WO2023089763A1 - エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム - Google Patents

エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023089763A1
WO2023089763A1 PCT/JP2021/042555 JP2021042555W WO2023089763A1 WO 2023089763 A1 WO2023089763 A1 WO 2023089763A1 JP 2021042555 W JP2021042555 W JP 2021042555W WO 2023089763 A1 WO2023089763 A1 WO 2023089763A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
time
aerosol
control
puff
load
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/JP2021/042555
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English (en)
French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
拓磨 中野
一真 水口
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Japan Tobacco Inc
Original Assignee
Japan Tobacco Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Japan Tobacco Inc filed Critical Japan Tobacco Inc
Priority to PCT/JP2021/042555 priority Critical patent/WO2023089763A1/ja
Priority to KR1020247015796A priority patent/KR20240100368A/ko
Priority to CN202180104308.9A priority patent/CN118251145A/zh
Priority to EP21964778.1A priority patent/EP4434372A4/en
Priority to JP2023562042A priority patent/JP7802094B2/ja
Publication of WO2023089763A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023089763A1/ja
Priority to US18/664,317 priority patent/US20240306730A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Priority to JP2025241858A priority patent/JP2026041940A/ja
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A24F40/53—Monitoring, e.g. fault detection
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A24F40/51—Arrangement of sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A24F40/57—Temperature control
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F47/00—Smokers' requisites not otherwise provided for
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B1/00—Details of electric heating devices
    • H05B1/02—Automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to apparatus ; Control of heating devices
    • H05B1/0227—Applications
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B1/00—Details of electric heating devices
    • H05B1/02—Automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to apparatus ; Control of heating devices
    • H05B1/0227—Applications
    • H05B1/0252—Domestic applications

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a circuit unit of an aerosol generator, an aerosol generator, and a program.
  • aerosol generators that generate aerosol by heating a liquid containing fragrance
  • the heater is energized when the user's inhalation action is detected, and the liquid inside the glass fiber called a wick is atomized (aerosolized). be done.
  • an aerosol is generated when the temperature of the liquid in the weck reaches its boiling point.
  • Some recent aerosol generators are provided with a function of preliminarily heating the liquid temperature at the start of suction by energizing the heater even during non-suction.
  • This function is called “preheating” in the sense of distinguishing from heating accompanied by generation of aerosol (hereinafter referred to as “main heating”).
  • Preheating does not heat to the temperature at which aerosols are generated.
  • the preheating function is activated, the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than when preheating is not used, so the power supplied to the heater can be efficiently used to generate aerosol. Therefore, it is possible to generate a high-concentration aerosol from the start of suction.
  • the supply of liquid to the wick relies on capillary effects.
  • the present invention is a technique for suppressing liquid depletion during suction regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device when performing the second control that does not generate aerosol prior to the first control that generates aerosol. I will provide a.
  • the invention according to claim 1 has a control unit that controls supply of electric power to a load that heats an aerosol source, and the control unit heats the load to a first temperature at which the aerosol is generated. Before the control of, when performing the second control of heating the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period and a circuit unit of an aerosol generating device that controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be lower than a reference value.
  • the invention according to claim 2 further includes a first sensor that detects the inhalation of the aerosol by the user, and the controller controls the current inhalation start from the end of the previous inhalation detected by the first sensor. is shorter than the first period, at least one of the time during which power is supplied to the load in the first control and the time during which power is supplied to the load in the second control is set to the first period.
  • the control unit controls the above-described 2.
  • the invention according to claim 4 further includes a first sensor for detecting inhalation of aerosol by the user, and the control unit controls the first sensor from the end of heating immediately before the end of generation of aerosol from the aerosol source. If the time until the current suction start detected by the sensor is shorter than the first period, the time to supply power to the load in the first control and the power to the load in the second control 2.
  • the invention according to claim 5 has an operation unit that receives a user's operation related to supply and stop of power supply to the load, and the control unit is configured to stop the supply of power immediately before according to the user's operation on the operation unit.
  • the circuit unit of an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein at least one is shorter than the second period.
  • the invention according to claim 6 further comprises a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by the user and a second sensor for detecting the temperature of the load, wherein the control unit detects the temperature of the first sensor. If the temperature detected by the second sensor at the start of suction of the aerosol detected in is higher than the first temperature reference, the time to supply power to the load in the first control and the second control 2.
  • the circuit unit of an aerosol generating device wherein at least one of the times during which the load is supplied with power in is shorter than the second period.
  • the invention according to claim 7 further includes a first sensor that detects the inhalation of aerosol by the user, and the control unit detects the resistance of the load at the start of inhalation of the aerosol detected by the first sensor. When the value is higher than the first resistance value, at least one of the time during which power is supplied to the load in the first control and the time during which power is supplied to the load in the second control is set longer than the second period.
  • a circuit unit of an aerosol generating device for shortening.
  • the invention according to claim 8 further comprises a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by the user and a third sensor for detecting the temperature of the aerosol source, wherein the control unit detects the temperature of the first sensor If the temperature detected by the third sensor at the start of suction of the aerosol detected in is higher than the second temperature reference, the time to supply power to the load in the first control and the second control in the 2.
  • the circuit unit of an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the times during which the load is powered is shorter than the second period.
  • the control unit predicts the next interval based on the tendency of the past plural times of intervals between suctions of the aerosol, and the predicted interval is shorter than the first period.
  • At least one of the power supply time to the load in the first control and the power supply time to the load in the second control of the next suction time is set shorter than the second period,
  • a circuit unit of the aerosol generating device according to claim 1.
  • the control unit obtains a plurality of past measured values of intervals between aerosol inhalations, and the number of consecutive occurrences of measured values shorter than the first period is the first. When the number of times exceeds 1, the time of power supply to the load in the first control and the time of power supply to the load in the second control in the next and subsequent suction times as the number of times increases. 2.
  • the control unit includes it in the calculation of the number of times.
  • the control unit controls the amount of electric power supplied to the load in the first control and the The circuit unit of the aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one of the amount of electric power supplied to the load is controlled to be small in the second control.
  • the invention according to claim 14 further includes a second sensor that detects the temperature of the load, and the control unit detects that the temperature detected by the second sensor during the period of the first control is The circuit unit of an aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the load is forced to end at that point if a third temperature criterion is reached.
  • the invention according to claim 15 further includes a third sensor that detects the temperature of the aerosol source, and the controller controls the temperature detected by the third sensor during the period of the first control.
  • the circuit unit of an aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the load is forced to end at that point if a fourth temperature criterion is reached.
  • the controller controls the first maximum voltage to be supplied to the load to generate the aerosol when the interval between suctions of the aerosol is shorter than the first period. value is controlled to a value smaller than the second maximum voltage value supplied to the load when the interval between aerosol inhalations is longer than the first period. or a circuit unit of the aerosol generator according to item 1.
  • the invention according to claim 17 has a control unit for controlling supply of electric power to a load that heats an aerosol source, and the control unit heats the load to a first temperature at which the aerosol is generated.
  • the control unit heats the load to a first temperature at which the aerosol is generated.
  • a computer for controlling power supply to a load that heats an aerosol source is provided with the first
  • the first control for heating the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, if the interval between aerosol inhalations is shorter than the first period, in the first control
  • Liquid drying can be suppressed.
  • the second aspect of the invention when performing the second control, it is possible to suppress liquid drying even when the user's suction interval is short.
  • the third aspect of the invention when performing the second control, it is possible to suppress liquid drying even when the user's suction interval is short.
  • the fourth aspect of the present invention when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the second control when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the second control when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress the liquid drying up.
  • the second control when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the eighth aspect of the invention even when the user's suction interval is short when performing the second control, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the control for preventing liquid drying can be performed.
  • the control for preventing liquid drying when the second control is performed and it is confirmed that the user's suction interval tends to be short, the control for preventing liquid drying can be performed.
  • the control for preventing the liquid from drying up can be executed.
  • the second control when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the second control when the second control is performed, even if the user's suction interval is short, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the fourteenth aspect of the invention it is possible to suppress liquid drying even when an environment in which liquid drying is likely to occur is detected when performing the second control.
  • the fifteenth aspect of the present invention it is possible to suppress liquid drying even when an environment in which liquid drying is likely to occur is detected when performing the second control.
  • the sixteenth aspect of the invention even when the user's suction interval is short when performing the second control, it is possible to suppress liquid drying.
  • the seventeenth aspect of the invention it is possible to suppress drying up of liquid during suction regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device when the second control is performed.
  • the eighteenth aspect of the invention it is possible to suppress drying up of the liquid during suction regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device when performing the second control.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 1;
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generator assumed in Embodiment 1.
  • FIG. It is a figure explaining preheating time and main heating time.
  • (A) shows the arrangement of the preheating time and the main heating time, and
  • (B) shows the temperature change of the aerosol source.
  • 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 1.
  • FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting the main heating time depending on the presence or absence of preheating and the length of the puff interval.
  • FIG. (A) shows a setting example of the main heating time without preheating
  • (B) shows a setting example of the main heating time with preheating
  • 4 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 1.
  • FIG. (A) shows an example of suction timing
  • (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 2.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 2; (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating, and (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 3.
  • FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 3; (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating, and (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 4.
  • FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 4; (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating, and (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 5; 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 5.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 5.
  • FIG. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction
  • (B) shows the temperature change of the heating part without preheating
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (D ) shows the temperature change of the heating part with preheating
  • (E) shows a setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 6
  • 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 6.
  • FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 6.
  • FIG. (A) shows an example of suction timing
  • (B) shows a change in the resistance value of the heating part without preheating
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (D) shows a change in the resistance value of the heating portion with preheating
  • (E) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 7;
  • FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 7;
  • FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 7.
  • FIG. (A) shows an example of suction timing
  • (B) shows a change in the temperature of the liquid induction part without preheating
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (D) shows the change in the temperature of the liquid guide section with preheating
  • (E) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 8
  • FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 8.
  • FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 8.
  • FIG. (A) shows an example of suction timing
  • (B) shows changes in ambient temperature
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (D) shows an example of setting with preheating.
