WO2024009435A1

WO2024009435A1 - Inhalation device, control method, and program

Info

Publication number: WO2024009435A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/026839
Authority: WO
Inventors: 泰弘小野; 和俊芹田; 玲二朗川崎; 寛手塚; 知恵子梶原
Original assignee: 日本たばこ産業株式会社
Priority date: 2022-07-06
Filing date: 2022-07-06
Publication date: 2024-01-11

Abstract

A control unit (116) of an inhalation device (100) begins control of a heating unit (121) in a control mode defined by a heating profile in response to an aerosol generation request, acquires information that represents an inhalation mode for a first period in which the heating unit (121) is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile, and changes the control mode of the heating unit (121) for a second period that is after the first period from the control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the acquired inhalation mode for the first period.

Description

Suction device, control method, and program

The present invention relates to a suction device, a control method, and a program.

Conventionally, suction devices have been known that generate aerosols to which flavor components have been added, for example, and allow users to inhale the generated aerosols. Such suction devices typically generate an aerosol by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source with a heating section (also referred to as a "heating element"), which is an electrical resistance or induction heater. Deliver the aerosol to the user. Additionally, some of these suction devices are designed to control the temperature of the heating section according to a control profile prepared in advance (also referred to as a "heating profile" or "target temperature profile") (for example, the following (See Patent Document 1).

Japan Special Table No. 2015-524260

The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor experienced by the user, assuming standard inhalation. However, the standard suction assumed in the heating profile is not necessarily performed on the suction device. For example, the suction mode of the suction device not only differs from user to user, but also may vary depending on the mood of the same user when suctioning.

If the heating profile is controlled in a situation where the standard suction that is assumed in the heating profile is not being performed, for example, there may be a sufficient amount of aerosol source remaining on the base material. A situation may occur in which heating by the heating unit is stopped immediately, or heating by the heating unit is continued in vain even though the aerosol source of the base material is exhausted. It is undesirable for such a situation to occur from the viewpoint of improving user satisfaction with the suction device (in other words, the marketability of the suction device).

The present invention provides a high-quality smoking experience to the user by appropriately consuming the base material having the aerosol source even if the suction mode is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile. The present invention provides a suction device, a control method, and a program that can perform the following steps.

The first invention is
a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source;
a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating unit,
A suction device that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating section,
The control unit includes:
In response to a request for aerosol generation, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by the heating profile;
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
It is a suction device.

The second invention is
A computer that controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source, and that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating unit,
In response to a request to generate aerosol, start controlling the heating unit in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating unit,
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
This is a control method for executing processing.

The third invention is
A computer that controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source, and that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating unit;
In response to a request for generation of aerosol, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating section,
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
This is a program that executes processing.

According to the present invention, even if the suction mode is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the base material having an aerosol source can be appropriately consumed to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience. It is possible to provide a suction device, a control method, and a program that can be provided to

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a suction device of this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a heating profile in this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of suction performed on the suction device of this embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period is less than the fourth predetermined value. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed by the control unit of the suction device of this embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram (Part 2) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. FIG. 10 is a diagram (Part 2) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value.

Hereinafter, a suction device, a control method, and a program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in the following, the same or similar elements may be given the same or similar symbols, and the description thereof may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

<1. Configuration example of suction device>
The suction device of this embodiment is a device that generates a substance to be suctioned by a user and allows the user to suction the generated substance. Although the following explanation assumes that the substance generated by the suction device of this embodiment is an aerosol, the substance is not limited to an aerosol, and may be, for example, a gas.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the suction device of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a stick-shaped base material 150 having a flavor-generating base material such as a filler containing an aerosol source that is a source of suction components and a flavor source is inserted into the suction device 100 of this embodiment. The stick-type base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 is heated from its outer periphery to generate an aerosol containing flavor components.

The aerosol source can be, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water, but is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid. The flavor source is a component for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol, and includes, for example, tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. Examples of tobacco-derived flavor components include tobacco granules obtained by forming tobacco raw materials into granules, shredded tobacco, and the like. Examples of non-tobacco-derived flavor components include plants other than tobacco (eg, mint, Chinese herbal medicine, or herbs), and flavoring agents such as menthol.

Note that a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component may be included in the aerosol source. Furthermore, when the suction device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

As shown in FIG. 1, the suction device 100 includes a power supply section 111, a sensor section 112, a notification section 113, a storage section 114, a communication section 115, a control section 116, a heating section 121, a holding section 140, and a heat insulation section 144. .

The power supply unit 111 stores power. Then, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to each component of the suction device 100 based on control by the control unit 116. The power supply unit 111 may be configured with a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery, for example.

The sensor unit 112 acquires various information regarding the suction device 100. The sensor unit 112 includes, for example, a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, a temperature sensor, a voltage sensor, or the like, and acquires a value associated with suction by the user.

As an example, the sensor section 112 may include a pressure sensor (hereinafter also referred to as a "puff sensor") that detects the pressure within the suction device 100. As described later, the control unit 116 can detect suction to the suction device 100 based on the detection value of the puff sensor.

As another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a flow rate sensor that detects the flow rate (hereinafter also simply referred to as "flow rate") generated by suction to the suction device 100. Further, as another example, the sensor section 112 may include a temperature sensor (hereinafter also referred to as a "puff thermistor") that detects the temperature of the heating section 121 (or a predetermined location near the heating section 121). Further, as another example, the sensor section 112 may include a voltage sensor that detects a potential difference (hereinafter also referred to as "voltage") applied to the heating resistor that constitutes the heating section 121.

Furthermore, the sensor unit 112 may further include an input device such as an operation button or an operation switch that receives information input from the user, and may acquire information input from the user.

The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 may be configured with, for example, a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, a vibration device that vibrates, or the like. For example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) may be used as the light emitting device. As the display device, for example, a liquid crystal display or an OELD (Organic Electro Luminescence Diode) display may be employed. As the sound output device, for example, a speaker configured to be able to convert an electrical signal expressing sound into physical sound (that is, air vibration) may be employed. As the vibrating device, for example, a vibrator including an eccentric weight and a motor that rotates the eccentric weight may be adopted.

The storage unit 114 stores various information (for example, various data and various programs) for the operation of the suction device 100. The storage unit 114 may be configured with a nonvolatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example. Examples of the information stored in the storage unit 114 include heating profiles. Here, the heating profile is information that defines a time series transition of a target temperature (hereinafter also simply referred to as "target temperature"), which is a target value of the temperature of the heating section 121. An example of the heating profile will be described later using FIG. 2.

The communication unit 115 is a communication interface that can perform communication compliant with any wired or wireless communication standard. In the case of wireless communication, such communication standards may include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or near field communication. In the case of wired communication, the connection may be made using, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) external connection terminal, a data communication cable, or the like.

The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls overall operations within the suction device 100 according to various programs. An example of the control performed by the control unit 116 will be described later, so a description thereof will be omitted here. The control unit 116 is realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

The holding part 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-type base material 150 while accommodating a part of the stick-type base material 150 in the internal space 141. The holding part 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with the outside, and holds the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the holding part 140 is a cylindrical body having an opening 142 and a bottom part 143 as the bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. The holding part 140 also has the function of defining a flow path for air to be supplied to the stick-type base material 150. An air inlet hole, which is an entrance of air to the flow path, is arranged, for example, at the bottom portion 143. On the other hand, the air outlet hole, which is the outlet of the air from the flow path, is the opening 142.

The stick-type base material 150 includes a base portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The base member 151 includes, for example, an aerosol source. In a state where the stick-shaped base material 150 is held by the holding part 140, at least a portion of the base material part 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the mouthpiece part 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user holds the mouthpiece 152 protruding from the opening 142 and sucks it, air flows into the internal space 141 from an air inflow hole (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base member 151.

For example, the heating unit 121 atomizes the aerosol source to generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol source. As an example, in this embodiment, the heating section 121 is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the holding section 140. The heating unit 121 generates heat by being supplied with power from the power supply unit 111. When the heating part 121 generates heat, the base material part 151 of the stick-type base material 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

For example, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started suctioning and/or that predetermined information has been input, the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 is started. Good too. Thereafter, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has finished suctioning and/or that predetermined information has been input, the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 is stopped. You may also do so. Note that the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 may be controlled by the control unit 116 as described above.

The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulator 144 may be made of a vacuum heat insulator, an airgel heat insulator, or the like.

An example of the configuration of the suction device 100 has been described above. Of course, the suction device 100 is not limited to the above configuration, and may take various configurations as exemplified below.

As an example, the heating unit 121 may be configured in a blade shape and arranged to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In that case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121 is inserted into the base portion 151 of the stick-type base material 150 and heats the base portion 151 of the stick-type base material 150 from inside. As another example, the heating part 121 may be arranged to cover the bottom part 143 of the holding part 140. In addition, the heating section 121 is a combination of two or more of a first heating section that covers the outer periphery of the holding section 140 , a second heating section shaped like a blade, and a third heating section that covers the bottom 143 of the holding section 140 . It may be configured as

As another example, the holding part 140 may include an opening/closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a part of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The holding part 140 may hold the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 by opening and closing the outer shell. In that case, the heating unit 121 may be provided at the relevant clamping location in the holding unit 140 and may heat the stick-shaped base material 150 while pressing it.

