etc. of the unit necessary for the suction of a gas mist or a flavored aerosol. Device.

The second problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to provide a possibility of reducing the possibility of resuming the user's negligence without recovering the capacity of the unit for the aerosol or the scented aerosol. Device.

A third object to be solved by the present disclosure is to provide a suction device which can easily manage the remaining amount of the unit necessary for the suction of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol.

In order to solve the above-described first problem, according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a suction device comprising: an air mist which contributes to an aerosol or a fragrance by consuming a stored capacity. a generated unit; a sensor configured to detect a predetermined variable; a notification unit configured to notify the aspirator of the aerosol; and configured to detect or infer that the aforementioned capacity is below a threshold And the control unit that causes the notification unit to function in the first mode, in a case where the predetermined variable satisfies a predetermined condition to be obtained by the gas mist.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to stop the generation of the gas mist when the notification unit functions in the first mode.

In one embodiment, the condition in which the capacity is lower than the threshold value is stricter than the case where the capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

In one embodiment, the condition that the capacity is lower than the threshold is satisfied, and the possibility that the condition is satisfied when the capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold is low.

In one embodiment, the foregoing conditions include detection of the aforementioned variables that exceed a predetermined duration. The duration of the case where the capacity is lower than the threshold is longer than the duration in which the capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold.

In one embodiment, the foregoing conditions include detection of the aforementioned variables having an absolute value that exceeds a predetermined value. The predetermined value in the case where the capacity is lower than the threshold value is larger than the predetermined value in the case where the capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light emitting element. The control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in the second mode during the generation of the aerosol. In the first mode and the second mode, the illuminating colors of the light-emitting elements are the same. The light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements are different in the first mode and the second mode.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light emitting element. The control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in the second mode during the generation of the aerosol. In the first mode and the second mode, the illuminating colors of the light-emitting elements are different. In the first mode and the second mode described above, the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements are the same.

In one embodiment, the suction device comprises a plurality of the aforementioned units. The control unit is configured to be the unit having the highest frequency of returning to the state in which the capacity required to continue to generate the gas mist is returned to the plurality of units, and only the capacity is lower than the threshold value, and the variables are satisfied. In order to generate the predetermined conditions to be achieved by the above-described gas mist, the notification unit functions in the first mode described above.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in a plurality of modes including the first mode, and to cause the notification unit to function in the first mode among the plurality of modes The longest time.

In one embodiment, the suction device comprises a plurality of the aforementioned units. The control unit is configured to be the unit having the highest frequency of returning to the state in which the capacity required to continue to generate the gas mist is returned to the plurality of units, and only the capacity is lower than the threshold value, and the variables are satisfied. In order to generate the predetermined conditions to be achieved by the above-described gas mist, the notification unit functions in the first mode described above.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to estimate that the capacity has returned to a predetermined value after the notification unit functions in the first mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to count the number of times the capacity of the unit has returned to a predetermined value after the notification unit functions in the first mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in a plurality of modes including the first mode, and to cause the notification unit to function in the first mode among the plurality of modes The longest time.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit when at least one of the units is removed.

According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating a suction device, the method comprising: a unit configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming a stored capacity a step of determining whether the detected or inferred capacity is below a threshold; determining whether the detected predetermined variable satisfies a predetermined condition to be achieved by the aerosol; and the aforementioned low capacity detected or inferred In the case where the threshold value is satisfied and the variables satisfy the predetermined conditions, a predetermined notification step is performed on the smoker of the gas mist.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program executed by a processor to cause the processor to execute the above method.

In order to solve the second problem described above, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a suction device comprising: an aerosol which is configured to contribute to an aerosol or a fragrance by consuming a stored capacity. a plurality of generated units; a notification unit configured to notify the smoker of the gas mist; and a configuration in which predetermined conditions set for the unit are satisfied for each of the plurality of units a control unit that causes the notification unit to function, wherein the predetermined condition includes a condition that the detected or inferred capacity is below a threshold set for the unit; and the plurality of units are restored to have The higher the frequency of the recovery operation in the state in which the capacity required for the gas mist is continued, the stricter the aforementioned conditions.

In one embodiment, the higher the frequency of the plurality of cells, the lower the likelihood that the conditions are satisfied.

In one embodiment, the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the more conditions are included in the conditions.

In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to obtain a request for the generation of the aerosol, and the condition of the unit having the highest frequency among the plurality of units includes the detection of the request.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured such that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the longer the time for the notification unit to function when the conditions are satisfied.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light emitting element. The control unit is configured to set different illuminating colors of the light-emitting elements for each of the plurality of units.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set a luminescent color of each of the plurality of cells in accordance with the frequency of each of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light-emitting element, and the control unit is configured to set a light-emitting color of the light-emitting element to be closer to a cool color system in a higher frequency of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the light-emitting element so that the light-emitting element of the light-emitting element is satisfied when the condition is satisfied, for the unit having the highest frequency among the plurality of units. The light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements among the aforementioned aerosol generation are the same.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light-emitting element, and the control unit is configured to set a light-emitting color of the light-emitting element closer to a warm color system for the lower of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells is detected or inferred by a method different from a capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the aforementioned capacity of at least two of the plurality of cells is detected or inferred in the same manner.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit when at least one of the units is removed.

According to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating a suction device, the method comprising: a plurality of aerosols that contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming the accumulated capacity Each of the units determines whether or not the predetermined condition set for the unit is satisfied, wherein the predetermined condition includes a condition that the detected or inferred capacity is below a threshold set for the unit And, in the case where the predetermined condition is satisfied, the step of notifying the aspirator of the gas mist is performed, and the plurality of cells are returned to a state having a capacity necessary for continuing to generate the gas mist. The higher the frequency of replying to the job, the stricter the aforementioned conditions.

Further, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program for causing the processor to execute the above method by being executed by a processor.

Further, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a suction device comprising: a plurality of units configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming an accumulated capacity; a notification unit that notifies the smoker of the gas mist; and configured to detect, or infer, a volume below the threshold set for the unit for the unit of the plurality of units and for the unit The predetermined condition is satisfied, and the control unit that functions as the notification unit functions; and the frequency of the recovery operation in which the plurality of units return to the state having the capacity necessary for continuing to generate the gas mist is higher. The stricter the aforementioned conditions.

Further, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating a suction device, the method comprising: assisting in generating an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming a stored capacity a unit of each of the plurality of units, determining whether the detected or inferred capacity is below a threshold set for the unit; determining whether the predetermined condition set for the unit is satisfied; and detecting If the measured or estimated capacity is below the threshold value and the predetermined condition is satisfied, the predetermined step of notifying the aerosol smear; and recovering from the plurality of units to continue to generate the aerosol The higher the frequency of the return operation of the state of the necessary capacity, the stricter the aforementioned conditions.

Further, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program for causing the processor to execute the above method by being executed by a processor.

In order to solve the above-described third problem, according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a suction device comprising: an air mist which contributes to an aerosol or a fragrance by consuming a stored capacity. a first unit and a second unit; a notification unit configured to notify the aerosol smear; and a first capacity detected or inferred for the first unit being lower than a first threshold and directed to When the second capacity detected or estimated by the second unit is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the notification unit functions in the first mode, and the first capacity is lower than the first threshold and the second capacity is low. In the case of the second threshold value, the notification unit is configured to function in a second mode different from the first mode; and the first unit is returned to a state having a capacity necessary to continue generating aerosol The frequency of the reply operation is higher than the frequency for the second unit.

In one embodiment, the notification unit includes a light-emitting element, and the control unit is configured to cause the light-emitting element to emit light in different light-emitting colors in the first mode and the second mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set a luminescent color of the light-emitting element in the first mode to be closer to a cool color system than the second mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in the first mode and the second mode.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to make the notification unit function in the first mode to be shorter than the second mode.

In one embodiment, the suction device further includes a sensor configured to detect a predetermined variable. The control unit is configured such that the first capacity is lower than the first threshold, and the second capacity is equal to or greater than the second threshold, and the variable satisfies a predetermined condition to be generated by the gas mist, and the notification unit is configured to The aforementioned first mode functions.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to stop the generation of the gas mist when the notification unit functions in the first mode.

In one embodiment, the condition that the first capacity is lower than the first threshold is stricter than the condition that the first capacity is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

In one embodiment, the condition that the first capacity is lower than the first threshold is satisfied, and the possibility that the first condition is equal to or higher than the first threshold is satisfied. .

In one embodiment, the foregoing conditions include detection of the aforementioned variables that exceed a predetermined duration. The duration of the case where the first capacity is lower than the first threshold is longer than the duration in which the first capacity is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

In one embodiment, the foregoing conditions include detection of the aforementioned variables having an absolute value that exceeds a predetermined value. The predetermined value in the case where the first capacity is lower than the first threshold value is larger than the predetermined value in a case where the first capacity is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit including the light-emitting element to function in the third mode during the generation of the aerosol. In the first mode and the third mode, the illuminating colors of the illuminating elements are the same, and in the first mode and the third mode, the illuminating elements of the illuminating elements are different.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit including the light-emitting element to function in the third mode during the generation of the aerosol. In the first mode and the third mode, the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements are different, and in the first mode and the third mode, the light-emitting elements have the same light-emitting pattern.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to estimate that the first capacity has returned to a predetermined value after the function of the notification unit that is played in the first mode is completed.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to count the number of times the first capacity has returned to a predetermined value after the function of the notification unit that is played in the first mode is completed.

In one embodiment, the suction device includes a plurality of units including at least the first and second units, and is configured to contribute to aerosol or fragrance by consuming the accumulated capacity. The producer of the mist. The control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function when a predetermined condition set for the unit is satisfied for each of the plurality of units, wherein the predetermined condition includes detection Or the inferred capacity is below the threshold set for the unit. The higher the aforementioned frequency among the plurality of units, the stricter the aforementioned conditions.

In one embodiment, the higher the frequency of the plurality of cells, the lower the likelihood that the conditions are satisfied.

In one embodiment, the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the more conditions are included in the conditions.

In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to obtain a request to generate the aerosol. The foregoing conditions of the highest frequency unit among the plurality of units include the detection of the foregoing requirements.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured such that the higher the frequency of the plurality of units, the longer the time for the notification unit to function when the conditions are satisfied.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set the illuminating colors of the light-emitting elements included in the notification unit corresponding to each of the plurality of units to be different.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set a luminescent color of the light-emitting element corresponding to each of the plurality of cells based on the frequency of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element included in the notification unit to be closer to the cool color system, in which the frequency is higher among the plurality of units.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the light-emitting element so that the light-emitting element of the light-emitting element satisfies the above-described condition, and the light-emitting color of the light-emitting element in the case where the frequency is the highest among the plurality of cells The illuminating colors of the aforementioned light-emitting elements in the generation of the aerosol are the same.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element included in the notification unit to be closer to the warm color system in the case where the frequency is lower in the plurality of units.

In one embodiment, the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells is detected or inferred by a method different from a capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells.

In one embodiment, the aforementioned capacity of at least two of the plurality of cells is detected or inferred in the same manner.

In one embodiment, the suction device includes a plurality of units including at least the first and second units, and is configured to contribute to aerosol or fragrance by consuming the accumulated capacity. The producer of the mist. The control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function when a predetermined condition set for the unit is satisfied for each of the plurality of units, wherein the predetermined condition includes detection or The inferred capacity is below the threshold set for the unit. The lower the aforementioned frequency among the plurality of units, the more relaxed the aforementioned conditions.

In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit when at least one of the units is removed.

Further, according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a first and second unit for containing a mist which is configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming the accumulated capacity. a method for operating a device, the method comprising: detecting, or inferring, that the first capacity detected or inferred for the first unit is less than a first threshold and the second capacity detected or inferred for the second unit is above a second threshold a step of notifying the aspirator of the aerosol in a first mode; and a case where the first capacity is less than the first threshold and the second capacity is less than the second threshold, different from the first mode a second mode for notifying the aspirator of the aerosol; and a frequency of returning to the first unit for returning to a state having a capacity necessary to continue generating the aerosol, for the second unit This frequency is high.

Further, according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a program for causing the processor to execute the above method by being executed by a processor.