  • An example of the setting of the main heating time is shown.
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 9.
  • FIG. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 9.
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 10.
  • FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 10.
  • FIG. 13 is a flow chart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 11;
  • FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 12;
  • FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 13;
  • FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 13;
  • FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example of setting processing of the main heating time for no preheating and an example of setting processing of the main heating time for with preheating.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting the main heating time according to the amount of residual liquid when preheating is not performed and when preheating is performed; (A) is a setting example of the main heating time without preheating, and (B) is a setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 14; FIG.
  • FIG. 29 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 15.
  • FIG. FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of main heating time by a control unit used in Embodiment 16;
  • FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 17;
  • FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically showing an internal configuration example of an aerosol generating device assumed in Embodiment 18;
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generating device 1 assumed in Embodiment 1.
  • FIG. 1 The aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 1 is one form of electronic cigarette, and generates flavored aerosol without combustion.
  • the electronic cigarette shown in FIG. 1 has a generally cylindrical shape.
  • the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a plurality of units. In the case of FIG. 1, the multiple units are composed of a power supply unit 10, a cartridge 20 containing an aerosol source, and a cartridge 30 containing a flavor source.
  • the cartridge 20 can be attached to and detached from the power supply unit 10, and the cartridge 30 can be attached to and detached from the cartridge 20.
  • FIG. In other words, both the cartridge 20 and the cartridge 30 are replaceable.
  • the power supply unit 10 incorporates an electronic circuit and the like.
  • the power supply unit 10 is one form of a circuit unit.
  • a power button 11 is provided on the side surface of the power supply unit 10 .
  • the power button 11 is an example of an operation unit that is used to input user instructions to the power supply unit 10 .
  • the cartridge 20 includes a liquid storage portion for storing the liquid that is the aerosol source, a liquid guide portion for drawing the liquid from the liquid storage portion by capillary action, and a heating portion for heating and vaporizing the liquid held in the liquid guide portion. and are built-in.
  • a side surface of the cartridge 20 is provided with an air inlet (hereinafter referred to as an “air inlet”) 21 .
  • the air that has flowed in through the air inlet holes 21 passes through the cartridge 20 and is discharged from the cartridge 30 .
  • Cartridge 20 is also called an atomizer.
  • the cartridge 30 incorporates a flavor unit that adds flavor to the aerosol.
  • a mouthpiece 31 is provided in the cartridge 30 .
  • FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in the first embodiment.
  • the aerosol generator 1 is composed of a power supply unit 10 and cartridges 20 and 30 .
  • the power supply unit 10 incorporates a power supply unit 111, a puff sensor 112, a power button sensor 113, a notification unit 114, a storage unit 115, a communication unit 116, and a control unit 117.
  • the cartridge 20 incorporates a heating portion 211 , a liquid guiding portion 212 and a liquid storing portion 213 .
  • a flavor source 311 is built in the cartridge 30 .
  • One end of cartridge 30 is used as mouthpiece 31 .
  • An air flow path 40 connected to the air inlet 21 is formed inside the cartridges 20 and 30 .
  • the power supply unit 111 is a device that stores power necessary for operation.
  • the power supply unit 111 supplies electric power to each unit constituting the aerosol generation device 1 through control by the control unit 117 .
  • the power supply unit 111 is composed of a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery, for example.
  • the puff sensor 112 is a sensor that detects inhalation of aerosol by the user, and is configured by, for example, a flow rate sensor. Puff sensor 112 is an example of a first sensor.
  • the power button sensor 113 is a sensor that detects an operation on the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), and is composed of, for example, a pressure sensor. In addition to the puff sensor 112 and the power button sensor 113, the power supply unit 10 is provided with various sensors.
  • the notification unit 114 is a device used to notify the user of information.
  • the notification unit 114 includes, for example, a light emitting device, a display device, a sound output device, and a vibration device.
  • the storage unit 115 is a device that stores various information necessary for the operation of the aerosol generator 1 .
  • a nonvolatile storage medium such as a flash memory is used for the storage unit 115 .
  • the communication unit 116 is a communication interface conforming to a wired or wireless communication standard. Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark), for example, are used as communication standards.
  • the control unit 117 is a device that functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls overall operations in the aerosol generation device 1 through execution of various programs.
  • the liquid storage unit 213 is a tank that stores the aerosol source. Aerosol is generated by atomization of an aerosol source stored in liquid reservoir 213 . Liquids such as water and polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol are used as aerosol sources.
  • the aerosol source may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavoring ingredients. If the aerosol-generating device 1 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a medicament.
  • the liquid guide section 212 is a member that guides and holds the liquid aerosol source from the liquid storage section 213 to the heating area.
  • a member called a wick made by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic is used for the liquid guide portion 212 .
  • the liquid guiding part 212 is composed of a wick, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storing part 213 is guided to the heating area by capillary action of the wick.
  • the heating unit 211 is a member that heats the aerosol source held in the heating region to atomize the aerosol source and generate an aerosol.
  • the heating part 211 is a coil and is wound around the liquid guiding part 212 .
  • the area around which the coil is wound in the liquid guide portion 212 serves as a heating area. Due to the heat generated by the heating unit 211, the temperature of the aerosol source held in the heating area rises to the boiling point to generate an aerosol. A boiling point is an example of a first temperature.
  • the heating unit 211 generates heat by power supply from the power supply unit 111 . Power supply to the heating unit 211 is started when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Predetermined conditions include, for example, the user's start of suction, pressing of the power button 11 a predetermined number of times, and input of predetermined information. However, in the case of the present embodiment, power supply to heating unit 211 is started upon detection of suction.
  • Power supply to heating unit 211 is stopped when a predetermined condition is satisfied.
  • Predetermined conditions include, for example, the end of suction by the user, the end of the main heating time described later, the long press of the power button 11, and the input of predetermined information.
  • the power supply to the heating unit 211 stops when the suction ends.
  • the heating unit 211 here is an example of a load that consumes power.
  • Flavor source 311 is a component that imparts a flavor component to the aerosol generated within cartridge 20 .
  • the flavor source 311 includes tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.
  • An air flow path 40 penetrating through the cartridges 20 and 30 is a flow path for air and aerosol inhaled by the user.
  • the air flow path 40 has a tubular structure with the air inflow hole 21 as an air inlet and the air outflow hole 42 as an air outlet.
  • a liquid guide portion 212 is arranged on the upstream side of the air channel 40, and a flavor source 311 is arranged on the downstream side thereof.
  • the air that has flowed in through the air inflow hole 21 is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section 211 .
  • the mixed gas passes through the flavor source 311 and is transported to the air outlet holes 42 as indicated by arrows 41 .
  • the gas in which the aerosol and air are mixed is imparted with the flavor component of the flavor source 311 when passing through the flavor source 311 . It is also possible to use the flavor source 311 without attaching it to the cartridge 30 .
  • the mouthpiece 31 is a member held by the user when inhaling.
  • the mouthpiece 31 is provided with an air outlet hole 42 .
  • the user can take in the gas in which the aerosol and the air are mixed into the oral cavity.
  • An example of the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 has been described above, but the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is just one form.
  • the aerosol generator 1 can be configured without the cartridge 30 . In that case, the cartridge 20 is provided with a mouthpiece 31 .
  • the aerosol generator 1 can also include multiple types of aerosol sources.
  • a plurality of types of aerosol generated from a plurality of types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 40 to cause a chemical reaction, thereby generating another type of aerosol.
  • the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 211 .
  • induction heating techniques may be used to atomize the aerosol source.
  • FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the preheating time LT0 and the main heating time LT11.
  • A shows the arrangement of the preheating time LT0 and the main heating time LT11
  • B shows the temperature change of the aerosol source.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 3A is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 3B is temperature
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 3A and 3B is time.
  • the puff intensity is detected by a puff sensor.
  • the strength of the puff is detected by the presence or absence of the puff, but it may be defined as the amount of air sucked.
  • the main heating times LT1 and LT11 are times for heating the aerosol source held in the liquid guide section 212 (see FIG. 2) to the vaporization temperature.
  • the main heating times LT1 and LT11 are an example of the first control.
  • the preheating time LT0 is the time immediately before the main heating time LT11, as shown in FIG. 3A, and is the time for preliminarily heating the aerosol source.
  • the preheating is heating for preheating the liquid temperature of the aerosol source in the liquid guide section 212 to room temperature or higher and lower than the boiling point.
  • the preheating time LT0 is an example of second control.
  • the main heating time when preheating is used is indicated as LT11
  • the main heating time when preheating is not used is indicated as LT1 for distinction.
  • the liquid temperature of the aerosol source in preheating is maintained at a target temperature near the boiling point.
  • the target temperature here is an example of the second temperature.
  • a predetermined fixed value is used for the preheating time LT0.
  • aerosol can be generated immediately after the main heating time LT11 starts, and as a result, the total amount of aerosol generated during the main heating time LT11 can be increased.
  • the time from the start of the main heating time LT11 until the temperature of the aerosol source reaches the boiling point is TD1 when preheating is not used, but is TD1 when preheating is used. It can be shortened to TD2 ( ⁇ TD1). Therefore, if the length of the main heating time LT11 is the same as when preheating is not used, more aerosol can be generated when preheating is used.
  • the temperature of the heating unit 211 rises when power supply is started, and decreases when power supply is stopped.
  • the temperature of the heating unit 211 during this heating time rises above the boiling point of the aerosol when power supply is started, and drops below the boiling point of the aerosol when power supply is stopped.
  • the main heating time LT11 is interlocked with the suction of the aerosol generator 1 (see FIG. 1) by the user. That is, the main heating times LT1 and LT11 start when the aerosol suction is started, and the main heating times LT1 and LT11 end when the aerosol suction ends.
  • the power feeding time to the heating part 211 and the aerosol generation time from the liquid guiding part 212 are substantially the same. Strictly speaking, however, the power immediately after the start of supply is consumed to raise the temperature of the aerosol source held in the liquid guide section 212 . Therefore, there is a time lag between when the liquid temperature of the aerosol source reaches the boiling point and when the aerosol starts to be generated.