Further, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121, and may be, for example, induction heating. Moreover, the suction device 100 may have multiple types of aerosol sources. Furthermore, other types of aerosols may be generated by mixing multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources and causing a chemical reaction.

<2. Heating profile>
The heating profile, which is information that defines the time-series transition of the target temperature, may be, for example, information that defines the target temperature and the time length of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis. can. Furthermore, in the heating profile, the time length of the time interval may not be determined, but a target temperature for the time interval may be defined, and the time interval may be ended when the target temperature is reached.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a heating profile in this embodiment. The vertical axis in FIG. 2 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIG. 2 represents time [sec], and more specifically represents the elapsed time after control based on the heating profile was started.

As shown in FIG. 2, the heating profile of this embodiment includes a first time interval S1, a second time interval S2, a third time interval S3, a fourth time interval S4, and a fifth time interval, which are continuous along the time axis. The time length and target temperature of each time period of the period S5 and the sixth time period S6 are defined.

The first time interval S1, the second time interval S2, the third time interval S3, the fourth time interval S4, the fifth time interval S5, and the sixth time interval S6 are arranged in chronological order from the beginning to the end. It is provided. Then, with the end of the sixth time period S6, which is the last time period, the heating by the heating section 121 (in other words, the supply of power to the heating section 121) is stopped. Thereby, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 2, the temperature of the heating section 121 gradually decreases after the end of the sixth time period S6.

In the heating profile of this embodiment, the first time period S1 is a time period in which the time length is tm1 [sec] and the target temperature is T1 [° C.]. The second time period S2 is a time period in which the time length is tm2 [sec] and the target temperature is T1 [° C.]. The third time period S3 is a time period in which the time length is tm3 [sec] and the target temperature is T2 [° C.] (T2<T1).

The fourth time interval S4 is a time interval in which the time length is tm4 [sec] and the target temperature is T2 [°C]. As an example, in this embodiment, the fourth time interval S4 is the longest time interval. That is, tm4 is longer than any of the above-mentioned tm1 to tm3 and tm5 and tm6 described later.

The fifth time period S5 is a time period in which the time length is tm5 [sec] and the target temperature is T3 [° C.] (T3>T2 and T3<T1). The sixth time interval S6 is a time interval in which the time length is tm6 [sec] and the target temperature is T3 [°C]. As described above, the sixth time interval S6 is the last time interval, and is the time interval immediately before heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped.

By the way, the time intervals included in the heating profile can be roughly divided into three types: a temperature increase interval, a temperature decrease interval, and a temperature maintenance interval.

Here, the temperature increase period is a time period in which the temperature of the heating section 121 is increased (in other words, the temperature of the heating section 121 is increased). For example, a time period in which the target temperature is assumed to be higher than the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature in the immediately preceding time period) becomes the temperature increase period. In the example of this embodiment, the first time interval S1 and the fifth time interval S5 are temperature increasing intervals. Hereinafter, the first time interval S1 will also be referred to as the "first temperature increase interval S1", and the fifth time interval S5 will also be referred to as the "second temperature increase interval S5".

Further, the temperature decreasing period is a time period in which the temperature of the heating section 121 is decreased (in other words, the temperature of the heating section 121 is decreased). For example, a time period in which the target temperature is assumed to be lower than the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature in the immediately previous time period) becomes the temperature decreasing period. In the example of this embodiment, the third time period S3 is the temperature increasing period. Hereinafter, the third time section S3 will also be referred to as a "temperature drop section S3."

The temperature maintenance interval is a time interval in which the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 to be maintained at a constant temperature. For example, a time period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature of the immediately previous time period) and the target temperature are assumed to be approximately equal becomes the temperature maintenance period. In the example of this embodiment, the second time interval S2, the fourth time interval S4, and the sixth time interval S6 are temperature maintenance intervals. Hereinafter, the second time interval S2 will also be referred to as the "first temperature maintenance interval S2", the fourth time interval S4 will also be referred to as the "second temperature maintenance interval S4", and the sixth time interval S6 will be referred to as the "third temperature maintenance interval S6". Also called.

Note that although control is performed to maintain the temperature of the heating section 121 at a constant temperature in the temperature maintenance section, it should be noted that the temperature of the heating section 121 may actually fluctuate. Factors that cause the temperature of the heating unit 121 to fluctuate in the temperature maintenance section include, for example, a decrease in the temperature of the heating unit 121 due to suction by the user, hunting in PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller), and the like.

As described above, the heating profile of the present embodiment includes a first temperature increase section S1 provided initially, and a temperature decrease section provided after the first temperature increase section S1 and whose target temperature is lower than the first temperature increase section S1. a third temperature maintenance section S6 provided after the temperature drop section S3 and whose target temperature is higher than the temperature drop section S3; and a second temperature maintenance section as a low temperature section whose target temperature is lower than the third temperature maintenance section S6. S4.

More specifically, in the heating profile of this embodiment, there are a first temperature increase section S1, a first temperature maintenance section S2, a temperature decrease section S3, a second temperature maintenance section S4, a second temperature increase section S5, and a third temperature maintenance section. The sections S6 are provided in this order from the front in chronological order. The target temperature of the heating unit 121 is T1 [°C] in the first temperature increase section S1 and the first temperature maintenance section S2, and T2 [°C] (T2<T1 ), and T3 [° C.] (T2<T3<T1) in the second temperature increase section S5 and third temperature maintenance section S6.

Note that, in the suction device 100, the period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated is also referred to as the "inhalable period (or puffable period)." Further, the period from the start of heating until the start of the suction possible period is also referred to as a "preheating period." The heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as "preheating." In the example of this embodiment, the first temperature increase section S1 is a preheating period. Moreover, the first temperature maintenance section S2, the temperature decreasing section S3, the second temperature maintaining section S4, the second temperature increasing section S5, and the third temperature maintaining section S6 are the suction possible periods.

For example, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user of the timing at which the suction possible period starts and the timing at which it ends. That is, the notification unit 113 notifies the user at the timing at which the first temperature maintenance section S2 starts (in other words, at the timing at which the first temperature increase section S1 ends) and at the timing at which the third temperature maintenance section S6 ends. conduct. In this way, by notifying the user of the timing at which the suction possible period starts and the timing at which the suction possible period ends, the user can refer to the notification and perform suction to the suction device 100 during the suction possible period.

Also, the mode of notification performed at the timing when the suction possible period starts (i.e., the timing when the first temperature maintenance section S2 starts) and the timing when the suction possible period ends (i.e., the timing when the third temperature maintenance period S6 ends). The manner of notification performed may be different from each other. In this way, by differentiating the form of the notification given at the start and end of the suction available period, it is possible to clearly inform the user that the suction possible period has started and ended. It becomes possible.

<3. Control section>
The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. This produces an aerosol as planned by the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor experienced by the user when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the flavor that the user enjoys can be optimized.

More specifically, in response to a request for aerosol generation, the control unit 116 starts controlling the heating unit 121 in a control manner defined by the heating profile. Here, the aerosol generation request can be, for example, an operation that instructs to start heating. As an example, the operation for instructing the start of heating can be performed by pressing a predetermined operation button provided on the suction device 100. Further, the operation for instructing the start of heating may be a suction operation on the suction device 100, or reception of predetermined information from another device such as a smartphone. The control unit 116 can detect an aerosol generation request, for example, based on information acquired by the sensor unit 112 or the communication unit 115.

To explain in detail the control of the heating section 121 based on the heating profile, the control section 116 sets the target temperature corresponding to the elapsed time after starting the control based on the heating profile and the actual temperature of the heating section 121 (hereinafter "actual temperature"). The operation of the heating section 121 is controlled based on the deviation from the temperature (also referred to as "temperature"). More specifically, at this time, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 so that the time-series transition of the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 becomes similar to the time-series transition of the target temperature specified in the heating profile. control.

The temperature control of the heating section 121 can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses using pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulse.

In the feedback control, the control unit 116 may control the electric power supplied to the heating unit 121, for example, the duty ratio, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature. Further, the feedback control may be, for example, PID control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple ON-OFF control. For example, the control unit 116 executes heating by the heating unit 121 until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and stops heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, so that the actual temperature becomes lower than the target temperature. In this case, heating by the heating unit 121 may be performed again.

The temperature of the heating section 121 can be obtained (in other words, quantified) by, for example, measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor that constitutes the heating section 121. This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor changes depending on the temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistor can be estimated (that is, obtained) by, for example, measuring the amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor. The amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor can be measured (that is, acquired) by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. As another example, the temperature of the heating section 121 may be measured by a temperature sensor (puff thermistor) installed near the heating section 121.

