Electronic device, method for operating the electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

Energy saving is achieved in an electronic device such as an aerosol generating device having a voltage conversion circuit. The electronic device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a control unit 402; a heating unit 40 that heats an aerosol generating substrate 110 by supplying power from a power source 21; a voltage conversion circuit 404 that is provided between the power source 21 and the heating unit 40 and converts the voltage of the power source 21; and a bypass circuit 408 that includes a first switch element 406 that is provided in parallel with the voltage conversion circuit 404, and when the first switch element 406 is in an on state, the power of the power source 21 is supplied to the heating unit 40 via the first switch element 406 instead of via the voltage conversion circuit 404. When the first condition indicating that the temperature of the heating unit 40 has reached a predetermined temperature is satisfied, the control unit 402 switches the first switch element 406 to an on state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, a method for operating the electronic device, and a program. More specifically, the present invention relates to an electronic device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate, a method for operating the electronic device, and a program for causing a processor to execute the method. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses the following technology: In a DC-DC converter, even in the case of a CPU erroneous output, it is possible to prevent the degradation and burning of components of a bypass circuit from happening before they occur. The DC-DC converter comprises: a boost circuit for boosting the voltage of a DC power supply; a bypass circuit arranged in parallel with the boost circuit; a drive circuit for turning on / off a FET serving as a switching element of the bypass circuit; and a CPU for outputting a control signal for controlling the boost circuit and the drive circuit.

[0003] However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose any problems that may occur when a DC-DC converter is applied to an aerosol generating device or the like, or any technology that can solve such problems.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-95948 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a technology for achieving energy saving in an electronic device such as an aerosol generating device having a voltage conversion circuit.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an electronic device is provided, characterized in that it comprises: a control unit; a heating unit, which heats an aerosol generating substrate by supplying power from a power source; a voltage conversion circuit, which is arranged between the above-mentioned power source and the above-mentioned heating unit, and converts the voltage of the above-mentioned power source, and the converted voltage is used to supply power to the above-mentioned heating unit; and a bypass circuit, including a first switching element arranged in parallel with the above-mentioned voltage conversion circuit, when the above-mentioned first switching element is in an on state, the power of the above-mentioned power source is supplied to the above-mentioned heating unit via the above-mentioned first switching element instead of via the above-mentioned voltage conversion circuit, and when a first condition indicating that the temperature of the above-mentioned heating unit has reached a specified temperature is satisfied, the above-mentioned control unit is configured to switch the above-mentioned first switching element to an on state.

[0011] In one embodiment, the electronic device further includes a temperature detection unit that detects a temperature of the heating unit, and the predetermined temperature is a maximum temperature in a heating curve that is predetermined for the heating unit.

[0012] In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to pulse width modulate the voltage applied to the heating unit so that the temperature of the heating unit changes along a heating curve specified for the heating unit, and the first condition is that the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation becomes below a first threshold.

[0013] In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to switch the first switching element to an on state when a second condition indicating that the temperature of the heating unit is equal to or lower than a second threshold value is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied.

[0014] In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to switch the first switching element to an on state after the first condition is satisfied, and to perform control so that the predetermined temperature is maintained for a predetermined time.

[0015] In one embodiment, the electronic device further includes a second switching element for switching on / off the power supply from the power supply to the voltage conversion circuit, and the control unit is further configured to switch the second switching element to an off state when the first switching element is switched to an on state.

[0016] In one embodiment, the second switching element is included in the voltage conversion circuit.

[0017] In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to send an off command to the voltage conversion circuit when the first switching element is switched to an on state.

[0018] In one embodiment, the second threshold is a value between 200 degrees and 240 degrees.

[0019] In one embodiment, the control unit is further configured to measure the number of puffs based on a change in temperature of the heating unit.

[0020] In one embodiment, the heating unit has a shape that heats the aerosol-generating substrate from its surroundings.

[0021] In one embodiment, the electronic device further includes a recessed portion capable of housing the aerosol generating substrate.

[0022] In one embodiment, the voltage conversion circuit is a step-up DC / DC converter.

[0023] In one embodiment, the electronic device further includes the power supply.

[0024] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to switch the first switching element to an off state when the voltage of the power supply is below a first threshold voltage and above a second threshold voltage, wherein the second threshold voltage is a voltage indicating that only a first specified number of the aerosol generating substrates required for the aerosol generating substrates remain in the power supply and have not been used, and the first threshold voltage is greater than the second threshold voltage by a specified value.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first threshold voltage is lower than a voltage indicating that a capacity required for a second predetermined number of the aerosol generating substrates to be fully used and unused remains in the power supply, and the second predetermined number is larger than the first predetermined number.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating an electronic device is provided, which is characterized in that it includes: a step of heating an aerosol generating substrate by supplying power from a power supply to a heating part, the voltage of the power supply being converted by a voltage conversion circuit provided between the power supply and the heating part and being used for the power supply; and when a first switch element provided in parallel with the voltage conversion circuit is in an on state, the power of the power supply is supplied to the heating part via the first switch element instead of the voltage conversion circuit, and when a first condition indicating that the temperature of the heating part has reached a specified temperature is satisfied, the first switch element is switched to an on state.

[0027] In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is a maximum temperature in a heating curve predetermined for the heating unit.