  • the main heating time LT11 when preheating is used is shorter than the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not used. This is to equalize the amount of aerosol generated during the main heating time LT1 and the amount of aerosol generated during the main heating time LT11. In other words, when controlling the amount of aerosol generated to be the same as in the case without preheating, the main heating time LT11 with preheating should be shorter than the main heating time LT1 without preheating. becomes possible.
  • preheating accelerates the generation of aerosol is that the viscosity of the aerosol source at the start of the main heating time LT11 is lower than when preheating is not used.
  • the lower the viscosity of the aerosol source the higher the liquid feeding speed to the liquid guide section 212, resulting in an increase in the amount of liquid supplied.
  • the preheating time LT0 becomes longer, the amount of power consumed also increases accordingly. Therefore, it is necessary to set the length of the preheating time LT0 in consideration of the balance with the amount of power consumed during the main heating time LT11.
  • FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the first embodiment. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program. Therefore, the control unit 117 is a form of computer. In FIG. 4, the symbol S is used to mean step.
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). That is, control unit 117 determines whether the preheating mode is on or off.
  • the aerosol generator 1 in the present embodiment is provided with a preheating mode, and whether to use the preheating mode in an ON state or an OFF state is determined by the user.
  • the aerosol generator 1 may be provided with a dedicated button for turning on/off the preheating mode.
  • step 1 determines whether or not the start of suction has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (step 2). If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 . While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, when the user's start of aerosol inhalation is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2 . If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the last puff interval (step 3).
  • the last puff interval is given by the time from the end of the previous suction (puff) to the start of the current suction (puff).
  • the puff interval may be measured, for example, by a timer, or may be calculated as the difference between the last suction end time and the current suction start time.
  • the time is acquired, for example, from a timer built into the control unit 117 or an integrated circuit that realizes the timer function.
  • the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4).
  • the first period is set in consideration of the ability to supply the aerosol source by the liquid guide section 212 and the time when the liquid may dry up. In the case of this embodiment, the first period is set to 10 seconds, for example. Of course, this value is an example.
  • the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4 .
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time LT1 to the reference time L1 (step 5).
  • the reference time L1 here is an example of the second period. In this embodiment, for example, 2.4 seconds is used as the reference time. Of course, this value is an example of the reference time L1.
  • the reference time L1 is set to a time during which liquid drying does not occur due to inhalation of aerosol by an assumed standard user when the puff interval is longer than the threshold.
  • the control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 4. This case is called a "short puff".
  • a short puff is a state in which the puff interval is shorter than the first period.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time LT1 to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time LT1 is shortened, and the voltage value and current value supplied to the heating unit 211 are the same regardless of the difference in the puff interval.
  • 1.7 seconds for example, is used as the time L2.
  • this value is an example of the main heating time LT1 for short puffs. The shorter the time L2, the more difficult it is for the liquid drying phenomenon, in which no aerosol is generated even if the aerosol source is heated, to occur.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not it is time to finish the main heating (step 8).
  • the main heating is ended by, for example, the end of the set main heating time LT1, the end of aerosol suction by the user, or a forced end operation. Therefore, even if the set main heating time LT1 remains, the power supply to the heating unit 211 is finished when it is determined that the main heating is finished.
  • the elapse of the main heating time LT1 is monitored by the elapsed time from the start of power supply to the heating unit 211 . It should be noted that, for example, a long press of the power button 11 (see FIG. 1) is used for the forced termination operation.
  • Pressing the power button 11 for a long time means that the power button 11 is continuously pressed for a predetermined time or longer. For example, when the power button 11 is pressed for three seconds or more, the control unit 117 determines that a long press operation has been performed.
  • step 8 While a negative result is obtained in step 8, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 8. During this time, power supply to the heating unit 211 is continued. On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 8, the controller 117 terminates the main heating (step 9). That is, power supply to the heating unit 211 is stopped. Thus, one cycle of suction is completed. Note that when a short puff is detected when preheating is used, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1. is smaller than the amount of electric power (reference value) supplied in the case of
  • step 1 determines whether or not the last puff interval is a short puff, and to set the main heating time LT11.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 2A). If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2A, the control section 117 repeats the determination in step 2A.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, control unit 117 starts main heating after completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the last puff interval (step 3A). Preheating may be started, for example, when a predetermined operation or the like on the power button 11 is detected. After obtaining the puff interval, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4A). However, the threshold used for determination in step 4A may be different from that in step 4. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 4A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 4.
  • the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time LT11 to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). That is, the main heating time LT11 when preheating is used is shorter than the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not used, even with the same puff interval. This prevents the drying of the liquid peculiar to preheating.
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 4A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • the main heating time LT11 when the short puff is not detected when preheating is used (that is, when the result is negative in step 4A), and the short puff is detected when preheating is not used.
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to the same time L2 in the case of (that is, the positive result in step 4), but it does not have to be the same time.
  • the length of the main heating time LT11 when a negative result is obtained in step 4A may be set to a value shorter than the length of the main heating time LT1 when a positive result is obtained in step 4A.
  • step 4A the controller 117 sets the current main heating time LT11 to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time L1 (step 7).
  • the control unit 117 After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes the processing in steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting the main heating time depending on the presence or absence of preheating and the length of the puff interval.
  • (A) shows a setting example of the main heating time LT1 without preheating
  • (B) shows a setting example of the main heating time LT11 with preheating.
  • the main heating time LT1 that is, L1 when the puff interval is long is 2.4 seconds
  • the main heating time LT1 that is, L1
  • L2 is 1.7 seconds.
  • the main heating time LT11 (that is, L2) when the puff interval is long is 1.7 seconds
  • the main heating time LT11 (that is, L2) is 1.7 seconds when the puff interval is short.
  • L3 is 1.2 seconds.
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the first embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • B shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • C shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 6A is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 6B and 6C is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 6A to 6C is time.
  • the intensity of heating is the amount of electric power and is given by the product of the voltage value and the current value supplied to the heating unit 211 .
  • the number of suctions (puffs) in FIG. 6A is five. In the case of FIG.
  • the interval between the first and second puffs is IT1
  • the interval between the second and third puffs is IT2
  • the interval between the third and fourth puffs is IT1.
  • the interval is IT3 and the interval between the 4th and 5th puffs is IT4.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals IT3 and IT4 are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs. Therefore, the first and second puff intervals IT1 and IT2 are not short puffs.
  • the main heating time of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the fourth puff is set to the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time for the first puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT11 of the fourth and fifth puffs is set to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the user's aerosol inhalation period and the heating time of the heating unit 211 are matched within the preset main heating time. (Refer to FIG. 1) may start the main heating, or may continue the main heating until the main heating time elapses even after the user has finished inhaling. Although the puff interval in these cases does not coincide with the time during which the main heating is stopped, it is possible to effectively suppress liquid drying during short puffs, as in the control example described above.
  • the puff interval is defined as a period during which power supply to heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) is stopped.
  • power supply to the heating unit 211 is started by a predetermined operation of the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), and heating is performed when a preset main heating time elapses or when the user forcibly terminates power supply.
  • Power supply to the unit 211 ends.
  • the power supply to the heating unit 211 may be executed in accordance with the inhalation of the aerosol by the user.
  • FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the second embodiment. In FIG. 7, parts corresponding to those in FIG. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 11). That is, it is determined whether or not the main heating has started.
  • the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is detected, for example, by an ON operation of the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), the start of suction by the user, or the like.
  • the ON operation here is an operation for instructing the start of power supply to the heating unit 211, and means, for example, pressing the power button 11 for a long time.
  • the start of heating of the aerosol source by the heating part 211 is detected by detection of current for main heating, detection of voltage for main heating, change in resistance value of the heating part 211, temperature rise of the liquid guide part 212, and the like.
  • the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 11 . While a negative result is obtained in step 11, the control unit 117 repeats the determination of step 11. On the other hand, when the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 11 . If a positive result is obtained in step 11, the controller 117 acquires the last heating stop time (step 12).
  • the immediately preceding heating stop time is given by the elapsed time from the end of heating in the previous suction cycle to the start of heating in the current suction cycle.
  • the heating stop time refers to a period other than the main heating. Therefore, even during preheating is included in the heating stop time.
  • the heating stop time may be measured, for example, by a timer, or may be calculated as the difference between the time when the previous heating was finished and the time when the current heating was started.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the heating stop time is shorter than the first period (step 13).
  • the first period here is set in consideration of the ability to supply the aerosol source by the liquid guide section 212 and the time when the liquid may dry up.
  • the first period is, for example, 10 seconds. Of course, this value is an example. Note that the first period is not an absolute value.
  • the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 13 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the heating stop time is shorter than the first period, that is, if the short puff condition is satisfied, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one suction cycle.
  • step 11A determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected. . That is, it is determined whether or not preheating has ended and main heating has started. If the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 11A. While a negative result is obtained in step 11A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 11A. On the other hand, when the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 11A. If a positive result is obtained in step 11A, the controller 117 acquires the last heating stop time (step 12A).
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the heating stop time is shorter than the first period (step 13A).
  • the threshold used for determination in step 13A may be different from that in step 13.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 13A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 13. If the heating stop time is longer than or equal to the first period, the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 13A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1 (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 3A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). ). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 in the present embodiment detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid drying, focusing on the heating stop time, which is the period during which aerosol generation is stopped. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness. Also in the present embodiment, when a short puff is detected when preheating is used, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1. is smaller than the power amount (reference value) supplied for the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the second embodiment.
  • (A) shows an example of the suction (puff) timing
  • (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time LT1 without preheating
  • (C) shows the setting of the main heating time LT11 with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 8(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 8(B) and (C) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 8(A) to (C) is time.
  • FIG. 8A shows a case where the period during which the heating unit 211 is heated does not match the period during which the user sucks.
  • heating of the heating unit 211 is started by an ON operation of the power button 11 or the like, and the heating is finished after a pre-set main heating time elapses.