Furthermore, the control unit 116 stops the heating by the heating unit 121 at a timing when a predetermined period of time has elapsed after starting the control based on the heating profile. The timing at which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped is, for example, the timing at which the last time interval in the heating profile (in the example of this embodiment, the third temperature maintenance interval S6) ends.

That is, after the heating unit 121 starts heating, the aerosol source and flavor components of the heated stick-type base material 150 gradually decrease as time passes. The heating by the heating unit 121 typically reduces at least one of the aerosol source and the flavor component of the stick-type base material 150, and delivers a sufficient amount of aerosol to the user with an appropriate amount of flavor component. It is designed to be stopped when it is assumed that it will no longer be possible. In other words, the heating profile is such that the aerosol on the stick substrate 150 is heated to such an extent that a sufficient amount of aerosol loaded with the appropriate amount of flavor component cannot be delivered to the user assuming standard suction is performed. The last time interval is designed to end when the source or flavor component is expected to decrease.

Furthermore, the aerosol source and flavor components of the stick-type base material 150 are also reduced by suction performed by the suction device 100. Therefore, the control unit 116 may perform suction a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) after starting the control based on the heating profile, even before a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the control based on the heating profile. In this case, the heating by the heating unit 121 may be stopped at that point. Hereinafter, in this case, the number of suctions that is a condition for stopping heating by the heating unit 121 will also be referred to as the "possible number of suctions."

Furthermore, the control unit 116 may cause the heating unit 121 to stop heating, for example, at the timing when a predetermined operation button provided on the suction device 100 is pressed. In this way, it becomes possible for the user to stop heating by the heating unit 121 at a desired timing.

By the way, the heating profile is designed to optimize the flavor experienced by the user, assuming that standard suction is performed. However, the standard suction assumed in the heating profile is not necessarily performed on the suction device 100. For example, the suction mode of the suction device 100 not only differs from user to user, but even the same user may change the suction mode depending on his or her mood at the time of suction.

If the standard suction assumed in the heating profile is not performed and the heating profile is controlled as it is, sufficient aerosol source and flavor components will remain in the stick-type base material 150. or the aerosol source or flavor component of the stick-type base material 150 is stopped to the extent that a sufficient amount of aerosol to which an appropriate amount of flavor component is applied cannot be delivered to the user. A situation may occur in which heating by the heating unit 121 is continued in vain even though the amount of smoke is about to be exhausted (in other words, a high-quality smoking experience cannot be provided to the user). It is not preferable for such a situation to occur from the viewpoint of improving user satisfaction with the suction device 100 (that is, the marketability of the suction device 100).

That is, even if suction is performed in a suction mode different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the stick-shaped base material 150 having an aerosol source etc. can be appropriately consumed and the user can have a high-quality smoking experience. From the viewpoint of improving the marketability of the suction device 100, it is desirable to provide the same.

Therefore, the control unit 116 controls the suction mode for the suction device 100 during the first period in which the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile (hereinafter also simply referred to as "suction mode in the first period"). Obtain information representing. Here, the suction mode in the first period may be, for example, the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period. . Furthermore, the suction mode in the first period is a combination of two or more of the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, and the suction strength in the first period (for example, a combination of suction time and suction strength). You can. In addition, regarding specific examples of the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, and the suction strength in the first period, the suction time in the acquisition target period, the suction amount in the acquisition target period, and the suction strength in the acquisition target period Each will be described later as follows.

Then, the control unit 116 controls the control mode of the heating unit 121 in a second period, which is a period after the first period, based on the obtained suction mode in the first period from the control mode defined by the heating profile. Change the mode. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from standard suction, in the subsequent second period, the suction mode in the first period (that is, the suction actually performed in the first period) The heating unit 121 can be appropriately controlled in consideration of the above. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately consume the stick-type base material 150 and provide a high-quality smoking experience to the user. The control unit 116 will be described in more detail below.

<4-1. Acquisition period＞
For example, based on the detection result of the sensor unit 112 during a predetermined acquisition period in which the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control manner defined by the heating profile, the control unit 116 generates information representing the suction mode in the acquisition period. get.

The period to be acquired is, for example, a period from when control of the heating unit 121 is started in a control manner defined by the heating profile (that is, when control based on the heating profile is started) until a predetermined time has elapsed. can do. This makes it possible to secure a fairly long period as the acquisition target period. Furthermore, considering that control based on the heating profile is started when there is a request for aerosol generation, the acquisition period may be the period from when the aerosol generation request is made until a predetermined period of time has elapsed. can.

In the example of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a first acquisition period A1 and a second acquisition period A2 are provided as the acquisition period.

The first acquisition target period A1 is the period when the first predetermined time Tm1 preset by the manufacturer of the suction device 100 has elapsed since the control based on the heating profile was started (that is, when the elapsed time was 0). This is the period until one timing ti1 is reached. For example, the first predetermined time Tm1 is set to be shorter than half of the period from when the control based on the heating profile is started until the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped (i.e., tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm4 + tm5 + tm6). Further, the first predetermined time Tm1 satisfies, for example, (tm1+tm2+tm3)<Tm1<(tm1+tm2+tm3+tm4-Δta). Thereby, the first timing ti1 is set as the timing during the second temperature maintenance section S4. Note that Δta will be described later.

The second acquisition target period A2 is a second predetermined time Tm2 (however, Tm2> This is the period until the second timing ti2 when Tm1) has elapsed. For example, the second predetermined time Tm2 satisfies (tm1+tm2+tm3+tm6+tm5)<Tm2<(tm1+tm2+tm3+tm4+tm5+tm6-Δtc). Thereby, the second timing ti2 is set as the timing during the third temperature maintenance section S6. Note that Δtc will be described later.

Note that in the example described here, the period from when the control based on the heating profile is started until the first predetermined time Tm1 has elapsed is defined as the first acquisition target period A1, but the period is not limited to this.

For example, from the time when the control based on the heating profile is started (that is, when the control of the heating unit 121 is started in the control manner defined by the heating profile), suction is performed a first predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times). The period until then may be set as the first acquisition target period A1. Even in this case, it is possible to secure a somewhat long period as the first acquisition target period A1. Similarly, the period from when the control based on the heating profile is started until suction is performed a second predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times) which is greater than the first predetermined number of times may be set as the second acquisition target period A2. . In addition, in this case, the first predetermined number of times and the second predetermined number of times are greater than 0 and less than the number of possible suctions described above.

In addition, in the example described here, the start point of the first acquisition target period A1 is when the control based on the heating profile is started, but it is not limited to this, and when the suction possible period starts (for example, the first It may also be the timing at which the temperature maintenance section S2 starts. Even in this case, it is possible to secure a somewhat long period as the first acquisition target period A1. Similarly, the start point of the second acquisition target period A2 is not limited to when the control based on the heating profile is started, but may be, for example, when the suction possible period starts.

<4-2. Suction time during acquisition target period＞
Next, the "suction time in the acquisition target period" that can be acquired by the control unit 116 will be explained. Here, the suction time in the acquisition target period can be, for example, the maximum value of the suction time for one suction in the acquisition target period, or the integrated value of the suction time for multiple suctions in the acquisition target period. . Thereby, the suction time in the acquisition target period acquired by the control unit 116 can represent the suction mode in the acquisition target period.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of suction performed on the suction device of this embodiment. The horizontal axis in FIG. 3 represents time. (a) of FIG. 3 represents the presence or absence (ON/OFF) of heating at each period represented by the horizontal axis of FIG. Moreover, (b) of FIG. 3 represents the presence or absence (ON/OFF) of suction at each period represented by the horizontal axis of FIG. 3(c) represents the flow rate at each period represented by the horizontal axis in FIG.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the acquisition period AX (for example, the first acquisition period A1) from the time when the aerosol generation request is made until the elapse of a predetermined time (for example, the first predetermined time Tm1), the first suction This is an example where suction is performed twice: Pf1 and second suction Pf2.

The first suction Pf1 is performed from time t11 to time t12 after time t11, and the suction time is tm10. Here, the suction time is the length of the period from when suction starts (time t11 in the case of the first suction Pf1) to when the suction ends (time t12 in the case of the first suction Pf1). It is time (that is, time). Further, the second suction Pf2 is performed from time t21 after time t12 to time t22 after time t21, and the suction time is tm20 (however, tm20>tm10).

To explain more specifically, the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has started when the value detected by the puff sensor described above changes from a state below a predetermined threshold value to a state above the threshold value. The above-mentioned "when suction is started" can be, for example, when the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has been started. Further, the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has ended when the value detected by the puff sensor changes from a state equal to or higher than the threshold value to a state less than the threshold value. The above-mentioned "when suction ends" can be, for example, when the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has ended. That is, the control unit 116 can acquire the suction time based on the detection result of the puff sensor.