[0028] In one embodiment, when the voltage of the above-mentioned power supply is below a first threshold voltage and above a second threshold voltage, the above-mentioned first switching element is switched to an off state, and the above-mentioned second threshold voltage is a voltage indicating that there is only a capacity required for a first specified number of aerosol generating substrates that have been used but not used remaining in the above-mentioned power supply, and the above-mentioned first threshold voltage is greater than the above-mentioned second threshold voltage by a specified value.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first threshold voltage is lower than a voltage indicating that a capacity required for a second predetermined number of the aerosol generating substrates to be fully used and unused remains in the power supply, and the second predetermined number is larger than the first predetermined number.

[0030] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a program which, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to execute the method.

[0031] Effects of the Invention

[0032] According to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology for achieving energy saving in an electronic device such as an aerosol generating device including a voltage conversion circuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1A It is an overall perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 1B This is an overall perspective view of an electronic device in a state where an aerosol generating substrate is retained according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of a smoking article.

[0036] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1A A cross-sectional view along arrow 3-3 is shown.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 5 The following is an example of a heating curve that is predetermined for the heating unit of the electronic device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 6A This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 6B This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 7A This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 7B This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 8A This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 8B This is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1AIt is an overall perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B 1 is an overall perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which an aerosol generating substrate is maintained. In this embodiment, the electronic device 10 is configured to generate an aerosol containing a fragrance by heating an aerosol generating substrate such as a smoking article, which has an aerosol source and a filler containing a fragrance source. Figures 1A to 3 In a related embodiment, the smoking article 110 is used as an aerosol-generating substrate.

[0047] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the smoking article 110 is only one example of an aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol source contained in the aerosol generating substrate may be solid or liquid. The aerosol source may be a liquid such as a polyol such as glycerin or propylene glycol or water. The aerosol source may contain tobacco raw materials or extracts derived from tobacco raw materials that release tobacco flavor components by heating. In the case where the electronic device 10 is a medical inhaler such as an atomizer, the aerosol source may contain a medicament for inhalation by a patient. Depending on the application, the aerosol generating substrate may not contain a flavor source.

[0048] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the electronic device 10 includes a top housing 11A, a bottom housing 11B, a cover 12, a switch 13, and a lid 14. The top housing 11A and the bottom housing 11B are connected to each other to form the outermost housing 11 of the electronic device 10. The housing 11 may also be sized to be accommodated by the user's hand. In this case, when the user uses the electronic device 10, the user can hold the electronic device 10 with his hand and inhale the aerosol.

[0049] The top case 11A has an opening (not shown), and the cover 12 is combined with the top case 11A in a manner of closing the opening. Figure 1B As shown, the cover 12 has an opening 12a into which the smoking article 110 can be inserted. The cover 14 is configured to open and close the opening 12a of the cover 12. Specifically, the cover 14 is mounted to the cover 12 and is configured to be movable along the surface of the cover 12 between a first position closing the opening 12a and a second position opening the opening 12a.

[0050] The switch 13 is used to switch the operation of the electronic device 10 on and off. Figure 1BAs shown, the user can supply power to the heating portion (not shown) from a battery (not shown) and heat the smoking article 110 without burning it by operating the switch 13 while inserting the smoking article 110 into the opening 12a. If the smoking article 110 is heated, an aerosol is generated from the aerosol source contained in the smoking article 110, and the fragrance of the fragrance source is introduced into the aerosol. The user can inhale the portion of the smoking article 110 protruding from the electronic device 10 ( Figure 1B In addition, in this specification, the direction in which the aerosol generating substrate such as the smoking article 110 is inserted into the opening 12a is referred to as the length direction of the electronic device 10.

[0051] like Figure 1A as well as Figure 1B The structure of the electronic device 10 shown is only an example of the structure of the electronic device according to the present invention. The electronic device according to the present invention can be configured in various ways, such as being able to generate aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate including an aerosol source and allowing the user to inhale the generated aerosol source.

[0052] Next, the configuration of the smoking article 110 will be described as an example of an aerosol generating substrate used in the electronic device 10 according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of smoking article 110. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the smoking article 110 has a base portion 110A and a mouthpiece 110B, the base portion 110A includes a filler 111 (equivalent to an example of a flavor generating base) and a first paper roll 112 wound around the filler 111, and the mouthpiece 110B forms an end portion opposite to the base portion 110A. The base portion 110A and the mouthpiece 110B are connected by a second paper roll 113 different from the first paper roll 112. However, the second paper roll 113 may be omitted, and the base portion 110A and the mouthpiece 110B may be connected by using the first paper roll 112.

[0053] Figure 2The mouthpiece 110B in the smoking article 110 has a paper tube portion 114, a filter portion 115, and a hollow segment portion 116 disposed between the paper tube portion 114 and the filter portion 115. The hollow segment portion 116 includes, for example, a filling layer having one or more hollow channels, and a filling envelope (plug wrapper) covering the filling layer. Since the filling density of the fibers in the filling layer is high, air and aerosol flow only in the hollow channels and hardly flow in the filling layer during inhalation. In the smoking article 110, when it is desired to reduce the reduction in the amount of aerosol transported caused by the filtration of aerosol components by the filter portion 115, shortening the length of the filter portion 115 and replacing it with the hollow segment portion 116 is effective in increasing the amount of aerosol transported.