According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a suction device at a time when the user can easily know the replacement, filling, charging, and the like of the unit necessary for the suction of the aerosol or the flavored aerosol.

According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a suction device for recovering the capacity of a plurality of units necessary for the suction of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol.

According to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a suction device which can easily manage the remaining amount of the unit necessary for the suction of the aerosol or the flavored aerosol.

100, 100A, 100B‧‧‧ suction device

102‧‧‧ first part

104‧‧‧ second part

106‧‧‧Control Department

108‧‧‧Notice Department

110‧‧‧Battery

112‧‧‧ sensor

114‧‧‧ memory

116‧‧‧Storage

118‧‧‧Atomization Department

120‧‧‧Air introduction flow path

121‧‧‧ aerosol flow path

122‧‧‧Sucker

124‧‧‧Arrow

126‧‧‧ third part

128‧‧‧Scent source

Fig. 1A is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 1B is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the suction device of the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing another basic operation of the smoking device of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the suction device of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the suction device of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device of the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the suction device of the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment of the present disclosure includes an electronic cigarette and a sprayer, but is not limited thereto. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include various suction devices for creating an aerosol or scented aerosol for the user to smoke.

Fig. 1A is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a smoking device 100A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that FIG. 1A is a view schematically showing the components included in the suction device 100A, and does not show the strict arrangement, shape, size, positional relationship, and the like of each component and the suction device 100A. Figure.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the suction device 100A includes a first member 102 and a second member 104. As shown, the first component 102 can include a control unit 106, a notification unit 108, a battery 110, a sensor 112, and a memory 114 as an example. As an example, the second member 104 may include a reservoir 116, an atomizing portion 118, an air introduction flow path 120, an aerosol flow path 121, and a nozzle portion 122. A portion of each of the components included within the first component 102 can also be included within the second component 104. A portion of each of the components included in the second component 104 can also be included within the first component 102. The second component 104 can be configured to be detachable relative to the first component 102. Alternatively, all of the components included in the first component 102 and the second component 104 may be included in one housing instead of the first component 102 and the second component 104.

The reservoir 116 is a source of aerosol. for example. The reservoir 116 is made of a fibrous or porous material, and holds a liquid aerosol source in a gap between fibers or in pores of a porous material. As the aforementioned fibrous or porous material, for example, cotton or glass fiber, or tobacco material or the like can be used. The reservoir 116 can also be configured as a tank for containing liquid. The source of the aerosol is, for example, a polyol such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. The suction device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, and the aerosol source may further include a drug for inhalation by the patient. As another example, the aerosol source may also include tobacco material that is heated to release the cigarette flavor or extracted from the tobacco material. The reservoir 116 may also have a configuration that supplements the spent aerosol source. Alternatively, the reservoir 116 may be constructed to completely replace the reservoir 116 when the source of aerosol is exhausted. Further, the source of the aerosol is not limited to a liquid, and may be a solid. The reservoir 116 in the case where the source of the aerosol is solid may be a hollow container using, for example, a fibrous or porous material.

The atomizing unit 118 is configured to atomize an aerosol source to generate an aerosol. The sensor 112 detects the suction action, and the atomization unit 118 generates an aerosol. For example, a wick (not shown) may be provided to connect the reservoir 116 and the atomizing portion 118. In this case, a portion of the wick passes to the interior of the reservoir 116 in contact with the source of aerosol. Another portion of the wick extends to the atomizing portion 118. The aerosol source is delivered from the reservoir 116 to the atomizing portion 118 by capillary action of the wick. As an example, the atomizing unit 118 is provided with a heater electrically connected to the battery 110. The heater is configured to be in contact with or in close proximity to the wick. When the suction operation is detected, the control unit 106 controls the heater of the atomizing unit 118 to heat the aerosol source that is transported by the wick to atomize the aerosol source. Another example of the atomizing portion 118 may be an ultrasonic atomizer that atomizes the atomizing agent by ultrasonic vibration. The air introduction flow path 120 is connected to the atomization portion 118, and the air introduction flow path 120 is opened to the outside of the suction device 100A. The mist generated at the atomizing portion 118 is mixed with the air introduced through the air introduction flow path 120. The mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air flows to the aerosol flow path 121 as indicated by an arrow 124. The gas mist flow path 121 has a tubular structure for conveying the mixed fluid of the gas mist and the air generated in the atomizing portion 118 to the nozzle portion 122.

The nozzle portion 122 is disposed at the end of the aerosol flow path 121, and opens the aerosol flow path 121 toward the outside of the suction device 100A. When the user sucks the mouth portion 122, the air containing the aerosol is sucked into the oral cavity.

The notification unit 108 may include a light-emitting element such as an LED, a liquid crystal display, a speaker, a vibrator, or the like. The notification unit 108 is configured to notify the user of the light, display, sound, vibration, etc. as needed.

The battery 110 supplies electric power to each element of the smoking device 100A such as the notification unit 108, the sensor 112, the memory 114, and the atomization unit 118. The battery 110 may be in a form of being charged by being connected to an external power source through a predetermined port (not shown) of the suction device 100A. It is also possible to remove only the battery 110 from the first component 102 or the suction device 100A and then replace it with a new one. In addition, the battery 110 can be replaced with a new battery 110 for replacing the entire first component 102 with a new first component 102.

The sensor 112 can include a pressure sensor for detecting a change in pressure within the air introduction flow path 120 and/or the aerosol flow path 121 or a flow rate sensor for detecting flow. The sensor 112 can also include a weight sensor for detecting the weight of components such as the reservoir 116. The sensor 112 can also be configured to count the number of times the user of the suction device 100A is puffed. The sensor 112 may be configured to accumulate the energization time of the atomizing unit 118. The sensor 112 can also be configured to detect the height of the liquid level in the reservoir 116. The sensor 112 may be configured to detect a SOC (State Of Charge), a current integrated value, a voltage, and the like of the battery 110. The current integrated value can be obtained by a current integration method or a SOC-OVC (Open Circuit Voltage) method. The sensor 112 can also be a user operable operation button or the like.

The control unit 106 can 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 suction device 100A in accordance with a computer-executable command stored in the memory 114. The memory 114 is a memory medium such as a ROM, a RAM, or a flash memory. In addition to the commands executable by the computer as described above, the memory 114 may store setting data and the like necessary for the control of the suction device 100A. For example, the memory 114 can store various materials such as a control method (a state of light emission, sounding, vibration, etc.) of the notification unit 108, a value detected by the sensor 112, and a heating history of the atomization unit 118. The control unit 106 reads the data from the memory 114 as needed, and uses it for the control of the suction device 100A, and stores the data in the memory 114 as needed.

Fig. 1B is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a smoking device 100B according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the suction device 100B includes a third member 126 in addition to the configuration of the suction device 100A of FIG. 1A. The third component 126 can include a fragrance source 128. As an example, in the case where the smoking device 100B is an electronic cigarette, the flavor source 128 may contain a cigarette flavor component contained in the tobacco. As shown in FIG. 1B, the aerosol flow path 121 extends through the second member 104 and the third member 126. The nozzle portion 122 is provided to the third member 126.

Fragrance source 128 is used to add fragrance to the elements in the aerosol. The flavor source 128 is disposed in the middle of the aerosol flow path 121. The mixed fluid of the mist and the air generated by the atomizing unit 118 (please note that the mixed fluid is simply referred to as an aerosol in the following) may flow through the gas flow path 121 to the nozzle portion 122. As described above, the flavor source 128 is provided downstream of the atomizing portion 118 in the flow path of the aerosol. In other words, in the aerosol flow path 121, the flavor source 128 is located closer to the side of the nozzle portion 122 than the atomizing portion 118. Therefore, the aerosol generated by the atomizing portion 118 passes through the flavor source 128 before reaching the nozzle portion 122. When the aerosol passes through the flavor source 128, the flavor component contained in the flavor source 128 for inhalation is added to the aerosol. As an example, in the case where the smoking device 100B is an electronic cigarette, the flavor source 128 may be tobacco, or a tobacco-derived material obtained by processing the tobacco raw material into a granular, flaked or powdered processed product. The flavor source 128 may also be a non-derived tobacco product made from plants other than tobacco (eg, mint, vanilla, etc.). As an example, the fragrance source 128 contains a nicotine component. The flavor source 128 may also contain a flavoring component such as menthol. In addition to the fragrance source 128, the reservoir 116 may also have a substance containing a flavor component for inhalation. For example, the smoking device 100B may be configured to maintain a flavor derived from tobacco at the flavor source 128 and a flavor-free material derived from tobacco in the reservoir 116.

The user can suck the air containing the scented aerosol into the mouth by sucking the suction nozzle 122.

The control unit 106 is configured to control the suction devices 100A and 100B (hereinafter collectively referred to as "sucking device 100") of the embodiment of the present invention in various ways. Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described in detail.

<First Embodiment>

Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, the control unit 106 will be described by taking all the steps shown in FIG. 2 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of FIG. 2 may also be performed by other components within the suction device 100.

At step 202, the control unit 106 detects or infers the capacity of the unit of the smoking device 100. Here, the term "unit" means a component that is configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming the accumulated capacity. As an example, in the case of the electronic cigarette having the configuration of the suction device 100A shown in FIG. 1A, the first member 102 may be formed as a battery housing portion including the battery 110, and the second member 104 may be formed to include the reservoir 116. Cartridge. In this case, the battery housing portion (or the battery 110) and the cartridge (or the reservoir 116) correspond to the above-mentioned "unit". Here, the "capacity" means the remaining amount of the battery 110, the remaining amount of the aerosol source contained in the reservoir 116, and the like. As another example, in the case of the electronic cigarette having the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1B, the first member 102 may be formed as a battery housing portion including the battery 110, and the second member 104 may be formed to include the reservoir. The third member 126 can be formed as a fragrance capsule containing the fragrance source 128. In this case, the battery housing portion (or the battery 110), the cartridge (or the reservoir 116), and the flavor 匣 (or the flavor source 128) correspond to the "unit." Here, the "capacity" means the remaining amount of the battery 110, the remaining amount of the aerosol source in the reservoir 116, the flavor component for the taste contained in the flavor source 128, or the remaining amount of the aerosol source. The volume, weight, etc. of the flavor source 128 and reservoir 116 may increase with the use of the smoking device 100. Therefore, please note that the volume, weight, etc. of the flavor source 128 and the reservoir 116 are not necessarily equivalent to "capacity".

The capacity of the unit can be detected or inferred in a variety of ways. As an example, sensor 112 can be a weight sensor. In this case, the control unit 106 can use the sensor 112 to detect the weight of the unit (for example, the weight of the liquid or tobacco in the case where the aerosol source contained in the reservoir 116 is liquid or tobacco), and the detected The weight is judged as the capacity of the unit. As another example, the sensor 112 can detect the height of the liquid level (the source of the aerosol contained in the reservoir 116, etc.). In this case, the control unit 106 can use the sensor 112 to detect the height of the liquid level of the unit, and infer the capacity of the unit based on the detected height of the liquid level. In another example, the memory 114 can store an accumulated value of the energization time for the atomizing portion 118. In this case, the control unit 106 can estimate the capacity of the unit based on the accumulated energization time acquired from the memory 114 (for example, the remaining amount of the aerosol source contained in the reservoir 116, the remaining amount of the tobacco flavor component of the tobacco, and the flavor source 128). The remaining amount of the flavor component contained in the taste, etc.). In another example, the memory 114 can store the number of times the user has performed a suction on the smoking device 100 ("puffing" in the example of the electronic cigarette). In this case, the control unit 106 can estimate the capacity of the unit based on the number of times of pickup obtained from the memory 114. In another example, the memory 114 can store data relating to the heating history of the atomizing unit 118. In this case, the control unit 106 can infer the capacity of the unit based on the data acquired from the memory 114. In another example, the memory 114 can store data related to the SOC (State Of Charge), current accumulated value, and/or voltage of the battery 110. The sensor 112 can detect the values. In this case, the control unit 106 can detect or infer the capacity of the unit (especially the battery 110) based on the data.