As another example, the control unit 116 may determine that suction to the suction device 100 has started when the value detected by the flow rate sensor described above changes from a state below a predetermined threshold to a state above the threshold. . Further, the control unit 116 may determine that suction to the suction device 100 has ended when the detected value by the flow rate sensor changes from a state equal to or higher than the threshold value to a state lower than the threshold value. That is, the control unit 116 may acquire the suction time based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the maximum value of the suction time for one suction in the acquisition target period AX is tm20. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the suction time for one suction in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the suction time in one suction in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period AX. All you have to do is get tm20.

Furthermore, the integrated value of suction time due to multiple suctions during the acquisition target period AX is tm10+tm20. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the integrated value of the suction time due to multiple suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the integrated value of the suction time due to multiple suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period AX. What is necessary is to obtain tm10+tm20. That is, the control unit 116 may acquire the integrated value of the suction time of all suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period.

Further, for example, when the sensor unit 112 includes a flow rate sensor capable of detecting the flow rate generated by suction to the suction device 100, the control unit 116 controls the flow rate in the acquisition target period based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor. The length of the period during which is greater than or equal to the threshold value may be acquired as the suction time in the acquisition target period. Even in this case, the suction time in the acquisition target period acquired by the control unit 116 can represent the suction mode in the acquisition target period.

More specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 3, in the suction time tm10 of the first suction Pf1, the length of the period in which the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold ThX is set as tm11. Further, in the suction time tm20 of the second suction Pf2, the length of the period in which the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold value ThX is defined as tm21 (however, tm21>tm11).

In this case, in the acquisition target period AX, the length of the period in which the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold value ThX is tm11+tm21. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the length of the period during which the flow rate is equal to or greater than the threshold value in the acquisition target period as the suction time in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the length of the period in which the flow rate is equal to or higher than the threshold value as the suction time in the acquisition target period AX. What is necessary is to obtain tm11+tm21. Note that the threshold ThX is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

<4-3. Amount of suction during acquisition period＞
Next, the "suction amount in the acquisition target period" that can be acquired by the control unit 116 will be explained. When the control unit 116 acquires the suction amount in the acquisition target period described below, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include, for example, the flow rate sensor described above. Then, the control unit 116 acquires the suction amount in the acquisition target period, which will be described below, based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor.

Here, the amount of suction in the acquisition target period is, for example, the maximum value of the flow rate caused by one suction in the acquisition target period, the integrated value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period, or the acquisition target period. It can be the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time in the target period. Thereby, the amount of suction in the acquisition target period acquired by the control unit 116 can represent the suction mode in the acquisition target period.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the flow rate generated by the first suction Pf1, more specifically, the integrated value of the flow rate at each time during the first suction Pf1 is Fw10. Further, the flow rate generated by the second suction Pf2, more specifically, the integrated value of the flow rate at each time during the second suction Pf2 is Fw20 (Fw20>Fw10). It is assumed that the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time in the acquisition target period AX is Fw21 at time t23 during the second suction Pf2.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the maximum value of the flow rate caused by one suction in the acquisition target period AX is Fw20. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the flow rate caused by one suction in the acquisition target period as the suction amount in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the flow rate caused by one suction in the acquisition target period. It is sufficient to obtain Fw20 as follows.

Furthermore, the integrated value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions during the acquisition target period AX is Fw10+Fw20. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the integrated value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction amount in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the cumulative value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period. What is necessary is to obtain Fw10+Fw20 as follows. That is, the control unit 116 may acquire the integrated value of the flow rate caused by all the suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction amount in the acquisition target period.

Furthermore, the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time in the acquisition target period AX is Fw21. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time in the acquisition target period as the suction amount in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires Fw21 as the suction amount in the acquisition target period AX. Just get it.

Furthermore, the control unit 116 may acquire the suction amount in the acquisition target period based on the suction time in the acquisition target period and FwX, which is the standard suction amount per unit time. For example, if the estimated value of the flow rate generated by the first suction Pf1 is Fw10', this estimated value Fw10' is calculated using the suction time tm10 of the first suction Pf1 and the standard suction amount per unit time FwX. Therefore, it can be expressed as Fw10'=tm10×FwX. Similarly, assuming that the estimated value of the flow rate generated by the second suction Pf2 is Fw20', this estimated value Fw20' is the suction time tm20 of the second suction Pf2 and the standard suction amount per unit time FwX. can be expressed as Fw20'=tm20×FwX.

Then, by using the above estimated value Fw10' and estimated value Fw20', the integrated value (estimated value) of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period AX can be expressed as Fw10'+Fw20'. Therefore, when the control unit 116 acquires the integrated value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period as the suction amount in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 acquires the cumulative value of the flow rate caused by multiple suctions in the acquisition target period. Fw10'+Fw20' may be obtained as follows. In this way, even if the sensor unit 112 does not have a flow rate sensor, it becomes possible to acquire the suction amount in the acquisition target period. That is, acquisition of the suction amount in the acquisition target period can be realized with a simpler configuration.

<4-4. Suction strength during acquisition period>
Next, the "suction strength in the acquisition target period" that can be acquired by the control unit 116 will be explained. Here, the suction strength can be, for example, an evaluation value representing the strength (in other words, "depth") of suction performed on the suction device 100.

For example, the stronger (in other words, the deeper) the suction applied to the suction device 100, the greater the flow rate generated by the suction, and therefore the greater the amount of decrease (i.e., the amount of change) in the temperature of the heating section 121. Therefore, the amount of change in the temperature of the heating section 121 may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that the steeper the temperature of the heating unit 121 falls, the higher the flow rate and the higher the suction strength.

Furthermore, considering that the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor that constitutes the heating section 121 changes depending on the temperature of the heating section 121, it is also possible to use the amount of change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor as the suction strength. good. Even in this case, the control unit 116 determines that the flow rate is high and the suction strength is high when the electric resistance value of the heating resistor changes to indicate that the temperature of the heating unit 121 is rapidly decreasing.

Furthermore, the stronger the suction applied to the suction device 100, the greater the flow rate generated by the suction, and therefore the larger the amount of change in the pressure within the suction device 100. Therefore, the amount of change in pressure within the suction device 100 may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that the steeper the pressure within the suction device 100 is, the higher the flow rate and the higher the suction strength.

Furthermore, the stronger the suction applied to the suction device 100, the greater the flow rate generated by the suction, so the flow rate (for example, the flow rate per unit time) itself may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that the higher the flow rate, the higher the suction strength.

To explain more specifically, it is assumed that the sensor section 112 includes a puff thermistor, for example. In this case, the control unit 116 calculates the amount of change in the temperature of the heating unit 121 (or a predetermined location near the heating unit 121) for each unit time based on the detection result of the puff thermistor during the acquisition target period. Obtained as suction strength. Then, the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time (here, for example, the amount of change in temperature of the heating unit 121) or the integrated value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time. Obtained as the suction strength during the target period.

As another example, assume that the sensor section 112 includes the voltage sensor described above. In this case, the control unit 116 may acquire the amount of change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor per unit time as the suction strength per unit time, based on the detection result of the voltage sensor during the acquisition target period. . Then, the control unit 116 determines the maximum value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time (here, the amount of change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor) or the integrated value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time. It may also be acquired as the suction strength during the acquisition target period.

As another example, assume that the sensor section 112 includes a puff sensor. In this case, the control unit 116 may acquire the amount of change in the pressure within the suction device 100 for each unit time as the suction strength for each unit time, based on the detection result of the puff sensor during the acquisition target period. Then, the control unit 116 acquires the maximum value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time (here, the amount of change in pressure within the suction device 100) or the integrated value of the acquired suction strengths for each unit time. It may also be acquired as the suction strength during the target period.

Further, the control unit 116 may obtain the suction strength for each suction performed during the acquisition target period, and acquire the maximum value of the determined suction strengths for each suction as the suction strength for the acquisition target period. . Furthermore, the control unit 116 may obtain the suction strength in the acquisition target period by integrating the suction strengths of each of the predetermined number of suctions performed during the acquisition target period. Further, in determining the suction strength for each suction, the control unit 116 calculates a value calculated by multiplying the maximum value of the suction strength in the suction by the suction time of the suction as the suction strength of the suction. You may also do so.

As another example, when the sensor unit 112 is configured to include a flow rate sensor, the control unit 116 may calculate the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time during the acquisition target period, for example, by determining the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time during the acquisition target period. It may also be obtained as strength.

Note that the manufacturer of the suction device 100 or the like can appropriately determine which of the suction time, suction amount, and suction strength in the acquisition target period is to be acquired by the control unit 116. In addition, when the control unit 116 acquires the suction time in the acquisition target period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 etc. may be determined as appropriate. Similarly, when the control unit 116 acquires the suction amount in the acquisition target period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 also determines which of the above-mentioned values to acquire as the suction amount in the acquisition target period. etc. may be determined as appropriate. In addition, when the control unit 116 acquires the suction strength in the acquisition target period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 etc. may be determined as appropriate.