[0054] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the mouthpiece 110B is composed of three segments. However, in other embodiments, the mouthpiece 110B may be composed of one or two segments, or may be composed of four or more segments. For example, the hollow segment 116 may be omitted, and the paper tube 114 and the filter 115 may be arranged adjacent to each other to form the mouthpiece 110B.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the smoking article 110 in the longitudinal direction is preferably 40 mm to 90 mm, more preferably 50 mm to 75 mm, and further preferably 50 mm to 60 mm. The circumference of the smoking article 110 is preferably 15 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 17 mm to 24 mm or less, and further preferably 20 mm to 22 mm. In addition, the length of the substrate portion 110A in the smoking article 110 may be 20 mm, the length of the first roll paper 112 may be 20 mm, the length of the hollow segment portion 116 may be 8 mm, and the length of the filter portion 115 may be 7 mm. The lengths of these individual segments can be appropriately changed according to manufacturing suitability, required quality, etc.

[0056] In the present embodiment, the filler 111 of the smoking article 110 can contain an aerosol source that is heated at a specified temperature to generate an aerosol. The type of aerosol source is not particularly limited, and extracts and / or their constituent components from various natural products can be selected according to the application. Examples of aerosol sources include glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. The amount of aerosol source contained in the filler 111 is not particularly limited, but from the perspective of generating sufficient aerosol while imparting a good cigarette flavor, it is generally 5% by weight or more, preferably 10% by weight or more, and generally 50% by weight or less, preferably 20% by weight or less.

[0057] The filler 111 of the smoking article 110 in the present embodiment may contain shredded tobacco as a flavor source. The material of the shredded tobacco is not particularly limited, and known materials such as tobacco sheets and shredded tobacco may be used. The content of the filler 111 in the smoking article 110 ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg, for example, and preferably from 250 mg to 320 mg, when the circumference is 22 mm and the length is 20 mm. The moisture content of the filler 111 is, for example, 8 to 18% by weight, and preferably from 10 to 16% by weight. If the moisture content is such, the generation of rolling stains is suppressed, and the suitability for rolling during the manufacture of the substrate portion 110A is good. There is no particular limitation on the size of the shredded tobacco used as the filler 111 and its preparation method. For example, shredded tobacco formed by cutting dried tobacco leaves into a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm may be used. In addition, dried tobacco leaves may be crushed and homogenized into tobacco leaves with an average particle size of about 20 μm to 200 μm and processed into sheets, and then cut into tobacco shreds with a width of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. In addition, tobacco leaves formed by athering process without cutting the tobacco leaves processed into sheets may be used as filler 111. In addition, filler 111 may contain one or more spices. Although the type of the spice is not particularly limited, menthol is preferably used from the viewpoint of imparting a good tobacco flavor.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first and second paper rolls 112, 113 of the smoking article 110 can be made of base paper having a grammage of, for example, 20 gsm to 65 gsm, preferably 25 gsm to 45 gsm. The thickness of the first and second paper rolls 112, 113 is not particularly limited, but from the perspective of rigidity, air permeability, and ease of adjustment during papermaking, it is 10 μm to 100 μm, preferably 20 μm to 75 μm, and more preferably 30 μm to 50 μm.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the first roll paper 112 and the second roll paper 113 of the smoking article 110 may contain fillers. The content of the filler relative to the total weight of the first roll paper 112 and the second roll paper 113 can be 10% by weight or more and less than 60% by weight, preferably 15% by weight to 45% by weight. In the present embodiment, relative to the preferred gram weight range (25gsm to 45gsm), the preferred filler is 15% by weight to 45% by weight. As fillers, for example, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, kaolin, etc. can be used. From the perspective of the appearance of the roll paper used as the smoking article 110, the paper containing such fillers presents a bright color of a preferred white system and can be permanently kept white. By containing a large amount of such fillers, for example, the ISO whiteness of the roll paper can be made to be 83% or more. In addition, from the practical point of view of the roll paper used as the smoking article 110, it is preferred that the first roll paper 112 and the second roll paper 113 have a tensile strength of more than 8N / 15mm. The tensile strength can be improved by reducing the content of the filler. Specifically, the content of the filler can be increased by reducing the upper limit of the content of the filler shown in the range of each basis weight exemplified above.

[0060] Next, Figure 1A and Figure 1B The internal structure of the electronic device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is described. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view of arrow 3-3 shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device 10 has a power supply unit 20, a circuit unit 30, and a heating unit 40 in the internal space of the housing 11. The circuit unit 30 may have a first circuit substrate 31 and a second circuit substrate 32 electrically connected to the first circuit substrate 31. The first circuit substrate 31 may be configured to extend in the length direction as shown in the figure. Thus, the power supply unit 20 and the heating unit 40 are divided by the first circuit substrate 31. As a result, the heat generated in the heating unit 40 is suppressed from being transferred to the power supply unit 20.

[0061] The second circuit substrate 32 may be disposed between the top case 11A and the power supply unit 20, and may extend in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the first circuit substrate 31. The switch 13 may be disposed adjacent to the second circuit substrate 32. When the user presses the switch 13, a portion of the switch 13 may contact the second circuit substrate 32.

[0062] The first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32 include, for example, a microprocessor and can control the power supply from the power supply unit 20 to the heating unit 40. Thus, the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32 can control the heating of the smoking article 110 by the heating unit 40.

[0063] The power supply unit 20 has a power supply 21 electrically connected to the first circuit substrate 31 and the second circuit substrate 32. The power supply 21 may be, for example, a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. The power supply 21 is electrically connected to the heating unit 40 via at least one of the first circuit substrate 31 and the second circuit substrate 32. Thus, the power supply 21 can supply power to the heating unit 40 in a manner that appropriately heats the smoking article 110. In addition, as shown in the figure, the power supply 21 can be arranged adjacent to the direction perpendicular to the length direction of the heating unit 40. Thus, even if the size of the power supply 21 is increased, the length of the electronic device 10 in the length direction can be suppressed from becoming longer.