  • the number of times of suction (puff) is five.
  • the heating stop time that gives the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT11
  • the heating stop that gives the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT12
  • the heating stop time that provides the interval between the third and fourth puffs is IT13
  • the heating stop time that provides the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs is IT14.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the fourth puff and the fifth puff are set to the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • IT21 is the heating stop time that gives the interval between the first puff and the second puff, giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff.
  • the heating stop time is IT22
  • the heating stop time that gives the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT23
  • the heating stop time that gives the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT24.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the time LT11 is set to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the puff interval is defined as the elapsed time from the stoppage of power supply to heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) immediately before to the start of current suction. In other words, it corresponds to the combined control of the first embodiment and the second embodiment.
  • Other configurations of the aerosol generator 1 (see FIG. 1) in the present embodiment are the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as those of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the third embodiment. In FIG. 9, parts corresponding to those in FIG. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 21). That is, it is determined whether or not the main heating has started. If the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 21 . While a negative result is obtained in step 21, the control unit 117 repeats the determination of step 21.
  • the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 21 .
  • the control unit 117 acquires the last heating end time (step 22).
  • the heating end time refers to the time when the main heating is completed.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 23). If the start of inhaling the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 23 . While a negative result is obtained in step 23, the control unit 117 repeats the determination of step 23. Note that even when a negative result is obtained in step 23, the control unit 117 forcibly ends the heating when the predetermined condition is satisfied.
  • Predetermined conditions include, for example, no puffs detected within a predetermined period of time.
  • the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 23 . If a positive result is obtained in step 23, the control section 117 acquires the current puff start time (step 24). The current puff start time is the time when a positive result was obtained in step 23 . Subsequently, the control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the last heating end time to the current puff start time (step 25). After the elapsed time is calculated, the controller 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 26).
  • the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 26 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the elapsed time is shorter than the threshold, the control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 26 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one suction cycle.
  • step 21A determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected. . That is, it is determined whether or not preheating has ended and main heating has started. If the start of heating by heating unit 211 is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 21A. While a negative result is obtained in step 21A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 21A. On the other hand, when the start of heating by heating unit 211 is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 21A. If a positive result is obtained in step 21A, the controller 117 acquires the last heating end time (step 22A).
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 23A). If the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 23A. While a negative result is obtained in step 23A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 23A. On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 23A. If a positive result is obtained in step 23A, the control section 117 acquires the current puff start time (step 24A). The current puff start time is the time when a positive result was obtained in step 23A.
  • control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the last heating end time to the current puff start time (step 25A). After calculating the elapsed time, the control unit 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 26A). However, the threshold used for the determination of step 26A may be different from step 26. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 26A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 26. If the elapsed time is greater than or equal to the first period, control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 26A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 26A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). .
  • the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • the control unit 117 in the present embodiment focuses on the elapsed time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current suction of the aerosol, and the short puff that causes the liquid to dry up. Detect occurrence. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness.
  • the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1. is smaller than the power amount (reference value) supplied for the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the third embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • B shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • C shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 10(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 10(B) and (C) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 10(A) to (C) is time.
  • FIGS. 10A to 10C also show a case where the period during which the heating unit 211 is heated does not match the period during which the user sucks.
  • the number of times of suction is five.
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT21
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT21
  • IT22 the elapsed time giving the interval between the third and fourth puffs
  • IT24 the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT1 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff and the fifth puff is , is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT1 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • the fifth puff It should be noted that in the sixth and subsequent puffs, if the immediately preceding puff interval is longer than the threshold, the main heating time LT1 for that suction time is again set to the reference time L1.
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT31
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT31
  • the time is IT32
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the third and fourth puffs is IT33
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs is IT34.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the time LT11 is set to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the puff interval is defined as a period from when the power button 11 (see FIG. 1) is turned on to when it is turned off.
  • power supply to the heating unit 211 starts when the power button 11 is turned on, and power supply to the heating unit 211 ends when the preset main heating time elapses or the user turns off the power button 11 .
  • the termination of power supply due to the lapse of the preset main heating time is regarded as the termination of power supply due to the user's turning off operation.
  • FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the fourth embodiment.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the ON operation of the power button 11 has been detected (step 31). That is, it is determined whether or not the main heating has started.
  • control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 31 . While a negative result is obtained in step 31 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 31 . On the other hand, when the ON operation of the power button 11 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 31 . When a positive result is obtained in step 31, the control unit 117 acquires the time of the current ON operation (step 32). When the time of the ON operation is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the time of the previous OFF operation (step 33).
  • control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the previous OFF operation to the current ON operation (step 34). After the elapsed time is calculated, the controller 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 35). If the elapsed time is longer than or equal to the first period, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 35 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5).
  • the control unit 117 gets a positive result in step 35 .
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control section 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle.
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not the ON operation of power button 11 has been detected (step 31A). That is, it is determined whether or not preheating has ended and main heating has started. If the ON operation of the power button 11 is not detected, the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 31A. While a negative result is obtained in step 31A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 31A. On the other hand, when the ON operation of power button 11 is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 31A. If a positive result is obtained in step 31A, control unit 117 acquires the time of the current ON operation (step 32A).
  • the control unit 117 acquires the time of the previous OFF operation (step 33A). Next, the control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the previous OFF operation to the current ON operation (step 34A). After the elapsed time is calculated, the controller 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 35A). However, the threshold used for determination in step 35A may be different from step 35. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 35A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 35.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 35A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 35A may be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result at step 35A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • the control unit 117 detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid drying, based on the relationship between the first period and the elapsed time from the OFF operation to the ON operation of the power button 11. . Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness. Also in the present embodiment, when a short puff is detected when preheating is used, the main heating time is shorter than the reference time L1, so the amount of power supplied to heating unit 211 during one suction cycle is , the amount of electric power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the fourth embodiment.
  • (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time with preheating. show.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 12(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 12(B) and (C) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 12(A) to (C) is time.
  • FIGS. 12A to 12C also show a case where the period during which the heating unit 211 is heated does not match the period during which the user sucks. That is, it represents the case where the user inhales the aerosol during an arbitrary period within the main heating period started by turning on the power button 11 .
  • the number of times of suction is five.
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT41
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT41
  • IT42 the elapsed time giving the interval between the third and fourth puffs
  • IT44 the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT1 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff and the fifth puff is , is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT1 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • the fifth puff It should be noted that in the sixth and subsequent puffs, if the immediately preceding puff interval is longer than the threshold, the main heating time LT1 for that suction time is again set to the reference time L1.
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT51
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT52
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the third and fourth puffs is IT53
  • the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs is IT54.
  • the third and fourth puff intervals are shorter than the first period. That is, the third and fourth puff intervals are determined as short puffs.
  • the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the time LT11 is set to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time L1.
  • Embodiment 5 will explain an example of a technique for indirectly detecting the occurrence of a short puff.
  • reheating of the aerosol source is started before the liquid temperature of the aerosol source in the liquid guide section 212 has fully decreased.
  • This embodiment focuses on this phenomenon.
  • the external configuration of the aerosol generator 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generating device 1 assumed in Embodiment 5. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 13, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are shown with reference numerals corresponding thereto.
  • the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 13 is different from the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that a coil temperature sensor 113A is provided.
  • the heating unit 211 is a coil.
  • a thermistor for example, is used for the coil temperature sensor 113A.
  • a thermistor is placed near the coil.
  • Coil temperature sensor 113A is an example of a second sensor.
  • the current value flowing through the heating unit 211 may be measured, or the voltage appearing in the resistor connected in series to the heating unit 211 may be measured.
  • the puff interval is short, the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction becomes higher than when the puff interval is long, and the resistance value of the heating unit 211 becomes large. Therefore, when the puff interval is short, the current is less likely to flow than when the puff interval is long.
  • Sensing of the temperature of the part 211 is possible. For example, if a table that associates the current value or voltage value with the temperature of the heating unit 211 is prepared, the control unit 117 reads the temperature corresponding to the measured current value or voltage value from the table. Further, for example, if a conversion formula for the current value or voltage value and the temperature of the heating unit 211 is prepared, the control unit 117 substitutes the measured current value or voltage value for variables to calculate the corresponding temperature. .
  • FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the fifth embodiment.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1).
  • step 41 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. If the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 41 . While a negative result is obtained in step 41 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 41 .
  • the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41 .
  • the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the temperature of the coil at the start of suction (step 42).
  • the temperature of the coil is the temperature of the heating unit 211 .
  • the control unit 117 determines whether the temperature of the coil at the start of suction is higher than the first temperature reference (step 43).
  • a first temperature reference is set to an intermediate value between the temperature encountered for short puffs and the temperature encountered for non-short puffs.
  • the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 43 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the temperature of the coil is higher than the first temperature criterion, the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 43 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • step 41A determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected. If the start of preheating is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 41A. While a negative result is obtained in step 41A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 41A.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41A. If a positive result is obtained in step 41A, control unit 117 starts main heating after preheating ends (step 1100A), and then obtains the temperature of the coil at the start of preheating (step 42A). When the coil temperature is obtained, the control unit 117 determines whether the coil temperature at the start of preheating is higher than the first temperature reference (step 43A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 43A may be different from that in step 43. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 43A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 43.
  • control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 43A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 43A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result at step 43A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 focuses on the temperature of the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol, and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid drying. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness.
  • the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1. is smaller than the power amount (reference value) supplied for the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the fifth embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the suction (puff) timing
  • B shows the temperature change of the heating unit 211 without preheating
  • C shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • D shows the temperature change of the heating unit 211 with preheating
  • E shows a setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 15(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 15(B) and (D) is temperature
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 15(C) and (E) is heating intensity.
  • the horizontal axis of FIGS. 15A to 15E is time.
  • the number of times of suction (puff) is five.
  • the temperature TA of the heating unit 211 at the start of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is the first temperature. Lower than temperature standard.
  • the temperature TB of the heating unit 211 at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first temperature reference. This is because the puff interval is short and the cooling of the heating unit 211 is not in time.