<5. Changing the control mode based on the suction mode during the acquisition target period>
Next, an example of changing the control mode of the heating section 121 based on the suction mode during the acquisition target period by the control section 116 will be described. As described above, in the example of this embodiment, two acquisition target periods are provided: the first acquisition target period A1 up to the first timing ti1 and the second acquisition target period A2 up to the second timing ti2. . Below, first, an example of changing the control mode of the heating unit 121 based on the suction mode in the first acquisition target period A1 will be described.

FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. The vertical axis in FIG. 4 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIG. 4 represents time [sec].

As shown in FIG. 4, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116, for example, controls the second temperature maintenance period S4 (i.e. The time length of the fourth time interval S4) is changed (ie, shortened) from the original tm4 [sec] to tm4a [sec], which is shorter than tm4 [sec]. Here, tm4a can be, for example, tm4 minus a constant value Δta (where Δta>0) (ie, tm4a=tm4−Δta). Note that the first predetermined value Th1 and the constant value Δta are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

That is, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the consumption amount of the aerosol source and flavor component in the first acquisition target period A1 is It is thought that the number is higher than expected at the time of profile design. Therefore, in this case, it is thought that the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 decreases at a faster pace than expected when designing the heating profile.

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 shortens the second temperature maintenance section S4 to To speed up the timing at which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped. This makes it possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating unit 121 is continued in vain even though the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is about to be exhausted. Furthermore, by suppressing wasteful heating by the heating unit 121, waste of power by the power supply unit 111 can also be suppressed.

FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value. The vertical axis in FIG. 5 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIG. 5 represents time [sec].

As shown in FIG. 5, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2 (for example, second predetermined value Th2<first predetermined value Th1), the control For example, the unit 116 changes (that is, extends) the time length of the second temperature maintenance section S4 from the original tm4 [sec] to tm4b [sec], which is longer than tm4 [sec]. Here, tm4b can be, for example, tm4 plus a constant value Δtb (where Δta>0) (that is, tm4b=tm4+Δtb). Note that the second predetermined value Th2 and the constant value Δtb are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. Furthermore, the absolute value of the constant value Δtb may be equal to the absolute value of the constant value Δta described above.

That is, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the consumption amount of the aerosol source and flavor component in the first acquisition target period A1 is This is considered to be less than expected when designing the profile. Therefore, in this case, the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is considered to remain in the stick-type base material 150 for a longer period of time than expected at the time of designing the heating profile.

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 extends the second temperature maintenance section S4 by that amount. The period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosol is generated) is lengthened. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor components remain in the stick-type base material 150.

Further, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or more than the second predetermined value Th2 and less than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 controls, for example, The time length of S4 (that is, the fourth time interval S4) is kept at the initial tm4 [sec]. As a result, if the consumption of the aerosol source and flavor components during the first acquisition period A1 is considered not to be significantly different from that assumed when designing the heating profile, the aerosol will continue to be generated as planned by the heating profile. It becomes possible to do so.

Next, an example of changing the control mode based on the suction mode in the second acquisition target period A2 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value. The vertical axis in FIG. 6 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIG. 6 represents time [sec].

As shown in FIG. 6, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116, for example, controls the third temperature maintenance period S6 (i.e. The time length of the sixth time interval S6) is changed (ie, shortened) from the original tm6 [sec] to tm6a [sec], which is shorter than tm6 [sec]. Here, tm6a can be, for example, tm6 minus a constant value Δtc (where Δtc>0) (ie, tm6a=tm6−Δtc). Note that the third predetermined value Th3 and the constant value Δtc are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. Furthermore, the constant value Δtc may be equal to the constant value Δta described above.

That is, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3, the consumption amount of the aerosol source and flavor component in the second acquisition target period A2 is It is thought that the number is higher than expected at the time of profile design. Therefore, in this case, it is thought that the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 decreases at a faster pace than expected when designing the heating profile.

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 shortens the third temperature maintenance section S6 to To speed up the timing at which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped. This makes it possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating unit 121 is continued in vain even though the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is about to be exhausted. Furthermore, by suppressing wasteful heating by the heating unit 121, waste of power by the power supply unit 111 can also be suppressed.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period is less than the fourth predetermined value. The vertical axis in FIG. 7 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIG. 7 represents time [sec].

As shown in FIG. 7, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (for example, fourth predetermined value Th4<third predetermined value Th3), the control For example, the unit 116 changes (that is, extends) the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 from the original tm6 [sec] to tm6b [sec], which is longer than tm6 [sec]. Here, tm6b can be, for example, tm6 plus a constant value Δtd (where Δtd>0) (that is, tm6b=tm6+Δtd). Note that the fourth predetermined value Th4 and the constant value Δtd are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. Further, the constant value Δtd may be equal to the constant value Δtb described above.

That is, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, the consumption amount of the aerosol source and flavor component in the second acquisition target period A2 is This is considered to be less than expected when designing the profile. Therefore, in this case, the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is considered to remain in the stick-type base material 150 for a longer period of time than expected at the time of designing the heating profile.

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, the control unit 116 extends the third temperature maintenance section S6 by that amount. The period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosol is generated) is lengthened. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor components remain in the stick-type base material 150.

Further, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the fourth predetermined value Th4 and less than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 controls, for example, The time length of S6 (that is, the sixth time interval S6) is kept at the original tm6 [sec]. As a result, if the consumption of the aerosol source and flavor components during the second acquisition period A2 is considered not to be significantly different from that assumed at the time of heating profile design, aerosol will continue to be generated as planned by the heating profile. It becomes possible to do so.

<6. Processing executed by the control unit>
Next, an example of processing executed by the control unit 116 to change the control mode of the heating unit 121 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed by the control unit of the suction device of this embodiment. Note that a program that causes the control unit 116 to execute the series of processes shown in FIG. 8 is stored in advance in the storage unit 114, for example.

As shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 116 waits until there is a request for aerosol generation (step Sp10: No loop), and when there is a request for aerosol generation (step Sp10: Yes), Control of the heating unit 121 is started in a control mode (step Sp11). In addition, the control unit 116 performs a process (hereinafter referred to as "suction (also referred to as "aspect acquisition processing") (step Sp12).

For example, if the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2 are started from the time when the control based on the heating profile is started, the step Sp12 is executed (that is, the suction mode acquisition process is started). In addition, if the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2 are started from the time when the suction possible period starts, step Sp12 is executed ( In other words, the suction mode acquisition process is started.

The suction mode acquisition process is performed, for example, in <4-2. Suction time as described in <Suction time during acquisition target period>, <4-3. Amount of suction during acquisition target period>, and the amount of suction as described in <4-4. At least one of the suction intensities described in ``Suction strength in acquisition target period'' is processed. The parameters to be acquired by the suction mode acquisition process are set in advance by the manufacturer of the suction device 100 or the like.

More specifically, in the suction mode acquisition process, for example, the control unit 116 monitors the presence or absence of suction to the suction device 100, and each time suction to the suction device 100 is detected, the control unit 116 determines the suction time due to the suction, and the suction time due to the suction. Obtain the generated flow rate or the suction strength of the suction. Then, when the maximum value of the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength in one suction is acquired as the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 controls the The maximum value of the suctions performed up to now is compared with the value of the current suction, and the larger value is stored in the storage unit 114. In addition, when the integrated value of the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength obtained by multiple suctions is acquired as the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength in the acquisition target period, the control unit 116 The value of the current suction is also integrated with the integrated value of the previous suctions, and the integrated result is held in the storage unit 114. As a result, the storage unit 114 can store the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2.

Further, the control unit 116 stores the history of the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength of each suction performed on the suction device 100 in the storage unit 114, and at the first timing ti1 or the second timing ti2. When it is determined that (see steps Sp13 and Sp18), the suction time, flow rate, or suction strength in the acquisition target period may be acquired with reference to the above history.

Then, the control unit 116 waits for the first timing ti1 while executing the suction mode acquisition process (Step Sp13: No loop), and when the first timing ti1 arrives (Step Sp13: Yes), the first acquisition target It is determined whether the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1 (step Sp14).

Then, when the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is greater than or equal to the first predetermined value Th1 (Step Sp14: Yes), the control unit 116 shortens the second temperature maintenance period S4. (Step Sp15), and the process proceeds to Step Sp18.

Further, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is not equal to or higher than the first predetermined value Th1 (step Sp14: No), the control unit 116 determines that the suction time in the first acquisition target period A1 is not equal to or higher than the first predetermined value Th1 (Step Sp14: No). , it is determined whether the suction amount or the suction strength is less than the second predetermined value Th2 (step Sp16).

Then, when the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2 (Step Sp16: Yes), the control unit 116 extends the second temperature maintenance period S4. (Step Sp17), and the process proceeds to Step Sp18.

Further, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is not less than the second predetermined value Th2 (step Sp16: No), the process directly proceeds to step Sp18. In this case, the time length of the second temperature maintenance section S4 remains the same as the initial tm4 [sec].