[0064] In addition, the electronic device 10 may have a terminal 22 that can be connected to an external power source. The terminal 22 may be connected to a cable such as a micro USB. In the case where the power source 21 is a rechargeable battery, by connecting the external power source to the terminal 22, current can flow from the external power source to the power source 21 to charge the power source 21. In addition, by connecting a data transmission cable such as a micro USB to the terminal 22, data related to the operation of the electronic device 10 can be sent to an external device.

[0065] As shown in the figure, the heating unit 40 has a heating assembly 41 extending in the longitudinal direction. The heating assembly 41 is composed of a plurality of cylindrical components and is a cylindrical body as a whole. The heating assembly 41 is configured to be able to accommodate a part of the smoking article 110 therein, and has the function of dividing the air flow path supplied to the smoking article 110 and the function of heating the smoking article 110 from the periphery.

[0066] The bottom housing 11B is provided with a vent 15 for allowing air to flow into the interior of the heating assembly 41. Specifically, the vent 15 is connected to one end ( Figure 2 The electronic device 10 is connected to the housing 11 by a fluid (the left end in the middle). In addition, the electronic device 10 has a cap 16 that can be freely attached to and detached from the vent 15. The cap 16 is configured so that air can flow from the vent 15 to the interior of the heating component 41 even when it is attached to the vent 15. For example, the cap 16 may have a through hole or a cutout that is not shown. By attaching the cap 16 to the vent 15, it is possible to prevent substances generated from the smoking article 11 inserted into the heating component 41 from falling from the vent 15 to the outside of the housing 11. In addition, by removing the cap 16, it is also possible to clean the interior of the heating component 41 or the interior of the cap 16.

[0067] The other end of the heating element 41 ( Figure 2 The right end of Figure 1B The opening 12a shown is fluidly connected. A generally cylindrical outer fin 17 is provided between the cover 14 having the opening 12a and the other end of the heating assembly 41. Figure 1BAs shown, if the smoking article 110 is inserted into the electronic device 10 from the opening 12a of the cover 14, a part of the smoking article 110 is arranged inside the heating unit 41 through the outer fins 17. Therefore, it is preferable that the outer fins 17 are formed in such a way that the opening on the cover 14 side is larger than the opening on the other end side of the heating unit 41. Thus, the smoking article 110 can be easily inserted into the outer fins 17 from the opening 12a.

[0068] like Figure 1B As shown, when the smoking article 110 is inserted into the electronic device 10 from the opening 12a, if the user uses the portion of the smoking article 110 protruding from the electronic device 10, that is, Figure 2 When the user inhales the filter portion 115 shown in the figure, air flows from the vent 15 into the interior of the heating assembly 41. The inflowing air passes through the interior of the heating assembly 41 and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the smoking article 110. Therefore, the side close to the vent 15 of the heating assembly 41 is the upstream side, and the side close to the opening 12a of the heating assembly 41 (the side close to the outer fin 17) is the downstream side.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a block diagram schematically showing the structure of an electronic device involved in one embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 10 in this example includes a control unit 402, a heating unit 40 including elements such as a heating component 41, a voltage conversion circuit 404, and a bypass circuit 408 including a first switching element 406 arranged in parallel with the voltage conversion circuit 404. The electronic device 10 may also further include a power supply 21. Alternatively, the electronic device 10 may also be configured to not include the power supply 21, but to be connected to other devices including the power supply 21. The electronic device 10 may also further include other structural elements such as a temperature detection unit 410, a pulse width modulation unit 412, a second switching element 416, a storage unit 418, and a notification unit 420. The second switching element 416 may also be omitted. As Figure 4 As shown by the dotted arrows, the control unit 402 is configured to control the power supply 21, the first switching element 406, the second switching element 416, the voltage conversion circuit 404, the pulse width modulation unit 412, the notification unit 420, etc. In addition, the control unit 402 is configured to control the temperature detection unit 410, the storage unit 418, etc., or to exchange information between these components.

[0070] In addition, the electronic device 10 may include a recess 414 that can accommodate an aerosol generating substrate 110 such as a smoking article. The heating unit 40 may also have a shape that heats the aerosol generating substrate 110 from the surrounding. The heating unit 40 heats the portion of the aerosol generating substrate 110 accommodated in the recess 414 by supplying power from the power source 21.

[0071] The voltage conversion circuit 404 is provided between the power source 21 and the heating unit 40, and is configured to convert the voltage of the power source 21. The converted voltage is used to supply power to the heating unit 40. The voltage conversion circuit 404 may be a step-up DC / DC converter.

[0072] The temperature detection unit 410 is configured to detect the temperature of the heating unit 40 (or the load included in the heating unit 40). For example, the temperature detection unit 410 may also be configured to detect a value required to find the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40 (the current value flowing through the load of the heating unit 40, the voltage value applied to the load of the heating unit 40, etc.). In the case where the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40 has temperature dependence, the temperature of the heating unit 40 can be estimated based on the detected resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40. In other examples, the temperature detection unit 410 may also include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heating unit 40.

[0073] The pulse width modulation unit 412 pulse width modulates the output voltage of the voltage conversion circuit 404 and applies the pulse width modulated voltage to the heating unit 40. The control unit 402 may control the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation in the pulse width modulation unit 412 so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 obtained from the temperature detection unit 410 becomes a desired temperature.