  • the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT1 of the fourth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the temperature TA of the heating unit 211 at the start of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is Lower than the first temperature reference.
  • the temperature TB of the heating unit 211 at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first temperature reference. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 15(E) , the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to the time L2, The main heating time for the fourth puff is set to time L3.
  • the main heating time LT11 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • Embodiment 6 also describes an example of a technique for indirectly detecting the occurrence of short puffs. In the present embodiment, it is detected through a change in resistance that the heating portion 211 is in a high temperature state at the start of suction.
  • the external configuration of the aerosol generator 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in Embodiment 6. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are shown with reference numerals corresponding thereto.
  • the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 16 is different from the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that a resistance value sensor 113B is provided. Note that the resistance value sensor 113B measures the resistance value of the heating unit 211 .
  • the resistance value sensor 113B detects the resistance value of the heating unit 211 by measuring the value of current flowing through the heating unit 211, for example. This method detects changes in the resistance value due to temperature changes in the heating unit 211 as changes in the current value.
  • the resistance value sensor 113B detects a change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 by measuring the voltage value appearing across the resistor connected in series with the heating unit 211, for example. This method detects changes in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 due to temperature changes through changes in voltage appearing across a resistor connected in series to the heating unit 211 .
  • FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the sixth embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment also first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 51). This determination is performed when main heating is initiated by the user's initiation of suction.
  • step 51 it may be determined whether or not the heating of the heating unit 211 has started as in the case of the second embodiment. It may be determined whether or not an ON operation has been performed. If the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 51 . While a negative result is obtained in step 51 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 51 .
  • the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 51 .
  • the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the resistance value of the coil at the start of suction (step 52).
  • the resistance value of the coil is the resistance value of the heating unit 211 .
  • the control unit 117 determines whether the resistance value of the coil at the start of suction is greater than the first resistance value (step 53).
  • the first resistance value is determined according to the actual measurement value of the change in the resistance value according to the elapsed time from the end of the power supply to the heating unit 211 .
  • the first resistance value is set to an intermediate value between the resistance value that appears for short puffs and the resistance value that appears for non-short puffs.
  • the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 53 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the resistance value of the coil is greater than the first resistance value, the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 53 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 51A). If the start of preheating is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 51A. While a negative result is obtained in step 51A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 51A. On the other hand, if the start of preheating is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 51A. If a positive result is obtained in step 51A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the resistance value of the coil at the start of preheating (step 52A). .
  • control unit 117 determines whether the resistance value of the coil at the start of preheating is greater than the first resistance value (step 53A).
  • the threshold used for the determination in step 53A may be different from that in step 53.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 53A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 53.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 53A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 53A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 53A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 focuses on the resistance value of the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol, and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid drying. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness. Also in the present embodiment, when a short puff is detected during preheating, the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1. It is smaller than the electric energy (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 18 is a diagram explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the sixth embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the suction (puff) timing
  • B shows the change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 without preheating
  • C shows the main heating time setting without preheating
  • D shows a change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 with preheating
  • E shows a setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 18(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 18(B) and (D) is resistance value
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 18(C) and (E) is heating intensity.
  • the horizontal axis of FIGS. 18A to 18E is time.
  • the number of times of suction (puff) is five.
  • the interval between the first puff and the second puff and the interval between the second puff and the third puff are relatively long, and the interval between the third and fourth puffs and the fourth puff are relatively long. It is assumed that the interval between the first puff and the fifth puff is relatively short. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 18B, the coil resistance value RA at the start of the second puff, at the start of the third puff, and at the start of the fifth puff is higher than the first resistance value. is also at a low level. This is because the temperature of the coil has decreased and the resistance value has also decreased as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating.
  • the resistance value RB of the coil at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first resistance value. This is because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short, and the temperature of the heating unit 211 has not sufficiently decreased. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 18C, the main heating time LT1 for the first, second, third, and fifth puffs is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time for the fourth puff is set to the reference time L1. LT1 is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT1 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • the resistance value RA of the coil at the start of preheating is lower than the first resistance value. This is because the temperature of the coil has decreased and the resistance value has also decreased as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating.
  • the resistance value RB of the coil at the start of the fourth preheating is higher than the first resistance value. This is because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short, and the temperature of the heating unit 211 has not sufficiently decreased. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 18E, the main heating time LT11 for the first, second, third, and fifth puffs is set to time L2, while the main heating time LT11 for the fourth puff is set to L2. It is set at time L3. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT11 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • Embodiment 7 also describes an example of a technique for indirectly detecting the occurrence of short puffs.
  • it is detected through the temperature change of the liquid guide portion 212 that the heating portion 211 is in a high temperature state at the start of suction.
  • the external configuration of the aerosol generator 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 19 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in Embodiment 7. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 19, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are shown with reference numerals corresponding thereto.
  • the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 19 is different from the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that a liquid temperature sensor 113C is provided.
  • the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 is measured by the liquid temperature sensor 113C. Therefore, the liquid temperature sensor 113 ⁇ /b>C is arranged near the liquid guide section 212 .
  • a temperature sensor or a thermistor, for example, is used as the liquid temperature sensor 113C.
  • Liquid temperature sensor 113C is an example of a third sensor.
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the seventh embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment also first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 61). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 61 . While a negative result is obtained in step 61 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 61 .
  • the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 61 . If a positive result is obtained in step 61, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the liquid temperature at the start of suction (step 62).
  • the liquid temperature is the temperature of the liquid guide section 212 .
  • the control section 117 determines whether or not the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than the second temperature reference (step 63).
  • the second temperature reference is determined according to the measured value of the liquid temperature change according to the elapsed time from the end of power supply to the heating unit 211 .
  • step 63 If the liquid temperature is equal to or lower than the second temperature reference, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 63 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the liquid temperature is higher than the second temperature reference, the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 63 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 61A). If the start of preheating is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 61A. While a negative result is obtained in step 61A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 61A.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 61A. If a positive result is obtained in step 61A, the controller 117 starts main heating after preheating (step 1100A), and then obtains the liquid temperature at the start of preheating (step 62A).
  • the liquid temperature is the temperature of the liquid guide section 212 .
  • the control section 117 determines whether or not the liquid temperature at the start of preheating is higher than the second temperature reference (step 63A). However, the threshold used for determination in step 63A may be different from that in step 63.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 63A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 63. If the liquid temperature is less than or equal to the second temperature reference, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 63A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 63A may be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, if the liquid temperature is higher than the second temperature reference, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 63A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 focuses on the temperature of the liquid in the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol, and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause the liquid to dry up. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of dryness.
  • the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1. is smaller than the power amount (reference value) supplied for the reference time L1.
  • FIG. 21 is a diagram explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the seventh embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the suction (puff) timing
  • B shows the change in temperature of the liquid guide section 212 without preheating
  • C shows the main heating time setting without preheating
  • D shows a change in the temperature of the liquid guide section 212 with preheating
  • E shows a setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 21(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 21(B) and (D) is temperature
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 21(C) and (E) is heating intensity.
  • the horizontal axis of FIGS. 21A to 21E is time.
  • the number of times of suction (puff) is five.
  • the interval between the first and second puffs and the interval between the second and third puffs are relatively long, and the interval between the third and fourth puffs is 4.
  • the interval between the first puff and the fifth puff is relatively short. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 21B corresponding to no preheating, at the start of the first puff, at the start of the second puff, at the start of the third puff, and at the start of the fifth puff, The fluid temperature TA at the start is lower than the second temperature reference. This is because heating is started in a state where the liquid temperature has dropped to or near room temperature as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating.
  • the liquid temperature TB at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the second temperature reference. This is because the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is short, and the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 has not sufficiently decreased. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 21C, the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to the reference time L1. , the main heating time LT1 of the fourth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT1 is shortened from the reference time L1. Therefore, liquid drying does not occur during the fourth puff.
  • Liquid temperature TA is lower than the second temperature reference. This is because, as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating, heating is started in a state where the liquid temperature has dropped to or near room temperature. However, the liquid temperature TB at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the second temperature reference. This is because the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is short, and the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 has not sufficiently decreased.
  • the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to the time L2, while the main heating time LT11 is set to the time L2.
  • the main heating time LT11 of the first puff is set to time L3.
  • the main heating time LT11 corresponding to the fourth puff is shortened, even if the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is short, the heating stop time of the heating unit 211 is lengthened. Therefore, the liquid temperature can be lowered below the second temperature reference by the time the fifth puff is started. Therefore, the main heating time LT11 corresponding to the fifth puff returns to time L2 again.
  • FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in the eighth embodiment. In FIG. 22, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are shown with reference numerals.
  • the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 22 is different from the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that an air temperature sensor 113D is provided. Air temperature sensor 113D is intended for measuring ambient temperature. Therefore, it is desirable to place the air temperature sensor 113D as far away from the heat source in the device as possible. Since the viscosity of the aerosol source depends on the liquid temperature of the aerosol source stored in the liquid reservoir 213 , a liquid temperature sensor may be arranged near the liquid reservoir 213 .
  • FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the eighth embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment also first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 71). This determination is performed when main heating is initiated by the user's initiation of suction.
  • step 71 If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 71 . While a negative result is obtained in step 71 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 71 . On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 71 . If a positive result is obtained in step 71, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the air temperature at the start of suction (step 72). The air temperature is the air temperature around the aerosol generator 1 .
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the temperature at the start of suctioning is lower than a temperature determination threshold (hereinafter referred to as "temperature threshold”) (step 73).
  • the air temperature threshold is determined according to the relationship between the viscosity of the aerosol source and air temperature.
  • the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 73 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the temperature is lower than the temperature threshold, the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 73 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one suction cycle.
  • step 71A determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected. If the start of preheating is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 71A. While a negative result is obtained in step 71A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 71A. On the other hand, if the start of preheating is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 71A. If a positive result is obtained in step 71A, control unit 117 starts main heating after preheating is completed (step 1100A), and then acquires the temperature at the start of preheating (step 72A).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the temperature at the start of preheating is lower than the temperature threshold for temperature determination (step 73A).