Then, the control unit 116 waits for the second timing ti2 while continuing to execute the suction mode acquisition process (step Sp18: No loop), and when the second timing ti2 comes (step Sp18: Yes), the control unit 116 performs step Sp12. The started suction mode acquisition process is ended, and it is determined whether the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3 (step Sp19).

Then, when the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3 (Step Sp19: Yes), the control unit 116 shortens the third temperature maintenance period S6. (Step Sp20), and the series of processing shown in FIG. 8 ends.

Further, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is not equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3 (Step Sp19: No), the control unit 116 determines that the suction time in the second acquisition target period A2 is not equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3 (Step Sp19: No). , it is determined whether the suction amount or the suction strength is less than a fourth predetermined value Th4 (step Sp21).

When the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (Step Sp21: Yes), the control unit 116 extends the third temperature maintenance period S6. Then, the series of processes shown in FIG. 8 is completed (step Sp22).

Further, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is not less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (step Sp21: No), the control unit 116 directly executes the series of processes shown in FIG. finish. In this case, the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 remains as the initial tm6 [sec].

As explained above, the control unit 116 controls the first acquisition target based on the detection result of the sensor unit 112 during the first acquisition target period A1 in which the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control manner defined by the heating profile. Information representing the suction mode in period A1 is acquired. Then, the control unit 116 changes the control mode of the heating unit 121 in the period after the first acquisition target period A1 from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first acquisition target period A1. do.

Specifically, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 sets the time length of the second temperature maintenance section S4 to Make it shorter than tm4 [sec] specified in the heating profile. As a result, if the consumption amount of the aerosol source or flavor component in the first acquisition period A1 is considered to be higher than expected when designing the heating profile, the second temperature maintenance period S4 is shortened and Compared to the case of control, the timing at which heating by the heating section 121 is stopped can be made earlier. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating section 121 is continued in vain even though the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is about to be exhausted.

Similarly, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or higher than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 changes the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the heating profile. shorter than tm6 [sec] defined in . As a result, if the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components in the second acquisition period A2 is considered to be higher than expected when designing the heating profile, the third temperature maintenance interval S6 is shortened and Compared to the case of control, the timing at which heating by the heating section 121 is stopped can be made earlier. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating section 121 is continued in vain even though the aerosol source or flavor component contained in the stick-type base material 150 is about to be exhausted.

Further, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 adjusts the time length of the second temperature maintenance section S4 according to the heating profile. Make it longer than the specified tm4 [sec]. As a result, if the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components during the first acquisition period A1 is considered to be lower than expected when designing the heating profile, the second temperature maintenance period S4 is extended and the heating profile is maintained according to the heating profile. Compared to the case of control, the period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosol is generated) can be made longer. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor components remain in the stick-type base material 150.

Similarly, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, the control unit 116 changes the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the heating profile. longer than tm6 [sec] defined in . As a result, if the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components in the second acquisition period A2 is considered to be lower than expected at the time of designing the heating profile, the third temperature maintenance interval S6 is extended and Compared to the case of control, the period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosol is generated) can be made longer. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor components remain in the stick-type base material 150.

In the example described above, the first acquisition period A1 and the second acquisition period A2 are provided as acquisition periods, and the control unit 116 controls the suction time, the suction amount, or the suction amount in the first acquisition period A1. The time length of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 can be changed based on the suction strength, and the time length of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 can be changed based on the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2. However, it is not limited to this.

For example, only the first acquisition target period A1 is provided as the acquisition target period, and the control unit 116 controls only the time length of the second temperature maintenance section S4 based on the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1. may be changed. Alternatively, only the first acquisition target period A1 is provided as the acquisition target period, and the control unit 116 controls only the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 based on the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1. may be changed. Alternatively, only the first acquisition target period A1 is provided as the acquisition target period, and the control unit 116 sets the second temperature maintenance interval S2 and the third temperature based on the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1. The time length of the maintenance section S6 may be changed. As another example, only the second acquisition target period A2 is provided as the acquisition target period, and the control unit 116 controls the third temperature maintenance period S6 based on the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the second acquisition target period A2. It may also be possible to change only the time length.

The control unit 116 required for the process of acquiring information representing the suction mode (suction time, suction amount, or suction strength) in the acquisition target period by making the acquisition target period as short as possible, such as only the first acquisition target period A1. This makes it possible to reduce the burden on people.

For example, as described above, by setting only the first acquisition target period A1 that is shorter than half of the period from when the control based on the heating profile is started until the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, the heating profile can be adjusted. It is only necessary for the control unit 116 to execute the process of acquiring information representing the suction mode in the acquisition target period only in the first half of the period in which the control based on the above is performed. Therefore, in the latter half of the period in which the control based on the heating profile is performed, the control unit 116 can be prevented from executing the process of acquiring information representing the suction mode in the acquisition target period, and the processing load on the control unit 116 is reduced. This can be reduced.

Further, for example, there may be three or more acquisition target periods, such as providing other acquisition target periods in addition to the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2. By setting the acquisition target periods in detail, it becomes possible to more precisely change the control mode of the heating unit 121 according to the suction mode in each acquisition target period.

Further, the control unit 116 controls the time length of the third temperature maintenance period S6, which is the time period immediately before the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, according to the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the second acquisition target period A2. change. As a result, until the third temperature maintenance period S6, which is the time period immediately before the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, the temperature is maintained regardless of the user's suction mode (i.e., during the acquisition target period such as the second acquisition target period A2, etc.). (Even if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength is greater than or equal to a predetermined value or less than a predetermined value), it is possible to generate an aerosol as planned by the heating profile.

Furthermore, in the example described above, the temperature maintenance sections, such as the second temperature maintenance section S4 and the third temperature maintenance section S6, in which the temperature of the heating section 121 is kept substantially constant, are changed over a period of time during which the time length is changed. It was defined as an interval. Instead of the temperature maintenance interval, a time interval in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 changes, such as a temperature increase interval or a temperature fall interval (for example, the second temperature increase interval S5), may be used as the time interval whose time length is changed. Conceivable. However, in this case, when the time period in which the temperature of the heating section 121 changes is shortened, the temperature of the heating section 121 may not reach the target temperature due to insufficient time, or the temperature of the heating section 121 may not reach the target temperature due to shortening of the time period in which the temperature of the heating section 121 changes. A situation may occur in which the temperature of the device 121 suddenly changes. It is undesirable for such a situation to occur from the viewpoint of providing a high quality smoking experience to the user.

On the other hand, when temperature maintenance sections such as the second temperature maintenance section S4 and the third temperature maintenance section S6 in which the temperature of the heating section 121 is kept substantially constant are set as the time sections whose time lengths are to be changed. Even if the time period is shortened, it is unlikely that the temperature of the heating section 121 will not reach the target temperature or that the temperature of the heating section 121 will change suddenly. Therefore, by setting the temperature maintenance interval as a time interval whose time length is subject to change, even if the time length of the time interval is changed, the quality of the user's smoking experience may deteriorate. It becomes possible to suppress the

Furthermore, in the example described above, the second temperature maintenance section S4, which is a low temperature section where the target temperature is relatively low, is set as the time section whose time length is to be changed. In a low temperature section such as the second temperature maintenance section S4, less power is supplied to the heating unit 121 per unit time than in a time section where the target temperature is relatively high. Therefore, by setting a low temperature section such as the second temperature maintenance section S4 as a time section whose time length is to be changed, the time section can be extended while suppressing an increase in the power consumed by the heating section 121. can. In addition, the time length of a low temperature section such as the second temperature maintenance section S4 is typically set to be long to a certain extent, and since there is sufficient room for changing the time length, it is also possible to change the time length. It's easy.

Further, in the example described above, the time length of the subsequent time period is changed based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 116 may change the target temperature for subsequent time periods based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1.

Hereinafter, an example in which the control unit 116 changes the target temperature for the subsequent time period based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1 will be specifically described. In the following description, only the parts that are different from the example described above will be mainly explained, and the description of parts similar to the example described above will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

FIG. 9 is a diagram (Part 2) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. FIG. 10 is a diagram (Part 2) showing an example of changing the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value. The vertical axis in FIGS. 9 and 10 represents the target temperature [° C.]. The vertical axis in FIGS. 9 and 10 represents time [sec]. Furthermore, in the examples shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, it is assumed that only the first acquisition target period A1 is provided as the acquisition target period.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116, for example, controls the third temperature maintenance period S6 (i.e. The target temperature for the sixth time interval S6) is changed from the initial T3 [°C] to T3a [°C], which is higher than T3 [°C] (that is, raised). Here, T3a can be, for example, T3 plus a constant value ΔTa (where ΔTa>0) (that is, T3a=T3+ΔTa). Note that the constant value ΔTa is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

The aerosol generated when the stick-type base material 150 is heated and the flavor component imparted to the aerosol depend on the heating temperature, the amount of the aerosol source and flavor component remaining in the stick-type base material 150 at the time of heating, Depends on. More specifically, the higher the heating temperature, the more the aerosol generated when the stick-type base material 150 is heated and the flavor components imparted to the aerosol, and the more the flavor components remaining in the stick-type base material 150 during heating. The higher the amount of aerosol source and flavor component being used, the higher the amount.