At step 204, the control unit 106 determines whether the capacity of the unit detected or inferred in step 202 is lower than the threshold. The threshold value can be stored in the memory 114, and the control unit 106 can obtain the threshold from the memory 114. If the capacity is not below the threshold ("NO" in step 204), the process returns to step 202. If the capacity is lower than the threshold (YES in step 204), the process proceeds to step 206.

At step 206, the control unit 106 detects the predetermined variable. As an example, where the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor that detects the pressure in the air introduction flow path 120 and/or the aerosol flow path 121, the predetermined variable may be pressure. As another example, the sensor 112 includes a flow sensor that detects a flow rate in the air introduction flow path 120 and/or the gas flow path 121 instead of the pressure in the flow path, and the predetermined variable may be a flow rate. . In another example, when the suction device 100 is provided with a button (not shown) for driving, the predetermined variable may be a stress or a current value indicating an event in which the button is pressed.

Moreover, the sensor 112 can include a plurality of sensors, and at least two of the plurality of sensors can detect different physical quantities. In step 202, the control unit 106 may use a portion of the plurality of sensors for detecting or inferring the capacity of the unit of the inhalation device 100. Then, in step 206, the control unit 106 can use a different one of the plurality of sensors in order to detect the predetermined variable.

At step 208, the control unit 106 determines whether the variable detected in step 206 satisfies the predetermined condition. Here, the predetermined condition may be a condition necessary for generating an aerosol in the suction device 100. As an example, where the variable is pressure or flow, the established condition may be to detect pressure or flow for more than a predetermined duration. In another example, where the variable is pressure or flow, the established condition may be to detect a pressure or flow having an absolute value that exceeds a predetermined value. In the embodiment in which the variable is a value other than the pressure, it is not difficult to understand that various conditions can be set as predetermined conditions. If the detected variable does not satisfy the predetermined condition ("NO" in step 208), the process returns to step 206. If the detected variable satisfies the predetermined condition (YES in step 208), the process proceeds to step 210.

In step 210, the control unit 106 makes a predetermined notification to the user (i.e., the sitter of the smoking device 100). For example, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode having a predetermined aspect. As an example, when the notification unit 108 includes an LED, the control unit 106 can cause the LED to operate in a predetermined state (for example, blinking). In another example, when the notification unit 108 includes a liquid crystal display, the control unit 106 may cause the liquid crystal display to perform a predetermined display indicating that replacement, filling, charging, and the like (hereinafter referred to as "replacement, etc.") Show the action. In another example, when the notification unit 108 includes a speaker, the control unit 106 may cause the speaker to perform an operation of outputting a predetermined sound.

Fig. 3 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the smoking device 100 of the present embodiment. Hereinafter, the control unit 106 will be described by taking all the steps shown in FIG. 3 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of FIG. 3 may also be performed by other components within the suction device 100. Here, the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1B, and the third member 126 (including the fragrance source 128) of the absorption device 100B is an example of the "unit" described with reference to FIG. Be explained. However, please note that the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration, and the "unit" may be the first member 102 (or the battery 110) and/or the second member 104 (or the reservoir 116).

Processing begins in step 302. At step 302, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the start of the suction of the suction device 100 by the user is detected. As an example, in the case where the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control portion 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 exceeds a predetermined value. The control unit 106 may also determine to start pumping when the time during which the sensor 112 continuously detects the pressure exceeds a predetermined duration. In another example, the control unit 106 may determine that the suction is started when the suction device 100 is provided with a button for starting and the button is pressed. If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 302), the process returns to step 302. If the start of the suction is detected (YES in step 302), the process proceeds to step 304.

At step 304, the control section 106 determines whether the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than the discharge end voltage (for example, 3.2 V). If the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage ("NO" in step 304), the process proceeds to step 306. In step 306, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the third mode. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the third mode may include red light that causes the LED to flash. On the other hand, if the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than the discharge end voltage (YES in step 304), the process proceeds to step 308.

In step 308, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the difference between the voltage of the battery 110 and the full charge voltage is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value Δ. If the voltage of the battery 110 is not less than or equal to the full charge voltage - Δ ("NO" in step 308), the full charge voltage - Δ < the voltage of the battery 110 is equal to the full charge voltage. At this time, the process proceeds to step 310. In step 310, the control unit 106 performs constant power control and is energized to the atomizing unit 118. For example, the control unit 106 performs pulse width modulation (PWM) on the power supplied from the battery 110 to the atomization unit 118. The pulse width may be adjusted in accordance with a change in the output voltage of the battery 110 to keep the power value supplied to the atomizing unit 118 constant. The control unit 106 may perform pulse frequency modulation (PFM) control instead of performing pulse width modulation (PWM) control. On the other hand, if the voltage of the battery 110 is equal to or less than the full charge voltage -Δ (YES in step 308), the process proceeds to step 312. At step 312, the control unit 106 does not pulse-modulate the power from the battery 110, and energizes the atomizing portion 118 with a duty ratio = 100%.

The process proceeds to step 314, and the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the second mode. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the control unit 106 causes the LED to emit blue light.

The process proceeds to step 316, and the control unit 106 sets the pickup time (T _L ) that can be stored in the memory 114 or the control unit 106 to zero.

The process proceeds to step 318, and the control unit 106 waits until a predetermined time Δt elapses, and sets T _L to T _L + Δt (i.e., T _L = T _L + Δt).

The process proceeds to step 320, and the control unit 106 determines whether or not the end of the suction is detected. In one example, when the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor, the control unit 106 may determine that the suction is stopped when the pressure obtained from the sensor 112 drops below a predetermined value. If the suction stop is detected (YES in step 320), the process proceeds to step 324. If the suction stop is not detected (NO in step 320), the process proceeds to step 322, and the control unit 106 determines whether T _L is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper limit time. If T _L is not greater than or equal to the predetermined upper limit time ("NO" in step 322), the process returns to step 318. If T _{L is} greater than or equal to the predetermined upper limit time (YES in step 322), the process proceeds to step 324.

In step 324, the control unit 106 controls a switch or the like provided in the circuit that connects the battery 110 and the atomizing unit 118, and stops the energization of the atomizing unit 118.

The process proceeds to step 326, and the control unit 106 stops the function of the notification unit 108. In one example, the control unit 106 turns off the LED of the notification unit 108 that is lit with blue light.

If the suction stop is not detected ("NO" in step 320) and T _{L is} greater than or equal to the predetermined upper limit time (YES in step 322), control unit 106 may cause atomization in step 324. After the energization of the unit 118 is stopped, the function of the notification unit 108 in the second mode (for example, the normal mode at the time of suction) is continued until the suction stop is detected. Then, in step 326, the control unit 106 stops the function of the notification unit 108. Since the notification unit 108 continues to function in the second mode as long as the suction continues, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the user's feeling of use is lowered by the user after the occurrence of the aerosol is stopped.

The process proceeds to step 328, and the control unit 106 sets the accumulated time T _A that can be stored in the memory 114 or the control unit 106 or the like to T _A + T _L (that is, T _A = T _A + T _L ).

Processing proceeds to step 330. Step 330 is an example of step 204 in FIG. At step 330, the control section 106 determines whether T _A is greater than a predetermined threshold time. The threshold time may be the capacity of the unit of the inferred smoking device 100B (in this example, the third component 126 or the flavor source 128) (in this example, the remainder of the flavor component contained in the flavor source 128 for smoking) The amount) will fall below the cumulative time for the suction device 100B to absorb the value required to produce an aerosol with sufficient aroma. The threshold time can be stored in the memory 114 or the like in advance.

If T _{A is} less than or equal to the threshold time (the result of step 330 is "NO"), the process returns to step 302. If T _{A is} greater than the threshold time (YES in step 330), the process proceeds to step 332.

Steps 332 and/or 334 are an example of step 208 in FIG. At step 332, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the start of the suction is detected. In one example, when the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control unit 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 has an absolute value exceeding a predetermined value. Suck.

If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 332), the process returns to step 332. That is, the control unit 106 waits for the detection of the start of the suction. If the start of the suction is detected (YES in step 332), the process proceeds to step 334.

At step 334, the control section 106 determines whether the suction continues for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second). The predetermined time can be stored in the memory 114. If the pumping does not continue for a predetermined time ("NO" in step 334), the process returns to step 332. If the pumping continues for a predetermined time (YES in step 334), the process proceeds to step 336. By performing step 334, even if the background noise is detected and the step 332 is erroneously determined to detect the start of the suction, the execution of the subsequent processing can be prevented.

The processing of steps 332 and 334 may be performed either, or only one of them may be performed.

Since the control unit 106 is configured to execute steps 332 and 334, the notification unit 108 can be made to function in the first mode based on the subsequent suction detection as long as the accumulated time is not exceeded. Therefore, when the user wants to perform the smoking in the smoking device 100, the notification unit 108 functions in the first mode, so that the user can easily notice that the unit having a reduced capacity has to be replaced.

At step 336, the control unit 106 prohibits energization of the atomizing unit 118. The processing of step 336 can also be performed between step 330 and step 332.

The process proceeds to step 338, and the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode. When the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode, the control unit 106 prohibits the energization of the atomization unit 118, so that the generation of the aerosol can be stopped in advance. In order to stop the generation of the aerosol, the control unit 116 may disable the sensor 112 or disconnect the power supply circuit for the atomizing unit 118. By stopping the generation of the aerosol and arousing the user's attention, the user will more easily notice that the replacement of the unit has to be performed. In addition, since the generation of incomplete aerosol can be prevented when the capacity of the unit is insufficient, it is possible to prevent the user from absorbing the suction experience. In one example, the notification unit 108 is an LED, and the first mode may include blinking the LED to emit blue light. The control unit 106 may also cause the notification unit 108 to function for a certain period of time (for example, 40 seconds), so that the user can notice that the capacity of the unit is insufficient.

The conditions of step 332 and step 334, which are conditions for causing the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode in step 338, may be stricter than the condition of step 302 of the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the second mode in step 314. Alternatively, the likelihood that the conditions of steps 332 and 334 are satisfied may be lower than the likelihood that the condition of step 302 is satisfied. For example, the predetermined value used for the determination of step 334 may be greater than the predetermined value used for the determination of step 302. Since the continuation of the suction that has been performed through the steps 332 and 334 and at least the predetermined time of the step 334 is performed by performing the above-described step 334, the notification unit 108 is first made in step 338. The duration of the mode for functioning in the steps 332 and 334 is comparable to the duration of the decision for step 302 as a condition for the notification unit 108 to function in the second mode in step 314. . By such a feature, it is possible to make a good response to the user's pumping action in the usual suction, and to provide a breath-free experience without a sense of disobedience. Further, when it is necessary to cause the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode, it is possible to prevent the suction device 100 from erroneously performing normal operation due to background noise. Further, even if the suction is performed for a long time compared to when the atomization unit 118 is energized, the air mist is not generated, and then the notification is made in step 338, so that the user can have a question about the operation of the suction device 100. In other words, the user is aware of the state of the suction device 100 and finds that a response must be made.

In the case where the notification unit 108 includes an LED or the like, the illuminating colors of the light-emitting elements may be made the same in the first mode of step 338 and the second mode of step 314. For example, the illuminating colors of both sides can be made blue. At this time, in the first mode and the second mode, the light-emitting elements can be made to have different light-emitting patterns. For example, the illuminating element can be flashed in the first mode and continuously illuminated in the second mode. Further, in another example, the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements may be made different in the first mode and the second mode, and the light-emitting elements may be illuminated in the same manner. In still another example, both the illuminating color and the illuminating aspect of the illuminating element may be different in the first mode and the second mode. With such characteristics, the user can notice that some abnormalities related to the suction are caused when the light-emitting element performs a different operation from the normal operation, so that it is easier for the user to perform the replacement of the unit.

The process proceeds to step 340, and the control unit 106 cancels the prohibition of energization of the atomizing unit 118. At this time, the control section 106 can infer that the capacity of the unit has returned to a predetermined value (for example, a sufficient value for generating an aerosol or a flavored aerosol). Since the notification unit 108 has been notified that the user does not easily see it, the probability of replacing the unit having insufficient capacity after the function of the notification unit 108 played in the first mode is completed is high. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to use control logic and components for assembly detection or switching that are only used for the purpose of detecting whether or not a unit is replaced. Moreover, the accuracy of counting the accumulated time and the number of replacements can be improved.