  • the threshold used for the determination in step 73A may be different from that in step 73.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 73A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 73.
  • control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 73A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 73A should be shorter than the reference time L1 and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 73A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction.
  • FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the eighth embodiment.
  • (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • (B) shows changes in ambient temperature
  • (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time without preheating
  • (D) shows a preliminary An example of setting the main heating time with heating is shown.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 24(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 24(B) is temperature
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 24(C) and (D) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in A) to (D) is time.
  • FIG. 24(B) shows changes in ambient temperature around which the aerosol generator 1 is used.
  • the temperature drops enough to affect the viscosity of the aerosol source as a result of moving from a heated room to the outdoors in winter.
  • the number of times of suction (puff) is five.
  • the interval between the first puff and the second puff, the interval between the second puff and the third puff, the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff, the fourth puff and 5 None of the intervals between the puffs of the second round are short puffs.
  • the 1st, 2nd and 3rd puffs were performed indoors, while the 4th and 5th puffs were performed outdoors. Therefore, in FIG. 24B, the temperature drops between the third puff and the fourth puff.
  • the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the fourth puff and the main heating time LT1 are set to the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT1 of the fifth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the time L2, while the fourth puff and the fifth puff puff main heating time LT11 is set to time L3.
  • the main heating time LT11 is equal to the reference time L1. Since the time is further shortened, drying of the liquid does not occur.
  • FIG. 25 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the ninth embodiment. In FIG. 25, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 4 are shown with reference numerals. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program. Control unit 117 in the present embodiment first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1).
  • step 81 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. If the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 81 . While a negative result is obtained in step 81 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 81 . On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 81 . If a positive result is obtained in step 81, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires a history of past puff intervals (step 82).
  • the number of puff interval histories to be acquired is preset. For example, a history of 3 to 5 times is acquired. Since the purpose is to prevent the liquid from drying up in the next suction session, even if the number of samples to be acquired is increased too much, the latest suction tendency cannot be determined. On the other hand, if the number of histories to be acquired is increased, it becomes possible to analyze the user's long-term inhalation tendency.
  • the control unit 117 predicts the next puff interval (step 83). In the above-described embodiment, the latest puff interval is obtained each time a new suction cycle is started, but in the present embodiment, the puff interval is predicted before the next suction cycle is started. .
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 84). If the predicted next puff interval is greater than or equal to the first period, control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 84 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period, the controller 117 gets a positive result at step 84 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control section 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to complete one suction cycle.
  • step 81A determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. If the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 81A. While a negative result is obtained in step 81A, the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 81A. On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 81A.
  • step 81A If a positive result is obtained in step 81A, the control section 117 starts main heating after the end of preheating (step 1100A), and then obtains a history of past puff intervals (step 82A). After acquiring the history of the puff intervals of a plurality of times in the past, the control section 117 predicts the next puff interval (step 83A). Subsequently, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 84A). However, the threshold used for the determination of step 84A may be different from step 84. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 84A may be less than the threshold used for the determination of step 84.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 84A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1 (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 84A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result at step 84A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 ( ⁇ L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction.
  • control unit 117 preemptively shortens the main heating time when the predicted value satisfies the short puff condition.
  • the next main heating time is the same as in the above-described other embodiments.
  • the main heating time is shorter than in the above-described other embodiments.
  • the puff interval until the next suction time is substantially longer, and drying up of the liquid is less likely to occur.
  • the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1. less than the amount of power (reference value) supplied to the
  • FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the ninth embodiment.
  • (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period
  • (C) shows the predicted puff interval. is shorter than the first period.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 26(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 26(B) and (C) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 26(A) to (C) is time.
  • the next puff interval is predicted from N puff intervals before the M+1 puff starts.
  • FIG. 26A shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period
  • (C) shows the predicted puff interval. is shorter than the first period.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 26(A) is puff
  • the predicted puff interval is not a short puff, so the main heating time LT1 is set to the reference time L1 when preheating is not performed, and the main heating time LT11 is set to the reference time L1 when preheating is performed. It is set to L2.
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to time L2 when preheating is not performed, and the main heating time LT11 is set to time L3 when preheating is performed. is set.
  • the main heating time is set using the puff intervals of a plurality of times in the past.
  • the actual heating time of the ongoing suction is set after the start of the current suction, as in the first to seventh embodiments, instead of prediction.
  • Other configurations of the aerosol generator 1 (see FIG. 1) in the present embodiment are the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as those of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 27 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the tenth embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 91). The determination of step 91 is repeated while step 91 yields a negative result.
  • the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires a history of past puff intervals including the current puff interval (step 92).
  • a history of past puff intervals including the current puff interval In the case of the present embodiment, actual measurements are used instead of predictions, so the current puff interval is also measured.
  • the number of puff interval histories to be acquired is preset. For example, a history of 3 to 5 times is acquired. The number of puff interval histories to be acquired is set within a range in which the most recent inhalation tendency can be detected.
  • the control unit 117 obtains the number of consecutive puff intervals shorter than the threshold up to the present time (step 93).
  • the higher the number of consecutive times the higher the possibility that the liquid temperature of the aerosol source at the start of suction is, and the higher the possibility that the aerosol source will not be supplied in time during the main heating. Note that instead of the number of consecutive times up to this time, the maximum number of consecutive times in the acquired history may be obtained. It can be seen that the liquid temperature may have increased even if it is not a continuous number of times up to this time.
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number (step 94). If the number of consecutive times is equal to or less than the first number of times, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 94 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). The reference time L1 is a fixed value. On the other hand, if the consecutive number of times is greater than the first number of times, the control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 94 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L2A ( ⁇ L1), which is shorter as the number of times of continuous heating increases (step 95). The time L2A is a variable value shorter than the reference time L1.
  • the control unit 117 sets the time L2A to a shorter value step by step as the number of consecutive times increases.
  • the main heating time LT1 is shortened by 0.2 seconds ⁇ the number of consecutive times.
  • This example is an example in which the time L2A is linearly shortened according to the number of consecutive times.
  • the time L2A may be shortened non-linearly according to a quadratic curve or the like.
  • step 91A determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. The determination of step 91A is repeated while step 91A yields a negative result.
  • control unit 117 starts main heating after preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the history of past puff intervals including the current puff interval. (step 92A).
  • the control unit 117 acquires the number of consecutive puff intervals shorter than the threshold up to the present time (step 93A).
  • control unit 117 determines whether or not the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number (step 94A).
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 94A may be different from step 94.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 94A may be less than the threshold used for the determination of step 94.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 94A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • Time L2 is a fixed value.
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 94A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 94A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L3A, which is shorter as the number of continuous times increases (step 96).
  • the time L3A here is a variable value shorter than the time L2.
  • control unit 117 shortens the main heating time as the number of times short puffs appear in succession increases. This is because, as the number of consecutive short puffs increases, the main heating continues in a state where the temperature of the liquid in the aerosol source is high, and the increase in the amount of generated aerosol tends to cause the liquid to dry up.
  • the more the number of consecutive short puffs increases the shorter the main heating time, so the drying up of the liquid is effectively suppressed.
  • FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in the tenth embodiment.
  • A shows an example of the timing of suction (puff)
  • B shows an example of setting the main heating time when the number of consecutive short puffs is the first number or less
  • C shows a continuous short puff.
  • An example of setting the main heating time when the number of times of heating is greater than the first number of times is shown.
  • the vertical axis in FIG. 28(A) is puff intensity
  • the vertical axis in FIGS. 28(B) and (C) is heating intensity
  • the horizontal axis in FIGS. 28(A) to (C) is time. .
  • 28(A) depicts how the number of consecutive short puffs up to the current time is acquired among the N puff intervals up to the Mth puff.
  • the continuous number of times is equal to or less than the first number of times, so the main heating time LT1 without preheating is set to the reference time L1, and the main heating time LT11 with preheating is set to the reference time L1. It is set to L2.
  • the main heating time LT1 without preheating is set to a time L2A shorter than the reference time, and the main heating time with preheating is set to L2A.
  • Time LT11 is set to time L3A, which is shorter than time L2.
  • Embodiment 11 a modification of the tenth embodiment will be described.
  • the number of consecutive short puffs is counted, but if the puff interval even slightly exceeds the threshold value, the number is once reset.
  • step 93 For these users, even if the number of times obtained in step 93 (see FIG. 27) is small, the liquid temperature at the start of main heating is likely to be high, as in the case of a large number of short puffs in succession. In this embodiment, countermeasures against this type of phenomenon will be described.
  • Other configurations of the aerosol generator 1 (see FIG. 1) in the present embodiment are the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as those of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 29 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the eleventh embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 91). The determination of step 91 is repeated while step 91 yields a negative result.
  • the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires a history of past puff intervals including the current puff interval (step 92). In the case of the present embodiment, actual measurements are used instead of predictions, so the current puff interval is also measured.
  • the control unit 117 determines the puff intervals shorter than the value obtained by adding the margin ⁇ to the first number of times for judging short puffs (shown as “threshold value + ⁇ ” in FIG. 29). obtains the number of consecutive times up to this time (step 101).
  • a value obtained by adding the margin value ⁇ to the first number of times for judging short puffs is a judgment threshold for pseudo short puffs.
  • the margin value ⁇ is given in advance through an empirical rule or the like.
  • the margin value ⁇ is an example of the third period.
  • the number of times acquired by step 101 is likely to be greater than the number of times acquired by step 93 (see FIG. 27).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number (step 94).
  • step 94 the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5).
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L2A ( ⁇ L1), which is shorter as the number of times of continuous heating increases (step 95).
  • step 91A determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. The determination of step 91A is repeated while step 91A yields a negative result. If a positive result is obtained in step 91A, control unit 117 starts main heating after preheating (step 1100A), and subsequently acquires the history of past puff intervals including the current puff interval. (step 92A). In the case of the present embodiment, actual measurements are used instead of predictions, so the current puff interval is also measured.
  • the control unit 117 determines the number of consecutive puff intervals that are shorter than the value obtained by adding the margin to the threshold value for judging short puffs (that is, the first number of times + ⁇ ). (step 101A).