If the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the amount of the aerosol source and flavor component remaining in the stick-type base material 150 is determined by the heating profile design. This is thought to be less than originally expected. Therefore, in such a case, even if heated at the target temperature specified in the heating profile, the aerosol or the flavor components imparted to the aerosol may be insufficient, and a high-quality smoking experience may not be provided to the user. .

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 adjusts the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 using the heating profile. higher than the specified target temperature. Thereby, compared to the case where control is performed according to the heating profile, it is possible to increase the aerosol generated in the third temperature maintenance section S6 and the flavor components added to the aerosol. Therefore, even in the third temperature maintenance section S6, it is possible to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116, for example, (That is, the target temperature of the sixth time interval S6) is changed (that is, lowered) from the initial T3 [°C] to T3b [°C], which is lower than T3 [°C]. Here, T3b can be, for example, T3 minus a constant value ΔTb (where ΔTa>0) (ie, T3b=T3−ΔTb). Note that the constant value ΔTb is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

If the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the amount of the aerosol source and flavor component remaining in the stick-type base material 150 is determined by the heating profile design. It is thought that the number is higher than expected at the time. Therefore, in such a case, if the aerosol is heated at the target temperature specified by the heating profile, the aerosol or the flavor component added to the aerosol becomes excessive, and there is a risk that a high-quality smoking experience may not be provided to the user.

Therefore, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 adjusts the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 using the heating profile. lower than the specified target temperature. This makes it possible to reduce the aerosol generated in the third temperature maintenance section S6 and the flavor components added to the aerosol, compared to the case where control is performed according to the heating profile. Therefore, even in the third temperature maintenance section S6, it is possible to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

As described above, the control unit 116 may change the target temperature for subsequent time periods based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1.

Further, the control unit 116 may change both the time length and target temperature of the subsequent time period based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1.

As an example, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 changes the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the aforementioned tm6a. [sec], and the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 may be raised to the above-mentioned T3a [°C].

As another example, if the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 may adjust the time length of the third temperature maintenance section S6 as described above. may be extended to tm6b [sec], and the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 may be lowered to the above-mentioned T3b [°C].

In this way, even if the control unit 116 changes both the time length and target temperature of the subsequent time period based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1, the aerosol source It becomes possible to consume the stick-type base material 150 appropriately and provide a high-quality smoking experience to the user.

Additionally, the suction device 100 may have multiple heating profiles. For example, if there are two types of stick-type base materials 150: a "menthol type" in which menthol is included as a flavor component, and a "regular type" in which menthol is not included in the flavor component, the heating profile for the menthol type It is conceivable to provide a regular type heating profile.

In this case, the control unit 116 is configured to be able to determine, for example, the type of the stick-shaped base material 150 (that is, whether it is a menthol type or a regular type). As an example, the control unit 116 receives information indicating the type of the stick-type base material 150 from the user via the input device of the sensor unit 112, and determines the type of the stick-type base material 150 based on the received information. can do.

As another example, the sensor unit 112 may detect a predetermined physical quantity (for example, light transmittance, reflectance, or electrical resistance value) in the stick-shaped base material 150, which differs depending on the type. Then, the control unit 116 may determine the type of the stick-shaped base material 150 based on the physical quantity detected by the sensor unit 112.

Then, the control unit 116 selects and selects a heating profile to be used for controlling the heating unit 121 this time from among the plurality of heating profiles that the suction device 100 has, based on the determination result of the type of the stick-type base material 150. The heating section 121 is controlled based on the heating profile obtained. For example, if the control unit 116 determines that the type of stick-type base material 150 is a menthol type, it selects a heating profile for a menthol type, and if it determines that the stick type base material 150 is a regular type, it selects a heating profile for a regular type. .

In this way, the control unit 116 determines the type of the stick-shaped base material 150 and selects a heating profile based on the determination result, so that the stick-shaped base material 150 is heated with an appropriate heating profile according to the type of the base material 150. It becomes possible to control the section 121. Therefore, regardless of the type of stick-type base material 150, the flavor that the user enjoys can be optimized, and it is possible to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

Note that the heating profile described in this embodiment may be a heating profile selected by the control unit 116 based on the determination result of the type of the stick-shaped base material 150 in this way.

Furthermore, when there are multiple heating profiles, the acquisition target period may be different for each heating profile. Similarly, the time period in which the time length or the target temperature is changed may also be different for each heating profile. Furthermore, the amount of change in time length (eg, Δta to Δtd described above) or the amount of change in target temperature (eg, ΔTa, ΔTb described above) may also be different for each heating profile.

Further, the control unit 116 controls the time length or target temperature in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1 based on the time length or target temperature (i.e., control mode) defined by the heating profile. Change based on the suction mode.

As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 controls the second temperature maintenance period S4. Let the time length be tm4a [sec], which is obtained by subtracting the constant value Δta [sec] from tm4 [sec] defined by the heating profile. As another example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the suction time, suction amount, or suction strength in the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 controls the third temperature maintenance The target temperature of section S6 is set to T3a [°C], which is the sum of T3 [°C] defined by the heating profile and a constant value ΔTa [°C].

In this way, based on the time length or target temperature specified by the heating profile, the time length or target temperature can be changed based on the suction mode in the acquisition target period such as the first acquisition target period A1. , it becomes possible to appropriately consume the stick-shaped base material 150 and provide a high-quality smoking experience to the user while suppressing the configuration of the suction device 100 from becoming complicated.

In contrast, for example, a large number of heating profiles each corresponding to a different suction mode are prepared in advance in the suction device 100, and the control unit 116 appropriately selects a heating profile according to the user's suction mode. There are other possible methods. However, in this case, a large number of heating profiles are required, and it is also necessary to increase the capacity of the storage section 114 in order to store the large number of heating profiles. Therefore, in this case, the configuration of the suction device 100 may become complicated.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, even if suction is performed in a suction mode different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the stick-shaped base material 150 having an aerosol source can be properly moved. It is possible to provide a suction device 100 that can be consumed and provide a high quality smoking experience to the user.

Note that the method of controlling the suction device 100 described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer (processor). This program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed by being read from the storage medium. Further, this program may be provided in a form stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a flash memory, or may be provided via a network such as the Internet. Further, the computer that executes this program can be, for example, a computer included in the suction device 100 (for example, a CPU included in the suction device 100), but is not limited to this, and other devices that can communicate with the suction device 100 ( For example, it may be included in a smartphone or a server device).

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It is clear that those skilled in the art can come up with various changes or modifications within the scope of the claims, and these naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood. Further, each component in the embodiments described above may be arbitrarily combined without departing from the spirit of the invention.

This specification etc. describes at least the following matters. In parentheses, corresponding components in the embodiment described above are shown as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

(1) A heating unit (heating unit 121) that heats a base material having an aerosol source (stick type base material 150) to generate an aerosol;
A control unit (control unit 116) that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating unit,
A suction device (suction device 100) that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating section,
The control unit includes:
In response to a request for aerosol generation, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by the heating profile;
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
Suction device.

According to (1), the control mode of the heating section in the second period after the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode specified by the heating profile is changed to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Can be changed. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, in the subsequent second period, the suction actually performed in the first period is taken into account. The heating section can be controlled appropriately. Therefore, it is possible to consume the base material appropriately and provide a high quality smoking experience to the user.

(2) The suction device according to (1),
The heating profile is information that defines the target temperature and the time length of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis (first time interval S1 to sixth time interval S6),
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of any of the time sections included in the second period is changed depending on the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.

According to (2), the time length of any time period included in the second period after the first period can be changed depending on the suction mode in the first period. Thereby, depending on the suction mode in the first period, the timing at which heating by the heating section is stopped can be made earlier, or the period during which heating by the heating section is continued can be lengthened. Therefore, heating by the heating section may be stopped even though a sufficient aerosol source remains in the substrate, or heating by the heating section may be continued in vain even though the aerosol source contained in the substrate is about to be exhausted. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where the

(3) The suction device according to (2),
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is the time length of the time section (sixth time section S6) immediately before heating by the heating section is stopped, of the time sections included in the second period. is changed according to the suction mode in the first period,
Suction device.

According to (3), the time period for which the time length is changed is the time period immediately before the heating by the heating section is stopped, so it becomes the time period immediately before the heating by the heating section is stopped. Until now, it is possible to generate an aerosol as planned by the heating profile, regardless of the user's suction mode.

(4) The suction device according to (2),
The plurality of time intervals include a first temperature increase interval (first time interval S1) provided first, and a first temperature increase interval provided after the first temperature increase interval, and the target temperature is lower than the first temperature increase interval. a temperature decreasing period (third time period S3); a second temperature increasing period (fifth time period S5) provided after the temperature decreasing period and in which the target temperature is higher than the temperature decreasing period; including a low temperature section (fourth time section S4) lower than the temperature increase section,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of the low temperature section among the time sections included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.