[0074] The control unit 402 is configured to turn on / off the first switching element 406 . When the first switching element 406 is on, the power of the power source 21 is supplied to the heating unit 40 via the bypass circuit 408 and the first switching element 406 , not via the voltage conversion circuit 404 .

[0075] The control unit 402 may be configured to send an off instruction to the voltage conversion circuit 404 when switching the first switching element 406 to the on state.

[0076] It may also be configured that, when the electronic device 10 includes the second switch element 416, the control unit 402 switches the power supply from the power source 21 to the voltage conversion circuit 404 on / off by turning the second switch element 416 on / off. In one example, the control unit 402 may also be configured to switch the second switch element 416 to an off state when the first switch element 406 is switched to an on state.

[0077] The second switch element 416 may also be included in the voltage conversion circuit 404 instead of being provided separately from the voltage conversion circuit 404 .

[0078] The control unit 402 may be configured to count the number of puffs by the user based on the change in the temperature of the heating unit 40 detected by the temperature detection unit 410. For example, the control unit 402 may determine that one puff has been taken when the temperature of the heating unit 40 drops to or above a predetermined value within a predetermined time. The counted number of puffs may also be stored in the storage unit 418.

[0079] The notification unit 420 operates in a manner of notifying the user. In one example, the notification unit 420 may include one or more LEDs (light emitting diodes) and may be configured to emit light in one or more colors. The notification unit 420 may also include a speaker and may be configured to make a sound notification. The notification unit 420 may also include a display, and the notification may be made using a display on the display.

[0080] The storage unit 418 can store various data related to the operation of the electronic device 10. For example, the storage unit 418 may store data of a heating curve predetermined for the heating unit 40.

[0081] In one example, the control unit 402, the voltage conversion circuit 404, the first switch element 406, the bypass circuit 408, the temperature detection unit 410, the pulse width modulation unit 412, the second switch element 416 and the storage unit 418 may also be included in the following embodiments: Figure 3 Any one of the first circuit substrate 31 and the second circuit substrate 32 shown.

[0082] The operation of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail later.

[0083] Figure 5 500 is an example of a heating curve predefined for the heating unit 40 of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The horizontal axis and the vertical axis of the heating curve 500 respectively represent the elapsed time after the start of heating and the temperature of the heating unit 40. The heating curve 500 can also be defined as a heating process of the aerosol generating substrate 110 requested for performing ideal aerosol generation in the electronic device 10. As an example, when the aerosol generating substrate 110 is a smoking article, the heating curve 500 is defined so as to provide the user with an aerosol generation process that allows the user to enjoy the flavor of the smoking article the most.

[0084] In another example, the heating curve 500 may be defined such that the vertical axis represents the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40 .

[0085] The heating curve 500 may also be stored in the storage unit 418. The control unit 402 may also read the heating curve 500 from the storage unit 418, and control the structural elements of the electronic device 10 in such a manner that the temperature of the heating unit 40 changes along the heating curve. For example, the control unit 402 may also adjust the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation based on the pulse width modulation unit 412 so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 detected by the temperature detection unit 410 becomes a specified temperature determined in the heating curve. In the case of the heating curve 500 of the above-mentioned other example in which the vertical axis represents the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40, the control unit 402 may also control the pulse width modulation unit 412 so that the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40 becomes the specified resistance value determined in the heating curve.

[0086] exist Figure 5 In the example of FIG. 5 , when the temperature of the heating unit 40 suitable for ideal aerosol generation is 200° C., the heating curve 500 is defined so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is increased from room temperature to a predetermined temperature (in this example, 230° C.) higher than 200° C. from the start of heating to the heating time a. The heating time a may be the time until the resistance value of the load of the heating unit 40 reaches a predetermined value.

[0087] Next, the heating curve 500 is defined so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at 230° C. during the first prescribed time (in this example, 23 seconds). The total time of the heating time a and the first prescribed time may be up to 50 seconds. The total time may also be defined as the preheating time of the aerosol generating substrate 110. The total time may also be the time required to fully heat the entire inner portion including the aerosol generating substrate 110. The control unit 402 may also use the notification unit 420 to notify the user so that the user does not inhale during the preheating time. For example, when the notification unit 420 includes an LED, the control unit 402 may also control the notification unit 420 in a manner that emits light in a first prescribed color (e.g., red). In addition, the control unit 402 may also control the notification unit 420 in the following manner: after the preheating time, the user is notified of the subject of the completion of heating. For example, the control unit 402 may also control the notification unit 420 in a manner that emits light in a second prescribed color (e.g., yellow).

[0088] Next, the heating curve 500 may also be specified so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at 230° C. during the second specified time (in this example, 10 seconds). Even if the aerosol generating substrate 110 is not sufficiently heated after the preheating time has passed for some reason, the aerosol generating substrate 110 can be heated more reliably by setting the second specified time. If the user takes the first puff after the preheating time has passed, the temperature of the heating unit 40 decreases due to the air flow generated by the puff. By maintaining the temperature of the heating unit 40 at 230° C. during the second specified time, the influence of the temperature drop due to the first puff can be reduced.

[0089] Next, the heating curve 500 may be defined so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is lowered to a predetermined temperature (200° C. in this example) and the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at the predetermined temperature during a third predetermined time (130 seconds in this example). In one example, the predetermined temperature is a temperature of the heating unit 40 suitable for ideal aerosol generation. When the aerosol generating substrate 110 is a smoking article, the user can fully enjoy the flavor generated in the best state by inhaling the smoking article during the third predetermined time.