  • the number of times acquired by step 101A is likely to be greater than the number of times acquired by step 93A (see FIG. 27).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number (step 94A).
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 94A may be different from step 94.
  • the threshold used for the determination of step 94A may be less than the threshold used for the determination of step 94.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 94A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 94A should be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 94A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L3A ( ⁇ L2), which is shorter as the number of continuous times increases (step 96).
  • control unit 117 After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 96, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction. In the case of the present embodiment, the control unit 117 counts the number of continuous puffs including pseudo short puffs, so even if the pseudo short puffs are continuous, dryness of the liquid is effectively suppressed.
  • Embodiment 12 modified examples of the first to seventh embodiments will be described.
  • the main heating times LT1 and LT11 when the puff is determined to be a short puff are fixed values. That is, the time was L2 without preheating, and the time L3 with preheating. In other words, the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) during short puffs was always constant. In the present embodiment, the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during short puffs is made smaller as the immediately preceding puff interval is shorter.
  • Other configurations of the aerosol generator 1 (see FIG. 1) in the present embodiment are the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 are the same as those of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 30 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the twelfth embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program. That is, FIG. 30 describes a modification of the first embodiment.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 2).
  • the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 . While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, when the user's start of aerosol inhalation is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2 . If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the last puff interval (step 3). After obtaining the puff interval, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4).
  • the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4 .
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5).
  • the control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 4.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L2A ( ⁇ L1), which is shorter as the previous puff interval is shorter (step 111).
  • the time L2A may be shortened linearly according to the number of consecutive times, or may be shortened non-linearly such as by a quadratic curve.
  • step 2A determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction. If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2A, the control section 117 repeats the determination in step 2A.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, control unit 117 starts main heating after completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the last puff interval (step 3A). After obtaining the puff interval, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4A). However, the threshold used for determination in step 4A may be different from that in step 4. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 4A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 4. If the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 112).
  • control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 4A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L3A, which is shorter as the previous puff interval is shorter (step 113).
  • the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9, and completes one cycle of suction.
  • the shorter the immediately preceding puff interval the less the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating time.
  • the shorter the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current heating the shorter the main heating time.
  • the method of the present embodiment is applied to the method of the third embodiment, the shorter the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of suction this time, the shorter the main heating time.
  • the length of the main heating time is shortened as the time from the last power button 11 off operation to the current on operation is shorter.
  • the technique of this embodiment is applied to the technique of Embodiment 5
  • the length of the main heating time is shortened as the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction is higher.
  • the length of the main heating time is shortened as the resistance value of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction is lower.
  • the length of the main heating time is shortened as the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 at the start of suction is higher.
  • a control method focusing on the amount of liquid remaining in the aerosol source at the start of main heating will be described.
  • the supply of the aerosol source to the liquid guide portion 212 is based on capillary action.
  • a control method will be described in which the speed of liquid transfer by capillarity depends on the amount of residual liquid. For example, in a situation where the liquid supply rate is decreasing due to a decrease in the remaining liquid amount, the amount of liquid in the aerosol source that can be supplied during one suction is less than when the remaining liquid amount is large. explain. In this case, not enough aerosol is generated during one inhalation. Therefore, if the main heating time is the same regardless of the remaining liquid amount, the aerosol source may not be supplied in time and a phenomenon similar to liquid drying may occur. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the length of the main heating time is controlled in consideration of the remaining liquid amount.
  • FIG. 31 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generator 1 assumed in the thirteenth embodiment. In FIG. 31, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are shown with reference numerals corresponding thereto.
  • the aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG. 31 is different from the aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that a remaining liquid amount sensor 113E is provided.
  • the remaining liquid amount sensor 113E for example, a level switch, a level meter, a capacitance sensor, or a sensor that measures the distance to the liquid surface is used.
  • the distance to the liquid surface can be measured by, for example, the time it takes for an ultrasonic wave, an electromagnetic wave, or a laser to return after being reflected by the liquid surface.
  • the control unit 117 corrects the remaining liquid amount to be finally used using the information on the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 .
  • the attitude information for example, an output signal of a gyro sensor is used.
  • the remaining liquid amount sensor 113E is used, but it is also possible to calculate the remaining liquid amount by calculation. For example, since the amount of liquid consumed for each suction cycle can be calculated as a function of the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211, by subtracting the integrated value from the initial value, the remaining amount of liquid at each time can be calculated. .
  • FIG. 32 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the thirteenth embodiment.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 sets the main heating time without preheating according to the remaining liquid amount and the puff interval (step 121 ). On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is ON), the control unit 117 sets the main heating time with preheating according to the remaining liquid amount and the puff interval ( step 122).
  • FIG. 33 is a flow chart for explaining an example of a main heating time setting process without preheating and an example of a main heating time setting process with preheating.
  • parts corresponding to those in FIG. 4 are shown with reference numerals.
  • the reference numerals without parentheses indicate the setting processing example of the main heating time without preheating
  • the reference numerals with parentheses indicate the setting example of the main heating time with preheating.
  • control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 . While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, when the user's start of aerosol inhalation is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2 . If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), then acquires the last puff interval (step 3), and then acquires the remaining liquid amount ( step 131).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining liquid amount (step 132).
  • the first remaining amount is determined, for example, by the relationship between the liquid transfer rate corresponding to the remaining liquid amount and the liquid amount required when the main heating time is the reference time L1. If the remaining liquid amount is greater than or equal to the first remaining amount, the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 132 . In this case, the controller 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 133).
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 133 . If a negative result is obtained in step 133, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time LT1 to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the controller 117 obtains a positive result at step 133 . In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).
  • the control section 117 determines whether or not the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 134).
  • the threshold used for determination in step 134 may be different from that in step 133 .
  • the threshold used for determination of step 134 may be smaller than the threshold used for determination of step 133 . If the puff interval is greater than or equal to the first period, control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 134 . If a negative result is obtained in step 134, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 134 may be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.
  • control unit 117 obtains a positive result at step 134 .
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L3 ( ⁇ L2), which is shorter as the remaining liquid amount is smaller (step 135).
  • the main heating time is shortened stepwise, for example. However, it may be shortened non-linearly according to a binary curve or the like.
  • the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to complete one suction cycle. The above is an example of setting the main heating time without preheating.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) has detected the start of suction (step 2A). If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2A, the control section 117 repeats the determination in step 2A. On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, control unit 117 starts main heating after preheating (step 1100A), acquires the last puff interval (step 3A), A liquid volume is obtained (step 131A).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining liquid amount (step 132A). If the remaining liquid amount is greater than or equal to the first remaining amount, the controller 117 obtains a negative result in step 132A. In this case, the controller 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 133A). If the puff interval is greater than or equal to the first period, control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 133A. If a negative result is obtained in step 133A, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1A (step 5A).
  • control section 117 obtains a positive result in step 133A.
  • the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L2A, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6A). If a positive result is obtained in step 132A, control section 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 134A).
  • the threshold used for determination in step 134A may be different from step 133A. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 134A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 133A.
  • control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 134A. If a negative result is obtained in step 134A, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2A shorter than the reference time (step 6A). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 134A may be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, if the puff interval is shorter than the first period, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 134A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the current main heating time to L3A ( ⁇ L2A), which is shorter as the remaining liquid amount is smaller (step 135A). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 5A, step 6A, or step 135A, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to complete one suction cycle.
  • FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining an example of setting the main heating time according to the remaining liquid amount when preheating is not performed and when preheating is performed.
  • (A) is a setting example of the main heating time LT1 without preheating
  • (B) is a setting example of the main heating time LT11 with preheating.
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to 2.4 seconds (that is, L1).
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to 1.7 seconds (that is, L2).
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to 1.7 seconds (that is, L2). This is because even if the amount of residual liquid is small, the risk of liquid drying up is reduced if the puff interval is long.
  • the main heating time LT1 is set to a variable value of 1.7 seconds (that is, L3) or less.
  • the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.7 seconds (that is, L1A). .
  • the remaining liquid amount is equal to or greater than the first remaining amount, but when the short puff is applied, the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.2 seconds (that is, L2A).
  • the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.2 seconds (that is, L2A) when the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and the puff interval is long. This is because even if the amount of residual liquid is small, the risk of liquid drying up is reduced if the puff interval is long.
  • the main heating time LT11 is set to a variable value of 1.2 seconds (that is, L3A) or less.
  • the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current heating may be used as the puff interval.
  • the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of current suction may be used as the puff interval.
  • the time from the previous power button 11 off operation to the current on operation may be used as the puff interval.
  • the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction and the determination step may be used for the puff interval and the determination step.
  • the resistance value of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction and the determination step thereof may be used for the puff interval and the determination step thereof.
  • the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 at the start of suction and the determination step may be used for the puff interval and the determination step.
  • FIG. 35 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the fourteenth embodiment.
  • the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 14 are indicated by the reference numerals.
  • Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program. The processing operations in this embodiment are executed regardless of whether or not preheating is performed.
  • the controller 117 determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 41). While a negative result is obtained in step 41 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 41 . On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41 . When a positive result is obtained in step 41, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the temperature of the coil at the start of suction (step 42). When the temperature of the coil is obtained, the control unit 117 determines whether the temperature of the coil at the start of suction is higher than the third temperature reference (step 141). The third temperature criterion is the threshold for judging overheating.
  • the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 141 . In this case, the controller 117 forcibly terminates the main heating (step 142). That is, the control unit 117 ends the power supply to the heating unit 211 even if the set main heating time remains. Note that the temperature of the heating unit 211 remains high for a while even after the power supply is stopped. Therefore, aerosol generation continues for a while.
  • step 143 the controller 117 continues heating according to the set main heating time (step 143).
  • FIG. 36 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the fifteenth embodiment. In FIG. 36, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are shown with reference numerals. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program. The controller 117 in the present embodiment also determines whether or not the puff sensor 112 has detected the start of suction (step 61).