The process proceeds to step 342, and the control unit 106 counts the number of times (N) that the capacity of the unit has returned to a predetermined value. N can be stored in the memory 114, and the control unit 106 can increment N by one each time. By virtue of this feature, it is possible to count the control logic and components used for assembly detection or switching only for the purpose of detecting whether or not a unit is replaced. The number of replacements of the above-described units belonging to one parameter is useful in estimating the product life of the device 100 and the degree of consumption of other units. N is not necessarily an integer, but a real number can also be used. In the case where N is compared with a specific value, the dimension of N may be a percentage (%).

The process proceeds to step 344, and the control unit 106 resets the accumulated time T _A (set it to 0). Processing returns to step 302.

As described with reference to Figures 1A and 1B, the smoking device 100 can include a plurality of units. For example, the smoking device 100A includes a first component (eg, battery housing) 102 (or battery 110) and a second component (eg, cartridge) 104 (or reservoir 116) as a unit. The suction device 100B further includes a third component (eg, fragrance 匣) 126 (or fragrance source 128) as a unit. The control unit 106 can execute the processing shown in FIG. 2 only for the unit having the highest frequency of returning the operation to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate the aerosol or the flavored aerosol, among the plurality of units. And the processing of steps 328 to 344 of FIG. For example, in the example of FIG. 1A, if the frequency of replacement of the second component 104 (or the reservoir 116) is higher than the frequency of charging of the battery 110 in the first component 102, the control section 106 may only be in the second component 104. The capacity is below a predetermined threshold ("YES" in step 204) and the variable (pressure or flow detected by sensor 112) satisfies the predetermined requirement to generate an aerosol or a scented aerosol. In the case of the condition (YES in step 208), the notification unit 108 is caused to function in the first mode. Similarly, in the example of FIG. 1B, if the third component (eg, fragrance 匣) 126 (or fragrance source 128) must be replaced more frequently than the first component 102 and the second component 104, the control portion 106 can The processing of Fig. 2 is performed only for the third component 126. With this feature, when the notification unit 108 performs an action different from the usual one, the user is noticed that it is necessary to perform some operations on the unit with the highest frequency of replacement in terms of suction, so that it is easier for the user to perform the unit. Replacement, etc.

As described with reference to FIG. 3, the control unit 106 may be configured to cause the notification unit 108 to function in a plurality of modes (first, second, and third modes) including the first mode. In this case, the control unit 106 can cause the notification unit 108 to function for the longest time in the first mode among the plurality of modes. According to this feature, the operation time of the notification unit 108 when the replacement unit or the like is requested is longer than the operation time of the notification unit 108 of the other situation. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user misses the replacement of the unit.

When the suction device 100 includes a plurality of units, the control unit 106 may be configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit 108 when at least one unit is removed from the suction device 100. For example, the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100A shown in Fig. 1A, and the second member 104 can be detached, and the control unit 106 can cause the notification portion 108 to function when the second member 104 is detached. Interrupted. Similarly, the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1B, and the second member 104 and the third member 126 can be detached, and the control portion 106 can be one or both of the two members. The fact that the one is removed causes the function of the notification unit 108 to be interrupted. The state in which at least one unit has been removed from the suction device 100 can be regarded as a state in which the user has noticed the notification by the notification unit 108. Therefore, the function of the notification unit 108 is interrupted, and waste of power of the battery 110 can be avoided.

Further, the control unit 106 may omit a part of the steps shown in FIG. 3 or change the order of a part of the steps. For example, it may not be determined in step 302 whether the start of the suction is detected before the notification portion causes the notification portion to function in the third mode. In other words, the control unit may perform step 302 after determining whether the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage in step 304. In the present embodiment, in the step 306, the condition required for the notification unit 108 to function in the third mode is satisfied for the battery 110, and it is clear that only the voltage of the battery 110 is equal to or lower than the discharge termination voltage.

Alternatively, the control unit 106 may continue the determination of step 304 in the processing from step 302 onwards. In other words, in the process of performing steps 308 to 344, if the voltage of the battery 110 detected by the control unit 106 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage (NO in step 304), the process is interrupted and step 306 is executed, and the control unit 106 The notification unit 108 is made to function in the third mode. In the present embodiment, in the condition that the notification unit 108 is to be functional in the third mode for the battery in step 306, whether or not the start of the suction is detected in step 302 is included. However, this requirement is a looser requirement as long as any step after the determination in step 302 is "YES". On the other hand, in step 338, in order to cause the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode, the control unit 106 determines in step 330 that the cumulative time T _{A is} greater than a predetermined threshold time (the result of step 330). If YES, the control unit 106 determines the stricter requirements of YES in steps 332 and 334. In other words, the process that can be performed during the generation of the aerosol is performed with respect to step 306, and the step 338 is the process that does not satisfy the condition during the generation of the aerosol.

In the above description, the first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a suction device having the configuration shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B and the methods shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can also be executed by a processor, and the processor can execute the program of the method shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, or can be readable by a computer storing the program. The form of the memory medium taken is implemented.

<Second embodiment>

Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device 100 of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, all the steps shown in FIG. 4 will be described by the control unit 106 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of FIG. 4 may also be performed by other components within the suction device 100.

The process starts in step 402, and the control unit 106 detects or infers the capacity of each of the plurality of cells of the aspiration device 100. The meanings of terms such as "unit" and "capacity" have been described in the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, the smoking device 100 includes a plurality of units. For example, the smoking device 100A shown in FIG. 1A has a first member (for example, a battery housing portion) 102 (or a battery 110) and a second member (for example, a cartridge) 104 (or a reservoir 116) as a unit. The suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B has a third member (e.g., fragrance 匣) 126 (or fragrance source 128) as a unit in addition to the above two units. As explained in the first embodiment, the capacity of the unit can be detected or inferred by various methods. The capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells (e.g., the battery 110 of the first component 102) may be different from the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells (e.g., the third component (flavor) 126). Method detection or inference. The capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells may also be detected or inferred by the same method as the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells. For example, both the volume of the fragrance 匣 126 and the volume of the cartridge 104 can be detected or inferred based on the accumulated energization time or cumulative amount of electricity to the atomization unit 118. In addition, both the capacity of the battery 110 and the capacity of the cartridge 104 can be detected or inferred based on the accumulated current value.

Processing proceeds to step 404. In step 404, the control unit 106 determines whether the predetermined condition set for the unit is satisfied, wherein the predetermined condition includes the capacity of the unit detected or inferred in step 402 to be set for the unit. Below the threshold. The threshold value and the predetermined condition set for each unit can be stored in the memory 114 in association with the unit. The control unit 106 can acquire the threshold and the predetermined condition from the memory 114. Regarding at least one of the plurality of units, the predetermined condition described above may include other elements in addition to the capacity of the unit to be below the threshold. For example, with respect to at least one of the units, the predetermined condition may be further included in the predetermined variable detected by the suction device 100 to satisfy the requirements of the predetermined requirements. In one example, the sensor 112 is a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the air introduction flow path 120 and/or the gas flow path 121 or a flow rate sensor that detects the flow rate. The predetermined variable may be pressure. Or traffic. In another example, the suction device 100 is provided with a button (not shown) for driving, and the predetermined variable may be a stress or a current value indicating an event in which the button is pressed.

If the predetermined condition is not satisfied (the result of step 404 is "NO"), the process returns to step 402. If the predetermined condition is satisfied (the result of step 404 is "YES"), the process proceeds to step 406. At step 406, the control unit 106 makes a predetermined notification to the user (i.e., the sitter of the sniffer device 100). For example, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in a predetermined state. In one example, the control unit 106 may cause the notification unit 108 to function in a specific aspect when the predetermined conditions set for the first component 102 (or the battery 110) are satisfied. In another example, the control unit 106 may cause the notification unit 108 to function in another aspect if the predetermined condition set to the second component 104 (or the storage unit 116) is satisfied. In still another example, the control unit 106 may cause the notification unit 108 to function in yet another aspect in a case where the predetermined condition set to the third member 126 (or the fragrance source 128) is satisfied. The notification in step 406 is performed in order to convey to the user a message that the replacement, filling, charging, and the like of the unit (hereinafter referred to as "replacement, etc." as needed).

In the predetermined condition for determining in step 402, the plurality of units included in the suction device 100 are returned to have an aerosol which continues to generate aerosol or scent (hereinafter collectively referred to as "aeration"). The higher the frequency of the reply to the state of the necessary capacity, the stricter. In one example, the predetermined condition is that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the lower the probability of being satisfied. In another example, the established condition is that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the more elements are included. For example, if the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100A shown in FIG. 1A, and the replacement frequency of the second member 104 (or the reservoir 116) is higher than the frequency of charging the battery 110 in the first member 102, then The predetermined conditions set for the second member 104 are stricter than the predetermined conditions set for the battery 110 of the first member 102. Further, if the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B, and the replacement frequency of the third member 126 (or the fragrance source 128) is the highest, the replacement frequency of the second member 104 is the second highest, and the first member When the frequency of charging of the battery 110 of 102 is the lowest, the predetermined conditions that can be set for the third component 126 are the strictest, the predetermined conditions set for the second component 104 are ranked, and the battery for the first component 102 is used. The established conditions set by 110 are the most relaxed. Further, in the configuration of FIG. 1B, predetermined conditions can be set only for the battery 110 and the third member 126 of the first member 102, and no condition is set for the second member 104. In this case, in step 402, only the capacity of the battery 110 and the capacity of the third component 126 are detected or estimated, and in step 404, only the predetermined conditions set for the battery 110 and the third component 126 are determined to be satisfied. In the case where the replacement frequency of the third member 126 is higher than the charging frequency of the battery 110 of the first member 102, the condition set to the third member 126 is stricter than the condition set for the battery 110.

In the present embodiment, the smoking device 100 may include a plurality of identical units or a plurality of units of the same type. For example, the suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B can be configured to accommodate a plurality of third members (e.g., first and second fragrances) 126 (or first and second fragrance sources). In this case, the first and second flavors may contain the same type of flavor source having the same maximum capacity, or contain the same type of flavor source having different maximum capacities, or contain different species having the same maximum capacity. The source of the fragrance, or a different source of flavor with different maximum capacities. In this case, in step 402, the capacity of the first flavor and the volume of the second flavor can be detected or inferred in the same manner. In the case where the frequency of replacement of the first flavor is higher than the frequency of replacement of the second flavor, the predetermined condition for determining the setting of the first flavor in step 404 is set to be the predetermined setting for the second flavor. The conditions are still strict. Of course, the processing of the embodiment of Fig. 4 can be applied to the case where the suction device 100 includes a plurality of batteries 110 and/or a plurality of second members (e.g., cartridges) 104 (or reservoirs 116).

Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing another basic operation of the smoking device 100 of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Processing begins in step 502. The processing of step 502 is the same as the processing of step 402.

The process proceeds to step 504, and the control unit 106 determines whether the capacity of the unit detected or inferred in step 502 is below the threshold set for the unit. If the capacity is not below the threshold ("NO" in step 504), the process returns to step 502. If the capacity is below the threshold (YES in step 504), the process proceeds to step 506.

In step 506, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the predetermined condition set for the unit determined to have the capacity below the threshold in step 504 is satisfied. The "established conditions" have been described with reference to Fig. 4, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. If the predetermined condition is not satisfied (the result of step 506 is "NO"), the process returns to step 506. If the predetermined condition is satisfied (the result of step 506 is "YES"), the processing proceeds to step 508. The processing of step 508 is the same as the processing of step 406.

The embodiment shown in Fig. 5 is also the same as the case of Fig. 4, and the predetermined condition for determining in step 506 is returned to have a continuous gas generation among the plurality of units included in the suction device 100. The more the frequency of the necessary capacity of the fog, the more severe the frequency of the job. The suction device 100 can have a plurality of identical units or a plurality of identical units.

Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the smoking device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, the control unit 106 will be described by taking all the steps shown in FIG. 6 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of FIG. 6 may also be performed by other components within the suction device 100. Here, the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1B, and the first member (for example, the battery housing portion) 102 (or the battery 110) of the suction device 100B, and the second member (for example, the cartridge) 104 (or the reservoir 116) and the third component (for example, the fragrance 匣) 126 (or the fragrance source 128) are described as an example of the "unit" in the fourth and fifth figures. Please note that as described above, there may be a plurality of identical units or a plurality of identical units. Further, in the embodiment of Fig. 6, the determination of the threshold value and the predetermined condition is performed only for the first member 102 (or the battery 110) and the third member (flavor 匣) 126 (or the fragrance source 128), and is not directed to the first The two components (cylinder) 104 (or reservoir 116) make these determinations. That is, the embodiment of Fig. 6 may include a case where the second member 104 does not satisfy the threshold value and a predetermined condition, and a case where the threshold value and the predetermined condition are not set for the second member 104. Here, the frequency of the recovery operation in the state in which the battery 110 and the fragrance 匣 126 which are the units of the suction device 100B are returned to the state in which the aerosol is required to continue to generate the aerosol is higher. In one example, the battery 110 may be charged once during the period in which the flavor 匣 126 may be replaced 10 times.

Processing begins in step 602. At step 602, the control unit 106 determines whether the start of the suction of the user for the smoking device 100 is detected. As an example, in the case where the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control portion 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 exceeds a predetermined value. The control unit 106 may also determine to start pumping when the sensor 112 continuously detects that the pressure or flow has exceeded a predetermined duration. In another example, the control unit 106 may determine that the suction is started when the suction device 100 is provided with a button for starting and the button is pressed. If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 602), the process returns to before step 602. If the start of the suction is detected (YES in step 602), the process proceeds to step 604.

Step 604 is an example of step 404 in Fig. 4 or step 504 (and step 506) in Fig. 5 relating to battery 110 as a unit of the suction device 100B. At step 604, the control unit 106 determines whether the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than a threshold (discharge termination voltage (for example, 3.2 V) or the like). If the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage ("NO" in step 604), the process proceeds to step 606. Step 606 is an example of step 406 in Fig. 4 or step 508 in Fig. 5 relating to battery 110. In step 606, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first aspect. In one example, the notification portion 108 includes an LED, and the first aspect may include red light that causes the LED to blink for 5.4 seconds. Then, the process ends. On the other hand, if the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than the discharge end voltage (YES in step 604), the process proceeds to step 608.

The processing of steps 608 to 612 is the same as the processing of steps 308 to 312 in Fig. 3, and the description thereof will be omitted herein.

The process proceeds to step 614, and the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the second aspect. The second aspect is an operation mode of the notification unit 108 when the user performs the normal suction using the suction device 100B. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED. In step 614, the control unit 106 causes the LED to emit blue light all the time.

The processing of steps 616 to 628 is the same as the processing of steps 316 to 328 in Fig. 3, and the description thereof will be omitted herein.

Steps 630 to 634 are an example of step 404 in Fig. 4 or steps 504 and 506 in Fig. 5 relating to a third component (e.g., flavor 匣) 126 as a unit of the suction device 100B. At step 630, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the accumulated time T _A is greater than a predetermined threshold time. The threshold time may be such that the capacity of the inferred flavor 匣 126 (e.g., the remaining amount of the flavor component contained in the flavor source 128 for the taste) will be reduced below the value required to produce an aerosol with sufficient aroma. The cumulative time for the suction device 100B to perform the suction. The threshold time can be stored in the memory 114 or the like in advance. If the accumulated time T _{A is} less than or equal to the threshold time ("NO" in step 630), it is determined that the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 is larger than the threshold set for the flavor 匣 126, and the process returns to the step 602. If T _{A is} greater than the threshold time (YES in step 630), it is determined that the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 is equal to or lower than the threshold set for the flavor 匣 126, and the process proceeds to step 632.

At step 632, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the start of the suction is detected. In an example, when the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control unit 106 may determine that the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 has an absolute value exceeding a predetermined value. Suction.

If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 632), the process returns to step 632. That is, the control unit 106 waits for the detection of the start of the suction. If the start of the suction is detected (YES in step 632), the process proceeds to step 634.

At step 634, the control section 106 determines whether the suction continues for a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second). The predetermined time can be stored in the memory 114. If the pumping does not continue for a predetermined time ("NO" in step 634), the process returns to step 632. If the suction continues for a predetermined time (YES in step 634), the process proceeds to step 636. By performing step 634, even if the background noise is generated and it is erroneously determined in step 632 that the start of the suction is detected, the subsequent processing can be prevented.

The processing of steps 632 and 634 may be performed either, or only one of them may be performed.

At step 636, the control unit 106 prohibits energization of the atomizing unit 118. The processing of step 636 can also be performed between step 630 and step 632.

Processing proceeds to step 638. Step 638 is an example of step 406 in Fig. 4 or step 508 in Fig. 5 relating to fragrance 匣126. At step 638, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the third aspect. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the third aspect may include blinking the LED to emit blue light. The control unit 106 may also cause the notification unit 108 to function for a certain period of time (for example, 40 seconds), so that the user can notice that the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 is insufficient.

The processing of steps 640 to 644 is the same as the processing of steps 340 to 344 in Fig. 3, and the description thereof will be omitted herein.

At step 638, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to function in the third aspect for the fragrance 匣 126 is required to satisfy the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the first aspect for the battery 110 in step 606. strict. Since the unit having the higher frequency of replacement or the like has stricter conditions for the operation of the notification unit 108, it is easier to prevent the malfunction of the notification unit 108. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user misses the operation of the notification unit 108 to prompt the user to replace the unit having a high frequency such as replacement.

At step 606, the condition that the notification portion 108 should function in the first aspect for the battery 110 is required to include a voltage of the battery 110 that is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage. In contrast, in step 638, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to function in the third state is to be performed for the fragrance unit 126, except that (i) T _{A is} greater than the threshold time, and (ii) the start of the pumping is detected. In addition to these two requirements, it is possible to include (iii) a requirement that the suction continues for a predetermined period of time. That is, in the present embodiment, the conditions for determining the flavor 匣 126 relating to the processing of FIGS. 4 and 5 include more conditions than the conditions for determining the battery 110 in relation to the processing. In other words, the above-described conditions may include more requirements for the frequency of the return operation of returning to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate the aerosol among the plurality of units of the suction device 100B. Since the unit having a higher frequency of replacement or the like has more conditions for the operation of the notification unit 108, it is easier to prevent the malfunction of the notification unit 108. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user misses the operation of the notification unit 108 to prompt the user to replace the unit having a high frequency such as replacement.

Further, the control unit 106 may omit a part of the steps shown in FIG. 6 or change the order of a part of the steps. For example, before the notification portion is caused to function in the first aspect in step 606, it is not determined in step 602 whether or not the start of the suction is detected. In other words, the control unit may perform step 602 after determining whether the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage in step 604. In the present embodiment, in the step 606, for the battery 110, the condition that the notification unit 108 is required to function in the first aspect is clearly included, and it is clear that only the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage. .

Alternatively, the control unit 106 may continue the process of step 604 until the process of step 602 continues. In other words, in the process of performing steps 608 to 644, if the voltage of the battery 110 detected by the control unit 106 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage (NO in step 604), the control unit 106 interrupts the processing and executes step 606 to The notification unit 108 functions in the first aspect. In the present embodiment, in the condition that the notification unit 108 is to be functional in the first aspect for the battery 110 in step 606, whether or not the start of the suction is detected in step 602 is included. However, this requirement is a looser requirement as long as any step after the determination in step 602 is "YES". On the other hand, in step 638, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the third state is to be satisfied with the fragrance unit 126, and the control unit 106 immediately determines in step 630 that the cumulative time T _{A is} greater than a predetermined threshold. After the time (YES in step 630), the control unit 106 immediately determines the stricter requirements of "YES" in steps 632 and 634. In other words, with respect to step 606 being a process that can be performed during aerosol generation, step 638 is a process that does not satisfy the condition during aerosol generation.

Alternatively, the control unit 106 may perform the determination of step 604 immediately after the determination in step 602 is YES. In the present embodiment, in the step 606, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to function in the first state for the battery 110 is included in addition to the requirement that the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage. To detect the beginning of the suction. However, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to be functional in the first aspect for the battery 110 in step 606 does not include the third aspect of the notification portion 108 for the fragrance 匣 126 in step 638. (iii) The requirements for the suction to last for a predetermined period of time included in the conditions to be fulfilled. Therefore, in any of the embodiments, the conditions for determining the flavor 匣 126 related to the processing of FIGS. 4 and 5 include more conditions than the conditions for determining the battery 110 in relation to the processing.

In step 632, the control unit 106 is configured to obtain a request to generate an aerosol. For example, the control unit 106 may determine that a request for aerosol generation is received when the sensor 112 detects a pressure greater than a predetermined value. In another example, the control unit 106 may determine that the request is received when the response sensor 112 detects a pressure greater than a predetermined value and transmits a request for aerosol generation to itself. The detection of the above requirements may correspond to the detection of the beginning of the suction in step 632. Therefore, the conditions to be determined for the higher frequency flavor 匣 126 among the battery 110 and the fragrance 匣 126 may include the detection of the above requirements. With this feature, the unit with the highest frequency of replacement, etc., the conditions required for the notification unit 108 to function may include suction detection. Therefore, the notification unit 108 can operate when it is explicitly expected that the user will perform the suction, so that the possibility that the user misses the action of the notifier 108 can be further reduced.

At step 632, it is determined that the condition at the start of the suction is detected, and the condition at which the start of the suction is detected is determined to be strict in step 602. For example, the predetermined value for the determination of step 632 may be greater than the predetermined value for the determination of step 602. Additionally, the duration of the decision for step 632 may be longer than the duration of the decision for step 602.

In steps 606 and 638, the control unit 106 may be configured such that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the longer the time for the notification unit 108 to function when the conditions relating to the unit are satisfied. Specifically, since the frequency of the flavor 匣 126 is higher than that of the battery 110, the time during which the notification unit 108 functions in step 638 can be longer than the time during which the notification unit 108 functions in step 606. According to this feature, it is possible to further reduce the possibility that the user misses the action of the notification unit 108 for the unit having a high frequency such as replacement.

The notification unit 108 includes a light-emitting element such as an LED, and the control unit 106 can set different illuminating colors for each of the plurality of units. For example, the control unit 106 may set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element associated with the battery 110 to red, and set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element associated with the scent 126 to blue. The control unit 106 can set the illuminating color of the illuminating element for each unit based on the above-described frequency associated with each of the plurality of units. With this feature, it is easy for the user to know which unit to replace.

For example, the control unit 106 can set the illuminating color of the illuminating element to a higher number of the above-mentioned cells, and the closer to the cool color system. Setting the frequently-glowing color to a cool color system will not cause the user to be over-warned, and the user can use the usual feeling to prompt the user to perform the replacement work.

Further, the control unit 106 can set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element to a warmer color system in which the lower the frequency, the closer the frequency is. In a broader concept, the control unit 106 can set the illuminating color of the illuminating element corresponding to the higher frequency among the plurality of units to the shorter the wavelength, and the lower the frequency, the corresponding illuminating element. The illuminating color is set to a color having a longer wavelength. The unit that has a low frequency for replacement or the like sets the illuminating color of the illuminating element to a warm color system, and can strongly attract the user's attention when the unit that is difficult to replace has come to be replaced.

The control unit 106 may be configured to control the light-emitting elements such that the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements satisfy the condition and the light-emitting elements during the generation of the aerosol are generated for the unit having the highest frequency among the plurality of units. The same color. Specifically, in the example of Fig. 6, the control unit 106 can set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element that is normally operated in step 614 to blue, and the highest frequency of the above-mentioned frequency among the battery 110 and the scent 匣126. The illuminating color of the light-emitting element at step 638, which establishes the corresponding association, is also set to blue. With this feature, the user can understand that the unit with the highest frequency of replacement (that is, the frequency notified to the user) must be replaced without damaging the user's experience of smoking.

The control unit 106 may be configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit 108 when at least one of the plurality of units is removed. In the example of Fig. 6, in the case where the second member 104 and the third member 126 are detachable, the control portion 106 can cause the notification portion 108 to be removed when one or both of the two members are removed. The function is interrupted.

Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the smoking device 100 of the present embodiment. As in the case of Fig. 6, the suction device has the configuration of the suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B, and the battery housing portion 102 (or the battery 110), the cartridge 104 (or the reservoir 116), and the fragrance 126 (or the fragrance source 128) will be described as an example of the "unit" in FIGS. 4 and 5. Further, in the embodiment of Fig. 7, the determination of the threshold value and the predetermined condition is performed for the battery 110, the cartridge 104, and the flavor 匣126. Here, the frequency of the recovery operation in the state in which the battery 110, the cartridge 104, and the flavor 匣 126, which are the units of the suction device 100B, are returned to the state in which the volume necessary for the generation of the aerosol is continued is generated, and the fragrance 匣 126 is the highest. 104 times, battery 110 is the lowest. In one example, during the period in which the flavor 匣 126 is replaced 10 times, the cartridge 104 may be replaced twice, and the battery 110 may be charged once.

Processing begins in step 702. The processing of steps 702 to 728 is the same as the processing of steps 602 to 628 in Fig. 6, and the description thereof will be omitted herein. As in step 606 of Fig. 6, in step 706, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first aspect. In one example, the notification portion 108 includes an LED, and the first aspect may include red light that causes the LED to blink for 5.4 seconds.

Steps 729, 746, and 748 are an example of step 404 in Fig. 4 or steps 504 and 506 in Fig. 5 relating to the cartridge 104 as a unit of the suction device 100B. Steps 729 to 734 are an example of step 404 in Fig. 4 or steps 504 and 506 in Fig. 5 relating to the fragrance 匣126 as a unit of the suction device 100B.

At step 729, the control unit 106 determines whether the capacity of the cartridge 104 is greater than a predetermined threshold capacity. If the capacity of the cartridge 104 is greater than the threshold capacity ("NO" in step 729), the process proceeds to step 730. The processing of steps 730 to 744 is the same as the processing of steps 630 to 644 in Fig. 6, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. Further, at step 734, the control section 106 determines whether the suction continues for the first predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second). At step 738, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the third aspect. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the third aspect may include blinking the LED to emit blue light. The control unit 106 may also cause the notification unit 108 to function for a certain period of time (for example, 40 seconds), so that the user can notice that the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 is insufficient.

In step 729, if the capacity of the cartridge 104 is below the threshold capacity ("NO" in step 729), the process proceeds to step 746. At step 746, the control unit 106 determines whether the start of the suction is detected. In one example, when the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control unit 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 has an absolute value exceeding a predetermined value. Suck. The control unit 106 may also determine to start pumping when the time during which the sensor 112 continuously detects pressure or flow exceeds a predetermined duration.

If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 746), the process returns to step 746. If the start of the suction is detected ("YES" in step 746), the process proceeds to step 748.

At step 748, the control section 106 determines whether the suction continues for a second predetermined time (for example, 0.5 second). The second predetermined time can be stored in the memory 114. If the pumping does not continue for the second predetermined time ("NO" in step 748), then the process returns to step 746. If the pumping continues for the second predetermined time (YES in step 748), the process proceeds to step 750. The processing of steps 746 and 748 can be performed by both parties, or only one of them can be performed. Alternatively, the processing of steps 746 and 748 may be omitted.

At step 750, the control unit 106 disables the energization of the atomizing unit 118. The process of step 750 can also be performed between steps 729 and 746.

The process proceeds to step 752, and the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the fourth aspect. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the fourth aspect may include blinking the LED to emit green light. The control unit 106 can also cause the notification unit 108 to function for a certain period of time (for example, 20 seconds), so that the user can notice that the capacity of the cartridge 104 is insufficient.

At step 706, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to function in the first aspect for the battery 110 is such that the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage. On the other hand, in step 752, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the fourth state is satisfied in the step 752, except that (i) the capacity of the cartridge 104 is below the threshold capacity, and (ii) is detected. In addition to the two requirements of the beginning of the suction, it may further comprise (iii) a requirement that the suction continues for a predetermined time. In addition, in step 738, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the third state is performed for the fragrance unit 126, except that (i) the capacity of the cartridge 104 is greater than the threshold capacity, (ii) T _{A is} greater than the threshold time, and (iii) In addition to detecting the three elements of the beginning of the suction, it may further include (iv) a requirement that the suction continues for a predetermined period of time. That is, in the present embodiment, the conditions for determining the flavor 匣 126 in the processing of FIGS. 4 and 5 include the most requirements, and the conditions for determining the cartridge 104 in relation to the processing include The second most important requirement, the conditions for determining the battery 110 in relation to the process, include the minimum requirements. In other words, the higher the frequency of the return operation of returning to the state having the capacity necessary to continue generating the aerosol among the plurality of units of the suction device 100B, the more the components can be included.

Further, the control unit 106 may omit a part of the steps shown in FIG. 7 or change the order of a part of the steps. For example, before the notification portion is caused to function in the first aspect in step 706, it is not determined in step 702 whether or not the start of the suction is detected. In other words, the control unit may perform step 702 after the control unit determines in step 704 whether the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage. In the present embodiment, in step 706, for the battery 110, the condition that the notification unit 108 is to function in the first aspect is required, and it is clear that only the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage. .

Further, the control unit 106 can continue the processing of step 704 until the processing of step 702 and subsequent steps. In other words, in the process of performing steps 708 to 754, if the detected voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage (NO in step 704), the control unit 106 interrupts the processing and executes step 706 to cause the notifying unit 108. Play the function in the first aspect. In the present embodiment, in the condition that the notification unit 108 is to be functional in the first aspect for the battery 110 in step 706, whether or not the start of the suction is detected in step 702 is included. However, this requirement is such that any step after the determination in step 702 is "YES" satisfies the looser requirements of step 704. On the other hand, in step 738, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the third aspect is performed for the fragrance buffer 126, and the control unit 106 determines in step 730 that the cumulative time T _{A is} greater than a predetermined threshold time ( After the result of step 730 is "YES", the control unit 106 immediately determines the stricter requirements of "YES" in steps 732 and 734. Similarly, in step 752, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the fourth state for the cartridge 104 is satisfied, and the control unit 106 determines in step 729 that the cartridge capacity is lower than a predetermined threshold capacity (steps). After the result of 729 is "NO", the control unit 106 immediately determines the stricter requirements of "YES" in steps 746 and 748. In other words, with respect to step 706, processing that can be performed during aerosol generation, steps 738 and 752 are treatments that do not satisfy the conditions during aerosol generation.

Further, the control unit 106 may perform the determination of step 704 immediately after the determination in step 702 is YES. In the present embodiment, in the step 706, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the first state is satisfied for the battery 110, and the condition that the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge termination voltage is included. The beginning of the suction is measured. However, the condition that the notification unit 108 functions in the first aspect for the battery 110 in step 706 does not include the function of causing the notification unit 108 to function in the third aspect for the fragrance 匣 126 in step 738. The condition that is satisfied, or the condition that the pumping 104 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the fourth aspect to satisfy the condition contained in step 752 (iii) the suction is continued for a predetermined time. Therefore, in any of the embodiments, the conditions for determining the flavor 匣 126 and the cartridge 104 include more conditions for determining the battery 110 in relation to the processing.

At step 732, it is determined that the requirement for the start of the suction is detected, and the requirement for detecting the start of the suction is determined to be stricter than at step 746. In one example, the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor. In step 732, the control unit 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure obtained from the sensor 112 exceeds a first predetermined value. Suck. On the other hand, at step 746, the control unit 106 may determine that the suction is started when the pressure obtained from the sensor 112 exceeds a second predetermined value smaller than the first predetermined value. Again, the first predetermined time (e.g., 1.0 second) for determining at step 734 is longer than the second predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) used for the determination at step 748. That is, in the present embodiment, the conditions for determining the flavor 匣 126 relating to the processing of FIGS. 4 and 5 are more likely to be satisfied than the determination of the cartridge 104 in relation to the processing. The condition is low. In other words, the condition that the higher the frequency of the reply operation to return to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate the aerosol among the plurality of units set to the suction device 100B, the lower the possibility of being satisfied. The higher the frequency of replacement or the like, the lower the possibility of satisfying the conditions required to operate the notification unit 108, so that the notification unit 108 can be easily prevented from malfunctioning. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user misses the operation of the notification unit 108 to prompt the user to replace the unit having a high frequency such as replacement.

In the above description, the second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a suction device having the configuration shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B and a method shown in FIGS. 4 to 7. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can also be executed by a processor, so that the processor can execute the program of the method shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 7, or can be readable by a computer storing the program. The form of the memory medium taken is implemented.

<Third embodiment>

Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the basic operation of the smoking device 100 of the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, all the steps shown in FIG. 8 will be described by the control unit 106 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of Figure 8 can also be performed by other components within the suction device 100.

Processing begins in step 802 by the control unit 106 detecting or inferring the capacity of the first unit of the smoking device 100. The meanings of terms such as "unit" and "capacity" have been described in the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, the smoking device 100 includes a plurality of units. For example, the smoking device 100A shown in FIG. 1A has a first member (for example, a battery housing portion) 102 (or a battery 110) and a second member (for example, a cartridge) 104 (or a reservoir 116) as a unit. The suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B has a third member (e.g., fragrance 匣) 126 (or fragrance source 128) as a unit in addition to the above two units. In addition, the smoking device 100 may have a plurality of identical units or a plurality of units of the same type. For example, the suction device 100B shown in Fig. 1B may be configured to accommodate a plurality of third members (e.g., first and second fragrances) 126. In this case, the first and second flavors may comprise the same type of flavor source having the same maximum capacity, or contain the same type of flavor source having different maximum capacities, or contain different species having the same maximum capacity. A source of flavor, or a different source of flavors having different maximum capacities. Similarly, the suction device 100 can include a plurality of cartridges 104 and a plurality of cells 110 as units.

Hereinafter, the suction device has a configuration of the suction device 100B of Fig. 1B, and a battery 110, a cartridge 104, and a fragrance 126 are provided as a unit. However, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present embodiment is applied to a suction device having a configuration such as the suction device 100A of Fig. 1A.

The capacity of the unit can be detected or inferred in a variety of ways. In one example, the sensor 112 can be a weight sensor. In this case, the control unit 106 can use the sensor 112 to detect the weight of the unit (for example, the weight of the liquid or the tobacco in the case where the aerosol source contained in the reservoir 116 in the cartridge 104 is liquid or tobacco), The detected weight is judged as the capacity of the unit. In another example, the sensor 112 can detect the level of the liquid level (of the source of aerosol contained in the reservoir 116 within the cartridge 104). In this case, the control unit 106 can use the sensor 112 to detect the height of the liquid level of the unit, and infer the capacity of the unit based on the detected height of the liquid level. In still another example, the memory 114 can store an accumulated value of the energization time for the atomizing portion 118. In this case, the control unit 106 can estimate the capacity of the unit based on the accumulated energization time acquired from the memory 114 (for example, the remaining amount of the aerosol source contained in the reservoir 116 in the cartridge 104, and the flavor source in the flavor 匣 126). The remaining amount of the flavor component contained in 128, etc.). In still another example, the memory 114 can store the number of times the user can take a taste of the smoking device 100 ("puffing" in the case of electronic cigarettes). In this case, the control unit 106 can estimate the capacity of the unit based on the number of times of pickup obtained from the memory 114. In still another example, the memory 114 can store data related to the heating history of the atomizing unit 118. In this case, the control unit 106 can infer the capacity of the unit based on the data acquired from the memory 114. In still another example, the memory 114 can store data relating to the SOC (State Of Charge), current accumulation value, and/or voltage of the battery 110. The sensor 112 can detect the values. In this case, the control unit 106 can detect or infer the capacity of the unit (especially the battery 110) based on the data. In yet another example, the sensor 112 can have a chirp detection function (or connection detection function) that detects disassembly of the fragrance 匣126 and/or the cartridge 104. In this example, the control unit 106 can infer that the volume of the fragrance 匣 126 is zero when the sensor 112 detects that the fragrance 匣 126 has been removed. The control unit 106 can also infer that the volume of the cartridge 104 is zero when the sensor 112 detects that the cartridge 104 has been removed.

The capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells may be detected or inferred by a method different from the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells. Further, the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells may be detected or inferred by the same method as the capacity of at least one of the plurality of cells. For example, both the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 and the capacity of the cartridge 104 can be detected or inferred based on the accumulated energization time or the cumulative energization amount of the atomization unit 118. Moreover, both the capacity of the battery 110 and the capacity of the cartridge 104 can be detected or inferred based on the accumulated current amount.

Processing proceeds to step 804. At step 804, the control unit 106 determines whether the capacity of the first unit (e.g., the fragrance 匣 126) detected or inferred at step 802 is below a first threshold. The first threshold may be associated with the first unit and stored in the memory 114. The control unit 106 can acquire the first threshold from the memory 114. As mentioned above, the capacity of the first unit can be detected or inferred in a variety of ways. Therefore, it should be understood that depending on the method used to detect or infer the capacity of the first unit, the form and value of the resulting first threshold may be different.

If the capacity of the first unit is not lower than the first threshold ("NO" in step 804), the process returns to step 802. If the capacity of the first unit is lower than the first threshold (YES in step 804), the process proceeds to step 806. At step 806, the control unit 106 detects or infers the capacity of the second unit (e.g., the cartridge 104) of the smoking device 100.

Processing proceeds to step 808. At step 808, the control unit 106 determines whether the capacity of the second unit detected or inferred in step 806 is lower than the second threshold. As mentioned above, the capacity of the second unit can be detected or inferred in a variety of ways. Therefore, it should be understood that depending on the method used to detect or infer the capacity of the second unit, the form and value of the resulting second threshold may be different.

If the capacity of the second unit is not lower than the second threshold ("NO" in step 808), the process proceeds to step 810. In step 810, the control unit 106 notifies the taster (user) of the smoking device 100 in the first mode. For example, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode. The notification unit 108 may include a light-emitting element such as an LED, a liquid crystal display, a speaker, a vibrator, or the like. The notification unit 108 is configured to notify the user of the light, display, sound, vibration, etc. as needed.

If the result of step 808 is "NO", the control unit 106 can further determine whether the predetermined variable detected by the sensor 112 satisfies the predetermined condition to be achieved by the aerosol. Then, when the predetermined variable satisfies the predetermined condition, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode in step 810. In one example, the predetermined variable can be pressure or flow, and the predetermined condition can include the pressure or the flow rate is greater than or equal to a predetermined value set to detect the beginning of the suction. In another example, the predetermined condition may include continuously detecting pressure or flow for a predetermined time set to detect the beginning of the aspiration. With this feature, the notification unit 108 functions in the first mode based not only on the determination results of steps 804 and 808 but also on the detection of the action to be taken by the user using the suction device 100. Therefore, the user will more easily notice that the first unit (for example, the fragrance 匣 126) must be replaced.

If the capacity of the second unit is lower than the second threshold (YES in step 808), the process proceeds to step 812. At step 812, the control unit 106 notifies the user in the second mode. For example, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the second mode.

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, it is possible that only the capacity of the first unit (e.g., the fragrance) is insufficient, and the capacity of the first unit and the second unit (e.g., the cartridge) is insufficient. The notification unit 108 functions in a different mode. Therefore, the user can easily understand whether it is necessary to replace the first unit or the first unit and the second unit.

The smoking device 100 can include a plurality of cells including at least first and second cells. In this case, the predetermined condition may include a requirement that the capacity detected or inferred for each of the plurality of units is below a threshold set for the unit. The control unit 106 can be configured to cause the notification unit 108 to function when the predetermined conditions as described above are satisfied. Further, the above condition may be stricter in the case where the frequency of the return operation to return to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate the aerosol among the plurality of cells is higher. In other words, the above condition may be that the lower the frequency of the reply operation in which the recovery to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate the aerosol among the plurality of units is more relaxed. Further, the above condition may be such that the higher the frequency among the plurality of cells, the lower the possibility of being satisfied. Alternatively, the above condition may be the higher of the above frequencies among the plurality of units, and the more elements are included. With this feature, it is possible to prevent the notification unit 108 from malfunctioning in terms of a unit having a relatively frequent frequency of replacement, and it is possible to reduce the possibility that the user misses the action of the notification unit 108 that urges the unit to be replaced.

The control unit 106 can be configured to obtain a request to generate an aerosol. Moreover, the above condition of the highest frequency unit among the plurality of units may include detection of the requirement. With this feature, the unit with the highest frequency of replacement, etc., includes the suction detection as a condition required for the notification unit 108 to function. Therefore, the notification unit 108 can operate when the user is explicitly expected to perform the suction, so that the possibility that the user misses the operation of the notification unit 108 can be further reduced.

The control unit 106 may be configured such that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the longer the time for the notification unit 108 to function when the above conditions are satisfied. With this feature, it is not easy for the user to miss the action of the notification unit 108 for a unit having a high frequency such as replacement.

When the notification unit 108 is provided with a light-emitting element, the control unit 106 can set the light-emitting colors of the light-emitting elements to be different from each other for each of the plurality of units. In this way, the user can easily understand which unit has to be replaced. The control unit 106 may be configured to set the illuminating color of the illuminating element for each of the plurality of cells based on the frequency of the plurality of cells. With this feature, the user can easily know which unit to replace. The control unit 106 may be configured to set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element to be closer to the cool color system for the higher of the plurality of cells. The color that is frequently illuminated is set to a cool color system, which does not cause the user to be excessively alert, and can prompt the user to perform the replacement work with the feeling of usual use. Further, the control unit 106 may be configured to control the light-emitting element so that the light-emitting element of the light-emitting element that satisfies the above conditions and the light-emitting element that is generated during the generation of the aerosol are the highest frequency of the plurality of cells. The illuminating color is the same. By virtue of this feature, the user can understand that the unit having the highest frequency of replacement (that is, the frequency of notification to the user) must be replaced without damaging the user's taste experience. The control unit 106 may be configured to set the illuminating color of the light-emitting element to be closer to the warm color system for the lower of the plurality of cells. The unit that has a low frequency for replacement or the like sets the illuminating color of the illuminating element to a warm color system, and can strongly attract the user's attention when the unit that is difficult to replace has come to be replaced.

In the process of Fig. 8, the frequency of the return operation of the state in which the first unit is returned to the state having the capacity necessary to continue to generate an aerosol or a flavored aerosol (hereinafter collectively referred to as "aerosol") is This frequency is high for the second unit. In one example, the second unit (cylinder 104) may be replaced once during the period in which the first unit (flavor 匣 126) may be replaced five times.

In the processing of Fig. 8, the fragrance 匣126 may be the first unit and the battery 110 may be the second unit. In one example, the battery 110 may be charged once during the period in which the flavor 匣 126 may be replaced 10 times.

Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing in detail an example of the operation of the smoking device 100 of the present embodiment. Hereinafter, all the steps shown in FIG. 9 will be described by the control unit 106 as an example. However, please note that the steps of a portion of FIG. 9 may also be performed by other components within the suction device 100. Here, the suction device has a configuration of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1B, and the suction device 100B has the battery 110, the cartridge 104, and the flavor 匣126 as a unit, and the flavor 匣126 corresponds to FIG. The first unit, the cartridge 104 is equivalent to the second unit as an example. Further, it is assumed that the cartridge 104 may be replaced once during the period in which the fragrance 匣 126 may be replaced five times.

Processing begins in step 902. In step 902, the control unit 106 determines whether the start of the user's suction of the suction device 100 is detected. In one example, when the sensor 112 includes a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, the control unit 106 may determine to start pumping when the pressure or flow rate obtained from the sensor 112 exceeds a predetermined value. The control unit 106 may also determine to start pumping when the time during which the sensor 112 continuously detects pressure or flow exceeds a predetermined duration. In another example, the suction device 100 may include a start button, and the control unit 106 may determine that the suction is started when the button is pressed. If the start of the suction is not detected ("NO" in step 902), the process returns to step 902. If the start of the suction is detected (YES in step 902), the process proceeds to step 904.

At step 904, the control unit 106 determines whether or not the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than a threshold (discharge termination voltage (e.g., 3.2 V) or the like). If the voltage of the battery 110 is less than or equal to the discharge end voltage ("NO" in the step 904), the process proceeds to a step 906. In step 906, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the fourth mode. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and the fourth mode may include red light that causes the LED to blink for 5.4 seconds. In another example, the notification portion 108 includes a vibrator, and the fourth mode can include vibrating the vibrator for 5.4 seconds. Then, the process ends. On the other hand, if the voltage of the battery 110 is greater than the discharge end voltage (YES in step 904), the process proceeds to step 908.

The processing of steps 908 to 912 is the same as the processing of steps 308 to 312 in Fig. 3, and the description thereof will be omitted herein.

The process proceeds to step 914, and the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the third aspect. The third aspect is an operation mode of the notification unit 108 when the user performs the normal suction using the suction device 100B. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes an LED, and in step 914, the control unit 106 causes the LED to emit blue light all the time.

The processing of steps 916 to 928 is the same as the processing of steps 316 to 328 in Fig. 3, and the description thereof will be omitted herein.

Step 930 is an example of step 804 in Fig. 8 relating to the flavor 匣126 of the first unit of the suction device 100B. At step 930, the control section 106 determines whether or not the accumulated time T _A is greater than a predetermined threshold time. The threshold time may be such that the capacity of the inferred flavor 匣 126 (e.g., the remaining amount of the flavor component contained in the flavor source 128 for the taste) will be reduced below the value required to produce an aerosol with sufficient aroma. The cumulative time for the suction device 100B to perform the suction. The threshold time can be stored in the memory 114 or the like in advance. If the cumulative time T _{A is} less than or equal to the threshold time ("NO" in step 930), it is determined that the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 is greater than or equal to the first threshold, and the process returns to step 902. If T _{A is} greater than the threshold time (YES in step 930), it is determined that the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 is lower than the first threshold, and the process proceeds to step 932.

The processing of steps 932 to 936 is the same as the processing of steps 332 to 336 in FIG. At step 932, it is determined that the condition at the beginning of the suction is detected, and the condition at which the start of the suction is detected is determined to be strict in step 902. Alternatively, it may be determined in step 932 that the condition at which the start of the suction is detected is satisfied, and the likelihood that the condition at the start of the suction is determined to be satisfied is lower than in step 902. In one example, the above conditions may include detection of a variable (eg, pressure or flow) having an absolute value that exceeds a predetermined value. At this time, the predetermined value for the determination of step 932 may be larger than the predetermined value for the determination of step 902. Determining that the above condition is detected at the beginning of the aspiration may also include pumping in step 934 for a predetermined time. In one example, the above conditions may include detection of a variable (eg, pressure) that exceeds a predetermined duration. The case where the determination of the duration is used is also performed in step 902, and the duration of the determination for step 934 may be longer than the duration of the determination for step 902. According to these features, it is possible to make a good response to the user's suction action in the usual suction, and to provide a suction experience without a sense of discomfort. Further, when the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 is lower than the first threshold value, the suction device 100 can be prevented from performing a normal operation due to background noise.

Processing proceeds to step 938. Step 938 is an example of step 808 in Fig. 8 relating to the cartridge 104 as the second unit of the suction device 100B. At step 938, N represents the number of times the flavor 匣 126 has been replaced. In step 938, the "predetermined number of times" refers to the number of times the flavor 匣 126 should be replaced during the replacement of the cartridge 104 once. As described above, in the example of Fig. 9, the fragrance 匣 126 is replaced five times during the replacement of the cartridge 104 once. So the predetermined number of times here is 5. Therefore, in the case of N≧5, it is necessary to replace the fragrance 匣126 and the cartridge 104 at the same time. In the case of N<5, it is only necessary to replace the fragrance 匣126, and it is not necessary to replace the cartridge 104.

At step 938, the control unit 106 determines whether N is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of times (here, 5). N can be stored in the memory 114. If N is less than the predetermined number of times (the result of step 938 is "NO"), it corresponds to the case where "NO" in step 808 in Fig. 8. That is, at this time, the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 as the first unit is lower than the first threshold, and the capacity of the cartridge 104 as the second unit is equal to or higher than the second threshold. In this case, the process proceeds to step 940. In step 940, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode, as in step 810 in FIG. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes a light-emitting element such as an LED, and the first mode may include blue light that causes the light-emitting element to emit flicker for 40 seconds. In another example, the notification portion 108 includes a vibrator, and the first mode can include vibrating the vibrator for 2 seconds.