[0090] Next, the heating curve 500 may be defined such that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is lowered to a predetermined temperature (in this example, 185° C.), and the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at the predetermined temperature during a fourth predetermined time (in this example, 60 seconds). The aerosol generating substrate 110 is already in a sufficiently heated state, so even if the temperature of the heating unit 40 is lowered to less than 200° C. at this stage, it has no effect on the aerosol supply to the user. In addition, the power supplied to the heating unit 40 can be reduced, thereby saving energy.

[0091] Next, the heating curve 500 may also be defined as stopping the heating by the heating unit 40 and waiting for the fifth predetermined time (in this example, 10 seconds) to pass. Figure 5 As shown by the middle dotted line, the temperature of the heating unit 40 decreases from 185° C. After the fifth predetermined time has passed, the control unit 402 may control the notification unit 420 to notify that the inhalable time has ended. The notification may be light emission in a predetermined color, output of a predetermined sound, or the like.

[0092] In one example, the control unit 402 may control the notification unit 420 to notify the user that a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds before the end time) remains until the end time of the heating curve 500. The notification may be emitted in a predetermined color, output of a predetermined sound, or the like.

[0093] Figure 5 The heating curve 500 shown is only an example, and it is understood by those skilled in the art that an appropriate heating curve can be set arbitrarily according to the application of the electronic device 10 for aerosol generation, the type of aerosol generating substrate 110, etc.

[0094] The following, with Fig. 6A , 6B , 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B are associated with each other to explain the details of the operation of the electronic device 10 involved in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Fig. 6A It is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device involved in one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the control unit 402 of the electronic device 10 executes all the steps as an example. However, it should be noted that at least a part of the steps can also be executed by other structural elements of the electronic device 10. In addition, it should be understood that this embodiment can be implemented as a program that causes a processor such as the control unit 402 to execute the method when executed, or a computer-readable storage medium storing the program. For the following description of Figure 6B , 7A The examples described in 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B can also be said to be the same.

[0096] The process starts from step 602. The control unit 402 determines whether an aerosol generation request is detected. In one example, the control unit 402 may also determine that an aerosol generation request is detected when the switch 13 is pressed. In another example, the electronic device 10 may also be configured to determine that an aerosol generation request is detected based on detection of a user's puff. For example, the electronic device 10 may also have a pressure sensor, and the control unit 402 may also detect the user's puff based on changes in pressure detected by the pressure sensor.

[0097] When an aerosol generation request is not detected (“No” in step 602 ), the process returns to before step 602 . When an aerosol generation request is detected (“Yes” in step 602 ), the process proceeds to step 604 .

[0098] In step 604 , the control unit 402 causes the voltage of the power source 21 to be converted by the voltage conversion circuit 404 , and supplies power to the heating unit 40 .

[0099] The process proceeds to step 606, where the control unit 402 determines whether the first condition indicating that the temperature of the heating unit 40 has reached a predetermined temperature is satisfied. The predetermined temperature may also be the highest temperature (in the range of 0 to 100°C) in the heating curve 500 specified for the heating unit 40. Figure 5In one example, the first condition may be that the temperature of the heating unit 40 detected by the temperature detection unit 410 reaches the highest temperature in the heating curve 500. In another example, the first condition may be that the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation of the pulse width modulation unit 412 is below the first threshold. Figure 5 In the case of the heating curve 500 of FIG. 5 , if the temperature of the heating unit 40 reaches the maximum temperature, the power supply to the heating unit 40 is controlled so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is maintained at the maximum temperature. This can be achieved by reducing the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation, so the first condition can be set as described above. According to this structure, it is possible to determine whether the temperature of the heating unit 40 has reached the maximum temperature without directly monitoring the temperature.

[0100] If the first condition is not satisfied (“No” in step 606 ), the process returns to before step 606 . If the first condition is satisfied (“Yes” in step 606 ), the process proceeds to step 608 .

[0101] In step 608, the control unit 402 switches the first switch element 406 to the on state. Thus, the bypass circuit 408 is turned on. In the case where the electronic device 10 includes a second switch element 416 in addition to the first switch element 406, in step 608, the control unit 402 may also switch the second switch element 416 to the off state.

[0102] In step 610, the control unit 402 supplies power to the heating unit 40 via the first switching element 406 instead of the voltage conversion circuit 404. Since the voltage conversion circuit 404 is not used, there is no need to supply power to operate the voltage conversion circuit 404. Therefore, compared with the case where the voltage conversion circuit 404 is continuously used, energy saving can be achieved.

[0103] Figure 6B 602 to 610 are the same as those in the above. Fig. 6A As already described.

[0104] In step 612, the control unit 402 determines whether the voltage of the power source 21 is less than the first threshold voltage. Here, the first threshold voltage may be a voltage greater than a voltage (hereinafter referred to as "second threshold voltage") indicating that only a first predetermined number (e.g., 1) of the capacity required for the aerosol generating substrate 110 that has been used up and not been used remains in the power source 21. The first threshold voltage may be less than a voltage indicating that a second predetermined number (greater than the first predetermined number, e.g., 2) of the capacity required for the aerosol generating substrate 110 that has been used up and not been used remains in the power source 21.

[0105] In one example, the second threshold voltage may be a fixed value stored in the storage unit 418. In various environments where the ambient temperature is a value ranging from a low temperature (e.g., 0° C.) to a high temperature (e.g., 40° C.), a test of heating the aerosol generating substrate 110 by the electronic device 10 and a puff by the user may be performed in advance. As a result of the test, the voltage of the power source 21 when the capacity required for the unused first predetermined number of aerosol generating substrates 110 remains in the power source 21 in all environments may be set to the above-mentioned fixed value.