According to (4), since the time period for which the time length is changed is a low-temperature period where the target temperature is relatively low, the time period can be changed while suppressing an increase in the power consumed by the heating section. Can be extended.

(5) The suction device according to (2),
The plurality of time intervals include a temperature maintenance interval (fourth time interval S4, sixth time interval S6) controlled by the control unit to maintain the temperature of the heating unit at a constant temperature,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of the temperature maintenance section among the time sections included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. ,
Suction device.

According to (5), since the time period for which the time length is changed is a temperature maintenance period in which the temperature of the heating section is kept approximately constant, even if the time length of the time period is changed, It becomes possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation in which the quality of the user's smoking experience may deteriorate.

(6) The suction device according to (1),
The heating profile is information that defines the target temperature and the time length of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis (first time interval S1 to sixth time interval S6),
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the target temperature in any time period included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.

According to (6), the target temperature for any time period included in the second period after the first period can be changed according to the suction mode in the first period. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, it is possible to generate an appropriate amount of aerosol in the second period, resulting in high-quality aerosol. It becomes possible to provide the user with a smoking experience.

(7) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (6),
The first period is a predetermined period of time (a first predetermined time Tm1, a second predetermined time Tm1, a second predetermined time It is a period until Tm2) has elapsed or until a predetermined number of suctions are performed,
Suction device.

According to (7), it is possible to secure a somewhat long period as the first period.

(8) The suction device according to (7),
The first period is a period from when control of the heating unit is started in a control manner defined by the heating profile or when a suction possible period is started until the predetermined time period has elapsed,
The predetermined time is a period from when control of the heating section is started in a control mode defined by the heating profile or when a suction possible period is started until heating by the heating section is stopped (tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm4 + tm5 + tm6). shorter than half of
Suction device.

According to (8), in the second half of the period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile, the control section can be prevented from performing the process of acquiring the suction mode in the first period. , it is possible to reduce the processing load on the control unit.

(9) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (8),
The heating profile is one heating profile selected from a plurality of heating profiles prepared in advance,
The control unit is configured to be able to determine the type of the base material,
The first heating profile is a heating profile selected by the control unit based on the determination result of the type of the base material.
Suction device.

According to (9), it is possible to control the heating section with an appropriate heating profile depending on the type of base material.

(10) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (9),
The suction mode in the first period is any one of the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period, or a combination of two or more of these.
Suction device.

According to (10), it is possible to change the control mode of the heating unit in the second period according to the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period.

(11) The suction device according to (10),
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction amount in the first period,
The amount of suction in the first period is the maximum value of the flow rate (Fw20) generated by one suction in the first period, the integrated value of the flow rate generated by multiple suctions in the first period (Fw10+Fw20), or is either the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time (Fw21) in the first period,
Suction device.

According to (11), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period is the maximum value of the flow rate generated by one suction in the first period, the integrated value of the flow rate generated by multiple suctions in the first period, Alternatively, it is possible to change it according to the maximum value of the flow rate per unit time in the first period.

(12) The suction device according to (10),
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction time in the first period,
The suction time in the first period is the length (tm11+tm21) of the period during which the flow rate generated by suction is equal to or higher than a threshold value (threshold ThX) in the first period, and the maximum suction time for one suction in the first period. value (tm20), or an integrated value (tm10+tm20) of the suction time due to multiple suctions in the first period,
Suction device.

According to (12), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period is determined by the length of the period in which the flow rate generated by suction in the first period is equal to or higher than the threshold value, and the maximum suction time for one suction in the first period. It is possible to change the value according to the value or the integrated value of the suction time due to multiple suctions in the first period.

(13) The suction device according to (10),
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction intensity in the first period,
The suction strength in the first period is the maximum value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period, or the integrated value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period.
Suction device.

According to (13), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period is determined according to the maximum value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period, or the integrated value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period. It becomes possible to change it.

(14) Suction that includes a heating unit (heating unit 121) that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source (stick type base material 150), and allows a user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. A computer (control unit 116) that controls the device (suction device 100)
In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating section is started in a control mode defined by a heating profile that defines a time-series transition of a target temperature, which is a target value of the temperature of the heating section (step Sp11),
acquiring information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile (step Sp12);
The control mode of the heating unit in the second period after the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period (Steps Sp14 to Sp17, Step Sp19 to Sp22),
A control method for performing processing.

According to (14), the control mode of the heating section in the second period after the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is changed to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Can be changed. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the subsequent second period takes into account the suction actually performed in the first period. The heating section can be controlled appropriately. Therefore, it is possible to consume the base material appropriately and provide a high quality smoking experience to the user.

(15) Suction that includes a heating unit (heating unit 121) that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source (stick type base material 150), and allows a user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. In the computer (control unit 116) that controls the device (suction device 100),
In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating section is started in a control mode defined by a heating profile that defines a time-series transition of a target temperature, which is a target value of the temperature of the heating section (step Sp11),
acquiring information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile (step Sp12);
The control mode of the heating unit in the second period after the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period (Steps Sp14 to Sp17, Step Sp19 to Sp22),
A program that executes processing.

According to (15), the control mode of the heating section in the second period after the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is changed to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Can be changed. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, in the subsequent second period, the suction actually performed in the first period is taken into account. The heating section can be controlled appropriately. Therefore, it is possible to consume the base material appropriately and provide a high quality smoking experience to the user.

100 Suction device 112 Sensor section (detection section)
116 Control part 121 Heating part 150 Stick type base material (base material)
S1 1st time interval (time interval, 1st temperature increase interval)
S2 Second time interval (time interval)
S3 3rd time interval (time interval, temperature drop interval)
S4 4th time interval (time interval, low temperature interval, temperature maintenance interval)
S5 5th time interval (time interval, 2nd temperature increase interval)
S6 6th time interval (time interval, temperature maintenance interval)

Claims

a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source;
a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating unit,
A suction device that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating section,
The control unit includes:
In response to a request for aerosol generation, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by the heating profile;
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 1,
The heating profile is information that defines the target temperature and the time length of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of any of the time sections included in the second period is changed depending on the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 2,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of the time section immediately before the heating by the heating section is stopped, of the time section included in the second period, is controlled by the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. It has been changed depending on the suction mode.
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 2,
The plurality of time intervals include a first temperature increase interval provided first, a temperature decrease interval provided after the first temperature increase interval and in which the target temperature is lower than the first temperature increase interval, and the temperature decrease interval. a second temperature increase section provided after the temperature increase section and in which the target temperature is higher than the temperature decrease section; and a low temperature section in which the target temperature is lower than the second temperature increase section;
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of the low temperature section among the time sections included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 2,
The plurality of time intervals include a temperature maintenance interval controlled by the control unit to maintain the temperature of the heating unit at a constant temperature,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the time length of the temperature maintenance section among the time sections included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. ,
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 1,
The heating profile is information that defines the target temperature and the time length of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis,
The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the target temperature in any time period included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period.
Suction device.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The first period is a period from when control of the heating section is started in a control mode defined by the heating profile or when a suction possible period is started until a predetermined time period has elapsed or suction is performed a predetermined number of times. This is the period until the
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 7,
The first period is a period from when control of the heating unit is started in a control manner defined by the heating profile or when a suction possible period is started until the predetermined time period has elapsed,
The predetermined period of time is longer than half of the period from the time when control of the heating section is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile or when the suction possible period is started until the heating by the heating section is stopped. Also short,
Suction device.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The heating profile is one heating profile selected from a plurality of heating profiles prepared in advance,
The control unit is configured to be able to determine the type of the base material,
The first heating profile is a heating profile selected by the control unit based on the determination result of the type of the base material.
Suction device.
The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The suction mode in the first period is any one of the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period, or a combination of two or more of these.
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 10,
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction amount in the first period,
The amount of suction in the first period is the maximum value of the flow rate generated by one suction in the first period, the integrated value of the flow rate generated by multiple suctions in the first period, or the unit in the first period. Either the maximum value of flow rate per hour,
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 10,
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction time in the first period,
The suction time in the first period is the length of the period during which the flow rate generated by suction is equal to or higher than a threshold value in the first period, the maximum value of the suction time for one suction in the first period, or the first period. is the cumulative value of suction time from multiple suctions in
Suction device.
The suction device according to claim 10,
The suction mode in the first period includes at least the suction intensity in the first period,
The suction strength in the first period is the maximum value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period, or the integrated value of the suction strength for each unit time in the first period.
Suction device.
A computer that controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source, and that allows a user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit,
In response to a request for generation of aerosol, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating section,
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
A control method for performing processing.
A computer that controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a base material having an aerosol source, and that allows a user to suction the aerosol generated by the heating unit;
In response to a request for generation of aerosol, start controlling the heating section in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature that is a target value of the temperature of the heating section,
obtaining information representing a suction mode in a first period in which the heating section is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile;
changing a control mode of the heating unit in a second period after the first period from a control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period;
A program that executes processing.