When the notification unit 108 is caused to function in the first mode, the control unit 106 can stop the generation of the aerosol. This can be accomplished by the processing of step 936. For example, the control unit 106 prohibits energization of the atomizing unit 118. Since the aerosol is not generated, the user's attention can be evoked, and the user is more likely to notice that the fragrance 匣126 must be replaced. Since it is possible to prevent the occurrence of incomplete mist when the remaining amount of the flavor 匣 126 is insufficient, it is possible to prevent the user from absorbing the suction experience.

In the case where the notification unit 108 is provided with a light-emitting element, in the first mode in step 940 and the third mode in step 914, the light-emitting elements may have the same light-emitting color and the light-emitting elements may have different light-emitting patterns. Alternatively, in the first mode and the third mode, the illuminating colors of the illuminating elements may be made different, and the illuminating elements may be illuminated in the same manner. Alternatively, in the first mode and the third mode, the illuminating color and the illuminating state of the illuminating element may be different. According to these features, when the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 is insufficient, the user is made aware that some abnormality related to the suction has occurred, and it is easier to urge the user to replace the fragrance 匣 126.

The process proceeds to step 942, and the control unit 106 releases the prohibition of energization of the atomizing unit 118. At this time, the control portion 106 can infer that the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 has returned to a predetermined value (for example, a value sufficient for generating an aerosol or a flavored aerosol). Since the notification unit 108 has been notified that the user does not easily see it, the probability of replacing the flavor 匣126 having insufficient capacity after the function of the notification unit 108 played in the first mode is completed is high. According to the above feature, it is no longer necessary to use the control logic and the components for the assembly detection or the switch which are arranged for the purpose of detecting whether or not the unit is replaced. Moreover, the accuracy of counting the accumulated time and the number of replacements can be improved.

The control unit 106 may also count the number of times the capacity of the flavor 匣 126 returns to a predetermined value after the function of the notification unit 108 that is played in the first mode is completed. With this feature, it is possible to count the control logic and components for the assembly detection or switch that are configured for the purpose of detecting whether or not the unit has been replaced, and the like. The number of replacements of the above-mentioned units belonging to one parameter is useful for estimating the life of the product and the degree of consumption of other units.

The process proceeds to step 944, and the control unit 106 increments N by one. Thereby, the number of times the fragrance 匣126 is replaced is increased by one. At step 946, the control unit 106 resets the accumulated time T _A (set it to zero).

At step 938, N belongs to the predetermined number of times (the result of step 938 is "YES"), which corresponds to the case where step 808 in Fig. 8 is "YES". That is, at this time, the capacity of the fragrance 匣 126 as the first unit is lower than the first threshold, and the capacity of the cartridge 104 as the second unit is lower than the second threshold. Therefore, both the fragrance 匣126 and the cartridge 104 must be replaced. In this case, the process proceeds to step 948. In step 948, the control unit 106 causes the notification unit 108 to function in the second mode, as in step 812 in FIG. In one example, the notification unit 108 includes a light-emitting element such as an LED, and the second mode may include a green light that causes the light-emitting element to emit flicker for 60 seconds. In this manner, the control unit 106 may be configured to cause the light-emitting elements of the notification unit 108 to emit light in different light-emitting colors in the first mode in the step 940 and the second mode in the step 948. By this feature, the illuminating color of the illuminating element is different when only the scent 匣 126 needs to be replaced and when both the scent 匣 126 and the cartridge 104 have to be replaced, so that the user can easily understand which unit has to be replaced.

The control unit 106 may be configured to set the illuminating color of the illuminating element in the first mode to be closer to the cool color than the illuminating color in the second mode. Thereby, when it is only necessary to replace the flavor 匣126, the light-emitting element is caused to emit light in a cool color. Therefore, it is easy for the user to know that a regular replacement operation is required, and it is easier to know whether only the fragrance 匣126 needs to be replaced, or whether the fragrance 匣126 and the cartridge 104 must be replaced.

The control unit 106 may be configured to have different lengths of time in which the notification unit 108 functions in the first mode and the second mode. Thereby, it will be easier to know whether only the fragrance 匣126 needs to be replaced, or whether the fragrance 匣126 and the cartridge 104 must be replaced. The control unit 106 may be configured to make the time for causing the notification unit 108 to function in the first mode to be shorter than the time for the notification unit 108 to function in the second mode. Thereby, the time required for the notification unit 108 to function is short when only the fragrance 匣126 is to be replaced. Therefore, it is easy for the user to know that the work must be completed in a short time. And, it will be easier to know if only the fragrance 匣126 needs to be replaced, or whether the fragrance 匣126 and the cartridge 104 must be replaced.

In another example, the notification portion 108 includes a vibrator, and the second mode can include vibrating the vibrator for 60 seconds.

The process proceeds to step 950, and the control unit 106 cancels the prohibition of energization of the atomizing unit 118. This process is the same as the process of step 942.

The process proceeds to step 952, and the control unit 106 increments N by one. Thereby, the number of times the fragrance 匣 126 is replaced is reset to 1. Then, the process proceeds to step 946.

The control unit 106 may be configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit 108 when at least one of the plurality of units is removed. In the example of Fig. 9, in the case where the cartridge 104 and the fragrance 匣 126 are detachable, the control unit 106 can interrupt the function of the notification unit 108 when one or both of the two are removed.

In the above description, the third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as a suction device having the configuration shown in Fig. 1A or 1B and a method shown in Fig. 8 or Fig. 9. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can also be executed by a processor, such that the processor executes a program of the method shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. 9, or a computer readable by the program. The form of the memory medium taken is implemented.

The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, but the above description is only illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. It is to be understood that changes, additions, improvements, and the like of the embodiments may be appropriately made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments, but only by the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

Claims (31)

 A suction device comprising: first and second units configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming the accumulated capacity; and the notification unit is configured to Notifying the smoke collector; and the control unit is configured to detect or infer a second capacity that is detected or inferred for the first unit below a first threshold and is detected or inferred for the second unit When the second threshold is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the notification unit functions in the first mode, and when the first capacity is lower than the first threshold and the second capacity is lower than the second threshold, the notification unit is configured to a second mode different from the first mode described above functions; wherein, the frequency of returning to the first unit for returning to a state having a capacity necessary to continue generating the aerosol is higher than that of the second unit This frequency is high.    The absorbing device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit includes a light-emitting element, and the control unit is configured to cause the light-emitting element to have a different luminescent color in the first mode and the second mode. Glowing.    The suction device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to set a luminescent color of the light-emitting element in the first mode to be closer to a cool color system than the second mode.    The suction device according to any one of the first to third aspect, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit to function in the first mode and the second mode.    The suction device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit is configured to make the notification unit function in the first mode shorter than the second mode.    The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a sensor configured to detect a predetermined variable, wherein the control unit is configured to be in the first capacity The notification unit functions in the first mode when the second threshold is equal to or greater than the second threshold and the variable satisfies a predetermined condition required to generate the gas mist.    The suction device according to the sixth aspect of the invention, wherein the control unit is configured to stop the generation of the gas mist when the notification unit functions in the first mode.    The suction device according to Item 6 or 7, wherein the condition that the first capacity is lower than the first threshold is greater than the first capacity above the first threshold The foregoing conditions are strict.    The suction device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the possibility that the foregoing condition is satisfied when the first capacity is lower than the threshold is a ratio of the first capacity to the threshold The above conditions of the above case are less likely to be satisfied.    The suction device of claim 8 or 9, wherein the condition includes detection of the aforementioned variable exceeding a predetermined duration, and wherein the first capacity is lower than the first threshold The duration of the foregoing is longer than the aforementioned duration in the case where the first capacity is greater than the first threshold.    The absorbing device of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the condition includes detecting the foregoing variable having an absolute value exceeding a predetermined value, and the first capacity is lower than the first The predetermined value in the case of the threshold value is larger than the predetermined value in the case where the first capacity is equal to or greater than the first threshold.    In the above-mentioned control unit, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit including the light-emitting element to be the third in the generation of the gas mist, in the third aspect of the present invention. The mode functions, and the light-emitting elements of the first mode and the third mode have the same light-emitting color, and the light-emitting elements of the first mode and the third mode have different light-emitting patterns.    In the above-mentioned control unit, the control unit is configured to cause the notification unit including the light-emitting element to be the third in the generation of the gas mist, in the third aspect of the present invention. The mode functions, and in the first mode and the third mode, the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting elements are different, and the light-emitting elements of the first mode and the third mode are the same.    The above-described control unit is configured to estimate the first after the function of the notification unit that is played in the first mode is completed, as described in any one of the sixth aspect of the invention. The capacity has been returned to the predetermined value.    The above-described control unit is configured to count the first after the function of the notification unit that is played in the first mode is completed, in the suction device according to any one of the sixteenth aspect The number of times the capacity has returned to the predetermined value.    The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: a plurality of units including at least the first and second units, and configured to consume the accumulated capacity And contributing to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol; the control unit is configured to satisfy the predetermined condition set for the unit for each of the plurality of units The notification unit functions to include the condition that the detected or estimated capacity is below a threshold set for the unit, and the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the stricter the condition.    The smoking device according to any one of the items 1 to 5, wherein the higher the frequency of the plurality of cells, the lower the possibility that the condition is satisfied.    The smoking device according to Item 16 or 17, wherein the higher the frequency of the plurality of units, the more the conditions include the above requirements.    The suction device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the control unit is further configured to acquire a request for the generation of the gas mist, wherein the plurality of units have the highest frequency The foregoing conditions of the unit include detection of the foregoing requirements.    In the above-mentioned control unit, the control unit is configured such that the higher the frequency among the plurality of units, the condition is satisfied if the condition is satisfied. The longer the notification unit functions, the longer.    The above-mentioned control unit is configured to connect the light-emitting elements included in the notification unit corresponding to each unit of the plurality of units, in the above-described control unit. The illuminating colors are set to be different from each other.    The suction device according to claim 21, wherein the control unit is configured to set a luminescent color of the light-emitting element corresponding to each of the plurality of cells based on the frequency of the plurality of cells.    In the above-mentioned control unit, the control unit is configured to include the notification unit in the plurality of units among the plurality of units. The illuminating color of the illuminating element is set to be closer to the cool color system.    The suction device according to claim 23, wherein the control unit is configured to control the light-emitting element so that the condition is satisfied for the unit having the highest frequency among the plurality of units. The luminescent color of the light-emitting element is the same as the luminescent color of the light-emitting element during the generation of the aerosol.    In the above-described control unit, the control unit is configured to include the notification unit in the case where the frequency is lower among the plurality of units. The illuminating color of the illuminating element is set to be closer to the warm color system.    The suction device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capacity of at least one of the plurality of units is at least one of the plurality of units The methods described above for different units of different units are detected or inferred.    The smoking device according to any one of claims 16 to 26, wherein the capacity of at least two of the plurality of cells is detected or inferred by the same method.    The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: a plurality of units including at least the first and second units, and configured to consume the accumulated capacity And contributing to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol; the control unit is configured to satisfy the predetermined condition set for the unit for each of the plurality of units The notification unit functions, wherein the predetermined condition is a requirement that the detected or estimated capacity is below a threshold set for the unit, and the lower the frequency among the plurality of units, the looser the condition .    The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the control unit is configured to interrupt the function of the notification unit when at least one of the units is removed.    A method of operating a suction device comprising first and second units configured to contribute to the generation of an aerosol or a flavored aerosol by consuming the accumulated capacity; The method includes: in a first mode, the first capacity detected or inferred for the foregoing first unit is lower than a first threshold, and the second capacity detected or inferred for the second unit is above a second threshold, in a first mode a step of notifying the aspirator of the aerosol; and in a case where the first capacity is lower than the first threshold and the second capacity is lower than the second threshold, in a second mode different from the first mode a step of notifying the smear of the aerosol, and returning to the first unit for returning to a state having a capacity necessary to continue generating the aerosol, which is higher than the second unit The frequency is still high.    A program executed by a processor to cause the aforementioned processor to execute a program of the method described in claim 30.