[0106] The second threshold voltage may also be set to a different value depending on the remaining capacity of the power source 21. The remaining capacity of the power source 21 may also be measured using a remaining capacity sensor of any structure. When the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is greater than a predetermined value, the second threshold voltage may also be a first value. When the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is less than the predetermined value, the second threshold voltage may also be a second value greater than the first value.

[0107] In one example, when the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is 25% or more, the control unit 402 may also set the second threshold voltage to the first value (e.g., 2282 mV). When the electronic device 10 includes a voltage conversion circuit 404, and the voltage conversion circuit 404 is a step-up DC / DC converter, the first value may also be a stable operating voltage of the step-up DC / DC converter. Thus, when the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is the capacity required to use up only the first predetermined number of unused aerosol generating substrates 110, the operation of the electronic device 10 including the step-up DC / DC converter can be prevented from becoming unstable.

[0108] When the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is less than 25%, the control unit 402 may set the second threshold voltage to a second value (e.g., 2408 mV). The second value may be a value required to use up the first predetermined number of unused aerosol generating substrates 110 even in a high temperature environment.

[0109] If the voltage of the power source 21 is greater than the first threshold voltage (No in step 612), the process returns to before step 612. If the voltage of the power source 21 is less than the first threshold voltage (Yes in step 612), the process proceeds to step 614.

[0110] In step 614, the control unit 402 determines whether the voltage of the power source 21 is greater than the second threshold voltage. If the voltage of the power source 21 is less than the second threshold voltage (No in step 614), the process ends. For example, the control unit 402 stops supplying power to the heating unit 40.

[0111] When the voltage of the power source 21 is equal to or higher than the second threshold voltage ("Yes" in step 614), the process proceeds to step 616. In step 616, the control unit 402 switches the first switch element 406 to the off state. In the case where the electronic device 10 includes a second switch element 416 in addition to the first switch element 406, in step 616, the control unit 402 switches the second switch element 416 to the on state.

[0112] The process proceeds to step 618, where the control unit 402 converts the voltage of the power source 21 through the voltage conversion circuit 404, and supplies power to the heating unit 40. After step 618, the process ends. For example, the control unit 402 stops supplying power to the heating unit 40.

[0113] according to Figure 6B In the embodiment, even when the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is close to the capacity required for only a first specified number (for example, 1) of unused aerosol generating substrates 110, the voltage reduction of the power source 21 can be compensated by using the power supply of the voltage conversion circuit 404, thereby ensuring that the first specified number of aerosol generating substrates 110 are finally used up.

[0114] Fig. 7A is a flowchart of an operation method of the electronic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The processing from step 702 to step 706 is similar to Fig. 6A The processing from step 602 to step 606 is the same, so the description is omitted.

[0115] In step 708, the control unit 402 determines whether the second condition indicating that the temperature of the heating unit 40 is below a threshold value is satisfied. The threshold value may be different depending on the form of the heating curve 500. For example, Figure 5 As in the example shown in FIG. 7 , when the highest temperature in the heating curve 500 is 230° C., the threshold value may be a value between 200° C. and 230° C. As another example, when the highest temperature in the heating curve 500 is 240° C., the threshold value may be a value between 200° C. and 240° C. If the second condition is not satisfied (“No” in step 708), the process returns to before step 708. Until the second condition is satisfied, the heating unit 40 is powered by the voltage conversion circuit 404.

[0116] If the second condition is satisfied ("Yes" in step 708), the process proceeds to step 710, and the control unit 402 switches the first switch element 406 to the on state. The processes in steps 710 and 712 are similar to those in step 714. Fig. 6A The processing of steps 608 and 610 is the same.

[0117] Figure 7B1 is a flowchart of an operation method of the electronic device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The contents of the processing from step 702 to step 712 are as follows. Fig. 7A As already described.

[0118] The processing from step 714 to step 720 performed after step 712 is the same as Figure 6B The processing from step 612 to step 618 is the same, so the description is omitted here.

[0119] according to Figure 7B In the embodiment, even when the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is close to the capacity required for only a first specified number (for example, 1) of unused aerosol generating substrates 110, the voltage reduction of the power source 21 can be compensated by using the power supply of the voltage conversion circuit 404, thereby ensuring that the first specified number of aerosol generating substrates 110 are finally used up.

[0120] Fig. 8A is a flowchart of an operation method of the electronic device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The processing from step 802 to step 810 is similar to Fig. 6A The processing from step 602 to 606 is the same, so the description is omitted.

[0121] according to Fig. 8A If the first condition is satisfied in step 806, the voltage conversion circuit 404 is not used and the power is supplied to the heating unit 40 via the bypass circuit 408 and the first switching element 406. Therefore, the voltage conversion circuit 404 is used from the time when the processing of step 706 is executed until the processing of step 708 is completed. Fig. 7A Compared with the example, further energy saving can be achieved.

[0122] After step 810, the process proceeds to step 812, where the control unit 402 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed. Until the predetermined time has elapsed ("No" in step 812), in step 814, the control unit 402 controls the temperature of the heating unit 40 to maintain the predetermined temperature. The predetermined time may be, for example, Figure 5 The predetermined temperature may be, for example, the highest temperature in the heating curve 500. The control unit 402 may also control the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation by the pulse width modulation unit 412 so that the temperature of the heating unit 40 detected by the temperature detection unit 410 is maintained during the predetermined time.