  • step 61 While a negative result is obtained in step 61 , the control section 117 repeats the determination of step 61 . If a positive result is obtained in step 61, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the liquid temperature at the start of suction (step 62).
  • the liquid temperature here is the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 .
  • the control unit 117 determines whether or not the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than the fourth temperature reference (step 151).
  • a fourth temperature criterion is a threshold for judging overheating.
  • the controller 117 obtains a positive result in step 151 . In this case, the controller 117 forcibly terminates the main heating (step 152). That is, the control unit 117 ends the power supply to the heating unit 211 even if the set main heating time remains. Note that the temperature of the heating unit 211 remains high for a while even after the power supply is terminated. Therefore, aerosol generation continues for a while.
  • step 153 the controller 117 continues heating according to the set main heating time (step 153).
  • FIG. 37 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the controller 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the sixteenth embodiment. In FIG. 37, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 4 are shown with reference numerals. Control by the control unit 117 is realized through execution of a program.
  • Control unit 117 in the present embodiment also first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of suction has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (step 2). If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 . While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, when the user's start of aerosol inhalation is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2 . If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the controller 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the last puff interval (step 3).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4). If the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4 . In this case, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time as the reference voltage value V1 (step 161).
  • the reference voltage value here is the same as the voltage value used in the first embodiment and the like.
  • the reference voltage value V1 here is an example of the second maximum voltage value. In addition, as described above, it is also possible to specify the current value. If a positive result is obtained in step 4, the control section 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time to a value V2 smaller than the reference voltage value (step 162). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 161 or step 162, the controller 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order.
  • step 2A determines whether or not the start of suction has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2). If the user's start of aerosol inhalation is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2A, the control section 117 repeats the determination in step 2A. On the other hand, when the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, control unit 117 starts main heating after completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the last puff interval (step 3A).
  • the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4A). However, the threshold used for determination in step 4A may be different from that in step 4. For example, the threshold used for the determination of step 4A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination of step 4. If the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control section 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A. In this case, the controller 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time to a value V2 that is smaller than the reference voltage value (step 162). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 4A should be shorter than the reference voltage value V1, and does not necessarily have to be V2.
  • step 4A If a positive result is obtained in step 4A, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time to a value V3 ( ⁇ V2) smaller than the reference voltage value (step 163). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 162 or step 163, the control section 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order.
  • the maximum voltage value is set to a low value instead of shortening the main heating time.
  • the maximum voltage value set in step 163 is an example of a first maximum voltage value.
  • the power supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating time is smaller than when the puff interval is not short. That is, it becomes smaller than the reference value.
  • the lower the maximum voltage value is set than the reference voltage value the smaller the power supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating time.
  • FIG. 38 is a diagram for explaining an example of the external configuration of the aerosol generating device 1 assumed in the seventeenth embodiment.
  • parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by reference numerals.
  • power supply to the heating unit 211 is started.
  • FIG. 39 is a diagram schematically showing an internal configuration example of the aerosol generating device 1 assumed in the eighteenth embodiment.
  • the aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG. 39 includes a power supply unit 111, a puff sensor 112, a power button sensor 113, a notification unit 114, a storage unit 115, a communication unit 116, a control unit 117, a heating unit 211, a liquid induction unit 212, and a liquid storage unit.
  • a holding portion 301 used to hold the stick-shaped substrate 400, a heating portion 302 arranged on the outer periphery of the holding portion 301, and a heat insulating portion 303 arranged on the outer periphery of the heating portion 302 are provided.
  • FIG. 39 shows a state in which the stick-shaped substrate 400 is attached to the holding portion 301 .
  • the user performs a suction operation while inserting the stick-shaped substrate 400 into the holding portion 301 .
  • the aerosol generator 1 is formed with an air flow path 40 that transports the air introduced from the air inlet 21 to the bottom 301 ⁇ /b>C of the holding section 301 via the liquid guide section 212 . Therefore, the air that has flowed in from the air inflow hole 21 flows along the arrow 500 in the air flow path 40 as the user sucks.
  • the aerosol generated by the heating unit 211 and the aerosol generated by the heating unit 302 are mixed with this airflow.
  • control unit 117 in the present embodiment controls the heating operation of heating unit 302 in addition to the heating operation of heating unit 211 . At that time, the control unit 117 acquires information such as the temperature of the heating unit 302 by a sensor (not shown).
  • the holding portion 301 has a substantially cylindrical shape. Therefore, the inside of the holding portion 301 is hollow. This cavity is called internal space 301A.
  • the internal space 301A has approximately the same diameter as the stick-shaped substrate 400, and accommodates the tip portion of the stick-shaped substrate 400 inserted from the opening 301B while being in contact therewith. That is, stick-type substrate 400 is held in internal space 301A.
  • the holding portion 301 has a bottom portion 301C on the opposite side of the opening 301B. The bottom portion 301C is connected to the air flow path 40 .
  • the inner diameter of the holding portion 301 is configured to be smaller than the outer diameter of the stick-shaped base material 400 at least in part in the height direction of the cylindrical body. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of stick-shaped base material 400 inserted into internal space 301A through opening 301B is pressed by the inner wall of holding portion 301 .
  • the stick-type base material 400 is held by the holding part 301 by this compression.
  • the holding portion 301 also functions to define air flow paths through the stick-shaped substrate 400 .
  • the bottom portion 301C is an air inflow hole for the holding portion 301
  • the opening 301B is an air outflow hole from the holding portion 301. As shown in FIG.
  • the stick-type base material 400 is a substantially cylindrical member.
  • a stick-shaped base material 400 assumed in the present embodiment is composed of a base material portion 401 and a mouthpiece portion 402 .
  • the base portion 401 houses an aerosol source.
  • An aerosol source is a substance that is atomized by heating to form an aerosol.
  • the aerosol source accommodated in the base member 401 includes tobacco-derived substances, such as cut tobacco or tobacco raw materials that have been formed into granules, sheets, or powder.
  • the aerosol source housed in the substrate portion 401 may also include non-tobacco-derived substances made from plants other than tobacco, such as mints and herbs.
  • the aerosol source may contain a perfume ingredient such as menthol.
  • the aerosol source of the stick-type substrate 400 may contain a drug for patient inhalation.
  • the aerosol source is not limited to solids, and may be polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or liquids such as water.
  • At least part of the base material part 401 is housed in the internal space 301A of the holding part 301 while the stick-shaped base material 400 is held by the holding part 301 .
  • the mouthpiece 402 is a member held by the user when inhaling. At least part of the mouthpiece 402 protrudes from the opening 301B when the stick-shaped base material 400 is held by the holding part 301 .
  • air flows into the bottom 301C of the holding part 301 through the air inlet 21 as described above.
  • the inflowing air passes through the inner space 301A of the holding portion 301 and the base portion 401 and reaches the user's mouth.
  • the aerosol generated from the base member 401 is mixed with the gas passing through the inner space 301A of the holding member 301 and the base member 401 .
  • the heating unit 302 heats the aerosol source included in the base member 401 to atomize the aerosol source and generate an aerosol.
  • the heating part 302 is made of any material such as metal or polyimide.
  • the heating part 302 is configured in a film shape and arranged so as to cover the outer periphery of the holding part 301 .
  • the heating part 302 generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped base material 400 is heated from the outer periphery of the stick-shaped base material 400 and atomized to generate an aerosol.
  • the heating unit 302 generates heat by power supply from the power supply unit 111 .
  • a predetermined user input is detected by a sensor or the like (not shown)
  • power supply to the heating unit 302 is started and aerosol is generated.
  • the temperature of the stick-shaped base material 400 reaches a predetermined temperature due to the heating by the heating unit 302
  • the aerosol starts to be generated and the user can inhale the aerosol.
  • a sensor or the like not shown
  • power supply to the heating unit 302 is stopped. It should be noted that while the puff sensor 112 detects the user's inhalation, power supply to the heating unit 302 may be continued to generate aerosol.
  • the heating stop time is acquired after the start of preheating (step 12A (see FIG. 7)) has been described, but the heating stop time may be acquired before preheating is started. good.
  • the length of the main heating time is controlled according to the length of the heating stop time.
  • the length of both the main heating time and the preheating time may be controlled. That is, when preheating is performed before main heating, the amount of electric power supplied to heating unit 211 during preheating may be controlled to be lower than the reference value. Controlling the preheating time includes shortening the length of the preheating time from the reference length and setting the preheating time to zero.
  • the amount of electric power supplied to heating unit 211 during preheating and main heating may be controlled to be smaller than the reference value.
  • the method of reducing the amount of electric power may be the same as the method of controlling the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during main heating to be small.

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  • Devices For Medical Bathing And Washing (AREA)
  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Medicinal Preparation (AREA)
PCT/JP2021/042555 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム Ceased WO2023089763A1 (ja)

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PCT/JP2021/042555 WO2023089763A1 (ja) 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム
KR1020247015796A KR20240100368A (ko) 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 에어로졸 생성 장치의 회로 유닛, 에어로졸 생성 장치 및 프로그램
CN202180104308.9A CN118251145A (zh) 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 气溶胶生成装置的电路单元、气溶胶生成装置以及程序
EP21964778.1A EP4434372A4 (en) 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 CIRCUIT UNIT FOR AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE, AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE AND PROGRAM
JP2023562042A JP7802094B2 (ja) 2021-11-19 2021-11-19 エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム
US18/664,317 US20240306730A1 (en) 2021-11-19 2024-05-15 Circuit unit for aerosol generation device, and device and program for aerosol generation
JP2025241858A JP2026041940A (ja) 2021-11-19 2025-12-08 エアロゾル生成装置の回路ユニット、エアロゾル生成装置及びプログラム

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US12550942B2 (en) 2022-09-19 2026-02-17 Altria Client Services Llc Session control system

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EP4434372A4 (en) 2025-09-17
CN118251145A (zh) 2024-06-25
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JPWO2023089763A1 (https=) 2023-05-25
US20240306730A1 (en) 2024-09-19
JP7802094B2 (ja) 2026-01-19
JP2026041940A (ja) 2026-03-10

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