[0123] When the predetermined time has passed ("Yes" in step 812), Fig. 8A The processing is finished.

[0124] Figure 8B 8 is a flowchart of an operation method of the electronic device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The contents of the processing from step 802 to step 814 are as follows. Fig. 8A As already described.

[0125] The processing from step 816 to step 822 executed after step 812 is the same as Figure 6B The processing from step 612 to step 618 is the same, so the description is omitted here.

[0126] according to Figure 8B In the embodiment, even when the remaining capacity of the power source 21 is close to the capacity required for only a first specified number (for example, 1) of unused aerosol generating substrates 110, the voltage reduction of the power source 21 can be compensated by using the power supply of the voltage conversion circuit 404, thereby ensuring that the first specified number of aerosol generating substrates 110 are finally used up.

[0127] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the embodiments may be appropriately modified, added, improved, etc. without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above embodiments, but should only be limited by the claims and their equivalents.

[0128] Description of Reference Numerals

[0129] 10...electronic device, 11...housing, 11A...top housing, 11B...bottom housing, 12...cover, 12a...opening, 13...switch, 14...cover, 15...vent, 16...cap, 17...external fin, 20...power supply, 21...power supply, 22...terminal, 30...circuit, 31...first circuit substrate, 32...second circuit substrate, 40...heating unit, 41...heating component, 110...aerosol generating substrate or smoking article, 110A...substrate, 110B…suction mouth portion, 111…filler, 112…first paper roll, 113…second paper roll, 114…paper tube portion, 115…filter portion, 116…hollow segment portion, 402…control portion, 404…voltage conversion circuit, 406…first switching element, 408…bypass circuit, 410…temperature detection portion, 412…pulse width modulation portion, 414…recess, 416…second switching element, 418…storage portion, 420…notification portion, 500…heating curve.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that: have: Control Department; a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating substrate by supplying power from a power source; A voltage conversion circuit is provided between the power supply and the heating unit, and converts the voltage of the power supply, and the converted voltage is used to supply power to the heating unit; a pulse width modulation unit, disposed between the voltage conversion circuit and the heating unit, for performing pulse width modulation on the voltage converted by the voltage conversion circuit; as well as a bypass circuit including a first switch element arranged in parallel with the voltage conversion circuit, wherein when the first switch element is in an on state, the power of the power supply is supplied to the heating unit via the first switch element and the pulse width modulation unit instead of via the voltage conversion circuit, When a first condition indicating that the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation is equal to or less than a first threshold is satisfied, the control unit switches the first switching element to an on state. The control unit is configured to control the pulse width modulation unit so that the temperature of the heating unit changes according to a heating curve specified for the heating unit.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is further configured to switch the first switching element to an on state when a second condition indicating that the temperature of the heating unit is equal to or lower than a second threshold value is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic device further includes a second switch element for switching on / off the supply of power from the power supply to the voltage conversion circuit. The control unit is further configured to switch the second switching element to an off state when the first switching element is switched to an on state.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second switching element is included in the voltage conversion circuit.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is further configured to send an off command to the voltage conversion circuit when the first switching element is switched to an on state.

6. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second threshold is a value between 200 degrees and 240 degrees.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is further configured to measure the number of puffs based on a change in temperature of the heating unit.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heating portion has a shape that heats the aerosol generating substrate from its surroundings.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic device further includes a recessed portion capable of housing the aerosol generating substrate.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The voltage conversion circuit is a step-up DC / DC converter.

11. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic device further includes the power supply.

12. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is configured to switch the first switching element to an off state when the voltage of the power supply is below a first threshold voltage and above a second threshold voltage, wherein the second threshold voltage is a voltage indicating that only a first specified number of the aerosol generating substrates required for the aerosol generating substrates remain in the power supply and have not been used, and the first threshold voltage is greater than the second threshold voltage by a specified value.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first threshold voltage is less than a voltage indicating that a capacity required for a second predetermined number of the aerosol generating substrates to be fully used and unused remains in the power supply, and the second predetermined number is greater than the first predetermined number.

14. A method for operating an electronic device, characterized in that: include: The step of heating the aerosol generating substrate by supplying power from a power source to a heating unit, wherein the voltage of the power source is converted by a voltage conversion circuit provided between the power source and the heating unit and used for the power supply, and the voltage converted by the voltage conversion circuit is pulse-width modulated by a pulse-width modulation unit, wherein the pulse-width modulation unit is provided between the voltage conversion circuit and the heating unit; and The step of supplying the power of the power source to the heating unit via the first switching element and the pulse width modulation unit instead of the voltage conversion circuit when the first switching element provided in parallel with the voltage conversion circuit is in an on state, When a first condition indicating that the duty ratio of the pulse width modulation is equal to or smaller than a first threshold is satisfied, the first switching element is switched to an on state.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that The first switching element is switched to an off state when the voltage of the power supply is below a first threshold voltage and above a second threshold voltage, wherein the second threshold voltage is a voltage indicating that only a first specified number of unused aerosol generating substrates remain in the power supply, and the first threshold voltage is a voltage greater than the second threshold voltage by a specified value.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that The first threshold voltage is less than a voltage indicating that a capacity required for a second predetermined number of the aerosol generating substrates to be fully used and unused remains in the power supply, and the second predetermined number is greater than the first predetermined number. 17 . A computer-readable storage medium recording a program, wherein when the program is executed by a processor, the processor is configured to execute the method according to claim 14 .

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